An EduSpiral Guide to Help Students after Secondary School to Decide whether Foundation is the Best Education Pathway into the Degree Programme
- The Foundation Course is a 1-year Pre-University (Pre-U) Programme offered at Malaysia’s private universities
- The Foundation Programme provides academic training in subjects related to your chosen degree pathway
- It equips students with transferable academic skills needed for undergraduate studies
- The curriculum and examination of the Foundation programmes are set by the local private colleges & universities, following the quality criteria set by the Ministry of Higher Education and quality assurance agency, Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
One of the pathways for students who have just completed their secondary school education is to take the Foundation Programme at Malaysia’s top private universities. The Foundation programme is a Pre-University Programme designed by a particular private university intending to equip their students to familiarise and handle the degree programme offered. Foundation programmes offered at Malaysia’s private universities can be seen as preparatory courses that assist students’ transition from SPM or IGCSE/O-levels to specific bachelor’s degree programmes. There is a wide variety of foundation courses available today such as the Foundation in Engineering, Foundation in Natural & Built Environment, Foundation in Business or Foundation in Computing & IT. Most are specialised and designed to prepare students for specific degree programmes.
For students who have yet to decide on what to do next, or simply want to keep their study options open, there are broad-based foundation courses that are usually geared towards either arts or science. They are aptly named Foundation in Arts and Foundation in Science.
The Foundation programme also equips students with creative, intellectual and critical skills before progressing to the degree programmes as it provides personal diagnostic appraisal which will aid students in a specific design discipline in the degree programmes. Students will seamlessly move on to the degree course upon completion.
Foundation courses normally take an average of one academic year to complete. Before undertaking a foundation programme, you should be fairly certain of your intended area of study in university.
What you Need to Know about Foundation Programmes Offered at Malaysia’s Private Universities and Colleges
Chun Tim, Foundation in Business into Finance at Taylor’s University
The 12-month Foundation Programme is specifically designed for SPM and IGCSE/O-Levels graduates who would like to fast-track their university studies.Foundation courses can be seen as preparatory courses that assist secondary school students to transition to specific bachelor’s degree programmes at private universities.
In addition, the Foundation Programme in Malaysia is a pre-university programme designed to help students meet the requirements for first-year university and prepare them to handle the rigours of undergraduate studies. During the Foundation course, students gain a solid grounding in academic and communication skills, with a focus on developing their Critical Thinking and English language skills.
In order to study a bachelor’s degree at a private university in Malaysia, the Foundation programme is the next step for you. The Foundation Course is specifically designed to prepare students for what they will be studying for their chosen undergraduate degree, and helps them to successfully make the transition from a school environment to a university environment.
Therefore, students have to search for the right private university and foundation programme that will fit their undergraduate academic goals. Where you choose to study your Foundation Programme is an important decision as it will provide the necessary fundamental knowledge and skills to handle the rigours of the degree programme.
The Foundation programme is a Pre-University Programme designed by a particular private university intending to equip their students to familiarise and handle the degree programme offered. Students will seamlessly move on to the degree course upon completion. There are many types of Foundation Programmes offered by private universities.
How do I know if Foundation is the right choice for me?
Choosing the right Pre-University course that fits you would mean that you have to ask yourself which methods of assessment best suit you? Exams, coursework, practicals, group projects and presentations could all be in the mix in differing quantities.
Every Pre-University course in Malaysia will include a percentage of the breakdown of assessment for the subjects. You need to understand yourself and capabilities in order to decide which Pre-University course would best suit you.
The Foundation Programme is right for you if:
- you know which private university you plan to study your degree programme at
- you have a clear idea on which career path you want to take
- you want to get a head start on your degree
- you want to take subjects that can count towards fulfilling part of a degree’s requirements
- you prefer to be assessed through a series of tests, quizzes and assignments on top of a final exam at the end of the semester.
- you prefer a cheaper option compared to the external Pre-University (Pre-U) Programmes
- you do not plan to go overseas to study after your Pre-U
How do I know which Foundation is Right for me?
