Title: Analysing the entrepreneurial behaviour of students at higher education in India – in the light of theory of planned behaviour and social cognitive theory

Authors: Pooja Singh

Addresses: Vidya Mandir Degree College, Kaimganj, Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract: This study, guided by the theory of planned behaviour and social cognitive theory, aims to explore the relationship between various factors influencing entrepreneurial behaviour of students enrolled in higher education institutions (HEIs) in India. The research utilised non-probability sampling and gathered 403 valid responses. Data were analysed using Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression analysis in SPSS Version 25 and model 5 of PROCESS Macro. The study's revealed that the students' entrepreneurial knowledge directly and significantly impacted their inspiration (β = 0.591), self-efficacy (β = 0.576), and intention (β = 0.743). In addition, perceived entrepreneurialism (β = –0.065) insignificantly moderated the linkage between entrepreneurial knowledge and intention to start business. Whereas, there is a significant mediating effects of entrepreneurial inspiration (β = 0.593) and self-efficacy (β = 0.574) found in the relationship between entrepreneurial knowledge and intention. This study has both theoretical and practical implications. Moreover, it supports in raising awareness among students about entrepreneurship and the various entrepreneurial initiatives implemented throughout the nation.

Keywords: entrepreneurial knowledge; entrepreneurial inspiration; entrepreneurial environment; entrepreneurial self-efficacy; higher education institutions; HEIs.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHES.2025.148804

International Journal of Higher Education and Sustainability, 2025 Vol.5 No.4, pp.335 - 355

Received: 19 Mar 2025
Accepted: 16 May 2025
Published online: 25 Sep 2025 *

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