California has banned legacy admissions at private nonprofit colleges, thanks to a new law signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. This law prevents colleges from giving preferential admissions to applicants whose parents donated to or attended the institution. Although colleges can still admit these students, they must do so without giving them an advantage during the admissions process.

The ban follows last year’s U.S. Supreme Court decision prohibiting affirmative action in college admissions. That ruling raised concerns about fairness and diversity in the admissions process, making this new law even more significant. 

Supporters, including Assemblymember Phil Ting, who introduced the bill, argue that the law ensures admissions are based on merit rather than family connections or wealth.

Though the law primarily affects private colleges, many selective schools like Stanford and the University of Southern California, which previously admitted students with legacy or donor ties, must now comply with this new law. 

In 2026, colleges must report compliance with the new law, and violations will be made public. Supporters hope this move will make college admissions more equitable. At the same time, opponents argue that the law could negatively affect schools that rely on donations to support low-income students.