First-Generation Graduates in OECD Countries

This paper examines earnings differences between first-generation and continuing-generation college graduates across 23 OECD countries using data from the OECD Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC). In all but one of the countries analysed, first-generation graduates earn less than their peers from college-educated families, with an average gap across all countries of approximately 8%. We investigate potential mechanisms behind this result and find that first-generation graduates are less likely to pursue postgraduate education, more likely to hold vocational degrees, and tend to have lower numeracy competence. These findings highlight the need for policy interventions to enhance educational mobility and promote equality of opportunity. JEL classification: I23, I24, J62. Keywords: Inequality, Tertiary education, Intergenerational mobilit