this Trump administration Launched civil rights investigation into admissions policies at three major medical schools: Stanford University, Ohio State University and UC San Diego. According to the New York Times.
what happened?
The Justice Department sent letters to all three universities on Wednesday informing them of the investigation, according to The New York Times, which reviewed the documents and spoke with two officials familiar with the matter. Schools are given until April 24 to submit detailed data or risk losing vital federal funding.
The letters were signed by Harmeet K Dhillon, the Justice Department’s Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. She also shared a photo on social media while signing one of the letters, writing: “Launching a series of civil rights investigations. Another day in heaven!”
“At this time, our investigation will focus on possible racial discrimination in medical school admissions,” Dillon wrote in each letter.
What information is the government requesting?
The Ministry of Justice has asked universities to turn over the following materials by April 24:
- Applicant data for each of the past seven years
- Applicant’s test scores and home zip code
- Any family relationship with an alumnus or university donor
- Inside information about diversity, equity and inclusion
- Letter between school officials and pharmaceutical companies regarding admissions policies
Why does this happen?
The investigation focused on possible discrimination against white applicants. this Supreme Court Race-based admissions ends in 2023, but many colleges believe they can still consider race indirectly, such as through essays or interviews. The Trump administration disagrees and is taking a stricter approach, backed by executive orders and guidance. Attorney General Pam Bondi.
so far, The government’s main concern is Issues such as anti-Semitism, transgender athlete policies and general admissions practices at universities such as Harvard, Penn and UCLA. By also targeting medical schools, the government is extending its reach and focusing directly on scientific institutions.
There is a larger political angle as well. President Trump I believe many universities are opposed to his conservative views. As such, these surveys are viewed as part of a broader effort to shift the political and racial balance in higher education.
All three schools are major recipients of funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In 2025, Stanford University will receive $575 million, UC San Diego will receive $427 million, and Ohio State University will receive $210 million. This gives the government strong financial powers over these universities.
