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Choosing the Best University in Malaysia to Study after SPM or O-Levels

Best Guide to Choosing the Right Top Private University or College in Malaysia to Study after SPM or O-Levels

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Choosing the the right course at the right university in Malaysia for you after SPM or O-Levels will require some research. The more research you put into the process the more likely you will make the right decision. Doing your homework will pay-off. Once you have done all the reading, visiting, talking and analysing, you can complete your application to the university or college in the full knowledge that you have made a fully informed choice that you are happy with.

It is costly to change courses or change universities and difficult to break the news to your parents and friends. Choosing a wrong course or university would require you to take more time to find the right course and university, wasting precious time and resources. You would have wasted the money that you had paid and the time spent having to start all over again. So, it is better to take time and effort now to research carefully and ask the best education advisor to help you.

Choosing a top private university in Malaysia to study after SPM or O-Levels takes time, it is a process in finding out which one best fits you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced. Furthermore many of the top private universities in Malaysia offer similar courses therefore making your decision a challenging one! To help you develop a good list of criteria, you need to talk to the right counselors or education consultant who are knowledgeable and experienced.

While it can be difficult to choose between universities & colleges in Malaysia, you will find that there are some key differences between them that can help you make the big decision in choosing the right one that fits you. One of the most important thing is to determine what sort of character and focus the university has and ensure that it aligns with your own personality, interests and career goals. Each university in Malaysia has its own personality, and at EduSpiral Consultant Services, we give you sound advise to ensure that you choose one that is the best fit for you.

For more information on the top private universities and colleges in Malaysia, Whatsapp 01111408838

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How to Choose the Best Private University or College to Study in Malaysia

I talked to EduSpiral on WhatsApp and after obtaining all the necessary information. EduSpiral met me and my parents at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia to take us around for a tour.
Aun Jie, Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

After SPM or O-Levels, there are many different pathways for you to choose from and sometimes it can be confusing.  Choosing the right course and university to study in Malaysia after high school is one of the most important decisions you can make in your life. This can be a confusing and difficult time if you are unprepared. With the wide variety of courses & universities available to a student, the time after SPM or O-Levels can be a confusing one if not guided properly by an experienced and knowledgeable education counselor.

Students who are not sure of what to study after SPM or O-Levels can contact EduSpiral Consultant Services to help guide you to choose the right course and university in Malaysia. At EduSpiral Consultant Services, we have counseled and helped thousands of students to choose the right course and private university to study in Malaysia.

A knowledgeable counselor or education consultant  in Malaysia would be able to provide detailed

I loved motorsports and EduSpiral gave me great advise to help guide me to achieve my dream.
Justin Moo, Mechanical Engineering graduate from Taylor’s University

information about the university and its courses, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about  which university would be suit you. While an experienced counselor or education consultant would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria.

Choosing a university to study in Malaysia is one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. Your decision will be influenced by many criteria such as

After my results came out, I was lost and didn’t know where to study. EduSpiral met me and my parents and took us around the campus to help me make the right choice.
Kin Fen, Design course at Saito College

the reputation & ranking of the university, accreditation of its courses, the suitability of the course against your academic results and career goals, tuition fees, quality of lecturers, facilities, friends & family, and more.

The best private universities and colleges in Malaysia have excellent facilities, years of experience running the courses, strong student support services, internships and experienced lecturers.

Top private universities & colleges in Malaysia are also accredited by MQA and approved by the Malaysian Ministry of Education. Accreditation by the various professional bodies indicates the standards achieved such as the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia (LAM), Malaysian Pharmacy Board, Malaysian Bar, Malaysian Medical Council, Nursing Board,, etc

The best private university in Malaysia will focus on academic quality, overall student character

I had taken a course and wasn’t doing well. Then, I met EduSpiral who guided me to the right course and now I am doing very well.
Brendon, Entertainment Arts at KDU University College

development, have award winners for the particular courses, years of experience offering the particular course, highly experienced lecturers, a good study environment (not a party university), internships, good mix of international & local students, extra-curricular activities and good facilities. The SETARA ranking is a guide for students to assess the quality of a private university in Malaysia.

When choosing a university and college in Malaysia, it is important for students to visit the campus and see the facilities and feel the culture of the students to see if it fits you. The environment should be one where students speak mostly in English so that you can improve your English and communication skills. If you are weak in English and choose a cheap university where the students speak mainly in Mandarin, it will be difficult for you to improve your English.

