Using nationally representative data, this study analyzes the relative influence of social background and academic ability in determining the quality of the college attended. The results indicate that college quality, as measured by selectivity and affluence, is significantly related to social class, with this relationship mediated primarily by academic ability. Measured academic ability is the more powerful predictor of the quality of the college attended, though social class has an independent impact. The findings are discussed in the light of the emerging conflict between merit and equality in higher education. (Author/EH)