From Malaysia to the world: Sunway College’s AUSMAT programme shapes confident students to thrive on the global stage.
For nearly four decades, Sunway College’s Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT) programme has guided more than 13,000 students towards top universities worldwide.
The Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE), awarded upon completion of the course, is recognised for its academic rigour and balanced approach to learning.
As the longest-running overseas Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) provider in Malaysia, the college’s AUSMAT programme is a trusted pre-university pathway for students seeking globally recognised qualifications.
Delivered in partnership with the Western Australia government through the School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA), AUSMAT combines academic excellence with innovative teaching and strong student support.
“The balanced assessment approach gives students the opportunity to demonstrate their learning in different ways,” says School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA) psychometrics manager Dragana Surla.
“It allows students to build resilience, develop problem-solving skills and apply their knowledge in authentic contexts, which is highly valued by universities and employers globally,” she continues.
Partnership built on excellence
The collaboration between Sunway College and the SCSA has steadily evolved over the years, anchored by a shared commitment to high-quality teaching, fair assessment standards and comprehensive student support.
Jorja di Lello, the Western Australia Government principal consultant, highlights the depth of this partnership.
“We work closely with teachers and leadership teams to support curriculum delivery and assessment planning.
“Through professional learning, moderation activities and networking opportunities, we ensure comparability of school marks and fair grading, while also providing platforms for teachers to share student work and celebrate achievements.
“The Western Australian Premier’s WACE Bursary has recognised 19 Sunway AUSMAT graduates since its launch in 2023, reflecting the high calibre of students nurtured through this programme.”
Valued at AUD$400 thousand, the bursary is awarded annually to outstanding WACE students worldwide. In its inaugural year, nine out of 10 international recipients were Sunway students, representing an impressive 90% of the awards.
By 2024, the number rose to 14, and today, the college records a total of 19 bursary recipients by 2025. This achievement underscores the programme’s consistent excellence on the global stage.
Beyond academics, Sunway supports students and families through mentoring, academic advisors, regular engagement sessions and a dedicated parent portal that enhances well-being and performance.
Globally recognised curriculum
AUSMAT students benefit from a WACE qualification recognised by leading universities across Australia, Canada, China, Germany, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.
The curriculum balances 50% school-based assessments with 50% external examinations, reducing exam stress while fostering critical 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability and digital literacy.
“By undertaking the WACE, students develop skills that mirror university life,” explains Sunway College AUSMAT programme director Vanitha Satchithanadan.
“The continuous assessment model builds self-discipline, time management and independent learning. Graduates consistently tell us they transition smoothly into university, ready to handle academic workloads with confidence and resilience.”
To date, Sunway AUSMAT students have garnered over 138 world awards, with up to 60% achieving an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) of 80 and above - placing them in the top 20% of students worldwide.
Such results reflect Sunway College’s commitment to continuous innovation, keeping the AUSMAT programme relevant, future-focused and aligned with global education standards.
From Malaysia to the world: Sunway College’s AUSMAT programme shapes confident students to thrive on the global stage.AUSMAT cultivates critical thinking, teamwork and resilience for life beyond university.
Innovative learning for a digital future
AUSMAT at Sunway College continues to evolve to meet the needs of a rapidly changing global landscape.
Students are exposed to project-based learning and guest lectures by visiting academics from Australian universities across various disciplines.
They also benefit from flexible pathways – either through direct entry into top universities worldwide, or by starting at Sunway University or Victoria University at Sunway College before transferring to leading Australian universities after completing one or two years locally.
Technology is deeply embedded in the learning experience. Digital tools and blended learning platforms provide flexible access to resources, while the Digital Enrichment Series equips students with essential skills, from managing online presence to applying emotional intelligence in digital spaces.
“Students need guidance on how to navigate AI and the digital space effectively,” says Vanitha.
“Our curriculum prepares them for both academic success and the practical realities of a digitalised world.”
She also advises students to take ownership of their learning: “This means engaging consistently with your classwork, actively participating in group discussions, and utilising all available resources – from the Sunway AUSMAT Digital Library to the guidance offered by our experienced lecturers.
“This approach not only prepares students for exams but also for personal and professional growth.”
Preparing graduates for life
Sunway College’s AUSMAT programme demonstrates how a strong partnership, innovative curriculum and holistic development can create a pathway to global success.
As education becomes increasingly digital and interconnected, Vanitha emphasises that students must go beyond academic results by cultivating resilience, adaptability and strong interpersonal skills.
Combined with AUSMAT’s academic foundation, these qualities empower graduates to thrive not just at university, but well into their future careers.
Kick-starting futures
The September intake is now in progress. For students seeking a globally recognised pre-university pathway, AUSMAT at Sunway College combines academic excellence and balanced assessments with a track record of producing high-achieving graduates ready for university and beyond.
Visit the website for more information or to apply now.
