Selection and performance in post-compulsory education

This paper investigates the determinants of participation and performance in post-compulsory education, controlling for selection into post-compulsory education and prior attainment, using a unique primary data set on pupils studying in the post-compulsory grade in 2011-2012 from one district of Punjab province in Pakistan. The main findings of this paper show that participation and performance in post-compulsory education are two different processes, with participation being driven by the availability of post-compulsory institutions within travel distance and performance, once in post-compulsory education, determined by ability. The results further highlight that distance reduces participation most for those living in rural areas.