Abstract The study explores the relationship between work–life balance and supervisor support in the Indian higher education sector. More specifically, the study explores the effects of supervisor support on the work–life balance of female employees working in academia. We used online panel data comprised of 300 employees working in various universities, which we analysed by employing structural equation modelling. Results reveal that supervisor support is positively related to employee work–life balance and ultimately their life satisfaction. The findings also stress the importance of supervisor support for female employees, as its presence is a major boost in helping women reach the desired work–life balance. With the objective to augment work–life balance of women academicians, the work would guide managers as well as decision makers involved in the academic sector to implement women-friendly policies and programmes.