Peer Effects of International Students in U.S. Higher Education

• In Event: AERA Graduate Student Research-in-Progress Session 5
  In Roundtable Session: International Students' Experiences in U.S. Postsecondary Institutions: Understanding Acculturation and Peer Effects (Table 2)

Abstract

There is sparse credible evidence on whether taking classes with international students affects educational outcomes of domestic students. In this study, I seek to present evidence on the peer effects of international students in the US higher education by examining whether international classmates affect the course level outcomes of domestic students and the likelihood that they attain post-secondary degrees, especially STEM degrees. Using administrative student data from multiple selective public universities in Texas, I find that international students have negative spillover effects on course grades of domestic students.

Author

• Siyuan Luo, University of Texas - Dallas