President Donald J. Trump has signed a Presidential Memorandum instructing the Secretary of Education to require colleges and universities that receive federal financial assistance to be open about their admissions practices.
According to the White House, this action aims to address concerns about discriminatory, race-based admissions in higher education. The administration states that these practices are illegal and remove opportunities and scholarships from students who have worked hard, while also using taxpayer funds inefficiently.
"President Trump is ending discriminatory practices that are illegal, strip opportunities and scholarships from hardworking students, and waste taxpayer dollars."
The new directive also focuses on reforming how elite universities admit students. The administration emphasizes accountability for these institutions so they uphold fairness, merit, and what it describes as American values.
"President Trump is holding elite universities accountable, ensuring they prioritize fairness, merit, and American values."
This move comes amid ongoing national discussions over college admissions policies and their impact on student access and equity.