UNLV's ChatGPT subscription has transitioned from an annual flat-rate license to a credit-based model. Access is managed through a tiered pricing structure, with weekly credit allocations assigned based on your selected tier. This article explains how credits work, what each tier includes, and how to request access.
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What are credits?
Credits measure the usage of advanced ChatGPT features in the UNLV workspace. When you use a credit-consuming feature, such as reasoning-class models, image generation, or voice, credits are deducted from your weekly allocation.
Important: You cannot see your current credit balance or track usage in real time within ChatGPT. You will receive a message in ChatGPT when you have reached your limit.
What uses credits?
Not all ChatGPT features consume credits. The table below provides a general guide. For exact credit costs per feature, refer to the ChatGPT credit rate card.
| Feature |
Credit Cost |
| Legacy / instant models |
None — free to use |
| Standard chat (GPT-4o) |
Low — use freely |
| ChatGPT Pro features |
Moderate |
| Image generation |
Moderate — varies by size and quality |
| Voice mode |
Moderate — varies by duration |
| Auto-switch to Thinking (reasoning) |
High — 10 or more credits per interaction |
Note: The biggest driver of credit usage is the Thinking model. A single reasoning interaction can consume as many credits as 10 or more standard chat interactions. Credits reset each week automatically.
Tiered pricing structure
Standard Chat Edu License Features
The standard license available for the 2026 license include:
- GPT 5.3 Instant Mode - Unlimited Chats!
- Three image generations per rolling 24-hour period
- Five deep search queries per rolling 24-hour period
- 35 credits per week for additional advanced models and features use
The 24-hour period begins when a feature is first used. For example, if you generate an image at 10 a.m., you can generate two more images until 10 a.m. the next day.
Credit-Based Plans for Advanced Use
If you need additional credits for advanced use, a higher-level tier may suit you best. Choose based on how often you use ChatGPT and whether you need advanced features like reasoning models, image generation, or voice.
| Tier |
Level 1: Standard |
Level 2: Pro |
Level 3: Premium |
Need more? |
| Price / Year |
$240 |
$360 |
$480 |
Contact IT |
| Weekly limit |
35 credits |
69 credits |
115 credits |
500+ credits/month |
| Best for |
Occasional use, standard tasks |
Regular use, moderate complexity |
Heavy use, reasoning, image gen, voice |
Research-intensive work |
Need more than 500 credits/month? Select "Contact us for more information" on the Tier Selection Form, and we will reach out to discuss your needs.
How to reduce your credit usage
The most effective way to reduce credit consumption is to disable Auto-Switch to Thinking. This prevents ChatGPT from automatically using the Thinking model for complex-looking prompts. You can still select it manually for tasks that genuinely need it.
How to disable Auto-Switch to Thinking
- Click on the ChatGPT text caret ( › ) in the upper left corner of the screen.
- Select Configure.
- Toggle off Auto-switch to Thinking.
The auto-switch setting applies per chat thread and per project. It does not retroactively affect existing chats or projects.
You will need to disable Auto-Switch to Thinking individually in any previous chats or projects where you want it turned off.
How to request a license
Complete the ChatGPT license request form including your selected tier and the budgeting account. Once procurement is complete, you will receive an update on the request.
Twice a year, IT will contact ChatGPT customers to verify their license tier. If you are consistently exceeding your weekly credit limits, please contact the IT Help Desk for assistance.
Frequently asked questions
Will my access be cut off if I hit the weekly credit limit?
No. If you reach the hard cap, access to advanced models, image generation, and voice is paused until the following week. You retain full access to legacy and instant models for standard chat.
When do credits reset?
Credits reset automatically on a weekly basis. No action is required on your part. Unused credits do not roll over.
Can I buy additional credits on a one-time basis?
No, additional credits cannot be bought. You may upgrade your license to a higher tier at any time, but you cannot revert to a lower tier until the next license selection period.
What happens if I cancel my license?
If you wish to cancel, your account access will end, and your data will be deleted. IT will refund your annual subscription on a pro-rated basis.