
Best Course to Study In Malaysia after SPM, O-Levels or UEC with only 3 Credits
Written by EduSpiral Consultant Services. For more information contact 01111408838
There are so many options out there to choose after your SPM, O-Levels or UEC and it can get quite confusing. A diploma is for students who are sure of what they want to study while students who are still unsure can take the Pre-University course first and then decide later what course to study. The diploma course is more practical with some theory while a degree programme is more academic. The assessment for the diploma course at top private universities in Malaysia will be a mixture of Coursework, Assignments, Quizzes, Exams and Projects.
To join a diploma course, you will need at least 3 credits in SPM, O-Levels or UEC. You must have a pass in BM & Sejarah. Entry requirements for the diploma will vary from course to course so do check with the university on the exact requirements or you may contact EduSpiral Consultant Services. If you are joining finance, IT or accounting, you will need to include Maths. For Diploma in Engineering courses you will need to include a credit in Maths and one Science subject. A student may apply for the PTPTN loan for the diploma course to study in Malaysia.
Duration for the Diploma programmes in Malaysia vary from 2 years to 2.5 years depending on the type of course. Upon completion of the Diploma, students may continue on to Year 2 of the related Degree programme at the same university or transfer to another university with exemptions.
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 counsellor will send you a message on WhatsApp & provide assistance from there.
Why Study the Diploma at Top Private Universities & Colleges in Malaysia?

