The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has accused the University of California, Davis (UC Davis) School of Medicine of violating federal law by using race as a factor in admissions, despite a 2023 Supreme Court ruling banning affirmative action. The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division concluded a six-month investigation, alleging the school favored Black and Latino applicants over white and Asian applicants in admissions for the 2023–2025 classes.
UC Davis disputes the findings, stating its admissions process is rigorous, individualized, and compliant with federal law. The school claims the DOJ’s report misrepresents its practices, which prioritize merit and skill while addressing socioeconomic disadvantages.
DOJ’s Allegations
The DOJ’s 12-page letter to UC Davis alleges the school circumvented the Supreme Court’s ruling by using class-based proxies for race, such as the "Davis Scale." This scale allegedly adjusted applicants’ GPAs and MCAT scores based on perceived disadvantages, leading to 93% of admitted students being from underrepresented racial groups. The DOJ warns of legal action if the school does not comply with federal law.
UC Davis’ Response
A spokesperson for UC Davis strongly disagreed with the DOJ’s characterization, asserting the school’s admissions process is lawful and merit-based. The university argues it complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and state antidiscrimination laws, while also promoting diversity in medicine.
Broader Implications
The case follows the 2023 Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which ended affirmative action in higher education. The DOJ’s action against UC Davis signals enforcement of the ruling, potentially setting a precedent for other universities. Legal experts note the case could reshape medical school admissions nationwide.
The DOJ has not yet filed a lawsuit but has demanded compliance from UC Davis. The school has not indicated whether it will modify its admissions policies.