On Friday, February 14th, the U.S. Department of Education launched investigations into more than 50 universities over allegations of racial discrimination in admissions, scholarships, and student programs. The Trump administration initiated the probe as part of its broader effort to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which officials argue discriminate against white and Asian American students.
The investigations focus on potential violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits racial discrimination in education. A department memo warned that any race-based preference could lead to federal funding cuts.
Education Secretary Linda McMahon emphasized the administration’s stance, stating, “Students must be assessed according to merit and accomplishment, not prejudged by the color of their skin.” She added, “We will not yield on this commitment.”
The department is investigating 45 universities for their partnerships with The PhD Project, a nonprofit organization that promotes diversity in business education. Officials claim the program restricts participation based on race, which may put affiliated institutions in violation of federal law.
Among the universities under investigation are Yale University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Duke University, University of Chicago, Carnegie Mellon University, Georgetown University, and Vanderbilt University. Several schools in New York, including New York University (NYU) and Cornell University, are also facing scrutiny.
Additionally, six universities are under investigation for allegedly awarding race-based scholarships, while one is accused of implementing racial segregation in student programs. However, the Education Department has not disclosed which institution faces the segregation allegations.
The Trump administration has expanded its enforcement of a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that struck down affirmative action in college admissions. The Education Department is now extending the ruling’s application beyond admissions to include scholarships, faculty hiring, and student programs.
The investigations have already triggered legal challenges from the nation’s two largest teachers’ unions, which argue that the new policy is overly broad and infringes on free speech rights.
The Trump administration has made clear that colleges and universities will remain a key focus of enforcement.
