Supreme Court of the United States · 1978

Regents of the University of California v. Bakke

Vote: 5-4Civil Rights

Race can be a factor in college admissions but racial quotas are unconstitutional.

Last verified: June 2026

Key Facts

Race can be a factor in college admissions but racial quotas are unconstitutional.

First major affirmative action case.

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Congress can use the Commerce Clause to prohibit racial discrimination in private businesses.