Google pitches Gemini to students studying for India’s most competitive college entrance exam

In a significant move to bolster AI-driven education, Google has introduced comprehensive practice assessments through its Gemini platform tailored for the Joint Entrance Exam (JEE). This exam serves as a critical gateway for millions of students aspiring to gain admission into India's premier engineering institutes. The new feature allows students to undertake full-length mock examinations within Gemini, with questions sourced from reputable educational organizations such as PhysicsWallah and Careers360. This launch follows Google's recent initiatives in providing similar preparatory resources for the SAT, further showcasing its commitment to educational support. Upon completing a mock test, students will receive instant feedback from the chatbot, which will pinpoint their strengths and identify areas that require additional study. The system also offers explanations for correct answers and assists learners in crafting personalized study plans based on their test performance. The introduction of these practice tests reflects a strategic effort by Google to position its chatbot as a structured preparation tool, rather than merely a source of quick answers. Alongside Gemini, Google plans to introduce JEE Main preparation tools integrated into AI Mode in Search. This includes the Canvas feature, which enables students to create personalized study guides and interactive quizzes using their own class notes. According to Google, Indian students are leveraging Gemini for a range of subjects, from advanced physics to a variety of STEM fields. The company is also enhancing its offerings with NotebookLM, a tool that transforms study materials into quizzes, flashcards, and audio or video summaries, all available in multiple Indian languages. Additionally, Google is focusing on supporting Indian educators by collaborating with government agencies to implement a nationwide program aimed at utilizing AI for administrative tasks and lesson planning. This initiative includes partnerships with the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and Chaudhary Charan Singh University to create an ‘AI-enabled state university’ designed to establish a national framework for AI in both vocational and higher education. In a charitable effort, Google.org is supporting Wadhwani AI with a grant of ₹850 million (approximately $10 million) to enhance AI integration within government-operated education platforms. This program aims to improve systems such as national online learning portals and state education initiatives, making them more versatile and easing the administrative workload for educators. The initiative targets all levels of education, from preschool through higher education, introducing tools like voice-based reading assistance in various Indian languages and AI-driven English learning coaches. Google reports that it has already impacted around 10 million learners and educators, with aspirations to reach 75 million students, 1.8 million educators, and one million early-career professionals by 2027.