Short- and Long-Term Effects of Universal Preschool: Evidence from the Arab Population in Israel

Elad DeMalach and Analia Schlosser

American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, 2026, vol. 18, issue 2, 404-40

Abstract: We estimate the causal impacts of universal preschool by leveraging a quasi-experimental design based on Israel's implementation of free public preschool for children ages 3 and 4 beginning in September 1999. We focus on the Arab population, who were the main beneficiaries of the first phase of the law's implementation. Using a difference-in-differences (DID) research design, we find that universal preschool enhanced individuals' academic performance from elementary school through high school, improved the learning environment, and increased postsecondary enrollment. Additional benefits include reduced juvenile delinquency among males and decreased early marriage among females.

JEL-codes: I21 I24 I28 J15 J16 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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DOI: 10.1257/pol.20240044

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