ChatGPT SJSU FAQ

Since the announcement of this initiative, SJSU IT has received inquiries from our campus community. These are some of the most frequently asked questions.

Who gets access to ChatGPT?
Please visit the ChatGPT Usage Eligibility page for full details. 

How do I get access to ChatGPT?
Eligible university community members can go to one.sjsu.edu and click on the ChatGPT tile.

How do Alumni, Auxiliary Employees, or Continuing Education Students and Faculty get access?
In May 2026, the CSU Chancellor’s Office contracted a new license that will allow recent graduates to continue access for 1 year, but that license does not take effect until July 2026. SJSU has just started implementing support for the new license.

This new contract will also allow auxiliaries and non-state employees access for a small fee. ITS will provide more details soon.

At this time, access to ChatGPT Edu through the CSU agreement is not available for Continuing Education Students and Faculty.

How long will SJSU have access to ChatGPT?
The CSU Chancellor’s Office signed an 18-month (February 2025 - July 2026) contract in 2025. The contract was extended in June 2026 for three years, securing access through FY 2028–2029. 

Will I have the same capabilities as my current ChatGPT paid account?
Yes, and more! The Edu plan includes unlimited access to GPT-4o, advanced capabilities like data analytics, web browsing, document summarization, the ability to build and share custom GPTs, higher message limits, support for over 50 languages, and robust security and administrative controls.

ChatGPT Edu users will also have access to a GPT-4.5 research preview. With a broader knowledge base, GPT-4.5 demonstrates higher emotional intelligence and a better understanding of intent, resulting in more intuitive, natural conversations. GPT-4.5 offers improvements in writing, programming, and practical problem-solving with your team. During the research preview, each user will be limited to 50 messages per week.

Can I use ChatGPT for my student coursework?
Everyone is encouraged to review the AI Writer’s Toolbox, which was built in collaboration between Writing Center Staff and Faculty and provides a detailed outline on AI Ethical Use in the classroom.

If you are still unsure after reviewing the documentation, check with your professor.

Do I get to keep my data that I create in the CSU ChatGPT account when I leave SJSU?
No. As of now, there is no option for migrating data out of ChatGPT Edu. Once your account is no longer eligible, you will lose access to ChatGPT Edu.

Will my information be used to train AI models? 
No. The CSU’s agreement with OpenAI includes language that ensures your ChatGPT interactions and data are not used to train their underlying large language models or improve their services. 

Can I create custom GPTs? 
Yes, the ChatGPT Edu plan allows institutions to build custom GPTs tailored to specific courses or administrative functions, which can be shared within campus workspace to enhance learning and operational efficiency. Custom GPTs require use of the GPT-4o model. 
 
How will SJSU leverage the API connections (API billing) of ChatGPT Edu?
We are awaiting more information from the Chancellor’s Office. OpenAI provides this breakdown of API Billing.

Do the API connectors include access to applications and data within San Jose State?
No.  Not at this time.

Is my data safe?  How does OpenAI ensure data privacy and security for educational institutions? 
One of the benefits of an enterprise agreement is that OpenAI commits to data privacy and security by ensuring that conversations and data are not used to train their models. The Edu plan includes commercial data protection features like SAML SSO, domain verification, custom data retention windows, SOC 2 Type 2 compliance, and data encryption at rest and in transit. 

What happens to my data after the CSU Chancellor's Office's contract with OpenAI ends in 2029?
Data continuity at the end of the contract has not been defined at this time.