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Incentives and Services for College Achievement: Evidence from a Randomized Trial

Author

Listed:
  • Philip Oreopoulos
  • Daniel Lang
  • Joshua Angrist

Abstract

This paper reports on an experimental evaluation of strategies designed to improve academic performance among college freshmen. One treatment group was offered academic support services. Another was offered financial incentives for good grades. A third group combined both interventions. Service use was highest for women and for subjects in the combined group. The combined treatment also raised the grades and improved the academic standing of women. These differentials persisted through the end of second year, though incentives were given in the first year only. This suggests study skills among some treated women increased. In contrast, the program had no effect on men. (JEL I21, I28)

Suggested Citation

  • Philip Oreopoulos & Daniel Lang & Joshua Angrist, 2009. "Incentives and Services for College Achievement: Evidence from a Randomized Trial," American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, American Economic Association, vol. 1(1), pages 136-163, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aejapp:v:1:y:2009:i:1:p:136-63
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/app.1.1.136
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • I21 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Analysis of Education
    • I28 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Government Policy

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    1. Incentives and Services for College Achievement: Evidence from a Randomized Trial (American Economic Journal: Applied Economics 2009) in ReplicationWiki

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