Human creativity is multifaceted and highly contextual. This study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can support creativity in educational settings, guided by two research questions: (RQ1) What is the role of AI in supporting creative processes in education? and (RQ2): Does the effectiveness of AI support for creative processes depend on learners’ skills? To explore these questions, we conducted a systematic review of 36 empirical studies. The analysis reveals three distinct roles that AI can play in creative learning: (1) as a facilitator of human-led creativity, (2) as a collaborative partner in co-creativity, and (3) as a semi-autonomous generator of creative artefacts. These roles span a continuum of learner agency and engagement in the creative process. While AI can support both divergent and convergent thinking, its pedagogical value largely depends on the learner’s ability to regulate its use and maintain creative control. We introduce the concept of co-creative AI fluency to describe the competencies needed to work with AI as a creative partner. This framework offers educators a foundation for integrating AI into creative learning environments while preserving both learner and teacher agency.