Entry into University: Are The Children of Immigrants Disadvantaged?

The failure or success of students at school can have important impacts on their future studies and labour market outcomes. Furthermore, school performance of the children of immigrants can inform on their adjustment or disadvantage (if any) in the country of destination. This paper examines the tertiary entrance scores of children with migrant parents (first- and second-generations Australians) and children with Australian-born parents. It shows that the tertiary entrance scores do not differ between native-born children with Australian-born parents and second-generation Australians. However, children born overseas with migrant parents (first-generation Australians) have higher tertiary entrance scores than native-born children. One of the main factors contributing to the difference in tertiary entrance scores between firstgeneration Australians and children with Australian-born parents is the way parental assistance is provided.