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“In a few years, turn left to enter A-levels,” says your Life GPS.
The truth is, every pathway is not the same. We may get a little lost on what and where to study too.
In this article, we will share an overview of the pathways after SPM that you can sleep on. We also have a list of the top private universities in Malaysia ready for you to check into.
What Are the Pathways After SPM to Further Study?

Generally, most students will choose to attend either public or private universities to pursue their higher education. Some of the pre-university programmes available at private institutions in Malaysia are more versatile than others since they offer students greater degree choices.
To get a better picture, take a look at this range of pre-university programmes available. These university courses cater to the different pathways chosen by students:
Pre-University Courses |
Duration |
Average Tuition Fee |
Foundation |
1 year |
RM10,000- RM26,000 |
A-Level |
1 ½ – 2 years |
RM16,000 – RM35,000 |
AUSMAT/SACE |
1 year |
RM35,000 – RM40,000 |
American Degree Transfer Programme |
4 years |
RM60,000 (1st 2 years) |
Diploma |
2 – 2 ½ years |
RM20,000 – RM60,000 |
Malaysian Matriculation |
1 – 2 years |
Less than RM550 |
STPM |
2 years |
FREE |
For you to pursue a pre-university course, you will need to have 5 credits in SPM, especially in Bahasa Melayu and Sejarah. But that is not all!
Some degree courses have specific entry requirements related to your SPM results.
For instance, you will need credit in Additional Mathematics as well if you want to pursue a degree in Computer Science. For an ACCA course, you will need credit in Mathematics and a pass in English.
Also Read: Your Helpful One-Stop Guide on What to Study After SPM
List of Top Private Universities in Malaysia for Further Study
Tailoring your education to your needs is no walk in the park. Having so many choices at hand, your internal RAM may shut down from filtering them.
Thus, we have prepared a list of the top private universities in Malaysia for you to consider after SPM:
Taylor’s University

Taylor’s is a world-class private higher education institution located in Subang Jaya, Selangor. This vibrant university is ranked 284th among all universities around the world, making it the highest-ranked Malaysian private university on the 2023 list.
Since its establishment, it has given it all to provide the highest quality of education. Behind the scenes, faculty members and industry leaders share their knowledge and experience. Hence, you will be up-to-date with the latest industry trends and practices.
Furthermore, the university’s radical curriculum reforms have borne fruit, as 99 per cent of Taylor’s graduates have been employed within six months of graduation.
If Taylor’s is your pick, scroll down to view the list of pre-u and diploma programmes offered there:
Foundation
- Foundation in Business
- Foundation in Science
- Foundation in Arts
- ACCA Foundation in Accountancy (ACCA FiA)
- Foundation in Design
- Foundation in Engineering
- Foundation in Natural & Built Environment
- Foundation in Computing
SACE International
A-Level
American Degree Transfer Programme
Diploma
- Diploma in Accounting
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Communication
- Diploma in Early Childhood Education
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Diploma in Culinary Arts (2+0) with Academie de Toulouse
- Diploma in Hotel Management (2+0) with Academie de Toulouse
Asia Pacific University (APU)

Coming in at number 2 on our list is the global sensation, APU. On campus, it houses 13,000 students from 130 nations. Today, it ranks 16 for International Students on the 2024 QS World University Ranking.
What draws the Bukit Jalil-born APU to us is its supportive environment. With your enrolment, you will have access to various premium facilities, including
- a psychology centre,
- a financial training centre,
- a computer game development studio, and
- an XR studio!
Besides, APU is a member of the Highest Rated Emerging Universities in Malaysia too. Several of the proudest moments for the university are
- receiving 5 QS Stars for Teaching, Employability, Facilities, and Inclusiveness, and
- a 5-star SETARA Rating from the Ministry of Higher Education!
APU also has strong partnerships with key industry leaders to produce qualified graduates. It regularly collaborates with the largest tech firms in Malaysia to get you job-ready. As such, it spurs a 100% employability rate, based on MOE’s most recent Graduate Tracer Study.
To begin your journey at APU, here is a list of pre-u and diploma programmes available for further study!
Foundation
- Foundation – Business & Finance
- Foundation – Computer Science
- Foundation – Computing & Technology
- Foundation – Design
- Foundation – Psychology
- Foundation – Engineering
- Foundation – Communication
- Foundation – Accounting & Finance
Diploma
- Diploma in Information & Communication Technology
- Diploma in Information & Communication Technology (Software Engineering)
- Diploma in Information & Communication Technology (Data Informatics)
- Diploma in Information & Communication Technology (Interactive Technology)
- Diploma in Business Information Technology
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Accounting
- Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Diploma in Design & Media
- Diploma in International Studies
Multimedia University (MMU)

