Diploma programmes are a main post-SPM pathway offered by public universities (UA), polytechnics, community colleges, and private institutions. They are more practical and skills-focused, enabling graduates to enter the workforce directly or continue to a degree.
General requirements:
A minimum of three SPM credits (depending on the course and institution)
- Must pass Bahasa Melayu
- Must pass History
For certain courses, the requirements may be higher such as:
- 4-5 SPM credits
- Requirement of certain subjects (e.g. Mathematics, Science, Principles of Accounting)
Institutions offering diplomas
- Public Universities (UA) such as UiTM, UUM, UTHM, UTeM, etc.
- Polytechnics
- Community Colleges
- Private Colleges and Universities (registered with MQA and MOHE)
Duration of study: depending on the course and institution
Generally, 2.5 – 3 years for most programmes
2 years for certain programmes
Some diploma programmes allow transfer of certain credits when progressing to a Bachelor’s degree, depending on the university, program of study and academic results (CGPA).
Apply Diploma Programmes through UPU Online UPU Online GuideApplications for Diploma/Foundation at Private Institutions (IPTS)
Applications to IPTS can be made through each institution’s portal according to the IPTS requirement.
You can also verify IPTS registered with MOHE to ensure your chosen course has either full or provisional accreditation by MQA.
Full accreditation from MQAProvisional accreditation from MQA