The pervasive use of artificial intelligence in writing cover letters on Parcoursup raises deep reflection. Many candidates, influenced by the promise of perfection, prioritize ease over the expectations of the juries. This trend, while attractive, leads to writings with characteristics devoid of personality and authenticity. Examiners, in search of sincere candidates, reject these productions, often easily identifiable. The quest for originality must take precedence over mere conformity.
A growing trend among young people
Nearly 80% of 16-25 year olds utilize artificial intelligence to write their cover letters on the Parcoursup platform. This phenomenon, revealed by a survey conducted in 2024 by Diplomeo, reflects a notable change in the application methods of students.
Dehumanized cover letters
Letters written by computerized tools often have a disembodied character. Lilian, a 17-year-old student at Janson-de-Sailly high school in Paris, used these tools to multiply his applications. Although the use of AI seems appealing due to its speed, the result generally does not meet the expectations of examiners.
Critiques from teachers
Quentin Leroux, a management professor, emphasizes that most letters generated by AI fail to pass the Turing test. The machine does not manage to produce a convincing and authentic discourse, which reveals an obvious gap in the reasoning and vocabulary used.
Expectations of examiners
Aline Mousset, an economics professor, has noticed a recurring pattern in cover letters. Many begin with a flattering description of their city, such as “Niort, a medium-sized and dynamic city where it is good to live…”. These clichés testify to the lack of creativity and originality in AI letters.
Impact on the evaluation of applications
Letters from automated tools are easily identifiable by professors, which harms the credibility of candidates. Denis Choimet, president of the Union of Professors of Scientific Preparatory Classes, mentions an indifference towards the source of the content. Examiners wonder about the real author, whether it’s the AI or the parents.
The importance of remaining sober
Teachers advise candidates to keep their letters simple and authentic. Authenticity is valued more than mere perfection. Students must demonstrate their ability to express their real motivations without resorting to prefabricated templates.
Alternatives and resources
Resources exist to help students improve their cover letters. Expert writing advice can strengthen their personal message and set them apart during their application. Students can also consult platforms like actu.ai to discover tips on effective writing.
A reality to consider
The poor quality of AI-generated letters could have consequences for young candidates throughout their academic journey. The race for technical perfection must be balanced by an authentic representation of oneself. Future students should strive to maintain their uniqueness while using the technologies at their disposal.
Frequently asked questions
Why are letters of motivation generated by AI often not suitable for Parcoursup?
Letters produced by AI often lack authenticity and personalization, making them less convincing to examiners who seek personal testimonies and an authentic writing style.
How do teachers identify cover letters written by AI?
Generated letters feature stereotypical phrases, unnatural grammatical structures, and inappropriate vocabulary, easily distinguishing them from student writings.
What is the impact on the application if a cover letter uses AI-generated text?
Using a cover letter supplied by AI can harm the candidate’s image, as it demonstrates a lack of personal commitment to the application process.
Are cover letters written by humans preferable to those produced by AI on Parcoursup?
Yes, candidates who write their cover letters personally have a better chance of convincing examiners of their motivation and commitment.
What type of content is recommended for a cover letter on Parcoursup?
It is advisable to include personal experiences, real motivations for choosing a course, and concrete examples of skills, ensuring authentic and well-crafted writing.
Do AI-generated letters have any positive aspects?
While they can help generate ideas or structures, they should not replace the creativity and personal effort required to write an authentic and impactful letter.
What should a candidate do if they have already used an AI-generated letter?
It is recommended to rewrite the letter by adding personal elements and ensuring that it truly reflects the candidate’s background and aspirations.
