HHS Refers Duke Medical School to Justice Department Over Alleged Race Use in Admissions

A spokesperson told The Duke Chronicle that the school had cooperated with investigators and submitted information showing ongoing compliance. The referral moves the dispute from a federal health agency to the government's chief litigator, a significant escalation.

No court has ruled on the claims. For students applying to medical school this cycle, it adds another layer of uncertainty to how admissions offices review essays and life experiences.