DOJ Sues Harvard for Withholding Admissions Records

The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Harvard University on February 13, 2026, in federal court in Massachusetts, accusing the institution of withholding detailed admissions records needed to verify compliance with a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that ended race-conscious admissions practices at colleges.

The complaint stems from a Civil Rights Division investigation launched in April 2025, which examines Harvard's undergraduate, law school, and medical school admissions processes. Federal officials contend that despite repeated requests, warning letters, and extensions over more than 10 months, Harvard has delayed production of key materials. These include five years of individualized applicant data, such as grades, test scores, personal essays, extracurricular activities, personal quality ratings by admissions officers, and demographic information including race and ethnicity. The Justice Department also seeks current admissions policies, internal communications, and documents related to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.

The lawsuit does not allege ongoing discrimination or seek financial penalties. Instead, it aims to compel Harvard to release the records...