The US authorities have ended a probe into whether elite Harvard and Princeton universities discriminate against Asian-Americans in admissions, after an Indian-American student withdrew his complaint in this regard.

The Education Department’s Office for Civil Rights had started the investigation following a complaint from an Indian-American student from California that these two premier American universities discriminate against Asian-Americans.

The student was rejected at both schools, despite sitting near the top of his high school class.

The OCR decided to end the probe after the complainant withdrew the charges against Harvard University.

“We are pleased that the complaint against Harvard has been withdrawn and that OCR has closed the case. Harvard College welcomes talented students from all backgrounds, including Asian-Americans,” Harvard spokesman, Mr Jeff Neal, said.

“Our review of every applicant’s file is highly individualised and holistic, as we give serious consideration to all of the information we receive and all of the ways in which the candidate might contribute to our vibrant educational environment and community,” Mr Neal told PTI.

Related Topics