Your Easy IGCSE-leaver Plan is Here! | A Uni Enrol 2023 Guide

Intro

Did you know that you can use IGCSE to enter even a Malaysian University? In fact, it is one of the qualifications that can get you into Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), a top public university in Malaysia! 

With this certification, you will be able to access educational opportunities from 2,200 universities all over the world. It is

1. Versatile in the education curriculum and career pathways.
   • There are a total of 70 IGCSE subjects across the world, including 30 language courses.
2. Supportive of both its teachers and students.

If you are thinking of what to do after IGCSE, read on the find the study plan that matches your dream.

4 Plans To Explore After Your IGCSE

Plan A: Pre-University

A pre-university course is one of the common routes to study in Malaysia after your IGCSE. Many IGCSE students often pursue A-levels or the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme for their course structures and recognition.

Many of the pre-universities, except A-Level, have a mixture of coursework and a final examination for their assessments. You will be able to choose your subjects from a variety of disciplines, including Science, Mathematics, and Business Studies.

• The Requirements: 5 Credits minimum.
• The Pros
  1. It is a solid option to pursue your chosen degree due to its high standards.
  2. It is recognised by universities worldwide as an entry criterion.
• The Cons
  1. Pre-university courses can be costly, i.e.: from RM14,000 to RM66,000.
  2. It can be time-consuming, as many pre-university courses take 18 to 24 months to complete.
• Your Options
  1. A-levels
  2. AUSMAT (The Australian Matriculation)
  3. SACE (The South Australian Certificate of Education) 
  4. CIMP (The Canadian International Matriculation Programme)
  5. ADP/ ADTP (The American Degree Transfer Programme)

If you prefer theoretical courses, this route may be the one for you.
If you are interested in pursuing AUSMAT or SACE, this form to know more about the Aussie education system.

Plan B: Foundation

Aside from pre-university programmes, foundation courses are the next in line for IGCSE leavers to study in Malaysia. These courses are usually administered by the respective universities. They act as a bridge to your desired field of study and can be either a stand-alone course or a part of your degree. 

Before you begin, you can choose which type of foundation to enter. For example, if you choose Foundations in Science, the modules you will encounter will be more science-based. At the end of your studies, your grades will be based on both your coursework and final examinations.

• The Requirement: 5 Credits Minimum
• The Pros
  1. It is a specialised pathway to your chosen field of study.
  2. It will act as a bridge between high school and further studies.
• The Cons
  1. It may limit you to a certain discipline, as each foundation programme is tailored to a certain field.
  2. It is usually recognised within universities.
• Some of Your Options (Popular in Malaysia)
  1. Foundation in Arts
  2. Foundation in Business
  3. Foundation in Engineering
  4. Foundation in Science
  5. Monash University Foundation Year Programme (MUFY)

If you are sure of continuing in your chosen field or degree, then you can consider this route as an alternative.

Plan C: Diploma

A diploma is a 2 to 3-year course. It covers the essential foundation of the chosen study or interest. For example, if you are interested in Computer Science, you will learn subjects in that field, such as Programming, System Analysis, and User Experience (UX) Design.

As an IGCSE student, you can also choose a diploma based on the subjects you have taken to help you narrow your choices.

• The Requirement: 3 Credits minimum.
• The Pros
  1. A diploma nurtures your independence and quickly prepares you with specialised modules.
  2. With a shorter timeframe, it can save time and money.
• The Cons
  1. Your career prospects may be limited.
  2. You may need to keep yourself (knowledge and skills) updated.
• Some of The Popular Options are
  1. Diploma in Art
  2. Diploma in Business
  3. Diploma in Computer Science
  4. Diploma in Design and Media
  5. Diploma in Engineering

Moreover, you will be able to work after graduation! You can even go abroad with your diploma to continue your tertiary education. How? Read on to find out

Plan D: Study Abroad

As it is globally recognised, your IGCSE qualification can lead you to many other countries, including Singapore, the Netherlands, Germany, and even South Africa. You can even apply to the Ivy League or one of the 880 universities in the US.

In Malaysia, there are 2 ways to study abroad. You can either complete a pre-university or a foundation course. OR, transfer your credits to a Diploma programme and finish your remaining education overseas.

• The Requirement:
  1. You will need to complete either a pre-university, foundation, or diploma.
• Important Notes:
  1. Check with your respective institution for more detailed information.
  2. The duration of your studies will vary based on what you want to study.
• The Pros
  1. You can enter outstanding universities around the world.
  2. You can quickly develop many life skills, including independence.
• The Cons
  1. You may struggle with cultural differences, homesickness, and adapting to a new lifestyle.
  2. Going abroad is very costly and will require some budgeting.

If your dream is to fly abroad, then connect with our Study Abroad Consultants. They will provide you with a personal consultation and insightful information before you depart.

Conclusion

IGCSE is an all-round programme that is highly adaptable and recognised. As a whole, it has 70 (including 30 language courses!) subjects for you to sink your teeth into. By obtaining this certificate, you have many doors opened to you. It is okay if you are still unsure. What is more important is that you take the time to understand yourself and where you are headed.