There are some sectors, such as higher education, that are associated with feminine qualities. In several Indonesian universities, the percentage of female lecturers far exceeds that of males, rendering higher education a sector predominantly led by women. Despite dominating the sector, women still face the glass ceiling phenomenon when reaching top management positions in universities. External factors, such as unsupportive organisations, have been recognised as the leading causes of this issue thus far. However, the role played by individual factors, such as self-esteem and self-confidence, in perpetuating the glass ceiling is hardly ever acknowledged. Using a qualitative method with a phenomenological approach, this study aims to investigate the experiences of female academics in Indonesia concerning the glass ceiling phenomenon in relation to individual factors. The data analysis findings confirm that individual factors are as significant as external factors in perpetuating the glass ceiling. The gender quota policy is inadequate in resolving the glass ceiling phenomenon. However, this policy may contribute to positive exposure for women, suggesting that women possess the same abilities as men and may ultimately enhance women's confidence in their abilities.