Yale University negotiates DOJ settlement over alleged race discrimination in admissions

The U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division concluded that Yale School of Medicine violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act by admitting Black and Hispanic applicants with lower academic qualifications than White and Asian peers for the classes of 2023‑2025. Yale President Maurie McInnis said the university is engaging in a voluntary resolution with the DOJ, describing the process as “required” and “good faith,” and confirmed that the investigation also covers Yale College and Yale Law School.

Faculty, students, alumni, and Connecticut officials have protested the talks, warning that a settlement could undermine shared governance, academic freedom, and the university’s independence. Some law school deans, faculty members, and professors have threatened legal action if a deal is signed. A phone‑bank organized to oppose a settlement drew 60 participants. Legal scholars note that while voluntary resolutions are customary, they are not mandatory, and they question the Trump administration’s use of the settlement process to influence higher‑education policy.

The controversy follows the 2023 Supreme Court decision that barred race‑based affirmative action, intensifying scrutiny of admissions practices nationwide.