Best Pre-University (Pre-U) Courses to Study in Malaysia
Best Pre-University Course in Malaysia that Fits you
Written by EduSpiral Consultant Services. For more information contact 01111408838
If you have just completed your SPM or O-Level exam and plan to study a bachelor’s degree overseas or in Malaysia, the pre-university programme is the next step for you. Students after SPM can obtain a pre-university qualification in Malaysia before continuing with their degree at private universities in Malaysia or globally.
Most great things begin with a plan. Your future career and university studies should be no different. A plan will give you something to work towards. It’ll also help you make the most of the opportunities that come your way. With so many Pre-University (Pre-U) Programmes in Malaysia, it can be confusing to choose the right one that fits you.
A lot of the universities and colleges advertise frequently making many claims, and even after attending the education fairs, that can leave you more confused after listening to their counselors. There are also many agents and online education advisor websites claiming that they can help you but you need to be careful as most of them are inexperienced and tend to push you to certain universities only.
Students who are not sure of what to study after SPM can contact EduSpiral Consultant Services to help guide you to choose the right course and university. There are many Pre-University progammes that you can go for after SPM or O-Levels so it can be confusing for you to choose the right one.
For more information contact 01111408838
Please fill up the Form below and I will WhatsApp you and provide you with sound advise on how to choose the best private university or college in Malaysia to study at. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Our knowledgeable & experienced courselor will send you a message on WhatsApp & provide assistance from there.
The Best Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme in Malaysia to Study after SPM or O-Levels

Gan twins, Foundation in Arts at Taylor’s University
Choosing the right Pre-University course after SPM or O-Levels can be confusing. There is no such thing as the “best” Pre-University or Pre-University programme. It is choosing the right Pre-U programme that fits you and your academic goals.
Sometimes students choose the Pre-University programme for the wrong reasons. Students must research carefully the type of Pre-University and its assessment style. Some students don’t perform well in the Pre-University because the assessment of the Pre-University doesn’t fit them or their command of the English language is too weak to handle the written assignments.
To choose the best Pre-University programme to study in Malaysia, you have to ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you prefer exam-based or a mix of exams, assignments, course work, etc.? What is your learning style? Talk to the counselors at the private universities to find out in detail about the curriculum of the Pre-University programme to see which one best fits you.
- What you want to study for your degree? If you know that you want to go for Business studies, then there is no need to take the Foundation in Science. Students wanting to go for medicine, law, pharmacy or dentistry are recommended to take the A-Levels.
- What is your budget? A Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme will cost from RM10,000 to RM50,000 while a degree at a private university will cost from RM50,000-RM100,000 for a business course to RM130,000 for a Pharmacy course. To study overseas for degree will cost from RM150,000 to RM200,000 a year including cost of living. If this is out of your budget, then you should consider taking the STPM and going for Public University. If you do not have the finances to study at private universities, then just go for STPM. Note that STPM is extremely tough and takes 2 years of your time. You may not get the degree of your choice when entering into Public University.
- Do you want to continue your studies in Malaysia or overseas? If you plan to go overseas, then go for the external Pre-University programme and choose based on which country you want to go to. If you plan to continue your degree course in Malaysia, you should just take the Foundation course as it is cheaper and generally easier than the external Pre-U. To study overseas will cost from RM150,000 to RM200,000 a year at least. So, if you do not have the finances to study overseas, there is no point to go for an external Pre-University Programme. A Foundation course at a top private university in Malaysia will be sufficient.
- Intakes are also important for students who want to perform the best in the exams. Taking the March intake is generally a mistake as it is compressed in duration therefore making the student having to complete the syllabus in a short amount of time.
- When you will get the results? You must also find out when you will get your results in order to meet the application deadline for your university of choice.
Top Criteria to Consider When Choosing the Best Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme in Malaysia

Hanson, Foundation in Science (Engineering) at UCSI University
- Is the Pre-University (Pre-U) course popular at that college or university? Quality/reputation/ranking of the private college in Malaysia
- Which are the awarding bodies? Are the certificates recognised for enter at all universities overseas?
- Are the courses recognised and approved by the Ministry of Education Malaysia and the relevant external bodies?
- Are the courses accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Audit (MQA)?
