Cost-benefit information closes aspiration gaps–if parents think their child is ready for college

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2021

Abstract

Can information close socioeconomic gaps in parents’ postsecondary aspirations for their children? We administer a survey experiment to a nationally representative sample of U.S. parents, who are also asked whether their child is academically prepared for college. We inquire whether parents prefer their child to pursue a four-year degree, two-year degree, or no further education. Some parents are also randomly told the costs of college for an individual in their state and income bracket; local labor-market returns to a degree; or both costs and returns. Information closes socioeconomic aspiration gaps only if parents believe their child is ready for college.

Publication Source (Journal or Book title)

Education Economics

First Page

233

Last Page

251

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