Information sources and transition to higher education: Students, teachers and school counselors' perspectives

Abstract

Despite the increase in higher education enrollment observed in Chile in past decades, there are significant differences among the quality of institutions in which students from different socioeconomic level enroll, and a system-level dropout issue. Initial results from the literature suggest a relationship between high-school advising and enrollment. This research explores students' knowledge about higher education and the role that different actors play in the college-decision making process in Chile using mixed methods approach. Most respondents felt informed about higher education programs but felt only partially informed about financial aid, tuition costs, and labor outcomes. Results should inform policies aiming to increase access and persistence in higher education. Implications for literature on human capital and college-choice are discussed.