Full Breakdown
DOJ Probes William & Mary Over Scholarship Preferences
8/18/2026, 6:10:28 AM
Core Event
On August 17, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) announced an investigation into the College of William & Mary, a public research university in Williamsburg, Virginia. The DOJ has asked the college to provide documents and information by September 8.
Background & Context
The investigation follows a series of civil-rights probes launched by the Trump administration targeting higher-education institutions for alleged race-based preferences. Earlier in 2026, the DOJ examined Harvard’s financial-aid practices, and in 2025 it investigated the University of Virginia’s DEI programs, leading to leadership changes there. The agency frames these actions as efforts to enforce the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision that bars racial preferences in admissions and related aid.
Official Statements & Responses
She added that the department will first seek a voluntary settlement, but warned that failure to remedy violations could lead to termination of federal financial-aid eligibility.
Data & Statistics
- The DOJ cited a fellowship in the School of Education that gives preference to Hispanic women.
- Certain law-school scholarships are alleged to be limited to graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
What’s Next
William & Mary must submit the requested documentation by September 8. If the DOJ determines a violation and the college does not promptly correct it, the agency indicated that cutting off federal funding is a possible outcome.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I won’t say they’re being evasive,” — Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney-General, U.S. Department of Justice.
- “If there is a finding that is sustained and the institution doesn’t immediately remedy it, cutting off their federal funding is absolutely the outcome,” — Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney-General, U.S. Department of Justice.
- “We do a lot of research. We’re happy to show you our homework,’” — Harmeet Dhillon, Assistant Attorney-General, U.S. Department of Justice.