MMU is the nation’s oldest full-fledged private research and government-linked university. Its journey began when Telekom Malaysia created its first private institution. Since then, it has become one of the top universities in Malaysia that offers affordability and quality.
This techy university has 2 campuses. One resides in Cyberjaya, Kuala Lumpur, while the other is at Ayer Keroh, Melaka. Upon your arrival, you will be greeted with an array of facilities, including
- a Siri Intelligent Learning Lab,
- a Digital Home and Lifestyle Center, as well as
- a Micro Fabrication Lab.
Visit Multimedia University (MMU) and be amazed by its myriad course selections! (You can start off with either a foundation or a diploma.)
Foundation
- Foundation in Information Technology
- Foundation in Law
- Foundation in Engineering
- Foundation in Business
- Foundation in Creative Multimedia
- Foundation in Communication
- Foundation in Cinematic Arts
- Foundation in Management
Diploma
- Diploma in Digital Business
- Diploma in 3D Modeling & Animation
- Diploma in Creative Audio
- Diploma in Creative Multimedia
- Diploma in Digital Creative Producing
- Diploma in Digital Motion Graphic
- Diploma in Management
- Diploma in Finance
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Accounting
- Diploma in Electronic Engineering
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma in Applied Communication
- Diploma in Cinematography
International Medical University (IMU)

Growing up, many firstborns were told to set a good example for their younger siblings. And IMU did just that.
As Malaysia’s first private medical and health science university, it pours a lot of attention into its expertise in
- medicine
- health sciences
- dentistry
- pharmacy
- complementary and alternative medicine.
For one, IMU encourages innovation, imagination, and insight among students and staff. The institution sports an experimental learning environment to sharpen the student’s skills. Outside the classroom, you get to provide healthcare to the public through the IMU Cares Programme.
Thus, these factors prepare its graduates to become caring and knowledgeable healthcare professionals.
Thinking of enrolling at IMU? You can visit its campus in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, or browse through the list of pre-u and diploma courses here! (Don’t be shy; say hi ;3 )
Foundation
- Foundation in Science
- Foundation in Science (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy)
- Foundation in Science (Nursing)
Diploma
HELP University

Since 1986, HELP transformed into a leading university for tertiary education. As an education provider, you may know it as
- a thought leader,
- an incubator of outstanding graduates,
- a model of selective excellence, and
- a community-caring institution.
HELP is most recognised for its postgraduate Psychology and Business programmes. Yet, students also flock to its campus grounds to enrol in its other university courses, such as
- Accounting,
- Business,
- Communication,
- Education,
- Hospitality,
- Language, and
- Law courses.
Moreover, this young university is also a reliable gateway for students to study at top universities abroad. Australia, the UK, and Canada are some of the places you can add to your list.
To HELP you on your journey, we gathered a list of pre-u and diploma programmes you can sink your teeth into before enrolling:
Foundation
A-Level
- Cambridge International Examinations (3 subjects)
- Cambridge International Examinations (4 subjects)
- Edexcel (3 subjects)
- Edexcel (4 subjects)
Diploma
- Diploma in Accounting
- Diploma in Business Management
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Communication
- Diploma in Marketing
- Diploma in Education
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Diploma in Early Childhood Education
UOW Malaysia KDU University College

Previously known as KDU University and College, UOW Malaysia is part of Australia’s University of Wollongong global network. What drew the public to UOW is its accessibility, quality, and tertiary education to students.
Thus, it continues to be a prominent higher education provider for students to study in Malaysia.
For 38 years, UOW Malaysia’s name has travelled across the globe. Inside its arsenal, there are other educational weapons at its disposal, including
- Internationally recognised programmes,
- Modern campuses, and
- Vibrant, industry-focused modules.
Don’t believe us? Browse this list of pre-u and diploma programmes offered at UOW Malaysia to see it for yourself!
A-Level
Foundation
- Foundation in Arts
- Foundation in Arts (Accounting, IT)
- Foundation in Arts (Communication)
- Foundation in Arts (Computer Science & Software Engineering)
- Foundation in Arts (IT & Information Systems)
- Foundation in Engineering
- Foundation in Science
- Foundation in Science (Architecture)
- Foundation in Science (Computer Science & Software Engineering)
- Foundation in Science (Engineering)
- Foundation in Science (IT & Information Systems)
- Foundation Studies (Art & Technology – Accounting)
- Foundation Studies (Art & Technology – Communication)
- Foundation Studies (Art & Technology – Computer Science)
- Foundation Studies (Art & Technology – IT)
- Foundation Studies (Art & Technology)
Diploma
- Diploma in Nursing
- Diploma in Physiotherapy
- Diploma in Medical Assistant
- Diploma in Healthcare Services
- Diploma in Early Childhood Education
- Diploma in Accountancy
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Communication & Media
- Diploma in Computer Science
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Entertainment Arts
- Diploma in International Hotel Management
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Diploma in Professional Chef Training
- Diploma in Mechatronics Engineering
How to Find the Best Deal for a University Course

Applying to Malaysian universities can be expensive, complicated, and lengthy. With Uni Enrol, getting the best deal for your university course is easy.
Introducing Pathway Match, a tool that combines technology and human experiences. Our fool-proof system works with you by comparing more than 80 universities with specific information.
Thus, you will get the most savings and personalised information to ease your application process!
All you need to do is fill in your academic and personal information. Then, your dashboard will show a detailed list of eligible universities and their net fees for your desired course. Viola!
The best thing about the entire experience is that the updates are free! We only hope to bring you the latest higher education information through our
- User-friendly system
- Experienced counsellors
- Free services
Benefits of Using Pathway Match to Study in Malaysia
An easy way to find information regarding courses and fees
Skip the long, boring process of researching!
With Pathway Match, you will be instantly matched with courses and institutions, including many Malaysian universities. Plus, the results are customisable to your personal preference and academic results.
Get matched with deals to lower the cost of studies
Through Pathway Match, you can also view various types of
- Academic,
- Merit and
- Special university, government, and private entity scholarships.
With this, you are able to compare the benefits offered before making your final decision.
Once you have applied for your university course through Uni Enrol, you can also be matched to bursaries. They cover hostels, flights, and bus tickets, along with discounts at more than 3,000 merchants.
Easy online application to top universities in Malaysia
Application processes can be a burden. (Especially when you are unsure what you need to do. Oh dear.)
With Uni Enrol, enjoy a hassle-free application process entirely online. When you apply, our experienced counsellors will be there to point you in the right direction.
And yes, our services are completely free of charge!
Honest guidance from our experienced counsellors
Sometimes, you need an extra hand to guide you in making an informed decision on your future. Hence, it is crucial to find someone who is familiar with the Malaysian education system. Like a Uni Enrol counsellor!
After completing your Pathway Match, our counsellors will guide you on your next steps specific to your needs.
They will provide you with honest, unbiased input to aid your decision-making process. From questions about the best Malaysian universities to your career options, they want the best for you.
Worried about your finances?
Let our counsellors know your concerns! They will help you find the best way to finance your studies, through
- instalment plans,
- education loans, or
- even scholarships!
(We welcome students far and wide to study in Malaysia too.)