What to do after getting your SPM or STPM results

by StudyMalaysia.com on March 2, 2016 | Top Stories, Pre-University Programmes & Foundation Studies

You've probably been feeling anxious for days in anticipation of your exam results. And now that results day has come, it's perfectly normal to feel a whole range of emotions. You may experience one or more of these feelings: stress, relief, happiness, excitement, disappointment, confusion, sadness, anger or even guilt. At this point, it's good to be aware that how you feel is probably related to your own expectations and those of the people whom are close to you – such as your family and friends.

The exam result scenario generally comes down to three categories: 1. You did better than you expected; 2. Your results are just what you expected (more or less); or 3. You didn't do as well as you hoped. In the first and second scenarios, you can probably go ahead with what you have planned for your higher education (but if you haven't, just read on, we have you covered). But if you didn't quite get what you were hoping for, don't fret. Don't let one exam result stop you from pursuing your dreams. There are many education options out there that can help you achieve your goals in the long term.

For many students, you are probably considering furthering your studies. But if you don't know where to begin, or if you're unsure of your options, here are some answers to some frequently asked questions.

1. What study options do I have after SPM/STPM?

   Foundation programmes, A levels, IB Diploma, Form 6, and more... Check out your choices in Options After SPM: What Can I Study?

   The diagrams below can help you have a better understanding on how you can map out your study pathway (click on an image to view the full sized version).

   

   

   

2. How do I know what course I'm interested in?

   For many students, choosing a course can be quite confusing or difficult because they're not sure what areas of study interests them. In the article How to Begin Your Search for the Right Course After SPM?, you can read more about fields of study. By finding out which field of study you are interested in, you will be able to determine a good career match for yourself.

3. 

   I don't know what career I want to pursue. How do I decide on a course?

   The key to finding out what career is suitable for you is to get to know and understand yourself better. As you start to know yourself better, you will be able to identify career choices that are best for you and have the highest chances of giving you a fulfilling career.

   Our 4-part career guide series can help you get started.

   You can also find out more about different careers in our Career Guide section.

4. I only have 3 credits in SPM. What courses can I take?

   Scoring only three credits doesn't mean you have to give up your dreams of studying for a higher education qualification. Most diploma programmes require only 3 credits in SPM. Find out Why SPM Students are choosing Diplomas Over Degrees

   The tables below will also give you an idea of what types of courses you can apply for.

   Table 1: Types of Programmes Offered at Public Universities for Students with SPM and STPM Qualifications

   No.	Qualification (Entry Requirement)	Programme Offered
   1.	SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) qualifications (with minimum 5 credits)	University foundation studies
   		Diploma Programmess
   2.	STPM (Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia) qualifications STAM (Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia) qualifications Matriculation certificate from MOE or 'Program Asasi' qualifications from public universities Recognised diploma qualifications	Bachelor degree programmes

   Table 2: Types of Programmes Offered at Polytechnics for Students with SPM Qualifications

   No.	Qualification (Entry Requirement)	Programme Offered
   1.	SPM qualifications (with 3-6 credits)	Diploma Programmes
   		Advanced diploma programmes for those with diploma qualifications

   Table 3: General Entry Requirements for Pre-University / Diploma / Degree Programmes at Private HEIs

   Education Level	General Entry Requirement
   Pre-university studies	SPM/IGCSE or O-Level with 5 credits, or its equivalent
   Certificate level	SPM/IGCSE or O-Level with 1 credit, or its equivalent
   Diploma level	SPM/IGCSE or O-Level with 3 credits, or its equivalent (some healthcare programmes require 5 credits)
   Year 1 bachelor degree	GCE A-levels (minimum 2 principles) + English proficiency or its equivalent (eg AUSMAT, SAM, CPU and other foundation studies)

5. I don't know which pre-U programme to choose.

   Your choice of pre-U programme depends on a number of factors – from your budget to your choice of bachelor's degree programme – check out these articles to find out more.

   Help! I don't know which pre-U programme to pick

   Pre-U Match: Internal vs External Qualifications

6. There seems to be a lot of students talking about Form 6. Should I take STPM?

   Although many students might have put Form 6 as the last option on their pre-U list previously, this trend could change soon. Besides being extremely affordable, STPM is now conducted in a modular format. That means students are assessed over three terms instead of sitting for one big exam at the end of 18 months. Find out more reasons why STPM could be right for you in this article: Is STPM for You? Here Are 12 Things You Should Know Before You Decide

7. 

   How can I apply for a scholarship? What scholarships are there for SPM/STPM students?

   Get the latest announcements on scholarships here. You can also download a free e-booklet on Student Financial Aid 2016.

8. I wish I could study for a foreign degree but I don't think I could afford it.

   If you've always dreamed of studying abroad but lack the education funds, read How to get a foreign degree even if you think you can't afford it before you dash off all your hopes.

9. When's the application deadline for public universities?

   Applications for admission to public universities for 2016/17 are now open. The deadline is at 4pm on 5 April 2016. Don't forget that if you're interested in courses offered at UM or USM, you would need to apply directly to the university. More details here.

10. How about courses at polytechnics? Where can I get more information?

    There are 33 polytechnics in the country which can be divided into three categories - premier, conversional and metro. These polytechnics provide skilled semi-professionals in the fields of engineering, commerce and hospitality at diploma and advanced diploma levels. Read more here.

    Applications to polytechnics, community colleges and public skills training institutes are now open to qualified candidates and can be made through UPU 2016/17.

Want more information on what and where to study? Would you like to read more about how to choose the right career and choosing a field of study that matches your interest? Get all this plus institution profiles, scholarship information, 27 fields of study and more in the all-new Education Guide Malaysia (14th edition). Click here to download the order form.

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