University Participation and Income Differences: An Analysis of Applications by Ontario Secondary School Students

Abstract

“University Participation and Income Differences: An Analysis of Applications by Ontario Secondary School Students” looks at the link between postsecondary education participation and family income status. By reviewing applications to Ontario universities from 1995 to 2005 the authors are able to determine that students in low income neighbourhoods are 13 per cent less likely to apply to university than those in high income neighbourhoods. The report suggests that application rates are slightly higher for students attending Catholic schools, students in urban areas, students in areas within close proximity to a postsecondary institution, and students living in areas with a large East Asian p..