Star newspaper has reported that graduates with good English earn 25% higher salary and get faster

My friend introduced me to EduSpiral. He gave me all the information on Facebook & then met us at the Education Fair to guide us on how to choose the right university
Lyngkaran, Engineering at Taylor’s University

promotion. The Ministry of Education reported that there were more than 70,000 public university jobless graduates and one of the main reasons was poor command of the English language.

A STUDY has found a correlation between English proficiency and a country’s gross national income. Countries with higher income per capita tend to be more proficient in the English language, based on the findings of international education company Education First (EF), using a standardised measurement for adult English proficiency.

The EF English Proficiency Index (EF EPI) is based on the results of a 2007 to 2009 survey covering more than two million people in over 40 countries. English skills and income levels correlate in a “virtuous” cycle where greater proficiency in the language leads to higher income. The gross national income per capita for countries which scored over 60 in the EF EPI was more than US$40,000 (RM120,000) in 2008.

Professional recruitment consultancy Robert Walters Malaysia country manager Sally Raj said English

I contacted EduSpiral to find out which UK branch university campus would be best for my son. EduSpiral advised me on WhatsApp & Phone calls providing facts & evidence on the university rankings & course details. He arranged for us to visit the campus as we were from Johor. (Mrs. Mah)
Chee Yuan, Chemical Engineering at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

language proficiency could increase personal earning power. “This is particularly true for professionals within a client-facing role where communication skills are vital, good English skills will help them articulate and sell their ideas better. It will also aid them in working in a multinational corporation, where they need to communicate with various nationalities,” she said. She also agreed that higher English language proficiency would help attract and increase foreign direct investment (FDI) into Malaysia.

Would you rather suffer for 4 years and get a high salary for 60 years of your work life or an easy 4 years and low salary for 60 years? The decisions that you make now, can change your life forever.

Remember the best university doesn’t mean it is the best university for you. The best university is one that fits your career goals, your personality and can push you to a higher level of success.

Top Criteria to Consider When Choosing the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study

Here’s a list of common criteria in choosing a top private university in Malaysia:

Recognition & Reputation of the Courses in Malaysia

I wasn’t sure which university to study at and found EduSpiral online. He provided good advise & helped me with my application. I love my university life now.
Hanson, Foundation in Science (Engineering) at UCSI University

Academic Quality of the Courses at the University in Malaysia

My mum contacted EduSpiral to help advise me on which course & university to choose as I was quite confused. He took us to visit the universities & helped guide me to make the right choice.
Bryan Yap, Foundation in Business at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
  • Subjects offered in the Foundation, Diploma or Degree (Are they relevant, up-to-date, and help you to achieve your career goals)
  • Entry requirements for the Foundation, Diploma & Degree courses at the university in Malaysia (Foreign branch campuses in Malaysia have higher entry requirements)
  • What is the Class size for the course (Small class size for personal attention)
  • Faculty contact/classes taught by full-time qualified & experienced faculty
  • Quality of lecturers. What are their qualifications? How many years of experience in teaching?
  • Ask your friends who have studied there or currently studying there for their opinion on the teaching quality, environment and facilities.
  • Type of programme (local degree, 3+0 UK or Australian degree, 4+0 American degree, degree transfer programme, etc)
  • What are the Entry Requirements for the Foundation, Diploma & Degree courses at the university (Foreign Branch campuses in Malaysia have higher entry requirements for their courses)
  • Does the university have a strong internship or Co-Op programme?
  • Do they have enough students to start a class?
  •  How many students do they have studying that course at that university?
  •  What is the duration of the course? When are the intake dates?

Facilities at the University for the Course of Interest in Malaysia

Our mum asked us to talk to EduSpiral as we did not know what to study. EduSpiral had helped our older sister before. He met us at Taylor’s, talked to us and then gave us a tour.
Gan twins, Foundation in Arts at Taylor’s University
  • Location of the university. Is it in the city, suburbs or country side? You should also consider the ambience of your surroundings when choosing a university. If you can’t live without nightlife, think city! If you’re into the great outdoors, you might want to go rural. Some students prefer a city life while other students prefer a quieter university environment away from the city. On the other hand, if you’re used to shopping malls and cinemas and choose a university in a rural area, you might get bored.
  • Size of the university. Courses such as engineering would require larger campuses with technologically advanced facilities, labs and software. Design courses basically require computers & software with small classes for personal attention.
  • Transportation. Is the university accessible to you? What are the public transportation available? If you drive, is there ample parking?
  • Campus resources (labs, library or resource centre, wifi, computer access, sports facilities, etc.)
  • Facilities for your course of interest. Labs, computers, software, etc.

