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The Bottom 20%: Early Career Paths of Adolescents with Low GPA

Author

Listed:
  • Hansen, Jörgen

    (Concordia University)

  • Kristensen, Nicolai

    (VIVE - The Danish Centre for Applied Social Science)

  • Andersen, Henrik Lindegaard

    (KORA - Danish Institute for Local and Regional Government Research)

Abstract

Across nations, large proportions of younger birth cohorts obtain no professional qualications. Using a structural dynamic approach, we analyze policies targeted adolescents who leave grade nine with a GPA in the bottom 20%. We find that preparatory courses, offered to young people who are unable to commence a qualifying degree, have no positive impact on future labor market outcomes. Unobservable noncognitive qualities are more important for this group than are cognitive skills. Education is a good option for some, but not for all. Implications for mechanism design and wage support schemes are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Hansen, Jörgen & Kristensen, Nicolai & Andersen, Henrik Lindegaard, 2020. "The Bottom 20%: Early Career Paths of Adolescents with Low GPA," IZA Discussion Papers 13564, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp13564
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    JEL classification:

    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education
    • I38 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs

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