Student-athletes in higher education face unique challenges sports where their athletic performance is often influenced not only by physical training but also by psychological factors such as self-efficacy. This quantitative descriptive-correlational study explores the relationship between self-efficacy and athletic performance among student-athletes in higher education. However, there is a notable research gap concerning how self-efficacy directly correlates with athletic outcomes in localized collegiate settings. To address this, the study is grounded in Self-Determination Theory, which emphasizes the role of autonomy, competence, and intrinsic motivation in human behavior and performance. The research was conducted in a state university in Eastern Visayas, with the athletics team as the respondents, a sample of twenty (20) student-athletes chosen through simple random sampling based on Slovins formula and their recent participation in formal athletic competitions. Data were collected using a validated self-efficacy questionnaire administered online, which demonstrated strong internal consistency (Cronbachs α = 0.90). Respondents also submitted their latest competitive rankings as indicators of athletic performance. Microsoft Excel was used for data organization. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the levels of self-efficacy, while the Spearman Rho correlation coefficient measured the strength and direction of the relationship between the variables. The findings revealed that the respondents had a “Good” self-efficacy level (M = 3.23) and that there was a strong positive correlation (r = 0.71) between self-efficacy and athletic performance. These results imply that athletes with higher self- efficacy tend to perform better. The study recommends integrating self- efficacy enhancement strategies into sports programs. This has important implications for coaches, physical education professionals, and institutions aiming to boost student-athletes psychological well-being and athletic outcomes.