Calvin Teoh, Diploma in Culinary Arts at YTL International College of Hotel Management
An advantage of the diploma is that after 2 years of studying, should you not want to continue on to the degree, you can stop and find a job. Your salary would be about RM1600-1800. But if you want to continue on to a degree programme, you can. You will need to provide all the transcripts, course outline and letter of completion to the university that you would like to continue your degree course.
They will then evaluate the subjects for exemptions. After the evaluation, they will let you know how many subjects left you need to take. Generally, you will enter into Year 2 of the related degree programme. For example, a diploma in business administration will enter into Year 2 of the degree programme or diploma in mass comm into Year 2 of the Mass Comm degree.
After SPM or O-Levels, it is normal to be confused about what you want to study. So, it is important to talk to counselors who are informed and experienced. You should also visit a few colleges or universities to see their facilities, student environment, lecturers and student support services for comparison.
Some of the colleges charge RM30,000 for a business diploma but with terrible facilities or even is located in a shoplot! I know of 2 institutions with medium sized campuses where you can complete the 2-year diploma at a cost of only RM23,000. This is great savings for the facilities that you get. It is value for money as when you graduate with a business diploma, your starting salary is about RM1500-1800, so for a RM23,000 diploma is pretty good investment. I know of an automotive college charging RM50,000 for their 2.5 year diploma and the starting salary for a mechanic is about RM1000-1800. Do you think that it is worth the investment?
Top Diploma Courses offered by the Best Private Universities & Colleges in Malaysia
Students should choose top private universities in Malaysia for their diploma education so that you can gain the best knowledge and skills for a successful career.
The Best Diploma Programs Offered at Asia Pacific University (APU)
- Diploma in Information & Communications Technology
- Diploma in Information & Communications Technology with specialism in Software Engineering
- Diploma in Business with Information Technology
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Accounting
- Diploma in Finance
- Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
Diploma Programmes offered at APIIT
Outstanding Diploma Programs Offered at Taylor’s University
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Hotel Management
- Diploma in Tourism Management
- Diploma in Event Management
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Diploma in Communication
Diploma Programmes at Multimedia University
- Diploma in 3D Modelling & Animation (Cyberjaya)
- Diploma in Digital Motion Graphic (Cyberjaya)
- Diploma in Electronic Engineering (Melaka)
- Diploma in Telecommunication Engineering (Melaka)
- Diploma in Information Technology (Melaka)
- Diploma in Business Information Systems (Melaka)
- Diploma in Information Technology (Cyberjaya)
- Diploma in Accounting (Melaka)
- Diploma in Business Administration (Melaka)
First Rate Diploma Programs Offered at UCSI University
- Diploma in Aquaculture with Entrepreneurship
- Diploma in Logistics Management
- Diploma in Management
- Diploma in Information Technology
- Diploma Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Diploma Engineering (Materials Science)
- Diploma in Architectural Studies
- Diploma in Interior Architecture
- Diploma in Fashion Design
- Diploma in Graphic Design
- Diploma in 3D Animation Design
- Diploma Hotel Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
Top Rated Diploma Programs Offered at KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Accountancy
- Diploma in Computer Studies
- Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Diploma in Mass Communication
- Diploma in Entertainment Arts
- Diploma in Entrepreneurial Design
- IMI Diploma in International Hotel Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Professional Chef Training
Diploma Programs Offered at HELP University Damansara Heights
First Rate Diploma Programs Offered at KDU Penang University College
- Diploma in Accounting
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Mass Communication
- Diploma in Computer Studies
- Diploma in Games Technology
- Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering (Mechatronic)
- Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering (Microelectronic)
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Diploma in 3D Animation & Motion Capture
- IMI Diploma in International Hotel & Tourism Management
- MyCenthe Diploma in Hotel Management
- IMI Diploma in Professional Chef Training
- Executive Diploma in Professional Chef
Affordable Diploma Programs Offered at First City University College
- Diploma in Graphic Design
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Diploma in Business Administration
- Diploma in Information Technology (IT)
- Diploma in Electronic Engineering
- Diploma in Mechatronics
- Diploma in Hospitality & Tourism Management
- Diploma in Mass Communication
Outstanding Diploma Programs Offered at Berjaya University College of Hospitality
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Patisserie
- Diploma in Heritage Cuisine
- Diploma in Hotel Management
- Diploma in Tourism And Travel Management
- Diploma in Event Management
- Diploma In Public Relations
- Diploma in Business Management
- Diploma in Retail Management
Diploma programs from the best colleges in Malaysia
Diploma Programs Offered at IACT College
- Diploma in Mass Communication
- Diploma in Broadcasting & Film
- Diploma in Marketing and Advertising
- Diploma in Graphic Design
Excellent Diploma Programs Offered at Saito University College
- Diploma in Graphic Design
- Diploma in Fashion Design
- Diploma in Interior Design
- Diploma in Multimedia Design
- Diploma in Security Management
- Diploma in Human Resource Management
Top Rated Diploma Programs Offered at YTL International College of Hotel Management (YTL-ICHM), Malaysia
- Diploma of International Hotel Management
- Diploma in Event Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Baking
Industry Ready Diploma Programs Offered at Point College
- Diploma in Graphic Design
- Diploma in New Media Design
- Diploma in Film & TV Production
- Diploma in Digital Animation
First Rate Diploma Programs Offered at HELP College of Arts and Technology (HELP CAT)
- Diploma In Business
- Diploma in Accountancy
- Diploma in Computer Science
- Diploma in Business Information Systems
- Diploma in Electronic Engineering
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma in Hotel Management
Diploma Programs Offered at Reliance College Kuala Lumpur
- Diploma in Hotel & Tourism Management
- Diploma in Business
- Diploma in Event Management
The Best Diploma Programs Offered at UCSI University Sarawak
- Diploma in Hotel Management
- Diploma in Culinary Arts
- Diploma Leisure & Recreation Management
Studying Diploma at Top Private Colleges & Universities in Malaysia

Kwang Wei, Business graduate from UCSI University
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 Foundation in Arts, Foundation in Science or an external Pre-University Programme like the A-Levels, Canadian Pre-University (CPU), South Australian Matriculation, etc.
If you have taken a Diploma in IT and decide later you want to study Business, you will have to start all over again from the beginning. Talk to an experienced and knowledgeable education counselor to find out the best pathway for you.
Generally, 2 years in duration with some at 2 years 4 months or 2 years 6 months. Upon completion of the Diploma programme, you can either continue on to Year 2 of the related degree programme or go out to work. Taking a Pre-University programme, you must continue on to the degree as a Pre-University is not recognised for work purposes. Some courses such as culinary and design, a diploma is sufficient to join the workforce in Malaysia. Otherwise, it is advisable to continue your studies to degree level.
Starting salaries for diploma holders range from RM1500 to RM2000 while degree holders range from RM2500 to RM3500.
You can apply for the PTPN Loan . You cannot apply for the PTPN Loan for Foundation, Pre-University or A-Level programmes. The amount of the loan varies depending on your family income.
Assessments for Diploma Programmes in Malaysia

