<![CDATA[Purpose: This study aims to examine the predictive associations of work interest, competence, and self-efficacy with the work readiness of university students facing an increasingly competitive labor market. Research Methodology: This study employed a cross-sectional explanatory quantitative design. The population consisted of 237 Management students from the 2022 cohort at Universitas Muhammadiyah Gresik, Indonesia. A sample of 115 respondents was selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through an online five-point Likert-scale questionnaire and analyzed using multiple linear regression after validity, reliability, classical assumption, and common method bias tests. Results: Work interest was not significantly associated with work readiness (t = 1.001; p = 0.319), while competence (t = 2.206; p = 0.029) and self-efficacy (t = 5.273; p < 0.001) were positive and significant predictors. Self-efficacy was the strongest predictor (β = 0.462). The model explained 33.1% of the variance in work readiness. Conclusions: Work readiness is more strongly associated with competence and self-efficacy than with work interest. Strengthening students' competence and self-efficacy may therefore support better preparation for entering the labor market. Limitations: The cross-sectional design, self-report measurement, purposive sampling, single-university context, restricted sample, and limited explanatory power limit causal inference and the generalizability of the findings. Contributions: This study contributes theoretically by highlighting the importance of human capital quality and psychological capacity in predicting work readiness. Practically, it provides evidence for universities to strengthen competence development and self-efficacy through relevant curricula, training, and mentoring programs.]]>
