The (Null) Impact of Tax Credit Information on College Enrollment in Texas

Evidence suggests that informational and behavioral “nudges” which help individuals overcome procrastination or inattention can affect educational attainment, college enrollment, and student achievement. Researchers conducted a randomized evaluation to test the impact of a large, information-only intervention about tax credits and financial aid for college on college application and enrollment. Information about tax credits did not influence re-enrollment, reapplication, or enrollment, even for students who had viewed the informational emails about tax credits for college.