Make your best choice for tertiary education.
WITH the Covid-19 pandemic still sweeping the nation, it is not an easy time indeed, especially for those just finishing secondary education and headed towards the next stage amidst much uncertainty.
SPM 2020 graduates, you’ve definitely been through a lot. After sitting for your most important exams in a pandemic, you've had to wait patiently for your results.
Now, they’re here. But now, you're probably wondering "what next?" There are so many educational options for you after SPM, and they can be confusing. Don’t worry, because we're here to break it down so you can make the right decision.
Foundation
Foundation programmes allow you to experience that exciting university life straight after SPM. It only takes one year, so you can immediately progress into a Bachelor's Degree.
Once you join a Foundation programme, it becomes easier for you to join that university's degree programme, but don't worry - the option is still there for you to switch if you change your mind later on.
Diploma
A diploma, on the other hand, gives you more flexibility.
It takes two to two-and-a-half years, but it enables you to enter the workforce immediately. You can also choose to continue on with a degree in the same field, where your Bachelor's Degree will take less time if you join with a diploma.
Many universities offer an array of diploma programmes, so you can also enjoy the coveted university experience as well.
Matriculation
Matriculation is one of the most cost-effective pre-university programmes.
While you only pay minimal fees and you have a really good chance of entering a public university programme, it’s of course a touch more difficult to get into.
STPM/Form 6
The STPM option is another cost-effective choice, as you'll be going back to high school life. Only this time, you'll be among the cool seniors in school.
The STPM qualification is recognised and accepted worldwide, which means you have many choices to further your studies once you're done.
ACCA
Some of you already know you want to enter the world of accounting, so you can take up the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) certification.
There are a few steps from SPM to a full ACCA certification and several ways you can do so, although all these options require you to gain three years of experience as well.
You could take a Diploma, a Bachelor's Degree and then four ACCA papers; or after your A-Levels or STPM, take 13 ACCA papers.
Alternatively, join a Certified Accounting Technician programme after your SPM and take 10 ACCA papers.
If you join Quest International University, however, you could take up a four-year degree and qualify as an ACCA member within only two years of graduation - talk about a fast track.
Job/Gap Year
Of course, you could always decide to take a year off from studying. You could get an internship or a part-time job (check out this option where you get paid for working on social media).
Take that time to build your network and experience before deciding on your next move.
QIU offers a variety of programmes at Foundation, Diploma, Bachelor's Degree and Postgraduate level. If you need help deciding on your next step after your SPM, email enquiries@qiup.edu.my, visit www.qiu.edu.my or call 019-830 0881.
