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Robustness to manipulations in school choice

Author

Listed:
  • Alexander Nesterov

    (Higher School of Economics)

  • Olga Rospuskova

    (Higher School of Economics)

  • Sofia Rubtcova

    (Higher School of Economics)

Abstract

We study the school choice problem and propose a new criterion for comparing non-strategy-proof mechanisms: robustness to manipulations. Mechanism A is more robust than mechanism B if each student (given any preferences of this student and any profile of schools’ priorities) can potentially access a smaller set of schools via a profitable manipulation under mechanism A than under mechanism B. This criterion strengthens the two independent criteria proposed by Bonkoungou and Nesterov (Theor Econ 16(3):881–909, 2021) and Decerf and Van der Linden (J Econ Theory 197:105313, 2021). We then show that all results obtained with these two criteria, as well as with the original criterion proposed by Pathak and Sönmez (Am Econ Rev 103(1):80–106, 2013), can also be obtained using robustness. Our results provide a stronger rationalization for a wide range of reforms in school choice and college admissions system.

Suggested Citation

  • Alexander Nesterov & Olga Rospuskova & Sofia Rubtcova, 2024. "Robustness to manipulations in school choice," Social Choice and Welfare, Springer;The Society for Social Choice and Welfare, vol. 62(3), pages 519-548, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:sochwe:v:62:y:2024:i:3:d:10.1007_s00355-023-01504-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s00355-023-01504-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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