Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: https://hdl.handle.net/10419/261293 
Year of Publication: 
2022
Series/Report no.: 
ZEW Discussion Papers No. 22-017
Publisher: 
ZEW - Leibniz-Zentrum für Europäische Wirtschaftsforschung, Mannheim
Abstract: 
This paper investigates the impact of studying the first-choice university subject on dropout and switching field of study for a cohort of students in Germany. Using detailed survey data, and employing an instrumental variable strategy based on variation in the local field of study availability, we provide evidence that students who are not enrolled in their preferred field of study are more likely to change their field, delay graduation and drop out of university. The estimated impact on dropout is particularly strong among students of low socio-economic status and is driven by lower academic performance and motivation.
Subjects: 
field of study
preferences
academic performance
university dropout
JEL: 
I21
I23
J24
Document Type: 
Working Paper

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