Multi-Dimensional Skills and Gender Differences in STEM Majors

Abstract This paper studies the relationship between pre-college skills and gender differences in STEM majors. I use longitudinal data to estimate a generalised Roy model of initial major choices subsequent graduation outcomes. recover students’ latent math ability, non-cognitive self-efficacy. High–math-ability women have lower self-efficacy than men. Mathematical ability shape likelihood enrolment. A lack drives women’s drop out from find large returns enrolment for high–math-ability women. Well-focused interventions could improve rates labour market