Factors Associated with Student Performance in Finance Electives: An Empirical Study at a US Private College

Abstract

The paper studies factors affecting college student performance in upper-level finance electives. Of the motivation factors studied (intended grade, intention to take the CFA exam, or attend graduate school) only the first is significantly associated with student performance. None of the distraction factors (job hours, job type, and credit load) has any negative effect on student performance. Of the self-perceived ability factors (Writing, Math, Reading, and Listening) only Math has some association with student performance. The grade in Financial Management I, and GPA have significant associations with student performance. Finally, neither gender nor age has any significant association with performance.