OECD study links student artificial intelligence use to lower academic scores

The short version

• A global OECD educational assessment found that students using artificial intelligence for studying generally achieve lower scores than those who avoid the tools.[The Verge]
• The 2025 assessment marks the first time PISA gathered data since AI usage became widespread among 15-year-old students across science, math, and reading.[The Verge]
• Certain AI applications provided a minor performance lift, particularly for learners instructed to critically evaluate the technology's output.[The Verge]

Key facts

• Data from an OECD report indicates students using AI to study generally perform worse academically than non-users.[The Verge]
• Certain types of AI usage offer a modest boost to students taught to critically evaluate tool outputs.[The Verge]
• The PISA study tested 15-year-old students in science, reading, and mathematics using data gathered in 2025.[The Verge]
• This study is the first iteration of the global assessment conducted after AI technology reached mainstream adoption.[The Verge]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Students who use AI generally score worse at schoolThe Verge