Gender Gaps in Undergraduate Mathematics Performance in Romania: An Analysis Using General Linear Models

Abstract This paper investigates gender gaps in mathematics performance among Romanian Baccalaureate students across four educational profiles: Mathematics-Informatics, Natural Sciences, Technological, and Pedagogical, between 2017 and 2023. Using descriptive statistics, and statistical analyses such as t-tests and General Linear Models, the study reveals consistent gender disparities in mathematics performance, with female students generally outperforming male students. The results highlight significant variations in performance across the different educational profiles, pointing to a need for profile-specific educational interventions. The spatial analysis underscores the need for targeted strategies that address not only gender gaps, but also regional inequalities. The findings suggest that Romania’s policy of equal access to education may not fully address the differences in educational outcomes, thereby calling for tailored interventions to bridge the performance gaps across gender, profile, and region.