Overall, the UC system as an example would not fare progressively in racial demographics if socioeconomic status became the sole factor for determining admittance. Unfortunately, the same political figures supporting the dismantling of affirmative action programs do not support increases to financial aid programs. In fact, the current system of financial aid, including grants and loans could not withstand and accommodate the estimated increase of low income students, if the option became a reality. Not to mention, existing financial aid presently faces grave threats from the budget cuts. Affirmative action and meritocracy are mutually exclusive.
Meritocracy is defined as a system in which advancement is based on achievement or ability.
Race is one of the many facets of criteria for admission. In general, students with lower SAT and GPA scores have higher graduation rates than others. Schools in low income, low tax base areas receive less funding and therefore have lower quality facilities and fewer resources such as teacher's energy, computers, current or functional libraries and so on. Studies have also indicated that the SAT could be considered culturally biased. Merit is just a word for whatever qualifications are deemed desirable for the performance of a particular task and there is nothing fixed about those qualifications.