Public postsecondary education: admission by exception.
The passage of AB 251 is poised to impact state law by regulating how exceptions to the admission criteria are approached within public universities. The amendment seeks to enhance the credibility and accountability of admission practices, particularly for applicants who may not meet standard qualifications but exhibit significant potential for success in academic or special talent programs. It is expected to encourage in-state residents receiving institutional scholarships or who are part of educational opportunity programs to pursue higher education in California's public university system.
Assembly Bill No. 251, approved on July 9, 2021, amends Section 66022.5 of the Education Code concerning public postsecondary education in California. The bill reinforces the guidelines under which students can be admitted by exception to the California State University and the University of California systems. It specifies that such admissions must receive prior approval from a minimum of three senior campus administrators, excluding those involved in fundraising or external affairs. This aims to formalize and standardize the exceptions process while maintaining transparency and fairness in admissions decisions.
The sentiment around AB 251 appears largely supportive among stakeholders who prioritize maintaining high admission standards while allowing for flexibility for exceptional candidates. Advocates argue that such measures can help promote diversity and inclusiveness within the state's public university systems. Conversely, concerns have been raised regarding the overly bureaucratic nature of the admissions process that may arise due to the increased layers of approval required, potentially complicating and slowing down the admissions timeline for deserving candidates.
Notable points of contention include the specific exclusion of senior campus administrators associated with development and alumni outreach from the admissions approval process. Critics argue this could hinder the universities' abilities to leverage external support and resources while proponents highlight the need for impartiality in ensuring fair access to educational opportunities. Additionally, the bill allows for the establishment of articulated standards and procedural requirements for the admissions by exception decisions, which could create room for further debate on how strictly these should be applied in practice.