In the context of digital transformation in higher education, the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI), particularly tools like ChatGPT, is reshaping the academic landscape for university students in Morocco. This study investigates the psychological repercussions of utilizing AI in academic environment, focusing on Master’s and Doctoral students’ experiences. Through qualitative research methods, including semi-structured interviews, we investigate students’ perceptions of AI, the benefits they derives like enhanced motivation and personalized support and the psychological challenges they face, such as cognitive overload and feelings of social isolation. Our findings indicate that while students appreciate AI for its capacity to ease academic stress and assist in learning, there express concerns regarding dependency on such tools and their potential impact on critical thinking and intellectual independence. This research highlights the necessity for institutional support, ethical guidelines, and training focused on ethical AI usage, promoting a balanced approach that maximizes educational benefits while safeguarding students’ psychological well-being.