Smith College Faces Federal Review Over Transgender Student Admissions Policies

Thu, 07 May 2026 02:48:00 +0200

Smith College, a liberal arts women’s college in Massachusetts, is under federal investigation for potentially violating Title IX by admitting transgender students. Over the past decade, many U.S. women’s colleges have updated their admissions policies to include transgender women, while policies regarding transgender men and nonbinary students vary. The Trump administration claims that admitting biological males undermines the purpose of all-women’s colleges. Historically, women’s colleges were founded to provide educational opportunities for women excluded from most higher education institutions. Over time, these colleges have adapted their missions as societal understandings of gender evolved. While some alumni oppose admitting transgender students, others support inclusive policies aligned with the broader mission of women’s education. Research shows that women’s colleges often provide supportive environments for LGBTQ+ students, though transgender students may face challenges rela