Microsoft Copilot GenAI now available for students
Copilot is a cutting-edge, generative AI tool similar to premium ChatGPT, but you are getting for free!
What can I use Copilot for?
Copilot can help support the way that you learn, research and create. You can use Copilot to:
- Scope out topics and develop your initial ideas
- Edit and proofread your work
- Find and summarise research
- Support your note taking
- Improve your time management skills
- Develop revision materials for exam preparation
Before using Microsoft Copilot as a learning companion, it is important that you familiarise yourself with the University’s student and PGR guidance on using GenAI tools ethically for work. This guidance provides you with the risks and limitations of using Generative AI tools in your academic study.
Help and guidance on using GenAI for study The University’s Academic Skills Centre has created a Canvas course to help you gain a greater understanding of how you can use GenAI tools effectively and ethically in your academic studies.
How to access Microsoft Copilot
For the best experience, we recommend using Copilot in the Microsoft Edge browser. It offers extra features, like accessing Copilot right from the browser sidebar. Just click the Copilot icon in the top-right corner. Make sure you're signed into Edge with your University of Birmingham account! In any other browser, navigate to https://copilot.microsoft.com click on “Sign in” and then use your University Email and Password to sign in.
For more information about accessing and using Copilot, visit our Knowledge Base article KB16726 or visit our Microsoft 365 Hub.
Copilot’s data protection
With Copilot, your data is fully protected—your queries and chats aren’t stored or used to train the underlying AI. Unlike tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard, which save your searches to improve their language models, Copilot keeps your info private and secure!
Learn more about Microsoft Copilot privacy and protection.