Understanding How International Students in the U.S. Are Using Conversational AI to Support Cross-Cultural Adaptation

2026-05-14

AI Summary

International students in the United States frequently encounter cross-cultural adaptation challenges that fragmented support systems struggle to address effectively. This study investigates how these students utilize generative conversational AI tools—such as ChatGPT and Gemini—as supportive resources, drawing on survey data (n=60) and in-depth interviews (n=14). Findings indicate that AI not only serves an immediate “first-aid” function in linguistic, social, and academic contexts but also demonstrates emerging potential as a sustained, companion-like support mechanism. Grounded in analyses of usage motivations and perceived boundaries, this work proposes design recommendations for AI-based support systems tailored to the unique needs of international students, offering a novel pathway for interventions aimed at facilitating cross-cultural adaptation.

Abstract

Moving to a new culture and adapting to a new life, as an international student, can be a stressful experience. In the US, international students face unique overlapping challenges, yet the current support ecosystem, including university support systems and informal social networks, remains largely fragmented. While conversational AI has emerged as a tool used by many (e.g., generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Gemini), we do not have a clear understanding of how international students adopt and perceive these technologies as support tools. We conducted a survey study (n=60) to map the relationship between international students' challenges and AI adoption patterns, followed by an interview study with 14 participants to identify the underlying motivations and boundaries of use. Our findings show that AI is perceived as a first-aid tool for immediate challenges, however, there is an interest in transforming AI from a tool for short-term help into a long-term support companion. By identifying where and how AI can provide long-term support, and where it is insufficient, we contribute recommendations for creating AI-powered support tailored to the unique needs of international students.

Problem

• international students
• cross-cultural adaptation
• conversational AI
• support ecosystem
• AI adoption

Innovation

• conversational AI
• cross-cultural adaptation
• international students
• AI-powered support
• user perception