With the rapid development and widespread application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, information literacy has become a key capability that learners must possess. This study investigates the influence of information literacy on English learning outcomes among college students utilizing AI and the mediating role played by self-efficacy in this process. A quantitative research method was employed, with data collected through a questionnaire and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicate that information literacy has a significant positive impact on English learning outcomes in the context of AI, and self-efficacy plays a significant partial mediating role between information literacy and English learning outcomes. This study not only provides a new perspective on the role of information literacy in English learning but also offers valuable insights for English education practices, emphasizing the importance of integrating information literacy training in the process of AI-assisted English teaching. Furthermore, by revealing the mediating role of self-efficacy, this study proposes new strategies and approaches for enhancing learners’ English learning outcomes.