UCLA Faces Federal Scrutiny Over Race-Based Scholarship Programs

UCLA Under Investigation for Discriminatory Scholarship Practices

Cornell Law professor William A. Jacobson, the founder of the Equal Protection Project, has initiated a federal civil rights complaint against the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). The complaint, filed with the U.S. Department of Education’s civil rights office, alleges that UCLA operates over a dozen scholarship programs that discriminate against students based on their race, gender, or national origin.

Overview of the Scholarship Programs

The complaint identifies 13 specific programs that restrict eligibility to applicants based on criteria such as being a “LatinX” freshman, identifying as “Pilipinx,” or being an undocumented undergraduate. Additionally, some awards are limited to female-only applicants. The filing asserts that these criteria breach Title VI and Title IX of federal civil rights law, which prohibit discrimination in federally funded educational institutions.

Jacobson’s Concerns About Discrimination

Jacobson expressed his shock regarding the existence of such race- and sex-based scholarships at a prominent public university. He remarked that a prestigious institution like UCLA should refrain from running programs that differentiate between students based on race, color, national origin, or sex. His comments highlight the broader implications of such discriminatory practices in educational settings.

Specific Scholarships Under Fire

Examples of the criticized UCLA scholarships include the Latino Alumni Association scholarship, intended for incoming LatinX freshmen and transfer students, and the Pilipino Alumni Association award, designated for those who identify with the Pilipinx community. Another example is the Undocumented Alumni Association Scholarship, which limits eligibility exclusively to undocumented students. The Raza Women’s Alumni Scholarship specifically targets incoming Latina freshmen and transfer students.

In light of these restrictions, Jacobson’s filing raises critical questions about equity and accessibility in higher education.

Political Context and Responses

These scholarship programs contrast sharply with statements made by California Governor Gavin Newsom earlier this year. The Governor publicly stated that the term “LatinX” is not widely accepted or used, indicating a disconnect between governmental perspectives and UCLA’s scholarship application criteria. Despite Newsom’s disapproval, UCLA continues to incorporate the term within its taxpayer-funded scholarship framework.

Additional Programs Mentioned in the Complaint

Other scholarships listed in Jacobson’s complaint include two designed specifically for students of Armenian descent and a Deloitte Foundation award that benefits meritorious female students. The complaint argues that UCLA’s reliance on racial or gender-based eligibility violates both federal law and the university’s own non-discrimination policies.

Furthermore, the filing requests that federal authorities investigate the matter thoroughly and, if necessary, suspend UCLA’s federal funding until these programs are amended to comply with the law.

UCLA’s Defense of Its Scholarship Practices

In response to the complaints, UCLA’s scholarship portal includes a statement defending its approach to “identity-conscious” awards. The university asserts that it administers all financial aid and scholarships in the context of compliance with federal, state, and university regulations. The statement clarifies that identity-conscious awards may prioritize various factors, including race, gender, and national origin.

This process is framed as a means to provide equitable opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. The application system allows students to apply for multiple scholarships at once, although the eligibility criteria and actual receipt of funds vary.

The Legal Implications of UCLA’s Scholarship Criteria

Jacobson maintains that the current policies at UCLA cross a legal threshold. He argues that providing educational opportunities based on race, color, national origin, or sex directly contravenes Titles VI and IX of the Civil Rights Act. According to Jacobson, higher education institutions should prioritize the inherent value of each student instead of categorizing individuals by demographic groups.

Seeking Formal Investigation

The complaint, filed on November 7, 2025, requests a formal investigation from the Education Department to ensure that UCLA adheres to federal regulations effectively. The outcome of this inquiry could have significant consequences for the university’s funding and scholarship practices moving forward.

Awaiting Responses from UCLA and Government Officials

As of now, UCLA and Governor Newsom’s office have yet to respond to inquiries from news outlets regarding the nature of the complaint and the university’s scholarship policies. The ongoing discourse surrounding this issue underscores the urgent need for a reevaluation of how scholarships are awarded in public institutions.

A Broader Discussion on Equity in Education

This situation reflects a larger national conversation regarding equity in education. Discrimination claims related to higher education admissions and financial aid continue to escalate, emphasizing the critical importance of ensuring fairness and accessibility for all students, regardless of established identity groups.