What does Preamble of Fair College Admissions for Students Act do?

This bill, formally titled 'To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit institutions of higher education participating in Federal student assistance programs from giving preferential treatment in the admissions process to legacy students or donors,' aims to modify the Higher Education Act of 1965. The bill seeks to prevent institutions receiving federal student assistance from favoring legacy students or donors during admissions. The bill was introduced in the Senate on March 6, 2025, by Mr. Merkley, Mr. Kennedy, and Mr. Padilla.

What does SHORT TITLE. of Fair College Admissions for Students Act do?

This bill is formally titled the Fair College Admissions for Students Act.

What does BAN ON LEGACY OR DONOR PREFERENCES IN ADMISSIONS. of Fair College Admissions for Students Act do?

This section amends Section 487(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965. The amendment prohibits institutions from providing preferential treatment in admissions based on relationships to donors or alumni. The amendment takes effect on the first day of the second award year that begins after the date of enactment of this Act.

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Fair College Admissions for Students Act

Last updated: 3/19/2026 · Introduced: 3/6/2025

Author: Jeff Merkley (D-OR)

TL;DR (AI)

The bill prohibits colleges receiving federal student aid from giving preferential treatment to applicants with connections to alumni or donors.
This legislation amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to enact this ban.
The ban on legacy and donor preferences will take effect one year after the bill's enactment.

119th Congressin committeeHR. 2809(In Committee)Official page

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Other Sections

Includes provisions on preamble, short title., and 1 more.

3 sections

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