This article evaluates the "mismatch" hypothesis, advocated by opponents of affirmative action, which predicts lower graduation rates for minority students who attend selective post-secondary institutions than for those who attend colleges and universities where their academic credentials are better matched to the institutional average. Using two…

Explores how the focus on class rank has affected students from star public high schools, creating a disadvantage when students try to enter elite colleges. Explains a new approach, "winner-take-all," being utilized in high schools in which schools focus on the top students. Includes references. (CMK)

Because research by Coleman, Hoffer, and Kilgore did not control for differences in achievement levels for students when they entered public and parochial schools, their conclusions are flawed. Reanaylsis of their data show that, when student selection is controlled, there are only slight differences in cognitive and achievement test results. (IS)

Questions the theory of counter selection which holds that quotas implemented after the Communist seizure of power in Hungary reduced educational inequalities based on class of origin. Maintains that social status and class-based inequalities were reproduced through the efforts of cadre administrators and professionals. (MJP)

Develops a gatekeeping theory by stepping inside the black box of Harvard university's admissions process. Stresses how political and organizational contexts influence selection (gatekeeping). Analyzes how student merit and social class-based factors mutually determine selection. Links an understanding of the organizational field with process…