Cost for your Foundation, Diploma or Degree Studies in Malaysia

I was planning to study at a “famous” university but EduSpiral provided facts & evidence that First City UC had won many awards compared to my “famous” university.
Zi En, Interior Design at First City University College
  • How much money do I have to pay for the course and cost of living? Ask your parents. Note that you will need to have enough to pay the tuition fees as well as your cost of living. (Costs for university studies in Malaysia would include tuition, hostel, food, transportation, entertainment, etc.)
  • What are the Financial assistance available at the university? (Scholarships, PTPN Loan, EPF withdrawal, MARA Loan, etc)
  • Is the PTPTN loan available for the course at the university?
  • How much are the tuition fees? Does it include the exam and other fees?
  • How much is on-campus accommodation?
  • How much is off-campus accommodation? (Off-campus apartments, houses, condominiums) Note that it might be cheaper to find off campus accommodation on your own with friends. Is the accommodations near eateries, banks, entertainment, public transportation, safe & secure, etc.?

Student Environment and Activities at the University

EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills.
Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University
  • What is the student culture at the university? (English-speaking environment, ambitious, serious about studies, lifestyle or party university, etc) The language spoken mostly at the college by the students may also matter if you don’t know Mandarin or BM or English. If most of the students speak Mandarin at that university then it will not help you to improve your English. Having a good command of the English language helps you to get good jobs and promotions.
  • Size of the university or college in Malaysia. Some students prefer a large campus with sports facilities and other resources while other students like small colleges with family-like environment. A small college may offer individualised attention, as well as a more intimate and personalised experience. for your studies You might even want to think about how far you want to walk to get from one class to another in a large university campus. Even those little details may
    EduSpiral met me and my parents at KDU University College to explain about the hospitality course and then took us around for a campus tour. This helped me to make my choice on what to study and where to study easier.
    Jia Lin, Hospitality at KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie

    affect your decision.

  • Make up of the student body (diversity, international students, gender, etc.) Universities with a good proportion of international students will help you to improve your English language skills since you would need to communicate with them in English. In addition, you will learn about their culture, behavior and discover new ideas. These skills will be useful to you when you work overseas or in a multi-national company.
  • What are the Extra-curricular activities available? (Student organisations, clubs, sports, etc.)
  • Is the university campus is a safe area? Safety within the campus and outside.
  • Public vs. Private (STPM is tougher and choice of course & university is determined by the government)

Top Guide to Choose the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study

I contacted EduSpiral to find an affordable college for culinary arts. He arranged to take me and my mother to tour the college that had excellent facilities and where I could learn without paying too much.
Fu Wei, Diploma in Culinary Arts at YTL International College of Hotel Management

If you’re among the lucky who can factor more than cost and proximity into where you decide to go, studying in a private university in Malaysia is a ticket to an adventure beyond the boundaries of what you’ve experienced so far. It’s a passport to the far side of what you already know. It’s a chance to be challenged, not coddled. To be provoked, not pacified.

Does brand matter? To a point. There are indeed future employers in Malaysia who see certain degrees as seals of approval, as pre-screening of a sort. However, obtaining a degree from a famous private university will only take you so far.

Some private universities have spent millions of Ringgit throughout the years telling you that they are the best. You should objectively look at the information carefully to assess which university in Malaysia is best for you. If you do not have the necessary knowledge and skills, you won’t get far in your career.

We must be careful when choosing a private university in Malaysia as many students listen to advise from friends and relatives who are not knowledgeable offering information not supported by facts and evidence. Choosing a private university should be done carefully and objectively, not based on the number of glitzy advertisements you have heard or seen about that university.

I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights. Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College
I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights.
Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College

Talking to counselors from the private universities is a common practice to obtain the necessary information to help you to decide. You should evaluate the information provided to see if what they say is true and supported by facts and evidence. There are also many agents in Malaysia offering their services where most of the staff are young and inexperienced. They would not have the skills to guide you on this most important decision in your life.

