Answer Engine Optimization (AEO): Get Found in the Age of AI Student Search

Students are no longer just using search engines—they’re asking AI.  In fact, 65% of Gen Z and Gen Alpha begin their college search in large language models. That shift makes AI the new front door to your institution. 

Because these tools summarize, compare, and recommend based on what they can easily interpret across your website and other sources, unclear or inconsistent information can leave your institution misrepresented—or missing altogether. 

Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) helps solve that. 

In this video, Jon Covell, Carnegie’s VP of Integrated Paid Media, explains why AEO matters now and how Carnegie’s approach strengthens the signals answer engines rely on, so your institution is represented accurately and consistently in AI-generated discovery.

Ready to see how your institution is showing up in AI-driven discovery? Learn more about Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and request an AEO Audit to understand what AI platforms are saying about your programs, outcomes, and brand today.