ABSTRACT
Th is chapter presents the empirical evidence of the eff ects of vouchers on educational outcomes outside the United States. Th e international literature is small, though growing. While there are few rigorous impact evaluations and even fewer random evaluations of voucher programs, this chapter describes the most prominent programs. It classifi es them according to the scope of the program-that is, whether it is universal or targets a specifi c subpopulation. Th e chapter also discusses the general theory of vouchers and the challenges of estimating their eff ects on educational outcomes. Finally, it summarizes the evidence on the impact of vouchers on outcomes. Th e most rigorous studies available show that voucher programs lead to signifi cant improvements in access to secondary schooling for relatively poorer students; these programs also lead to signifi cant increases in test scores. Additionally, studies show that voucher recipients are more likely to complete secondary school, enter university, postpone marriage, and increase their earnings. In light of these fi ndings, it is important to stress the need for more evaluations. Voucher programs are ideal settings to design experimental setups. Th e demand for education is increasing, and the resources are scarce.