Hou Tung, Diploma in IT at First City University College
A diploma course is more practical while a Foundation, external Pre-University programme and degree courses are more academic.
The assessments for a diploma programme at private universities and colleges in Malaysia is 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.
Entry Requirements for Diploma Programmes in Malaysia
Entry requirements for Diploma programmes are lower than for Pre-University. You need at least 5 credits to enter a Pre-University or Foundation programme while diploma programmes require only 3 credits. The requirements vary from course to course so you should check with the university or an experienced education counselor for advise. For example, entry requirements for Diploma in Engineering courses need at least 3Cs including Maths & Science, Diploma in IT require 3Cs including Maths, Diploma in Business need 3Cs in any subjects, etc.
Transfer credits from Diploma into Degree Year 2 into Top Private Universities in Malaysia

Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University
Most diplomas can be transferred to another college or university into the Year 2 of the relevant programme. If you have taken the Diploma in Accounting, it is highly likely that you can enter into Year 2 of the degree in Accounting or Accounting & Finance. For the Diploma in Business Administration, you can enter into Year 2 of the degree in Business Administration depending on the exemptions.
However, if you go from the Diploma in Business Administration into the Degree in Accounting, then you may not get the optimum amount of exemptions because the subjects in your diploma are not similar with the degree course of the university that you want to transfer to.
To transfer your credits into another university, you will need to submit the following documents for exemptions:
- Transcripts from your current college or university
- Course outline for all the subjects taken
- Letter of completion or Diploma Certificate
- Copy of SPM Certificate
Common Factors in Choosing the Best Private University or College in Malaysia to Study Diploma

Jun Chung, Diploma in Electrical & Electronic Engineering at Asia Pacific University
Here’s a list of common criteria in choosing a top private university in Malaysia:
- Diploma and degrees offered
- Subjects offered in the diploma or degree (Are they relevant, up-to-date, and help you to achieve your career goals)
- Accreditation by MQA and other relevant professional bodies in Malaysia
- Type of programme (local degree, 3+0 UK or Australian degree, 4+0 American degree, degree transfer programme, etc)
- Entry requirements (Branch campuses in Malaysia have higher entry requirements)
- Location of the university
- Size of the student population
- Student culture (English-speaking environment, ambitious, serious about studies, lifestyle or party university, etc)
- Public vs. Private (STPM is tougher and choice of course & university is determined by the government)
- Costs (tuition, hostel, food, transportation, etc.)
- Financial assistance (Scholarships, PTPN Loan, EPF withdrawal, MARA Loan, etc)
- Campus resources (labs, libraries, wifi, computer access, sports facilities, etc.)
- Internship and co-op programs
- Class size (Small class size for personal attention)
- Faculty contact/classes taught by full-time qualified & experienced faculty
- Quality/reputation/ranking of the private university in Malaysia
- Safety (campus, community)
- Make up of the student body (diversity, international students, gender, etc.)
- Extra-curricular activities (Student organisations, clubs, sports, etc.)
- Housing options (on-campus, off-campus apartments)
- Student support services
- Intake dates
Talk to the Best Education Consultant in Malaysia to Help you Make the Right Choice in Choosing a Diploma Course

Choosing a course to study after SPM is not a science, it is a process
Students in Malaysia need to talk to the right education counselors so that you get the right information to help you in making this life-changing decision.
Ask the right Education Counselors in Malaysia to help you. Would you ask a Doctor on how to repair your car? Or would you ask a mechanic for medical advise? Although this sounds ridiculous, but many students do listen to advise from young and inexperienced counselors from universities, colleges or agents’ offices. Talking to an experienced education advisor in Malaysia would help you to navigate through this confusing time of choosing the best course that fits you.
Experienced education counselors are able to analyse your interests, personality and exam results to help you make a list of possible courses for consideration. EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students. Having worked in the private education industry, we have in-depth knowledge of each private university and college in what they are good at.
EduSpiral Consultant Services has worked with our partner universities and colleges for many years while the counselors at the private universities or agents’ offices change every few years therefore they would not have the in-depth knowledge of the courses and the university that they are working at.
At EduSpiral Consultant Services, I have worked in the private higher education industry in Malaysia for more than 15 years advising students with facts and evidence on how to choose the right course after SPM. You should carefully think about what are the options available to you. To choose the best course that fits you, students may fill up our EduSpiral Career Assessment form for evaluation.
The EduSpiral Career Assessment form is a simple form designed by us that gathers information from students after SPM, O-Levels, UEC, STPM or A-Levels in order to assess their aptitude helping us to determine the most suitable course and career progression.