Changes in the terms of trade affect both the incentives and the ability of
individuals to purchase education in a credit-constrained economy. A model
is developed that shows how individual decision-making is affected in a sm
all economy when it opens up to trade. Empirical results indicate that cred
it constraints are an important factor influencing school enrollment rates,
particularly in low income countries. As a result, countries with low huma
n capital stocks tend to increase their accumulation of human capital with
increased trade. The response in high income countries is more muted.