College admissions diversity shifts after SCOTUS ruling on affirmative action

Following the Supreme Court's ruling on affirmative action, colleges are experiencing varied impacts on the diversity of their incoming classes. For instance, Yale University reported no change in the percentage of African American and Native American students, while the Asian American population decreased by 6% and the white population increased by 4%. In contrast, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology saw a significant drop in Black and Hispanic/Latino students, with the Black population falling from 15% to 5%. However, the Asian American population at MIT rose from 40% to 47%. The University of North Carolina, central to the Supreme Court case, noted slight increases in both Asian American and white student populations. The vice provost emphasized the institution's commitment to inclusivity and affordability for all students. Princeton University also faced declines in its Asian and international student populations, alongside a slight decrease in Black and Hispanic/Latino students. The percentage of white students at Princeton increased to 31.3% in the class of 2028. These shifts in demographics reflect the ongoing debate surrounding affirmative action policies, which have historically aimed to address racial inequities in higher education. The Supreme Court's decision has prompted institutions to reassess their admissions strategies, leading to a complex landscape of diversity outcomes across various universities. As schools adapt to the new legal framework, the long-term effects on student diversity and representation remain uncertain. The changes in admissions practices may influence not only the composition of student bodies but also the broader discussions about equity and access in higher education.