Zohran Mamdani, a student with a 2140 SAT score, found himself at the center of a debate over racial identification in college admissions. While a 2140 SAT score places a student in the 94th–96th percentile nationally, it was not sufficient for admission to Columbia University. Mamdani’s background is diverse; his mother is Indian, and his father is Ugandan-Indian, which places him in one of the highest-scoring demographic groups in college admissions.

The controversy arose when Mamdani reportedly marked “Black” on his admissions form. This decision sparked discussions about the complexities of racial identification and its impact on college admissions. According to Christopher Rufo, an education commentator, Mamdani’s SAT score was below the median for Asian applicants but likely above the median for Black applicants. This discrepancy has led to questions about the motivations behind Mamdani’s choice to identify as Black and whether it was influenced by strategic considerations in the competitive admissions process.

The situation highlights broader issues within the college admissions landscape, where race and ethnicity can play significant roles in determining an applicant’s chances of acceptance. Critics argue that such practices can lead to uncomfortable situations where applicants feel pressured to identify with certain racial categories to improve their prospects. Supporters of affirmative action policies, however, contend that these measures are necessary to ensure diversity and equal opportunity in higher education.

Mamdani’s case underscores the ongoing debate over affirmative action and racial preferences in college admissions. It raises important questions about how institutions balance merit with diversity goals and how applicants navigate these complex dynamics. As discussions continue, this case serves as a reminder of the nuanced challenges faced by students from diverse backgrounds in pursuing higher education.