Harvard’s Class of 2029 Enrolled in 2025 Shows Major Demographic Shift
*Harvard University’s newly released admissions data highlights major demographic changes for the Class of 2029. These students entered in fall 2025 and are expected to graduate in 2029.
Black and Hispanic enrollment dropped sharply, while Asian American numbers increased. Fewer international students were admitted as well, CBS Boston is reporting.
Fewer Black and Hispanic Students Enrolled This Year
Black student enrollment dropped from 14% last year to around 11.5%. Hispanic enrollment fell even more sharply, going from 16% to 11%.
Experts say these drops are part of a “feedback loop” that discourages underrepresented students from applying. Many now feel less welcome or see fewer peers who share their background.
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Asian American Enrollment Rises as Test Scores Return
Asian American students now make up 41% of the class, up from 37% in 2024. This change aligns with Harvard bringing back standardized testing.
Studies show Asian American applicants often perform well on SAT and ACT exams. The return of those tests may have favored their admission chances.
International Student Numbers Also Decline Under Visa Pressure
Harvard’s international enrollment dropped from about 15–18% to roughly 12–14%. Tighter visa rules and screenings were a major factor.
Several international students faced revoked visas, including at least one who could not attend after being admitted. The U.S. has also capped certain student visa types.
Federal Government Pushes Back on Campus DEI Efforts
Since early 2025, the Trump administration has demanded colleges remove DEI programs. Harvard was ordered to shut down related offices and events.
While Harvard partially complied, it also sued the government. Officials renamed their DEI office and reduced student event support to avoid losing federal funding.
Harvard Required to Submit Detailed Admissions Data
In August 2025, the federal government ordered 1,700 schools to submit six years of admissions records. The goal was to identify “hidden” race-based practices.
Harvard had to report data including race, test scores, essays, and extracurriculars. Critics say this move discourages efforts to recruit underrepresented students.
Other Elite Colleges Mirror Harvard’s Enrollment Trends
Harvard is not alone. Black enrollment fell at Yale, Princeton, MIT, and Amherst. Princeton’s numbers hit a low not seen since 1968.
Meanwhile, fewer colleges released diversity data this year, fearing political backlash. More diverse students are now turning to community colleges or transfer routes.
Student Reactions Show Frustration and Concern
Black students say they feel the difference right away. Freshman chat groups are smaller, and representation is lacking in dorms and classrooms.
Groups like the Coalition for a Diverse Harvard are calling for test-optional policies and an end to legacy preferences. They say the current system favors privilege.
Supporters Say New Policies Promote Fairness for All
Some back the changes, saying admissions should be race-blind. Groups like the American Civil Rights Project support the government’s actions.
They argue it’s about equal treatment, not exclusion. But critics warn that progress on racial equity is being reversed.
Legal Battles Over Funding and Admissions Policies Continue
Harvard is still fighting in court. A recent ruling restored $3 billion in federal grants but upheld admissions data oversight.
The government says more crackdowns are coming. Harvard, like many schools, must now balance compliance, diversity, and academic goals.
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