- Subjects offered in the Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme. Do they help you to achieve your undergraduate academic goals. Does the subject combinations allow you to enter your university and degree of choice.
- Which are the subjects that you must take in order to enter the degree of your choice.
- Is the class size small so that you have personal attention from the lecturer? If the fees are very cheap and the class size is big, then you may not have the attention that you need from the lecturer to guide you to do well in the Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme.
- Do they have enough students to start a class?
- How many students do they have studying that Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme at that university?
- What is the duration of the Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme?
- When do you get your results so that you can meet the application deadline for the overseas university?
- Does the college or university have a dedicated department to assist students for the overseas university and scholarship applications?
- Does the college have regular visits from overseas universities so that you can expose yourself to the various universities and ask questions?
- Quality of lecturers. What are their qualifications? How many years of experience in teaching?
- Faculty contact/classes taught by full-time qualified & experienced faculty
- Ask your friends who have studied there for their opinion. Ask your friends who are currently studying there as well.
- Entry requirements
- How much money do I have to pay for the course and cost of living? Ask your parents. Note that you will need to have enough to pay the tuition fees as well as your cost of living. (tuition, hostel, food, transportation, etc.)
- How much are the tuition fees? Does it include the external exam fees and other fees?
- How much is on-campus accommodation?
- How much is off-campus accommodation? Note that it might be cheaper to find off campus accommodation on your own with friends. Is the accommodations near eateries, banks, entertainment, public transportation, etc.?
- What is the student culture at the university? (English-speaking environment, ambitious, serious about studies, lifestyle or party university, etc) The language spoken mostly at the college by the students may also matter if you don’t know Mandarin or BM or English. If most of the students speak Mandarin at that university then it will not help you to improve your English. Having a good command of the English language helps you to get good jobs and promotions.
- What are the Extra-curricular activities available? (Student organisations, clubs, sports, etc.)
- Public vs. Private (STPM is tougher and choice of course & university is determined by the government)
Common Factors in Choosing the Best College or University for the Pre-University Programme in Malaysia

Jia Jin, Foundation in Design at Taylor’s University
Here’s a list of common criteria in choosing a top private university in Malaysia for the Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme:
- What type of university do I like? (Large, medium, small, city, suburbs, or outer city) Some people like small universities where you get a community feel while others like large university campuses where they get to meet lots of people.
- The size of the university also matters to some people as some prefer a small and friendly university environment where you know everyone’s names. Some may prefer a medium sized university where there are more students to interact with and more facilities to use like a bigger library, student centre, computer labs etc.
- In large universities you might feel lost but there will be more facilities like a football field, gym, swimming pool, basketball courts, etc. You just need to understand your personality and then choose the type of university that fits you.
- If you are a sports person, you might want to find one with a football field, basketball courts, gym or swimming pool.
- Safety at the university campus and community.
- Know yourself, if you like city life, don’t choose a university far away from the city even though the facilities are great. However, if you have a discipline problem in having too much fun, studying away from the city may be a good choice
- What are the facilities and resources offered at the university? – engineering labs, computer labs, computers, science labs, sports facilities, student centre, job placement centre, etc. Note – You should expect to get what you pay for.
- If you like sports, you may not want to choose a university without a basketball court or gym.
- Is it near public transportation? This is important if you do not have transportation.
Duration of the Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia

Hui Lan, Mass Communication at KDU University College
The duration of the Pre-University Programme vary from programme to programme and takes about 8 months to 24 months to complete.
- Foundation programmes by private universities in Malaysia – Duration is 12 months
- Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) Malaysia – Duration is 18 months
- Matriculation Certificate, Ministry of Education Malaysia – Duration is 12 months
- University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) UK A-Levels – Duration is 12-18 months
- Edexcel International Advanced Level UK A-Levels – Duration is 12-18 months
- South Australian Matriculation (SAM) or SACE International – Duration is 10 months to 18 months depending on intake
- Western Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) Duration is 7 months to 10 months
Entry Requirements of Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia
General Entry Requirements for all Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia:
- SPM or ‘O’ Level or equivalent – 5 credits. Additional requirements may include credits in English, Mathematics or Science depending on the Pre-University Programme or degree you intend to take.
- Medical & Pharmacy degree programmes will require at least 5Bs in SPM including the Science subjects while Engineering would require credits in Physics & Maths.
