Insights from the Class of 2028: Harvards Post-Affirmative Action Admissions

Last Updated on April 1, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

Harvard College, one of the most prestigious institutions in the United States, is set to admit the Class of 2028 on Thursday. However, admissions data may raise questions about the impact of affirmative action fall and the crisis stemming from the University’s response to the Oct. 7 attack on Israel.

Experts are gearing up to analyze the number of applications and admissions rate to understand Harvard’s reputation post-events of the past six months. Demographic data is expected to be released later this summer, although Harvard will not be releasing racial and ethnic data this Thursday in a break from precedent, citing concerns about litigation.

There is an anticipated drop in the racial composition of the admitted class, especially among Black students. Models show that African American representation could decrease significantly without consideration of race in the admissions process. On the other hand, predictions suggest an increase in Asian American applicants being accepted.

Efforts may be made to increase the yield rate of students from underrepresented backgrounds, with an expected increase in the proportion of Pell Grant-eligible and first-generation students admitted. Harvard’s test-optional policies are expected to keep the application pool steady.

This unique situation for Harvard highlights a competition on a level playing field without racial preferences allowed by law, in contrast to public institutions in California. As such, there is uncertainty until the final composition of the admitted Class of 2028 is released. Stay tuned for updates on this evolving story.