This study examines the economic, social, and infrastructural determinants affecting university and major choices among Albanian high school seniors. The study, utilizing survey data gathered in early 2024 and evaluated via Covariance-Based Structural Equation Modeling (CB-SEM), demonstrates that economic factors, including university fees and career opportunities, substantially influence student decisions. Social effects, such as parental supervision and peer contributions, are also crucial. The study reveals that infrastructures, including campus facilities and digital resources, serve as a significant mediator between economic and social determinants and academic preferences. These findings provide an extensive insight into decision-making tendencies and address a significant gap in studies concerning transitional economies. The report suggests actionable recommendations for policymakers and university administrators to improve educational access, match academic programs with labor market demands, and mitigate inequity within higher education systems. © 2025 Panxhi et al.
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