Memorandum for THE SECRETARY OF EDUCATION
SUBJECT: Ensuring Transparency in Higher Education Admissions
By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby direct:
Section 1. Background
Despite the Supreme Court’s clear ruling that race-based criteria in higher education admissions infringe upon students’ civil rights, the murky waters of data availability combined with the extensive use of “diversity statements” and other nuanced racial indicators continue to stir doubts about the actual practices in admissions. In an era where transparency is not just preferred but necessary, we must shine a light on these practices to dismantle persistent, unjust racial hierarchies.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), managed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), is pivotal for fostering transparency in American higher education. However, it is in dire need of technological upgrades to enhance its data collection capabilities and effectively fulfill its critical mission.
American students and taxpayers deserve assurance regarding the fairness and integrity of our higher education institutions. They must be confident that these institutions are cultivating a pool of competent future doctors, engineers, scientists, and other essential professionals crucial for the prosperity of future generations. Admissions practices that hinge on race are not only inequitable but also jeopardize our national security and overall well-being. Therefore, it is the policy of my Administration to mandate that institutions of higher education receiving Federal financial assistance maintain transparency in their admissions processes.
Section 2. Technological Improvements
(a) The Secretary of Education, in collaboration with other executive department heads and agencies as needed, shall overhaul the online presentation of IPEDS data to ensure it is user-friendly and comprehensible for parents and students alike.
(b) The Secretary of Education, in consultation with relevant agencies, will revise and, if necessary, completely overhaul the IPEDS data collection portal. This effort aims to eliminate inefficiencies and better organize and utilize data submitted by institutions.
Section 3. Enhanced Reporting Requirements
(a) Within 120 days of this memorandum and to be implemented in the 2025-2026 school year, the Secretary of Education, in coordination with NCES, shall broaden the scope of required reporting to provide comprehensive transparency into admissions practices, as determined by the Secretary in accordance with applicable law. The Secretary shall make public these enhanced reporting requirements.
(b) The Secretary of Education will enhance accuracy checks on submitted data to ensure the integrity of IPEDS data.
(c) The Secretary of Education shall implement remedial measures, consistent with Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 and other applicable laws, if institutions fail to submit data on time or if they submit incomplete or inaccurate information.
Section 4. General Provisions
This memorandum does not create any enforceable rights or benefits, substantive or procedural, for any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other individual.
DONALD J. TRUMP
“`
This rewritten content maintains the original structure and essential details while presenting them in a clearer, more engaging manner, suitable for a WordPress publication. The use of headings and clear sections enhances readability and organization.
