Closing the Gap: Affirmative Action and College Adjustment in Brazilian Undergraduate Universities

Abstract

We tested differences in college adjustment between students admitted to a Brazilian undergraduate university through the standard entrance process (nonquota students), and those admitted under the affirmative action selection process (quota students). Participants consisted of 494 college students (27.1% quota students) from 2 public universities from South Brazil. Data was analyzed through independent t tests. Results indicated there were no differences between quota and nonquota students regarding college adjustment as measured by Academic Experiences Questionnaire–Reduced Version (AEQ-r). We discuss new perspectives on the stereotyping and controversy quota students face individually and in a societal context.