“No Show” Study: College Destinations of University of California Applicants and Admits Who Did Not Enroll,1997-2002

Abstract

This study examines trends in University of California (UC) “no shows”—students who applied and were admitted to UC but enrolled elsewhere—before and after the elimination of affirmative action at UC in 1998. Two main findings emerge from the data. Overall, UC continues to be successful in attracting and enrolling a majority of high-achieving students from California high schools. However, overall enrollment patterns mask substantial variations across different racial and ethnic groups. Top underrepresented minority applicants enroll at UC at considerably lower rates than other students, and the gap has widened noticeably in the 5 years since the elimination of affirmative action in UC admissions, as many of these students are now choosing to attend selective private colleges and universities. The policy implications of these trends are considered.