Abstract
INTRODUCTION: This study examined how academic self-efficacy influences college students' academic performance and career preparation behavior, with value and cost acting as serial mediators. METHODS: Based on social cognitive theory and expectancy-value theory, structural equation modeling was performed using data from 1,182 undergraduates at Chinese private universities. RESULTS: Results showed that self-efficacy directly and indirectly predicted both outcomes. A value-to-cost serial mediation pathway was confirmed, indicating that higher self-efficacy increased value, lowered cost, and subsequently improved GPA and career preparation behavior. The model demonstrated a good fit. DISCUSSION: The findings emphasize the importance of strengthening value while reducing costs, and provide both theoretical insights and practical strategies for improving academic and career outcomes in higher education.