- Students must have passes in BM and Sejarah in SPM
- Note that you will need to take into account the degree requirements for certain courses for SPM subjects.
Subjects for Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia
The number of subjects for the Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia vary from 3 to 12. When choosing the subjects, it is important to take those that would be relevant to the intended degree course. It is important to choose the right combination of subjects which would be related to your degree programme.
For example, if you take up Arts subjects, you will not be able to continue into a Biotechnology degree course.
Acceptance & Recognition of the Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia
As long as the Pre-University Programme has been accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), it will be accepted into any private university in Malaysia and the external Pre-University programmes such as A-Levels, AUSMAT, SAM, etc are accepted into universities overseas. The Internal Foundation Programmes of Private Universities in Malaysia are generally not accepted for entry by universities overseas therefore you have to take this into consideration when making your decision.
A List of the Top Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia

John Lai Wai Hong, Graduated in Mass Communication from KDU University College
Choosing the right Pre-University course after SPM or O-Levels can be confusing. There is no such thing as the “best” Pre-University programme. It is choosing the right Pre-U programme that fits you and your future goals. We have come up with a list of the Top Ten best Pre-University programmes to study in Malaysia,
Below is a list of pre-university programmes offered by top universities & colleges in Malaysia:
- Foundation programmes by private universities in Malaysia
- Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) Malaysia
- Unified Examination Certificate (UEC)
- University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) UK A-Levels
- South Australian Matriculation (SAM) or SACE International
- American Degree Transfer Program (ADTP)
- Edexcel International Advanced Level UK A-Levels
- Western Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT)
- Matriculation Certificate, Ministry of Education Malaysia
- Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP)
There are many different Pre-University programmes available in Malaysia. I will list some of the most popular ones.
Summary of the Best Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia
Top Foundation Programmes in Malaysia
Students after SPM or O-Levels can consider taking the Foundation Programmes at top private universities in Malaysia. The Foundation Programmes are 1 year and is cheaper compared to the external Pre-University Programmes.
Many private higher educational institutions in Malaysia, have developed their own internal university foundation programmes. Students who know what they want to study can just go for the Foundation at the university offering the degree of interest. It is cheaper, easier and a faster way to continue to completing the degree in Malaysia.
Duration | 12 months |
Number of subjects | 12-15. Varies depending on the programme and university (usually combination of compulsory, elective & MPU subjects) |
Recognition & Accreditation | Malaysia Qualification Agency (MQA) |
Assessment | Assessment for Foundation programmes in Malaysia will vary from university to university. It will contain a mix of coursework, assignments, quizzes and exams. The coursework could cover different assessment tasks such as projects, assignments, laboratory work, presentations, tests, and others as assigned throughout each semester. The final examination is conducted at the end of each semester. |
Price | RM8,000 – RM25,000 |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
List of the Different Types of Foundation Programmes in Malaysia
- Foundation in Science
- Foundation in Arts
- Foundation in Business Administration or Management
- Foundation in Communication & Media Studies
- Foundation in Computing & Technology
- Foundation in Engineering
- Foundation in Natural & Built Environment or Architecture
- Foundation in Design
The Best Universities Offering Top Rated Foundation Programmes in Malaysia
- Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
- Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Multimedia University (MMU) Cyberjaya
- Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka
- Multimedia University (MMU) Johor
- KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
- HELP University
- UCSI University
- KDU College
- First City University College
- Berjaya University College of Hospitality
- Foundation in Commerce
- Foundation in Hospitality
- KDU Penang University College
- Foundation in Business
- Foundation in Science
The Best A-Level Programmes in Malaysia

Gi Hang, A-Levels at Taylor’s College
The A-Levels is quite popular however it is quite tough and not for those who do not have the discipline or motivation to complete it. I would recommend the A-Levels for those intending to pursue medicine, dentistry, law or pharmacy or who are planning to go overseas. The A-Levels is internationally-recognised for admission into universities worldwide including professional courses.
The A-level syllabuses are divided into Advanced Subsidiary (AS) and Advanced Two (A2) levels, each contributing 50% towards the final A-Level grade. AS Level is the first half of the course and forms the foundation of A-Level. A2 Level is the second part of the syllabus and covers more difficult topics.
Students who have good results in SPM/O-Levels and prefer exam-oriented assessment rather than coursework or assignments, should go for the A-Levels.
