The Influence of Precollege Access Programs on Postsecondary Enrollment and Persistence

Abstract

Using a nationally representative longitudinal data-set, we examine the influence of precollege access programs on high school achievement, college preparation, postsecondary enrollment, and postsecondary persistence. Results do not show much difference in the level of academic preparation between participants and non-participants. However, precollege access program participants were more likely to learn about college opportunities by seeking information about college, applying to college, and receiving financial aid than similar non-participants were. However, although participants and similar non-participants enrolled in college and persisted for 1 year at about the same rates, fewer participants persisted in college for 2 years.

Keywords

college access education reform high schools

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