Trump to Expand and Enforce College Admissions Data

President Donald Trump is expected to sign an executive order requiring colleges and universities that receive federal funding to provide expanded admissions data to the federal government, aiming to enforce compliance with the 2023 Supreme Court ban on race-based affirmative action. The order instructs Education Secretary Linda McMahon to expand and revamp the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, increase accuracy checks, and take enforcement actions against institutions violating the law. Concerns persist that some universities continue to use diversity statements and other means to circumvent the Supreme Court decision, while lawsuits allege ongoing use of racial filters. The administration argues that enhanced data collection is necessary to verify compliance and increase transparency in admissions. Recent federal agreements with institutions like Columbia University require detailed admissions reporting by race and academic performance. The executive action is part of a broader push to roll back affirmative action and scrutinize Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in higher education.