Trump Administration Investigates Medical School Admissions Policies

On March 26, 2026, the Trump administration initiated investigations into the admissions policies of three prominent medical schools: Stanford University, Ohio State University, and the University of California, San Diego. This action is part of a broader federal effort to scrutinize university practices regarding diversity and inclusion, particularly in light of potential race discrimination in admissions.

Trump administration opens investigations into three medical schools, NYT reports By ReutersUsNews and World ReportNew York Times

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) informed the three universities about the investigations, demanding extensive data related to medical school applicants from the past seven years. This includes applicants' test scores, home ZIP codes, and any familial connections to alumni or university donors. Additionally, the DOJ requested copies of internal communications regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as any correspondence between university officials and pharmaceutical companies concerning admissions policies. The universities were given a deadline of April 24 to comply with these requests or face potential interruptions to their federal funding.

Trump administration opens investigations into three medical schools, NYT reports By Reuters

Harmeet K. Dhillon, the Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, emphasized that the investigations would focus on possible race discrimination in medical school admissions. In a social media post, she remarked on the significance of launching these civil rights investigations, indicating a proactive stance by the administration in addressing perceived inequities in admissions processes.

New York Times

The investigations have drawn criticism from various quarters, particularly from advocates of diversity initiatives in higher education. Critics argue that the administration's actions could undermine efforts to promote inclusivity and equity in medical education. The scrutiny of admissions policies comes in the context of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2023 ruling that effectively ended affirmative action in higher education, raising concerns about the future of diversity efforts at universities.

Trump administration opens investigations into three medical schools, NYT reports By Reuters

This move by the Trump administration signals a continued focus on university admissions practices, particularly regarding race and diversity. It reflects a broader trend of federal intervention in higher education, which has included threats to withhold funding over various issues, including diversity initiatives and responses to campus protests. As the investigations unfold, the implications for medical education and federal funding for universities could be significant, potentially reshaping admissions policies across the country.

Trump administration opens investigations into three medical schools, NYT reports By Reuters

While the DOJ's investigations are confirmed, there is a lack of immediate responses from the universities involved regarding the inquiries. Additionally, the broader context of the administration's previous actions against universities, including those related to pro-Palestinian protests and transgender policies, suggests a complex landscape of federal oversight in higher education that may evolve further in the coming months.

Trump administration opens investigations into three medical schools, NYT reports By Reuters

• “At this time, our investigation will focus on possible race discrimination in medical school admissions,” — Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights

New York Times

• “Launching a series of civil rights investigations,” — Harmeet K. Dhillon, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights

New York Times