unblock ChatGPT at school

ChatGPT usage has soared since its launch. A Pew Research study found that 43% of young adults use the tool for learning, help with tasks or entertainment. Unfortunately, many school districts have decided to ban ChatGPT due to concerns about cheating. If you’re wondering how to unblock ChatGPT at school, the most reliable way is to use a VPN to change your IP address.

Of course, the benefits of a VPN extend beyond unblocking ChatGPT. They’re a great way to prevent your school or workplace from spying on your online activities, protect yourself on insecure public Wi-Fi, and circumvent restrictions on Netflix and similar platforms.

Below, we’ll discuss exactly how to unblock ChatGPT at school, including some extra methods if you can’t get a VPN. We’ll also list the best VPNs for ChatGPT, offer some troubleshooting tips in case your VPN doesn’t work on the service, and explore some FAQs.

Here’s a quick round-up of VPNs that can unblock ChatGPT at school 2024:

  1. NordVPN: Best ChatGPT VPN. Over 6,400 lightning-fast servers in 111 countries. Comes with a wide range of security features and can unblock ChatGPT, major streaming sites, and plenty other services.
  2. Surfshark: Cheap alternative for unblocking ChatGPT on school wi-fi. Supports all popular streaming services and lets you connect unlimited devices simultaneously.
  3. IPVanish: Good all-round VPN for security, streaming, and ChatGPT. Lets you select between three OpenVPN ports which may bypass VPN filters on school Wi-Fi.
  4. ExpressVPN: Security-focused VPN with built-in stealth technology. Can easily get around school filters or bypass restrictions on streaming sites.
  5. CyberGhost VPN: Comes with a massive network of servers fit for gaming, streaming on popular services, torrenting, and more. 45-day money-back guarantee available.
  6. PrivateVPN: Straightforward VPN for ChatGPT, with easy to use apps, a no-logs policy, fast speeds, and the ability to access plenty of streaming content worldwide.
  7. PureVPN: Ultra-fast servers in 65+ countries. Great option for torrenting, gaming, streaming, and other bandwidth-heavy activities.
  8. Proton VPN: Privacy-first VPN based in Switzerland. Works well on ChatGPT and other AI tools, and is one of few trustworthy providers with a (limited) free plan.

Head over to our guide on the best VPNs for ChatGPT for more in-depth coverage.

How to unblock ChatGPT at school with a VPN

Unblocking ChatGPT at school is as easy as signing up with a reliable VPN provider, downloading its app, and connecting to a server near you. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

  1. Pick a trusted VPN and sign up for an account. We highly recommend NordVPN.
  2. Once you’ve signed up, download and install the app to your preferred device(s).
  3. Launch the VPN and connect to a server, preferably one in your area for faster speeds.
  4. Access ChatGPT via the website or app, and voilà! ChatGPT should now be unblocked.
  5. Try clearing your cache or deleting your cookies if you’re still not getting results.

If it still won’t budge, contact your provider through live chat support. They may recommend a particular server or some app-specific tips to solve the issue. Alternatively, you can try a different ChatGPT VPN, as many have money-back policies if you’re having trouble.

Are there other ways to get ChatGPT unblocked for school?

With the rise in ChatGPT usage among all age groups, schools will eventually need to adapt and take advantage of AI technology for education. Until then, these are your best options to get ChatGPT unblocked for school, especially if a VPN isn’t in the budget:

  • Switch to mobile data: Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about wasting valuable data from your plan since ChatGPT is entirely text-based.
  • Change your DNS settings: Remember that schools may block popular DNS servers to prevent such workarounds. In any case, here’s how to change your DNS settings.
  • Use the Tor network: Note that Tor severely slows down your network speeds. Worse yet, your school might block Tor, too. Either way, here’s a guide on how to use Tor safely.
  • Try a different service: AI chatbots have been sprouting up everywhere, so you could try finding a ChatGPT alternative for school or work that hasn’t been blocked yet. Some options include perplexity.ai (no sign-in required) and novlisky.io (multiple AI models).

Otherwise, you may have heard that a proxy server is a good way to use ChatGPT without a VPN on school Wi-Fi. We don’t recommend using free proxies since the proxy owner can potentially log your data (including your ChatGPT, social media, and other sensitive logins). They’re also much easier to block than a capable VPN.

Unblocking ChatGPT at school FAQs

Why did my school block ChatGPT?

The main concern among teachers is that ChatGPT is easy to exploit, whether it’s to cheat in class, plagiarize schoolwork, and so on. Another worry is that ChatGPT doesn’t always include accurate information, which may mislead even well-intentioned students using the tool as a bit of a boost, or to brainstorm ideas.

Some institutions may conclude that ChatGPT is “just another distraction” and block it, in the same way a service like Instagram is blocked at school.

Can you use a VPN for ChatGPT?

Yes, you can use a VPN with ChatGPT, as OpenAI doesn’t ban the use of VPNs on its platform. The only concern is whether your school blocks VPNs, or if VPNs are illegal in your region. Always consult local laws if you’re unsure about the legality of using a VPN.

Can I use a free VPN on ChatGPT?

Yes, it’s technically possible to use a free VPN on ChatGPT. That said, if your school happens to block VPNs, free providers are usually the first ones to bite the dust. Free VPNs are also much slower, usually collect and sell your browsing and location data, or may contain malware.

What to do if ChatGPT is not working with my VPN?

Here’s what you can do if ChatGPT is not working with your VPN because of school filters:

  • Change servers or connect to a server in a different country.
  • Switch to another connection protocol (e.g. OpenVPN instead of WireGuard).
  • Remember to clear your browser cookies and cache (or use a private window).
  • Keep your VPN up-to-date to get the latest fixes.
  • Reboot your device (especially helpful on smartphones).
  • Ask your provider’s customer support for help, or try another VPN.

How do I use ChatGPT on a school Chromebook?

The best way to use ChatGPT on a school Chromebook is to unblock the service with a VPN. That said, schools place heavy restrictions on what apps you can install on their devices. In that case, you can try out a VPN browser extension, which may get around such limitations. Our top recommendation, NordVPN, makes a browser extension for Chrome and Chromebooks.

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