One in four university students attends fewer classes since starting to use artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence is reshaping the study habits of university students in Spain. Eight out of ten students say this technology has changed the way they approach their studies, while 27% admit they attend fewer in-person classes since incorporating AI into their academic routine. In other words, more than one in four students has reduced classroom attendance due to the use of AI tools.

These findings come from the second edition of the report 'Use and Perception of AI in the University Environment', published by the CYD Foundation. The study examines how Spanish university students' relationship with artificial intelligence has evolved based on a survey of 800 students.

The results show that AI has become part of the daily routine of the vast majority of students and is now a common learning support tool. However, the report notes that universities are adapting to this new reality at a slower pace, a trend that had already been identified in the first edition of the study published in May 2025.

According to the report, 90% of students use artificial intelligence tools, mainly to answer questions, gather information and prepare course materials. Even so, 46% believe their university does not sufficiently encourage the use of AI, while 61% say they have received no specific training from their institution.

In addition, 71% of respondents believe universities should accelerate both the integration of artificial intelligence and training on its responsible and effective use.

The study also finds that 74% of university students believe the continued development of AI will soon transform the traditional role of universities as the primary source of knowledge transmission.