Country of origin | United Kingdom (UK) |
Duration | 12 – 18 months |
Number of subjects | 2- 4. Students may choose the following subjects:
|
Assessment | It is 100% external examination-based. Both the ‘A2’ and ‘AS’ level examination sessions occur twice a year, in June and November, with some subjects only available in June or November. Results are issued in August and February respectively. |
Awarding Body |
|
Price | RM20,000 – RM40,000 |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
The Best Colleges and Universities in Malaysia for the A-Level Programme
- Taylor’s College
- HELP Academy
- KDU College Damansara Jaya
- KDU University College Penang
- UCSI Academy
- Disted College Penang
Australia Matriculation Programmes in Malaysia

Khalil, South Australian Matriculation (SAM) at Taylors College
There are 2 different Australian Matriculation programmes in Malaysia which are the:
- South Australian Matriculation (SAM) or SACE International
- Western Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT)
There are some slight differences between the two programmes and it is important for students to research and compare to see which on fits them.
I would not advise students to go for the March intake as it is an intensive programme which is shorter in duration where the exam is in November. Many students with good SPM results have not done well after taking the March intake for AUSMAT.
The best private colleges in Malaysia for South Australian Matriculation (SAM)/SACE International Pre-University programme are Taylor’s College and Disted College Penang.
Country of origin | Australia |
Duration | 7 – 18 months |
Number of subjects | 5 subjects (including English) |
Assessment |
|
Awarding Body | South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) |
Price | RM21,000 – RM40,000 |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) in Malaysia
The Canadian Pre-University (CPU) or CIMP is the final year of the secondary school programme in Ontario, Canada. It is designed based on the course guidelines and standards of the Ministry of Education and Training of the Ontario Province.
Country of origin | Canada |
Duration | 12 – 15 months |
Number of subjects | 6 subjects which include one English subject, that is, either ENG4E or ENG4U. The other subjects are Business, Computer Studies, Mathematics, Science and Social Science. |
Assessment | 70% coursework (e.g. tests, research papers, assignments) and 30% final exam |
Awarding Body | Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) |
Cost | Between RM13,000 – RM35,000 |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
American Degree Transfer Programme (ADTP)
Students after SPM or O-Levels will enter directly into Year 1 of the degree program for a total of 4 years. The American Degree system after SPM or O-Levels is
- Year 1 (Freshman) – ADTP in Malaysia
- Year 2 (Sophomore) – ADTP in Malaysia
- Year 3 (Junior) – University in the USA
- Year 4 (Senior) – University in the USA
The American undergraduate degree provides an education that emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking and decision-making skills. American education provides a flexible, holistic and well-rounded approach to education. It produces graduates with strong critical and analytical thinking skills with the ability to put knowledge into action.
Students after SPM or O-Levels planning to study partly in the USA can go for the American Degree Program (ADP) offered at Taylor’s University, KDU College Damansara Jaya or HELP University.
Country of origin | USA |
Duration | 48 months. After SPM or O-Levels, students will enter into the American Degree Programme for 2 years before transferring their credits to a university of their choice in the USA for the final 2 years. |
Number of subjects | Students will take about 40 subjects (110 – 140 credit hours) in total during their four years of studies, where 20 subjects (60 credit hours) are completed at ADP and the rest are completed in the USA. Students will normally take about 4-5 subjects each semester. |
Assessment | Students are assessed through exams, coursework, assignments, presentations, quizzes and research papers. The percentage of exams and assignments varies depending on the subject you are taking. |
Grading System | Final results will be a single score, the Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 0.0 to 4.0 scale. The highest grade is an A, which equals 4.0 The final result is the CGPA (cumulative grade point average) which is also on a 0.0 to 4.0 scale, and is your GPA obtained from all subjects taken. |
Cost | RM30,000 – RM60,000 for duration of 2 years of study in Malaysia. Cost of studying in the USA would range from RM150,000 to RM200,000 per year including cost of living. |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
Diploma Course at Private Universities in Malaysia
Students who are sure of what they want to study can go for a Diploma course. If you are still not sure, then you should go for a Pre-University programme. The diploma generally is more practical while a degree course is more theoretical and academic.
