Social Pressure vs. Academic Training: Unpacking the Determinants of University Students' Entrepreneurial Intention

Entrepreneurial intention; Subjective norms; Entrepreneurial education; Systematic literature review; Mediating mechanisms; Institutional environments.

Entrepreneurial intention (EI) is a critical precursor to nascent entrepreneurial activity and a focal point of contemporary entrepreneurship research. This systematic literature review investigates the complex relationships between EI and two primary determinants: subjective norms (SN) and entrepreneurial education (EE). Synthesising current empirical evidence, the findings demonstrate that SN significantly influence individuals' propensity to pursue entrepreneurship, highlighting the powerful role of societal expectations and perceived social support. Concurrently, EE encompassing formal academic curricula and structured mentorship programs emerges as a vital driver in fostering entrepreneurial desire and intent. Beyond these direct relationships, this review identifies key mediating and moderating mechanisms, demonstrating how individual psychological characteristics, cultural contexts, and institutional environments contextualise the impacts of SN and EE on intention. Based on these insights, a conceptual framework is proposed to integrate socio-cultural influences and educational interventions. Finally, the study discusses actionable implications for policymakers, educators, and practitioners aiming to cultivate an entrepreneurial culture, while outlining critical avenues for future empirical research.