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Son Preference, Gender Gap in Higher Education Attainment and High‐Skilled Occupations: Evidence From China

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  • Yangming Bao
  • Di Lu

Abstract

The paper examines the impact of the resumption of China's national college entrance exam (Gaokao) on the gender gap in higher education attainment and women's later career advancement. We find that the resumption of the Gaokao widened the higher education gender gap in affected cohorts in regions with stronger son preference. Moreover, this gap later extended to high‐skilled occupations, including directorships and executive positions in Chinese public firms. These outcomes are driven by local sex discrimination, which exacerbates gender‐biased resource allocation. Our findings highlight that entrenched gender norms can distort policies designed to nurture talent without explicit gender targeting, ultimately leading to persistent gender disparities in high‐skilled positions.

Suggested Citation

  • Yangming Bao & Di Lu, 2026. "Son Preference, Gender Gap in Higher Education Attainment and High‐Skilled Occupations: Evidence From China," Review of Development Economics, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 30(2), pages 967-981, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:rdevec:v:30:y:2026:i:2:p:967-981
    DOI: 10.1111/rode.70036
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