After completing your diploma, you can go find a job or continue on to Year 2 of the degree if your college or university offers the degree or you can transfer credits into another university. If you transfer to another university, you may not be able to get the full exemptions to enter into Year 2 of the degree.
Duration | 24 – 30 months |
Number of subjects | 25-35 subjects (May include internship) |
Assessment | A mix of Assignments, Coursework, and written examination percentage. The diploma programme provides students with relevant, interesting, stimulating and practical experience via a variety of teaching and practical techniques.
Students will experience different dynamic learning processes are employed in the delivery of a diploma programme, such as lectures, tutorials, computer lab work, team-based project, real life system development, presentations, independent projects supervised by supervisors from university lecturers or industry experts. The learning is very much practical oriented. |
Recognition | Accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) |
Cost | RM15,000 to RM50,000 |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM)

Mark Siew, Software Engineering at Asia Pacific University
Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) is Malaysia’s version of the UK’s GCE A-Levels and is a Pre-University course recognised for entry into public universities (IPTA) in Malaysia. The STPM is also accepted for entry into private universities in Malaysia and overseas universities. The STPM is acknowledged as one of the toughest exams in the world.
If you had scored high is SPM, you are eligible for scholarships for Foundation programmes at top private universities. The Foundation programmes are easier and so if you score for Foundation, you can get more scholarships to cover part or all of your degree studies.
Problem is if you take the STPM which is so much tougher than the Foundation course, although Form 6 is free, but if you don’t score in STPM, you have no scholarship for your degree studies and in the end have to pay all of the fees for your degree studies in private university.
The STPM is extremely tough and if you do not do well, you would have wasted 2 years of your life and time is money. The earlier you graduate and join the work force, the more work experience you can gain and add this to your resume where it translates into higher salary. If you take a diploma at a private university in Malaysia, you would have finished it at the same time you would have taken to complete Form 6.
You need a lot of discipline and good teachers in order to do well in the STPM. If you have alright results for your SPM, don’t expect a miracle in the STPM as it is 20 times tougher than the SPM. If you can afford, choose an easier way through the 1-year Foundation offered at top reputable Private Universities in Malaysia.
Country of origin | Malaysia |
Duration | 18 months (+6 months if you intend to apply to public universities) |
Number of subjects | Between 4 – 5 (including General Paper) |
Assessment |
|
Grading | Final results will be a single score, the Overall Subject Grade Point. Grades are given from A to F for each subject taken, which corresponds to a grade point. The Overall Subject Grade Point is the average of the top four subjects with the maximum score of 4.0. |
Cost | Less than RM1,000 |
Advantages |
|
Disadvantages |
|
Should I study Form Six and take the STPM In Malaysia?

Chun Poh, 3D Animation at UCSI University
In order to consider studying Form 6, students should take the time to understand the system and how Form 6 works. Let’s look at the statistics below to help you decide whether you should take Form 6 or not.
There were 58,355 students who took STPM in 2013 and in 2014 it dropped to 48,615 students. It is a drop of 16.69% (9,740 candidates) 48,615 candidates registered for the STPM examinations in 2014 but only 42,854 sat for it. Only 390 out of 48,615 STPM 2014 obtained a 4.0 CGPA. 57 candidates failed the exam.
The national CGPA was 2.62 but for non-bumis to get their courses of choice, you will need higher CGPA. Ten students scored 5As, and a total of 398 students scored 4As. To obtain scholarships from private universities or overseas, you need to score 4As or 5As, so based on this, you can calculate the chances of you scoring in the STPM and obtaining a scholarship.
27,342 (63.80%), passed in four subjects, 7,130 in three subjects, 3,563 in two subjects and 2,410 passed just one subject. Pass here includes D and E. You need at least 2 Cs to join a degree course in private universities.
The number of candidates achieving 4 Principals (C) in STPM 2014 is 60.14 per cent. You need at least 2 Principals to join a degree course in private universities.
If you had scored high is SPM, you are eligible for scholarships for Foundation programmes at top private universities. The Foundation programmes are easier and so if you score for Foundation, you can get more scholarships to cover part or all of your degree studies.
Problem is if you take the STPM which is so much tougher than the Foundation course, although Form 6 is free, but if you don’t score in STPM, you have no scholarship for your degree studies and in the end have to pay all of the fees for your degree studies in private university. Are you willing to take that risk?
