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Location and Educational Signals

Author

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  • Raoul van Maarseveen

    (University of Cologne)

Abstract

Place shapes the educational attainment of children, yet the underlying reasons remain poorly understood. In this paper, I investigate the role of spatial differences in educational signals received by students. Using Dutch administrative data combined with high-stakes national exam scores, I show that students receive less ambitious track recommendations in rural areas conditional on ability. The spatial difference is comparable to the impact of having a university-educated parent and explains around half of the spatial difference in academic track enrollment. Key mechanisms are spillovers from high SES peers and stronger beliefs in the importance of education among urban teachers.

Suggested Citation

  • Raoul van Maarseveen, 2025. "Location and Educational Signals," ECONtribute Discussion Papers Series 366, University of Bonn and University of Cologne, Germany.
    • Handle: RePEc:ajk:ajkdps:366
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    File URL: https://www.econtribute.de/RePEc/ajk/ajkdps/ECONtribute_366_2025.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • I24 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education - - - Education and Inequality
    • O18 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Urban, Rural, Regional, and Transportation Analysis; Housing; Infrastructure
    • R11 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Regional Economic Activity: Growth, Development, Environmental Issues, and Changes

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