Exploring the Association Between Student-College Match and Student Outcomes Over Time

• In Event: Nuances and Challenges to Traditional Notions of College Success

Abstract

There is a well-documented relationship between student-college match (i.e., academic match) and student outcomes; students who undermatch are less likely to graduate than similarly qualified students who match or overmatch. What remains to be seen is whether the association between student-college match and student outcomes has changed over time. This study uses nationally representative data from three cohorts of first-time college students—students who began college in 1995, 2003, and 2011—to examine this question. Findings show that graduation rates for undermatched and matched students have remained stable, whereas graduation rates for overmatched students have improved over time. This study contributes to our understanding of whether, and to what extent, student-college match continues to play a role in student success.

Author

• Amanda Cook, Northwestern University