High vs. Low entrepreneurial intentions: Predicting variables based on gender among European sports science students

This study identifies the profiles of female and male sports science students (SSS) with high and low entrepreneurial intentions (EI) and examines gender differences in the predictors of EI. The sample comprises SSS from six European countries ( N = 723). Data were collected using a structured, previously validated questionnaire. Cluster analysis and multi-group structural equation modelling were performed. Results revealed statistically significant differences in students’ profiles with high and low-EI according to gender, country of origin, entrepreneurial training, work experience, and social connections with entrepreneurs. Gender-based differences have also been found in the predictors of EI. Perceived behavioral control (PBC) significantly predicted EI in both female groups (high and low-EI), whereas it was significant only among males with low-EI. For both genders, strong entrepreneurial skills (ES) formed the foundation of the high-EI profile by positively influencing attitude toward entrepreneurship (ATE). In contrast, the low-EI profile for both genders was predicted by ATE and PBC. These findings highlight the importance of considering gender and EI level as important contextual factors in promoting entrepreneurial thinking among university students.