Advantages of the STPM
With School Based Assessment, teaching and learning are integrated with assessment.
SBA humanises assessment making schooling a cooperative enterprise between teachers and students.
Through the new examination system, students will also have more opportunities to obtain better results. Students are allowed to improve on their first term and second term results by retaking these term examinations at the end of the third term. Students who do not obtain satisfactory results for the third term may also re-sit it.
Disadvantages of the STPM

Kuo Qiat, Marketing Graduate from UCSI University
Lower 6 used to be called the honeymoon year, but now, as soon as you enter Lower 6 you will have to hit the books because your first exam will be in December and you will have not much time to study and the teachers do no have enough time to cover the material as well. There is no rest as you will need to keep studying the exams every 6 months.
To enter into most private universities, students must achieve at least a CGPA of 2.00 or at least 2 Principal Cs in the relevant subjects. A C- is not a principal and some universities do not accept the Pengajian Am as entry into the university.
STPM requires you to take in too much information in 1.5 years. That in itself shows the inadequacies of a system which doesn’t give enough time for students to consume the information required. Furthermore, STPM needs a lot of study time in order to score well. If you are not ready to commit the time and effort, you should consider other options.
From the time you enter Form 6 till the exam and getting into IPTA would be 2 years. If you had taken a diploma, you would have already completed it. There are 180,000 graduates each year and competition for jobs are high therefore the faster you graduate, the faster you get a job and start your savings.
English is very important to secure a job as well as getting a higher salary and faster promotions. This is reported in the Star and from research conducted by the Ministry of Higher Education in Malaysia.
The medium of instruction in IPTA is in BM and most of the Chinese there communicate in Mandarin. In 2011, 70,000 IPTA graduates were unemployed. Personally, I only recommend the STPM if students do not have the finances to study in private universities but with the PTPN Loan, studying in the private colleges or universities are more accessible. A lot students and parents want to save money by going for the STPM but do not realise that for some, in the end, they are wasting time and eventually have to spend more money.
The STPM is extremely tough and if you do not do well, you would have wasted 2 years of your life and time is money. The earlier you graduate and join the work force, the more work experience you can gain and add this to your resume where it translates into higher salary.
If you take a diploma at a private university in Malaysia, you would have finished it at the same time you would have taken to complete Form 6. Alternatively, you can choose an easier way through the 1-year Foundation offered at the Private Universities.
You need a lot of discipline and good teachers in order to do well in the STPM. If you have alright results for your SPM, don’t expect a miracle in the STPM as it is 20 times tougher than the SPM.
Modular System for the STPM

Gan Wei Cheng, 3A* in A-Levels at KDU College Penang and now JPA Scholarship at U. of Sydney for Pharmacy
The new modular STPM format began in 2012, will combine two forms of assessments, and will be similar to the A levels format except that it will be in BM.
Students will go through a school-based assessment with a weighting of 20-40% of the final score and a centralised examination with a weighting of 60-80% of the final score (The weighting varies according to subjects).
Nevertheless, School Based Assessment (SBA) cannot be repeated and repeaters are required to sit for an alternative written paper in place with SBA.
The curriculum is divided into three parts based on topic areas. Each part will be taught and studied in either the first, second or third term.
You will take the examinations at the end of each term (3 in total). One term is 6 months. Students who are not satisfied with their results for the first two terms can retake the examinations at the end of the third term.
Students’ assessment will be carried out each term with the results being released at the end of each respective term. The overall STPM results will be based on the best combined results of the three terms.
Soft skill such as communication skills, teamwork, leadership, critical thinking, problem solving,information management and ethics are included in the new curriculum.
School-Based Assessment (SBA) for the STPM
The introduction of SBA in this system is in line with the aspiration of the Education Ministry to develop human capital who embrace intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and physical values in line with the National Educational Philosophy.
The SBA consists of project work, field study and practical work. The coursework question/task is prepared by the Council and will be conducted either over three terms or as determined by the individual subject requirements.
Examination
A centralised written examination is administered at the end of each term. Question types consist of multiple choice, structed and essay questions. Question papers are prepared and provided by the Council, and the marking of answer scripts will be carried out by Council-appointed examiners.
