The University of Georgia has announced plans to invest $800,000 in a pilot program that will give thousands of students access to premium artificial intelligence tools, including OpenAI’s ChatGPT Edu and Google’s Gemini Pro for Education beginning in spring 2026.
The initiative was unveiled during the 2026 State of the University Address by UGA President Jere W. Morehead, who emphasized the importance of preparing students for a technology-driven future.
Interested students can indicate their preference for either ChatGPT Edu or Gemini Pro through an interest form shared via an ArchNews email on February 4. Selected participants will gain access to advanced tools designed to support learning, research and career readiness. Registration closes February 18, with selections expected by the end of the month.
UGA already provides free access to AI tools such as Gemini, NotebookLM and Microsoft Copilot through student email accounts. The new program expands these offerings by providing premium licenses and access to ChatGPT’s advanced capabilities.
The initiative forms part of the university’s broader push to integrate artificial intelligence into teaching and learning.
“As a leading public research university, we have a responsibility to prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of a changing world,” Morehead said. “As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies reshape how people learn, work and lead, we must ensure our graduates are ready to use these tools thoughtfully and effectively.”
The idea originated with Student Government Association President John Neely and Vice President Jhaycee Barnes. After internships at strategy consulting firms, the two student leaders observed how rapidly AI tools are being adopted in the workplace and the growing need for AI literacy among graduates.
“The firms we worked for are very AI-forward and embracing it quickly,” Neely said. “As a first-year employee, I’m going to be expected to work alongside AI immediately.”
Upon returning to campus, they found a gap between student practices, faculty perspectives and workforce expectations. This prompted discussions between the student government and university offices on how best to prepare students for an AI-powered future.
“AI is the defining technology of our generation,” Neely added. “We need to learn how to embrace it strategically so we can work alongside it rather than use it as a replacement for critical thinking.”
According to Megan Mittelstadt, assistant vice president for learning initiatives and director of the Center for Teaching and Learning, the university evaluated the benefits and limitations of advanced AI tools before launching the program.
She noted that student data from university-issued accounts will not be used to train large language models due to intellectual property protections. However, certain features — such as chatbot sharing — may be limited because of information security safeguards.
The rise of generative AI, particularly following the 2022 launch of ChatGPT, has significantly reshaped university learning environments worldwide.
“When generative AI launched, it was like a cannonball shot out,” Mittelstadt said. “Everyone immediately heard about it and had access to this new technology.”
While educators across the United States have expressed concerns that heavy reliance on AI could weaken learning, UGA aims to incorporate the technology while maintaining academic rigor.
Mittelstadt said discussions across campus focus on helping students use AI to deepen disciplinary learning rather than bypass it.
UGA began hosting generative AI events in early 2023 and has introduced an artificial intelligence emphasis for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
“To prepare students for the workforce of tomorrow, we are moving quickly to support responsible use of artificial intelligence in teaching, learning and research, paired with clear guidance and training,” Morehead said.
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