Massachusetts bans donor and legacy preferences in college admissions decisions

On April 29, 2025, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts introduced Senate Bill 943, a significant legislative proposal aimed at reforming admission practices in public institutions of higher education. The bill seeks to eliminate donor and legacy preferences in college admissions, a move that advocates argue will promote fairness and equity in the application process.

The core provisions of Senate Bill 943 stipulate that public colleges and universities in Massachusetts cannot grant admission based on an applicant's familial ties to donors or alumni. This means that financial contributions or family connections will no longer influence admission decisions, ensuring that all applicants are evaluated solely on their merits. The bill does allow institutions to collect data on familial relationships for statistical purposes, but this information cannot be used to favor applicants.

Supporters of the bill, including various educational equity advocates, argue that donor and legacy preferences disproportionately benefit affluent families and perpetuate inequality in higher education access. By removing these preferences, the bill aims to level the playing field for all students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds.

However, the bill has sparked notable debates among lawmakers and stakeholders. Critics argue that eliminating these preferences could undermine the financial support that institutions receive from alumni and donors, potentially impacting funding for scholarships and programs. Some opponents also express concern that the bill may not address the broader systemic issues of inequality in education, such as disparities in K-12 schooling.

The implications of Senate Bill 943 extend beyond admissions; they touch on the broader conversation about equity in education and the role of financial contributions in shaping academic institutions. Experts suggest that if passed, the bill could set a precedent for other states to follow, potentially leading to a nationwide reevaluation of admission practices.

As Massachusetts moves forward with discussions on Senate Bill 943, the outcome could significantly reshape the landscape of higher education admissions, influencing not only how students are accepted into colleges but also how institutions engage with their alumni and donor communities. The bill's progress will be closely watched, as it reflects ongoing societal debates about fairness, privilege, and access to education.