**California Ends Legacy Admissions at Private Universities**

Governor Gavin Newsom of California has enacted a new law prohibiting private colleges and universities within the state from giving preferential treatment to applicants with familial ties to the institution. This change, announced this week, aims to ensure that admissions are based on merit rather than connections.

The new legislation, which will take effect in the fall of 2025, will impact prestigious schools like Stanford University and the University of Southern California. This move follows a broader national trend in response to the Supreme Court's ruling last summer, which barred race-based considerations in admissions processes and highlighted the influence of legacy status in selections at elite institutions.

Previously, public institutions such as the University of California and the California State University system had already done away with legacy admissions. However, many private colleges continued to favor descendants of alumni and significant donors.

In a statement regarding the new law, Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of fairness in higher education admissions. "Merit, skill and hard work should determine college admissions. The California Dream shouldn't be accessible to just a lucky few," he said. "We are opening the door to higher education wide enough for everyone, fairly."

Traditionally, selective colleges have given special consideration to legacy applicants, partially to bolster endowments that support various campus programs and provide financial aid to students. This new legislation marks a significant shift in admissions practices, promoting a more equitable process for all applicants.