Access of Disadvantaged Students to Higher Education in Chile: Current Scenarios and Challenges

The purpose of this chapter is twofold: (1) to analyze how public policies and some institutional initiatives affect equity and inclusion issues in higher education in Chile, and (2) to explore the evolution of these initiatives, especially in the area of student support schemes. Data analysis was based on primary and secondary sources including household surveys (CASEN databases), national and regional reports, and academic reports, as well as databases provided by national and international agencies. It was concluded that the expansion of enrollment in higher education over the last three decades had little impact on equity in access. Students who are disadvantaged (by virtue of socioeconomic status, gender, or ethnic origin) mainly enroll in private lower-prestige postsecondary educational institutions (which offer low-quality programs) and in institutions oriented to technical and vocational training.