SCOTUS Nixes Affirmative Action

The Supreme Court ruled yesterday that race-based standards for college admissions are unconstitutional, violating the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment. The ruling likely upends how most schools distribute need-based aid.

The decision closes out two cases, brought against Harvard University and the University of North Carolina. The justices, wrapping both cases into one decision, ruled applicants may discuss their races and the challenges introduced into their lived experiences, but administrators should not explicitly consider race as an admission factor.

University officials have argued race is one of many factors in determining admission, and affirmative action has leveled the playing field for Black and Hispanic students. Take a deep dive here.