New survey of U.S. teens shows AI-native, mobile-first students expect hybrid learning, seamless digital experiences and strong technology support from higher education institutions

AppsAnywhere, a student-first platform for higher education that centralizes software access, announced key findings from its new study of Generation Alpha (Gen Alpha), the first cohort of truly AI-native students set to enter higher education beginning in 2028. The survey of more than 500 adolescents aged 13-15 across the U.S. explores Gen Alpha’s learning preferences, technology use and expectations for college.

The overall findings reveal that Gen Alpha represents both an opportunity and a challenge for colleges: nearly all want to pursue higher education, but they bring with them expectations of mobile-first, hybrid and AI-enabled learning experiences that surpass those of Gen Z predecessors.

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“This research highlights how higher education must rethink digital strategy now to prepare for tomorrow’s students,” said Nick Johnson, CEO of AppsAnywhere. “Generation Alpha will arrive with higher expectations for flexibility, personalization and equity—colleges that start adapting today will be best positioned to attract and retain them.”

AI in the Classroom Before College Even Begins

Generation Alpha will arrive on campus already fluent in AI. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of surveyed students report they use or intend to use AI tools, with 40% already turning to ChatGPT as a study aid. Unlike previous generations who experimented with AI later in their education, Gen Alpha expects it as part of their everyday learning experience. This early adoption signals a shift in how colleges must approach curriculum design, academic integrity and AI literacy, making integration of responsible AI use a critical prerequisite.

Hybrid Learning Becomes the New Baseline

Flexibility defines Gen Alpha’s expectations for education. More than half (56%) prefer a hybrid model combining online and in-person learning, while only 14% envision a fully campus-based experience. Just as striking, 96% of respondents expect their college to provide devices to own, borrow, or access on campus—mirroring their high school experiences where institutions often supply or loan laptops and tablets. These expectations put pressure on colleges to not only invest in hybrid-ready infrastructure but also ensure equitable access to technology.

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Gen Alpha Still Values College—but They’re Setting New Terms

In contrast to recent skepticism around higher education, Gen Alpha demonstrates renewed optimism about college. The vast majority of teens (90%) surveyed plan to attend college, a figure more than double the current U.S. enrollment rate for 18- to 24-year-olds. Yet their enthusiasm comes with clear conditions. Affordability and relevance remain decisive factors, with 40% of those opting out citing cost concerns and 38% uncertain about which degree path to pursue. When choosing a school, quality of education (48%) and location (46%) lead the list, alongside expectations for fast, reliable Wi-Fi and access to modern digital learning platforms. Gen Alpha sees college as a critical stepping stone, but one that must prove its value in both cost and experience.

Tech Equity and Wellbeing Emerge as Deal-Breakers

Despite their optimism, Gen Alpha students are not uncritical about the role of technology in their lives. Nearly three-quarters (72%) express concerns about its negative impacts, from bullying and online safety to excessive screen time. At the same time, equity gaps persist: nearly half rely on Chromebooks (49%) or phones (52%) as their primary learning devices, which can limit access to advanced applications and create disparities across student populations. Colleges preparing for Gen Alpha will need to address these issues head-on, balancing digital innovation with support for mental health, privacy protections, and inclusive access strategies that ensure no student is left behind.

Added Beth Rugg, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Client Engagement, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, “The findings of the report emphasize the importance for leaders to continue to align with students’ expectations. We want a one-size-fits-all design but reality will continue to push us toward a balanced support network… The challenge is in finding the right balance and gaining consensus.”

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