At MIT, Black/Latino Enrollment Drops Sharply After Affirmative Action Ban

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.) reported a significant decline in Black, Hispanic, Native American, and Pacific Islander student enrollment for its incoming class of 2028, the first admitted since the Supreme Court's ban on affirmative action. The percentage of these historically underrepresented groups dropped to approximately 16%, down from about 25% in previous years. Specifically, Black student enrollment fell from 15% to 5%, and Hispanic enrollment decreased from 16% to 11%. In contrast, Asian American students comprised nearly half of the new class, increasing from 40% to 47%. M.I.T. President Sally Kornbluth acknowledged the loss of diversity resulting from the Supreme Court's decision, while Edward Blum, founder of Students for Fair Admissions, viewed the changes as validation of the ruling. Experts noted that the decline in Black and Latino students mirrors trends observed at other universities following similar bans on race-conscious admissions. M.I.T. officials attributed the drop to a lack of educational preparation in relevant subjects among these groups and emphasized the need for increased outreach efforts. The admissions dean stated that the university did not inquire about applicants' race, making it unclear whether fewer Black and Latino students applied. The situation raises concerns about the broader implications for diversity in higher education and its impact on future leadership across various sectors.

- M.I.T.'s class of 2028 shows a sharp decline in Black and Latino enrollment post-affirmative action ban.

- Asian American student representation increased significantly in the new class.

- Experts predict long-term consequences for diversity in higher education and leadership.

- M.I.T. officials attribute enrollment changes to educational preparation disparities.

- The university plans to enhance outreach efforts to improve diversity in future admissions.