If you are not sure of which degree you plan to take then go for the Foundation in Science where it allows you to enter into any science-related or arts-related degree courses. The Foundation in Arts will allow students to choose from only arts-based degree programmes.
Students who are sure of their degree course may go for the specific Foundation courses where the subjects are tailored towards their degree studies such as Foundation in Computing & Information Technology, Foundation in Business Administration, Foundation in Engineering, Foundation in Design, Foundation in Architecture
Why Should you Choose to Study the Foundation Course after Secondary School?
Chong Han, Foundation in Engineering at Taylor’s University
- It is a recognised Pre-University programme designed by the individual private university tailored to its undergraduate offerings.
- Foundation Programmes are cheaper than the External Pre-University Programmes
- They are generally, easier than the External Pre-University Programmes
- Some are recognised for entry into overseas universities
- You study subjects that you like as it is tailored to your chosen degree programme
- Your coursework and exams are marked by Malaysians who understand what you write or express
- You will be exposed to different types of subjects which would help you to decide which major to choose in the degree.
- Faster to enter the degree programme
- If you do not plan to go overseas, there is no reason to take an external Pre-University programme
- When you score well in the Foundation, you can apply for scholarships for the degree programme at the same university.
Why Study the Foundation Programme at Malaysia’s Private Universities?
Gary, Accounting Graduate from University of Wollongong Malaysia (UOWM) KDU
The Foundation programme at the particular university has been design specifically to prepare students to transition into their bachelor’s degree course. It ensures that students are equipped with the necessary academic skills required to successfully handle the rigours of their degree programme.
Can I transfer to another Private University after Foundation?
Yes, you can transfer to another private university as long as it is into the relevant degree programme and you meet the minimum entry requirements. It is also on a case-to-case basis as some top ranked private universities may not accept the Foundation programme due to certain academic factors.
Can I transfer to an overseas university after Foundation?
Most Foundation programmes in Malaysia are designed for the Malaysian education system therefore overseas universities would not accept the Foundation programme for entry. However, some private universities have partnered with selected overseas universities for them to recognise and accept their Foundation course into their degree courses. You will need to check with the university for the list of overseas universities that recognise their Foundation programme.
Foundation is a Cheaper and Faster Pathway to Study Partly Overseas
Bryan Yap, Foundation in Business (Actuarial Science) at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
Some institutions offering these foundation courses may have the option for ‘twinning’ or transfer programmes with university partners overseas.
How are the Foundation Programmes Assessed?
Grading system Foundation courses will follow assessment methods set by the institution.
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. The assessments are subject to quality assurance procedures to maintain high standards and ensuring fair assessment.
Are all Foundation Programmes the Same?
Darren, Finance & Investment Graduate from UCSI University
The subjects in the Foundation Programmes may vary from university to university as they are designed specifically to prepare students for their own degree programmes.
Is the Foundation Programme Recognised?
The curriculum and examination of the Foundation programmes are set by the private university following the quality criteria set by the Ministry of Higher Education and quality assurance agency, Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
The Malaysia Qualifications Agency (MQA) is an official body that is governed by the Ministry of Higher Education and is the only body that controls universities’ accreditation status, regulate curriculum and set operational standards for both public and private universities and other higher learning institutions in Malaysia.
MQA also accredit individual courses and programmes at each university. MQA’s operation is important because it works to ensure that higher learning in the country is up to global standards and is fit for the future of the nation.
How much does it Cost to Study Foundation?
Teoh, Computer Science graduate from Asia Pacific University (APU)
The cost of studying a Foundation programme will vary from university to university. Each private university will charge the fees based on various factors such as facilities, lecturers’ experience, recognition by overseas universities, etc.
Most Foundation Programmes at Private Universities will cost from RM15,000 to RM30,000. They are cheaper than external Pre-University (Pre-U) Programmes such as the A-Levels, AUSMAT, CIMP, IB, and others. In addition, there are no external exam fees charged. For example, other than paying the college tuition fees, you still need to pay for the examination fees due to the Board such as Cambridge and Pearson EdExcel.
