Is manual model selection no longer available for GitHub Student?

[gonzalouni]

🏷️ Discussion Type

Question

💬 Feature/Topic Area

Verification Help & Guidance

Hi everyone,

Until recently, I could manually choose the AI model in Copilot Chat. Now, the only option I see is Auto, which automatically selects the model based on the size and complexity of the task.

Is this a recent change for the GitHub Student plan that's here to stay, or could this be an issue with my account or a configuration problem?

I'd appreciate it if anyone with the Student plan could confirm whether they can still manually select models or if they're seeing the same behavior.

Also, is there any way to disable Auto and manually choose the model again?

[deepankarsingh106]

Based on recent changes to GitHub Copilot, this behavior is most likely an intentional product update rather than a problem with your account. GitHub has been experimenting with Auto model selection and for some plans or interfaces, manual model selection may be hidden or removed. If other Student Pack users report the same experience, it's likely a rollout rather than an issue specific to your account.

[Fabian-Knispel]

From the FAQ:
Why can’t I self-select models in Copilot Student?

Copilot Free and Student plans will now use Copilot auto model selection as the default and only model selection experience. Auto dynamically selects the best model for each task, removing the need for manual choice. Auto provides access to models across multiple model families, subject to plan restrictions. For more information, see our documentation on supported models in auto mode.

We know this can be disappointing, but we’re making this change so we can keep Copilot free and accessible for millions of students around the world.

[Mmc-001]

was there an official announcement about this? It actually IS very disappointing

[crested-ezios]

was there an official announcement about this? It actually IS very disappointing

Here is the official announcement.
https://github.blog/changelog/2026-06-24-changes-to-model-selection-for-free-and-student-plans/

[BabySuga]

I feel the same way, what a disappointing move :(