Gender composition, social context, and academic performance in high-stakes examinations
Journal of Development Economics · 2025 · Hai Huang、Wei Huang、Xinzheng Shi、Ming‐ang Zhang
Abstract
This study examines how gender composition in high-stakes examination settings affects academic performance, using data from over 250,000 students in China's National College Entrance Examination (Gaokao). Leveraging random seating assignments, we show that female students significantly improve their scores and increase their chances of university admission when seated with more female peers, particularly those in immediate view. Male students show no significant response. These positive effects are stronger in regions with greater gender equality and weaker Confucian norms, highlighting the role of local social contexts. Our findings suggest that gender composition and social environment significantly influence academic outcomes in competitive settings, with implications for reducing gender disparities in education.