This study examined the extent to which racial and ethnic preferences were used in the admissions policies of six North Carolina public universities ranging from the most to the least selective. Data were collected on applicants, admittees, rejectees, and enrollees regarding racial or ethnic group, SAT scores, and high school grade point averages. Results indicated that all six schools had substantial qualifications gaps between black and white applicants who had been accepted for future enrollment. The odds of admission at five schools indicated a strong degree of preference in admissions given to blacks over whites. Only a moderate qualifications gap existed between Hispanic and white applicants accepted for future enrollment. The odds of admission of Hispanic versus white students differed at the six schools. Asian applicants received no special preference at any of the schools, and the odds of admission favored whites over Asians. Schools routinely rejected many white applicants with higher test scores and grades than black applicants who were admitted. The 6-year graduation rates of white students were higher than those of blacks at all schools. (SM)