Bill Proposes Ban on Legacy & Donor College Admissions Perks, Effective Two Years After Passing

This proposed legislation, the 'Fair College Admissions for Students Act,' takes direct aim at legacy and donor preferences in college admissions. It specifically amends Section 487(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to forbid colleges and universities participating in federal student aid programs from giving preferential treatment to applicants based purely on their family connections to alumni or donors.

What Exactly Changes?

The core of the bill is straightforward: it seeks to remove lineage or donation history as a factor in admissions decisions. Think of it this way: currently, some institutions might give an edge – extra points, a special review – to a student whose parents are notable alumni or significant donors. This legislation explicitly prohibits that kind of preferential treatment. The stated goal is to shift the focus squarely onto an applicant's individual qualifications, achievements, and potential, rather than their family's relationship with the institution.

Who's Affected and When?

This change could significantly impact the admissions landscape. For students without family ties or wealth, it aims to level the playing field, potentially increasing access and fostering more diverse student populations based on merit and other holistic review factors. Conversely, families who have historically benefited from or expected legacy preferences may find that advantage removed. Institutions, particularly those that have relied on strong alumni engagement and donations potentially linked to admissions advantages, will need to adapt their admissions and fundraising models. It's crucial to note the timing: this ban wouldn't take effect immediately upon enactment. It's slated to begin from the start of the second academic year after the Act becomes law, as defined in the Higher Education Act (Section 481(a)), giving schools a transition period to adjust their policies and practices.