Malaysian Matriculation Programme (Matrikulasi) and Asasi IPTA
Program Matrikulasi Malaysia) is a one-year pre-university preparatory programme offered by the Ministry of Education, Malaysia. Starting 2005, the selection process for the programme is done through a race-based quota system, where 90% of the places are reserved for bumiputeras students while the remaining 10% are open for non-bumiputeras.
Prior to 2006, only one-year programmes are being conducted. Since then, four different programmes are offered. They are One Year Programme (PST, short for Program Satu Tahun in Malay), Two Year Programme (PDT, short for Program Dua Tahun in Malay), Technical Programme and Accounting Programme. Mathematics, physics, biology, chemistry and informatics science subjects are conducted in English. Other compulsory subjects are English, Dynamics Skills (Kemahiran Dinamika), Islamic/Moral Study and Information Technology. Students are also required to take up a co-curricular activity of their choice (sports/games, societies/clubs or marching band) during the programme.
One Year Programme (PST)
PST is a one-year, two-semester programme. Students from science, technical and accounting background can register for this programme. Particularly, for students from science background, there are three different modules to choose from. The subjects offered in the three modules are:[3]
Module I: Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Biology.(sem 1:dinamika)
Module II: Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and Computer Science.(sem 1:dinamika)
Module III: Mathematics, Chemistry, Biology and Computer Science.(sem 1:kokurikulum)
Accounting Programme
This is a one-year, two-semester programme. The four subjects taught in the accounting module are Mathematics, Accounting, Business Study and Economy.
Country of origin | Malaysia |
Duration | 12 months (Program Satu Tahun) – 24 months (Program Dua Tahun) |
Number of subjects | Students must study at least six subjects over two semesters (one year). There is one intake a year, usually in March or April. The matriculation programme in Malaysia offers three streams – science, accountancy and technical streams |
Assessment | Combination of classroom assignments and examinations |
Grading System | Your GPA is determined from the grade values associated with the grades that you obtain for each subject every semester. All grades are internally assessed. |
Cost | RM600 |
Advantages |
|
Cons |
|
Comparison Chart of the Top Pre-University (Pre-U) Programmes in Malaysia
Pre-U Programme | Brief introduction | Duration | Assessment | Subjects |
Cambridge A-Levels Awarded by Cambridge Advanced Level Certificate | The Cambridge GCE A Level is the general certificate of education qualification through examinations by the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE).The GCE A Level programme places emphasis on knowledge, understanding and reasoning abilities and skills. | Duration is 12 or 18 months Intakes in January, March and July Exams in June & November | Assessed totally through external examinations. The examination papers are set and marked by examiners from the University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE). You can now sit for the A-Level examination in two phases: at Advanced Subsidiary Level (AS) and at Advanced Two (A2) Level. Students unsatisfied with any of their individual units must re-sit the entire level, ie either AS or A2, and only the last score will automatically be taken into account. | No. of Subjects: 3-4 SciencePhysics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Economics.Arts
Law, Mathematics, Economics, History, Accounting, English Literature and Business Studies. |
LONDON EDEXCEL INTERNATIONAL – A-Levels | The Qualifications & Curriculum Authority (QCA) in the UK only recognises the London A-Levels. The London A-Levels is under the tight scrutiny of the QCA for all preparation, distribution and marking of the examination papers. For the London A-Levels, there is a centre in every region to facilitate communication with Edexcel UK, in addition to ensuring that the London A-Levels centres meet the standards set by the QCA. | Duration is 12 or 18 months Intakes in January, April and July Exams in January & May/June | 100% external examination. n Modular A-levels, each A-Level subject is subdivided into SIX UNITS where each unit is separately assessed in stages. In the Staged assessment it is divided into stages and in each stage the candidates get to select any number of the six units to be assessed in each examination session. An assessment is done every six months and the number of units selected for each examination session is entirely up to the candidate. The best grades for all the 6 units will be added together for a full A-Level final grade. | No. of Subjects: 3-4
Mathematics Further Maths Biology Chemistry Physics Economics Accounting Law Business |
South Australian Matriculation (SAM) or SACE International Awarded by South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) | SAM offers – Proven learning techniques tailored to university study- A balanced choice of subjects leading to a variety of university degree courses- A mixture of school assessments and external examinations that assess students fairly
– The flexibility for students to complete the program over an extended period – An opportunity for students to increase their tertiary entrance rank by repeating subjects without penalty. |
