The U.S. Supreme Court has struck down colleges’ use of race-conscious admissions nationwide. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. wrote for the court that admissions policies that say they consider an applicant’s race as one factor among many in admissions violate the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. What does that mean for colleges across the country? Do “race neutral” alternatives work? What could happen to minority enrollments? We answer those questions and more. Read up on our previous coverage.
At a glance
Frequently asked questions
Diving deeper
Recent stories
Admissions & Enrollment
Some colleges are opting not to look at data on racial and ethnic diversity, and others are rethinking rituals that once shaped incoming classes.
Admissions at a Crossroads
The Supreme Court’s ruling demolished a vision of racial equity and diversity. In its wake could come bold new commitments — or deep retrenchment.
Lawsuit claims 'no justification'
When it overturned race-conscious admissions, the court said the academies were exempt because of the “potentially distinct interests” they might have.
Race-Conscious Admissions
Thursday’s announcement came hours after Students for Fair Admissions dismissed a lawsuit against the university that challenged its race-conscious policies.
Admissions & Financial Aid
The Biden administration said on Monday that colleges had lost one crucial tool — race-conscious admissions — but they shouldn’t abandon broader efforts to enroll and support diverse students.
Admissions
Some colleges are adjusting their essay prompts — boldly or subtly.
Enrollment
Can admissions officers really measure determination, empathy, and leadership? One organization wants to give it a try.
Admissions
A national gathering of college presidents and policy experts offered clues about the federal government’s guidance for colleges after the Supreme Court rejected race-conscious admissions.
A Ruling's Impact
Being Native American isn’t only a race; it’s a marker of tribal citizenship. Colleges must figure out how to consider Indigenous identity in a new era.
After the Ruling
The Supreme Court outlawed the use of race in admissions last month, but the scrutiny of colleges’ responses to the landmark ruling is just beginning.