The university-to-work transition is a critical phase in students&rsquo lives, as it shapes their future career path. These career paths broadly fall into two categories: self-employment and paid employment. Students&rsquo intentions to pursue a particular career path are influenced by a range of factors, including educational experiences (such as training and exposure), personal capabilities (such as skills, knowledge, and attributes), and contextual elements (available support systems). The educational support provided by higher education institutions (HEIs) has long been recognized as a key factor influencing students&rsquo career choices, though the relationship may not always be direct. While HEIs are traditionally seen as providers of education and training, they are also expected to foster competencies and mindsets through measures that promote entrepreneurship as a possible career choice. However, there is limited research on the role of such organizational support in Indian HEIs in developing competencies for business-related career. Given this gap, this study examines how HEIs can contribute to nurturing these skills, knowledge and attributes among students through a variety of measures. In addition to the personal capabilities, students&rsquo career choices are also shaped by their perceptions of prevailing formal and informal support systems. The influence of formal and informal support systems or mechanisms on career decisions remains a debated topic, especially in emerging economies, where research has produced varying results. Therefore, this study also investigates the impact of governmental and social support in facilitating students&rsquo intent to pursue business-related careers. By doing so, this study aims to provide valuable insights for improving the implementation of institutional measures and government policies aimed at fostering students&rsquo entrepreneurial endeavors.

Keywords: Organizational Support, Competencies, Self-efficacy, Self-employment Intentions, Entrepreneurial Career-choice, Governmental Support, Social Support, Higher Education Institutions