Federal Investigation Launched Into FSU Scholarship Practices

The Trump administration has initiated a federal civil rights investigation into Florida State University (FSU) concerning 32 scholarships accused of discriminating against students based on race or sex. This decision comes following a complaint from the Equal Protection Project (EPP). According to a letter obtained by Fox News Digital, the Department of Education’s (DOE) Office for Civil Rights will examine whether FSU’s practices violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and Title IX.

The EPP’s July 2025 complaint targets 32 FSU scholarships, alleging discriminatory practices based on race, color, national origin, and sex. The DOE’s letter confirms that FSU, as a recipient of federal financial assistance, must comply with these federal laws.

William Jacobson, the founder and president of EPP and a Cornell Law professor, highlighted that FSU is unusual for having such a high concentration of contentious scholarships, even among the many institutions EPP has challenged. He noted Florida’s efforts to decrease diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, making these allegations particularly surprising.

The complaint identifies scholarships with claimed preferences based on race, color, national origin, and sex. For instance, the Crockett Family Fund for Excellence noted a preference for African American or Black recipients. Other programs include preferences for female recipients belonging to specific racial groups.

“They try to attributing the preference to private donors,” Jacobson said. “These are FSU-promoted scholarships, awarded through the university system, meaning they bear legal responsibility.”

FSU has denied these allegations, stating that all students are eligible to apply for the mentioned scholarships. According to FSU, donor preferences do not constitute eligibility requirements and scholarships are funded by private donations, not institutional funds.

The investigation remains preliminary. The Office for Civil Rights noted that launching the investigation doesn’t imply an immediate conclusion on the matter. Evidence from the university and other parties will now be examined.

Jacobson stressed that the aim is not to eliminate scholarship funding, but to ensure fair access for all students. His organization also calls for an examination of these practices by Florida’s Attorney General and the Governor’s Office.