What is GitHub Copilot?
GitHub Copilot is an AI pair-programmer that autocompletes code and chats inside VS Code, JetBrains and more.
Verified students get it free via the GitHub Student Developer Pack.
Copilot is the least disruptive way to add AI to coding: it works as completion and chat inside the editors developers already use, and it takes the typing out of boilerplate, tests for existing code and repetitive patterns. For verified students it is available free through GitHub's student programme.
It suggests plausible-looking calls to functions, flags and APIs that do not exist, so the compiler and tests remain the source of truth. It is also less capable than an editor built around whole-project context when a change spans many files.
For large multi-file refactors, Cursor's repository-wide editing is stronger. For understanding why a codebase works the way it does, a long-context assistant such as Claude is a better reader.
Pros
- Best in-IDE autocomplete
- Free for students
- Works in many editors
Cons
- Paid (~₹850/mo) for non-students
- Weaker at big refactors
Frequently asked questions
What is GitHub Copilot?
AI autocomplete for coding — free for students.
Is GitHub Copilot free?
GitHub Copilot is a paid tool. Check their website for current pricing.
What are alternatives to GitHub Copilot?
Check our AI tools directory for alternatives to GitHub Copilot.
What platforms does GitHub Copilot support?
GitHub Copilot is available on VS Code, JetBrains, Web.