ABSTRACT
Worldwide, access to postsecondary education1 has improved significantly over the last two decades. In 2013, global postsecondary enrolment reached 210,245,000, nearly 3 times higher than 20 years ago (Figure 1.1). Participation in postsecondary education, measured by the gross enrolment ratio,2 increased from 14% in 1990 to 33% in 2013 (Figure 1.2). However, such measures of the global growth in enrolment can mask stark disparities in progress within and between countries. Given the importance of advanced education to lifelong opportunities, inequality in educational opportunities raises serious concerns for underrepresented or underserved groups. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the sources of educational disadvantages and the extent to which inequality in access to postsecondary education can intensify the disadvantages faced by those lagging behind.
