The Department of Justice opened an investigation into the College of William and Mary over allegations the school violated federal civil rights law by using race-based criteria to distribute scholarships and student benefits.
The investigation targets multiple programs at the Virginia college that allegedly gave preferences based on race — a direct violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which bans discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin.
Of particular concern is the university’s “W&M Scholars” program, which awards full in-state tuition and fees to academically distinguished students. The program lists “interest in diverse people and perspectives” as one of three top consideration metrics.
“DEMONSTRATED EXPERIENCE AND INTEREST IN BRIDGING DIFFERENCES AND EMBRACING DIVERSE PEOPLE AND PERSPECTIVES.”
But that’s not the only program under scrutiny.
The DOJ is also investigating the Martha L. Muguira Fellowship, which gave “preference” to Latino and Hispanic women, and the Lemon Legal Scholars Program, allegedly earmarked exclusively for HBCU graduates. The “Reaching Back Scholarship” gave preference to HBCU applicants and those “who contribute to the diversity” of W&M Law.
The @CivilRights Division is investigating if William & Mary’s scholarships & other student benefits include unlawful race-based preferences. Skin color shouldn’t dictate which students get coveted opportunities in higher ed & we remain committed to ending these practices!…
— AAGHarmeetDhillon (@AAGDhillon) August 17, 2026
The DOJ’s Civil Rights Division sent William & Mary a formal notice letter outlining the investigation. The letter emphasized that because the college receives federal financial assistance from the Department of Justice, it must comply with Title VI’s anti-discrimination requirements.
“Providing any educational benefits, including recruitment, scholarships, and support services, based on race violates the civil rights of all Americans,” the letter reads.
Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights Harmeet Dhillon did not confirm the college is in violation yet — but made clear that race-based selection is illegal under the Constitution.
“Awarding scholarships or offering coveted opportunities to students based on the color of their skin is illegal and offends the guarantees of our color-blind Constitution,” Dhillon said.
“We will find out if scholarships or other student benefits at William & Mary favor applicants of certain races. The Department will not turn a blind eye to race-based preferences, however they are packaged or portrayed by universities.”
The investigation will focus on possible race discrimination in the school’s scholarships, financial aid, recruitment, and educational support programs.
The Justice Department acknowledged it has not reached any conclusions. If the DOJ determines William & Mary is not violating Title VI, it will close the investigation. If violations are confirmed, the school could face enforcement action — including loss of federal funding.
