DOJ Accuses Yale and UCLA Medical Schools of Discriminating Against White and Asian Applicants

The US Department of Justice has accused Yale School of Medicine and the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) medical school of illegally discriminating against white and Asian applicants. In letters sent to both institutions, the DOJ alleges that they continue discriminatory practices despite a 2023 Supreme Court ruling prohibiting affirmative action in admissions. The administration cites statistical disparities in MCAT scores and GPAs among admitted students as evidence of intentional discrimination against non-Black and non-Hispanic candidates. This action is part of a broader campaign by the Trump administration to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in higher education and scientific research. Critics argue that the DOJ's focus on test scores ignores the complex nature of merit and historical inequalities, while legal experts note that medical schools face a difficult bind under current disparate impact theories. Since the Supreme Court's decision, admission rates for underrepresented minorities have declined, prompting debates over race-neutral holistic admissions approaches. Yale stated it is reviewing the letter but remains confident in its rigorous admissions process.