Fair College Admissions for Students Act

# Fair College Admissions for Students Act Summary **What It Does:** This bill would ban colleges and universities that receive federal student aid funding from favoring applicants in admissions decisions based on whether they have wealthy donors or alumni family members connected to the school. In other words, it targets "legacy preferences"—the current practice where some universities give admissions advantages to children of alumni or major donors. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily affect colleges and universities that participate in federal student aid programs (which covers most institutions), as well as prospective students applying to those schools.

It could level the playing field for applicants without legacy connections while potentially changing admissions strategies at schools that currently use legacy preferences. **Current Status:** The bill was introduced by Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full Senate. No further action has been taken at this time.