Duration is 10 – 18 months with intakes in January, April or August | Balance of continuous internal assessment and a final external examination. Students are provided with a university aggregate score (out of 90 marks) and a tertiary entrance rank (TER), a percentile ranking that is recognised without modification by all tertiary selection agencies in Australia. Students must complete 5 subjects, including 1 subject from List 1 and at least 1 subject from List 2. In addition, students must achieve a satisfactory score (10/20 or better) in either English as Second Language Studies, or English Studies. | No. of Subjects – 6 • Accounting • Biology • Chemistry • Economics • English as an Additional Language • Legal Studies • Mathematical Methods • Nutrition • Physics • Psychology • Research Project B • Specialist Mathematics |
Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) Awarded by Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) | The AUSMAT is the Year 12 curriculum of Western Australia. The Curriculum Council of Western Australia, on behalf of the Government of Western Australia, overseas the quality implementation of the curriculum. | Duration is 7-10 months with Intakes in January & March
Exam in November |
50% internal continuous assessment(moderated by the Curriculum Council)and 50% external final examinations (TEE)
Provides opportunities to use multiple assessment techniques to help students progress – continuous assessment may include topic tests, quizzes, assignments, investigations, research and exams. Flexibility of calculating a student’s score based on Best-4 or Best-5 subjects . |
No. of Subjects – 5 �� Required to take English as an Additional Language (EAL/D) or English The remaining subjects must include one subject from each from List 1 and List 2:LIST 1 – German, English, Economics, LIST 2 – Accounting and Finance, Biological SciencesChemistry, Computer Studies
Mathematics, Mathematics : Specialist Physics |
Canadian International Matriculation Programme (CIMP) or International Canadian Pre-University (ICPU) Awarded by Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) | Offered according to the requirements of the Ontario Ministry of Education, students to graduate with the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) In the CIMP, they focus on your development in the following areas:- Effective communication; using English as the language for international communication- Independent learning skills; learn how to learn
– Effective transition from secondary to tertiary education – Talent and leadership development – Community outreach |
Duration is 10 months. Intakes in January, March and July Exam in May & November | Assessment will be 70% coursework and 30% final examinations. Coursework includes evaluations conducted throughout the programme; quizzes, assignments, projects and class tests. The final assessment will be in the form of an examination.In addition, to graduate, students must sit for anexternal literacy test administered in March, perform Ten (10) hours of recognised Community Involvement. | No. of Subjects – 6 Business, Computer Studies, Mathematics, Science, Social Sciences & English Courses. |
Internal Foundation at Private Universities in Malaysia -Internal qualification | It is cheaper and easier than the external Pre-University programmes. Students intending to continue on in the particular university can choose to go for their internal Foundation course. Its accredited by MQA & can transfer to other private universities in Malaysia for the relevant degree. | Duration is 12 mths or 3 semesters with intakes in Jan, April, July, August or October depending on the university | Assessments comprise coursework, class tests and examinations. Internally assessed by the private university. | No. of Subjects – 12-15
Subjects depends on the type of Foundation |
American Degree Program (ADP) | -Direct entry into Year 1 of degree continue to Year 2 in Malaysia and then transfer to a university in the USA for the final 2 years- Holistic education | Duration is 2 years in Malaysia and 2 years in the USA | Assessment includes quizzes, assignments, projects and class tests. | Students will take general studies for the first 2 years before specializing in their major for the final 2 years |
EduSpiral Consultant Services – Your Online Education Advisor
EduSpiral Consultant Services is a full-service educational counseling & planning firm that guides students from across Malaysia to help them choose the right course and university.
EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.
These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.
If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form. EduSpiral Consultant Services has helped hundreds of students to choose the right course and enter into the university of choice. Please do contact us should you need any advise.
Please contact us for more details.
- WhatsApp: +601111408838
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/eduspiral
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/eduspiral
- Be my friend: www.facebook.com/eduspiralsik
- Like EduSpiral: www.facebook.com/eduspiralcs
- Website: www.eduspiral.com
Please fill up the Form below and I will WhatsApp you and provide you with sound advise on how to choose the best private university or college in Malaysia to study at. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Our knowledgeable & experienced courselor will send you a message on WhatsApp & provide assistance from there.