This study examines the association between educational loans and college graduation rates, with a focus on differences by race and ethnicity. Data come from the 1997 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (NLSY97). Results from event history analyses that control for a number of student characteristics, college experiences, and financial resources indicate that educational loans are positively related to the rate of college graduation. Larger loan amounts tend to decrease the likelihood of college graduation. The relationship between educational loans and college graduation is stronger among minority (Black and Hispanic) students. Overall, there is little evidence that educational loans reduce racial and ethnic disparities in college graduation rates.
Project: College Success
Citation
Zhan, M., & Xiang, X. (2013). An event history analysis of educational loans and college graduation: A focus on differences by race and ethnicity (CSD Working Paper No. 13-35). St. Louis, MO: Washington University, Center for Social Development.