October 2, 2024
In California, everyone should be able to get ahead through merit, skill, and hard work. The California Dream shouldn’t be accessible to just a lucky few, which is why we’re opening the door to higher education wide enough for everyone, fairly.
California Governor Gavin Newsom announcing the signing of bill AB 1780, prohibiting private colleges and universities in the state from using legacy and donor preference in admissions. The bill goes into effect September 1, 2025.
Why It Matters: The California bill prohibiting legacy admissions at private colleges and universities is in response to a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June 2023 that limits the use of race in college admissions. Supporters of the bill say it ensures that “factors like wealth or personal relationships do not unduly influence admissions decisions.” While five states currently have laws prohibiting legacy admissions, this is only the second directed at private higher education institutions.
University Responses:
University of Southern California: “We continuously evolve our recruitment, admission and financial aid programs to create a student body that is diverse in all respects, and to comply with the law as it develops in this area.”
Santa Clara University: “Santa Clara University is committed to fair and equitable admissions practices, in compliance with all state and federal requirements. Legacy status alone has never been determinative of a student’s admission. Factors such as academic quality, leadership, preparedness and resilience in the face of challenges are the key admissions considerations for students who apply.”
Read More: California bans legacy admissions at all colleges (Politico)
California bans legacy admissions at private colleges and universities (NBC News)
Image Credit: Stanford University
by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida
