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Students often ask our counsellors “What’s the best pre-university course to take now that I have my SPM/IGCSE results?”
The answers vary and have to do with what you plan to do for your higher education in general.
In this guide, we are focusing on pre-university paths into Private Universities in Malaysia. The popular courses that students go for after SPM and after IGCSE are:
1. Foundation Courses
A Foundation course is a pre-university qualification that you can take before you move on to your degree and is developed by the university itself.
The subjects you can take typically fall into the Arts or Science category. Some universities also have specialised Foundation courses, such as
- Foundation in Business,
- Foundation in IT,
- Foundation in Law,
- Foundation in Engineering, or
- Foundation in Built Environment
Each university would have its own syllabus and assessment methods. In addition, your foundation course is mainly recognised in Malaysia.
However, if these universities are highly ranked on the QS World Universities Ranking list, such as Monash University Malaysia, Taylor’s University, Heriot-Watt University, Universiti Sains Malaysia or Universiti Malaya, then transferring from their Foundation course to another prestigious university overseas is relatively easier.
Entering a Foundation course typically requires 5As in your SPM or IGCSE results and will take about 1 year to complete.
Why You Should Take Foundation?
- You already know what course you want to pursue and which university you’re drawn to.
- You want to control your education budget. University foundation generally costs less than International Pre-University (A-level, AUSMAT etc) courses.
- You prefer a less challenging programme. Foundation courses are relatively easier compared to International Pre-University courses.
- You have no concrete plans to study overseas.
Things To Take Note Of
- If you plan to transfer to another university for degree enrolment, the receiving university will have to check if your Foundation course can be accepted.
- Not only is Foundation generally cheaper than International Pre-University courses, they also offer various scholarships and bursaries. Some even 100% if you commit to continuing their degree course. Use Pathway Match to check how much you can save.
- You cannot apply PTPTN to fund a Foundation course. There are only a few exceptions including MMU and UNITAR.
Check out which private colleges and universities in Malaysia you can consider if you intend to enter Foundation.
2. A-Level In Malaysia
A-Level is a 100% exam-based pre-university course that originates from the UK. It is managed and awarded by the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE).
There are a total of 55 subjects available in A-Level. But a student will only need to choose a minimum of 3 subjects to a maximum of 4 subjects for the duration of the programme.
A-Level has two parts:
- AS Level, which is the foundation of the subjects chosen;
- and A2 Level, where you dive deep into your chosen subjects.
A-Level takes 1.5 years to complete, each stage contributing 50% of the total final A-Level results.
There are various colleges and universities that offer A-Level in Malaysia.
Why You Should Take A-Level?
- Top-tier universities in the UK, particularly in the Russle Group, look favourably upon A-Level graduates. It is also accepted worldwide.
- A-Level’s assessment is fully exam-based. The subjects require you to be analytical and involve a lot of deep understanding.
- As it is an international programme, there is extensive resources, study materials and mentors online you can tap into if you need help.
Things To Take Note Of
- All universities will require you to take compulsory subjects as an entry requirement for degree courses such as Medicine and Engineering.
- If you plan to enter a science-based or healthcare degree later, consider taking Mathematics and 2 Science-related subjects in your A-Level.
- Furthermore, taking Mathematics also keeps your options open as many courses such as Accounting, Computer Science and Architecture require you to have done Mathematics.
- If you are planning to study in Australia but are interested in taking A-Level, do note that you will get your results in January and August. This timeline is essential because Australian major degree intakes are generally in February and July.
Here’s an in-depth guide about A-Level In Malaysia: 10 Things You Should Know Before Taking.
3. AUSMAT & SACE In Malaysia
Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) and the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) follow the Australian education system. As such, you would usually start the course in January or March and take your exams in November.
AUSMAT is under the administration of the Western Australian government. Students are graded 50% on coursework and 50% on examinations. Meanwhile, SACE is administered by the Southern Australian government. Your grades depend on 70% of coursework and 30% of examinations.
Institutions offering Ausmat can be found here while SACE courses are conducted at these places.
Why You Should Take AUSMAT or SACE?
- This pre-university course is for those who want to earn their grade through quizzes, group assignments, class participation, and lab work (for Science stream students).
- The process of picking the subjects is similar to A-Level. In that aspect, you either select what you want or take a predetermined set of modules based on the major you choose to go into for your degree course.
- They are very well regarded internationally, and obviously preferred if you are studying abroad in Australia.
Things To Take Note Of
- If you plan on studying in a UK university for your degree, do keep in mind that your AUSMAT or SACE results will come out in January and July.
- AUSMAT in Malaysia is offered by Sunway University and MCKL while SACE in Malaysia is offered by Taylor’s University and Disted College.
Learn more about AUSMAT & SACE in Malaysia: Your One Stop Guide.
4. Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY)
Monash University Foundation Year (MUFY) is a recognised pre-university pathway equivalent to Australian Year 12, designed as a pathway to undergraduate studies at Monash University and is also widely accepted by other top-tier universities.
MUFY’s modular structure means you study units semester by semester rather than sitting one set of final exams at the end of the year. Assessments are weighted around 70 % coursework and 30 % exams.
MUFY in Malaysia is currently administered by Sunway University.
Why You Should Take MUFY?
- Most direct route with clear score requirements for almost all Monash degree courses.
- The coursework-heavy structure rewards steady performance instead of high-pressure final exams.
- MUFY is accepted by many universities in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Malaysia.
- MUFY’s modular format allows students to spread out units, accelerate, or extend their study plan based on capability.
Things To Take Note Of
- MUFY’s main intakes are in January (most popular) or July. Starting in January allows you to complete in time for the major degree intakes of Australian universities in February the following year.
If you’re considering MUFY, we have crafted Your Strategic Guide To MUFY to make an informed decision!
5. Canadian International Pre-University (CIMP)
Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) or formerly Canadian Pre-University (CPU) is the equivalent of the 12th grade in high school for Canadian students.
Subjects are assessed based on 70% coursework and 30% final exams. Your final results will be the average percentage of the 6 subjects or modules you will take, with a maximum score of 100%.
Moreover, you will also sit for an external literacy test that is overseen by the Ontario Ministry of Education and commit to 10 hours of approved community service, such as providing learning activities to underprivileged children.
Why You Should Take CIMP?
- Coursework plays a heavy role in assessment, so this programme is for those who does better with a mixture of learning modes instead of purely exams.
- The requirement of community service as part of the course ensures your learning journey is holistic and not just about academics.
- Canada is also recognised for its high education standards and as such CIMP is also globally recognised.
Things To Take Note Of
- Results for CIMP come out in July and December, so keep in mind these dates if you plan to apply to universities in other countries.
- Compared to A-Level and AUSMAT / SACE, the CIMP course is not as popular. The reason is partly due to the fact that CIMP in Malaysia is only offered by Sunway University.
Read our full guide about the 7 Important Facts About CIMP Before You Join.
6. American Degree Transfer Programme (ADTP)
Students who are taking ADTP follow the United States education system, which encourages active participation in critical discussions and collaborative teamwork.
The overall assessment for ADTP is 70% based on coursework and 30% through final examinations. Intakes are usually in January, March, April, May, and August.
There are a number of institutions that are conducting ADTP in Malaysia. Uni Enrol can share more and set up an appointment for you to visit the campuses too!
Why You Should Take ADTP?
- The programme gives you time to prepare before you go abroad. An ADTP student spends up to 2 years in Malaysia before transferring to an institution abroad for the remaining 2 years. This means your parents get to save some money.
- The first 2 years consist of general core subjects depending on the chosen stream (Liberal Arts or Science) and you can also take classes outside of your chosen Degree major. The final 2 years will involve subjects that are more focused on your major.
- The American classroom focuses on class interactions, presentations, critical discussions and debates. This structure strengthens your soft skills to develop self-confidence.
Things To Take Note Of
- Do research on your university’s partners for the ADTP. One of these partners will be where you will attend after completing your education in Malaysia.
- Next, go deeper into what your chosen university has to offer. Consider its ranking, environment, and surrounding areas. Or just ping Uni Enrol!
- Have a budget for living expenses and tuition fees as part of your study abroad planning. This step is crucial to helping you get by daily. Be mindful of the currency exchange.
Here’s our guide on Everything You Need To Know About ADTP In Malaysia.
7. Diploma Courses In Malaysia
A Diploma is equivalent to the first year of a university degree. While it is not as extensive as a Degree course, it concentrates on developing hands-on practical skills and knowledge relevant to the industry you plan to join after graduation.
Popular Diploma courses falls in the areas of Business, Accounting, Design, Communications, Computer Science, and Allied Health Sciences.
Most Diploma will take between 2 to 3 years to complete depending on the field of study.
You can go through the list of universities offering Diploma courses that Uni Enrol has compiled for your easy research.
Why You Should Take Diploma?
- You gain practical experience in your chosen course. Upon graduation, a Diploma holder can seek employment immediately.
- A Diploma would be the best route to take if you want to get a head start on your career.
- The minimum entry requirement for most Diploma courses is 3 credits only from SPM / IGCSE compared to Foundation or equivalent which is 5 credits..
- You might be paying less by taking the diploma-to-degree route. This is because the total tuition fees might be cheaper (especially for the Diploma). Scholarships for your Degree are also available if you do well on your Diploma.
Things To Take Note Of
- You can transfer to a different university for your Degree. But this is usually limited to local institutions as many universities abroad do not recognise a local Diploma syllabi. Check whether your Diploma qualifications are accepted.
- Diploma holders are qualified for jobs but at a lower pay than those with a Degree. Many students aim to continue with a related Degree after a few years of working experience.
See what the 10 Best Diploma Courses To Study In Malaysia are and secure your future careers!
Your higher education doesn’t end at pre-university. There are many ways to get to your dream university. We’d recommend you get a head start and talk to one of Uni Enrol’s Education Counsellors so they can plan your pathway from start to completion.
Our counsellors will take into account your preferences, your budget and ultimate goals and recommend to you pathways that you may not be aware of. We make sure you do not miss out on opportunities and apply with confidence!
How Can Uni Enrol Help?
Uni Enrol’s experienced counsellors help you bridge the gap between your dreams and your parent’s preferences when deciding which course and university to enrol in.
About the Author:
Ken Hoong is the co-founder of Uni Enrol and a contributing writer. Drawing on his close work with Uni Enrol’s counsellors, he brings keen insight into Malaysia’s evolving private higher education landscape and the shifting preferences of students in learning and career choices.
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