What is "numerus clausus"

n. Limitation on the number of students allowed to enter university based on examination performance, ethnicity or gender.

Numerus clausus ("closed number" in Latin) is one of many methods used to limit the number of students who may study at a university. In many cases, the goal of the numerus clausus is simply to limit the number of students to the maximum feasible in some particularly sought-after areas of studies. However, in some cases, numerus clausus policies were religious or racial quotas, both in intent and function.

The numerus clausus is a concept of property law which limits the number of types of right that the courts will acknowledge as having the character of " property". Several consequences follow from a right having the nature of property, as opposed to being a personal right, like a contract or obligation to pay compensation. Historically, the law has given privileged remedies to the holders of property rights over personal claims. These have included priority in payment from an insolvent debtor, a greater likelihood of being awarded specific performance, and security in remaining in possession of land or some other asset against termination of the right to possess. It holds especial importance in land law and corporate law.