Attractive Physical Appearance vs. Good Academic Characteristics: Which Generates More Earnings?

Abstract

SUMMARY This study uses the entry‐level wage of Taiwanese female college graduates to ensure a clear causality between the wage and physical appearance. It is found that height raises the entry wage, and that there exists an optimal BMI. Graduates who are satisfied with their looks earn 3.4% more than the average. The wage premiums for a good college grade and for all advantageous physical characteristics are significantly lower than that for admission to a selective college. Graduates who are satisfied with their looks are more likely to become full‐time workers and are less likely to be unemployed shortly after graduation.