How Many Subjects are there in a Foundation Programme?
The number of subjects vary from 15 to 18 subjects taken within 3 semesters (1 year) for the Foundation programme at private universities in Malaysia. Students will take about 5-6 subjects a semester.
What will I Study in a Foundation Programme?
Gan twins, Foundation in Arts at Taylor’s University
A Foundation course in Malaysia focuses on the topics related to the field and by concentrating on specific subjects related to the degree programmes it will lead to at the university. There will be core subjects like Mathematics, English and Computing.
You will then have options to choose electives that would be related to your degree programme of interest.
For example, if the university offers business, communication and computing degree programmes, they may offer a Foundation in Arts & Technology and offer subjects such as business, accounting, marketing, communications, computing, etc.
What are the Different Types of Foundation Programmes available in Malaysia?
- Foundation in Arts
- Foundation in Science
- Foundation in Science
- Foundation in Computing & Technology
- Foundation in Business & Management
- Foundation in Engineering
- Foundation in Architecture or Natural & Built Environment
- Foundation in Art & Design
What are the Entry Requirements into Foundation Programmes in Malaysia?
Leow En Qi and Sin Jie, graduated from Pharmacy
General Entry Requirements are 5 SPM Credits with Passes in BM & Sejarah or IGCSE/O-Levels minimum 5Cs. Note that the entry requirements will vary from university to university. Furthermore, the entry requirements will vary from the type of degree course you plan on studying.
You will need to check with the university of interest to find out exactly what their entry requirements are. Or you may contact EduSpiral Consultant Services for advise on your entry to top private universities in Malaysia.
- Foundation in Arts entering into the following degree programmes:
- Business Administration, Management, Logistics & Marketing – 5 Credits
- Accounting, Finance, Banking, Investment & Actuarial Science – 5 Credits including Maths and a Pass in English
- Arts, Design, Advertising, Hospitality, Hotel Management & Communication – 5 Credits
- Psychology – 5 Credits including Maths, one Science subject and a Pass in English
- Architecture and Information Technology (IT) – 5 Credits including Maths
- Computer Science – 5 Credits including Additional Maths
- English Language, TESL & Mass Communication – 5 Credits including English
- Foundation in Science entering into:
- Engineering – 5 Credits including Maths and 1 Science (Physics/ Chemistry/ Biology)
- Architecture and IT – 5 Credits including Maths
- Computer Science – 5 Credits including Add Maths
- Foundation in Science entering into the following degree programmes
- Biotechnology, Culinology, Food Science, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, Biotechnology, Biomedical Science, Medical Imaging & Optometry – 5 credits including Mathematics and 2 science subjects
- Pharmacy – 5Bs including Biology and Chemistry and Physic and Math (or Additional Math)
- Medicine & Dentistry – 5Bs including Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics/Additional Mathematics and 1 other subject
- Architecture and IT – 5 Credits including Maths
- Foundation in Computing & Technology into the following degree programmes
- Computing, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Game Development, Intelligent Systems, Cyber Security & Networking, – 5 credits including Mathematics
- Foundation in Business into the following degree programmes
- Business Administration, Management, Human Resource Management, International Business, Logistics & Marketing – 5 Credits
- Accounting, Finance, Banking, Investment & Actuarial Science – 5 Credits including Maths and a Pass in English
- Foundation in Engineering entering into:
- Mechanical, Civil, Electrical & Electronic, Telecommunication & Mechatronic – 5 Credits including Maths and 1 Science (Physics/ Chemistry/ Biology)
- Foundation in Architecture or Natural & Built Environment entering into:
- Architecture – 5 Credits including Maths
- Interior Architecture or Interior Design – 5 Credits
- Foundation in Design to enter into:
- Graphic Design, Interior Design, Product Design, Multimedia, Animation – 5 Credits
- Some universities may require a portfolio of your artwork or a credit in Art
Summary of the Foundation Programme
| 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 | RM15,000 – RM30,000 |
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