How many of a college’s or university’s students are coming from other countries? Favour private universities with higher percentages of foreigners, because as much of your education will happen outside as inside any lecture theatre, and globalisation is here and real. The dexterity with which you can navigate other cultures — your awareness of, and openness to, them — could be more valuable than any knowledge gleaned from a book.

Talking to EduSpiral on Facebook helped me to find my direction in life and to choose the right college that fit my career goals.
Austin Ang, KDU University College Penang

Remember that no university is good at everything. Each university in Malaysia excels in particular courses, so you should check to make sure that your field of study is a strong-point of the university you choose.

Choosing a university that excels in your field of study may provide you with access to more specialised opportunities, including custom-built facilities (a moot court for law students or Film & TV studio for mass communication students, for examply), field-specific academic opportunities (such as student mobility programmes or overseas study trips) and employment or internships opportunities with top companies in. If your university excels in research in your field, it’s also likely that its research will filter through to your course, that you will be taught by prominent lecturers, and that there will be opportunities for you to undertake research.

Choosing the best university for your studies in Malaysia is important as it will help to shape your mind,

I was confused which university to choose for my studies and contacted EduSpiral. He provided facts & evidence to help me make the right choice.
Vivian Chua, Actuarial Science at UCSI University

character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career. Therefore, not all private universities & colleges in Malaysia are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fits your needs.

Many students in Malaysia also make the common mistake in choosing a university because their friends are going there. I even had one student tell me that his choice of university depends on where his girlfriend is going! This is one of the most important decisions that may change your life forever hence it should not be taken lightly.

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria. To help you to choose the best university that fits you, you can build a list of top universities in Malaysia that meets your criteria.

Here’s some advice for trying to find the university in Malaysia or Singapore that works for you.

1. Start with who you are and why you are going to university in Malaysia

EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills. Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University
EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills.
Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University

You need to examine yourself and your reasons for going to college before you start your search. Why, really, are you going? What are your abilities and strengths? What are your weaknesses? What do you want out of life — something tangible or intangible?

Can the student environment, extra-curricular activities and student support services at the university help to shape and equip you with the necessary skills to handle the challenges of the working world?

Are you socially self-sufficient or do you need warm, familial support? Talk with your family, friends and high-school counselors as you ask these questions. The people who know you best can help you the most with these important issues.

What course do you want to study? Is the university of choice famous, recognised, accredited and reputable for the course of interest?

2. A Name-brand University in Malaysia will not Guarantee your Success

EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University's Orientation
EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University’s Orientation

Think about the people in your life who are happy and successful and find out where (and if) they went to college. Ask the same about “famous” people. You will likely find that success in life has less to do with the choice of college than with the experiences and opportunities encountered while in college, coupled with personal qualities and traits.

Some private universities have spent millions of Ringgit throughout the years telling you that they are the best. You should objectively look at the information carefully to assess which university in Malaysia is best for you. If you do not have the necessary knowledge and skills, you won’t get far in your career.

We must be careful when choosing a private university in Malaysia as many students listen to advise from friends and relatives who are not knowledgeable offering information not supported by facts and evidence. Choosing a private university should be done carefully and objectively, not based on the number of glitzy advertisements you have heard or seen about that university.

Employers and graduate schools are looking for outstanding skills and experience, not how famous a university is in Malaysia that you come from. Remember that the employer will be interviewing you and not the university that you come from, therefore, if you do not possess the necessary knowledge and skills, you would not get hired even if you come from a top university in Malaysia.

3. You don’t need to know what major you want for your degree yet after SPM or O-Levels

"EduSpiral gave me advise over phone, Facebook, Skype and even took me to visit the universities. He spent a lot of time to help me make my decision on what to study and at which university." Ban Moon (Left), Scored 3As in the A-Levels at HELP Academy
“EduSpiral gave me advise over phone, Facebook, Skype and even took me to visit the universities. He spent a lot of time to help me make my decision on what to study and at which university.”
Ban Moon (Left), Scored 3As in the A-Levels at HELP Academy

Very few high-school students have enough information or experience to choose a major. You need the variety and depth of college coursework to determine your interest and aptitude. Most university or college students change their minds two or three times before they settle on a major or course.

After SPM or O-Levels you will take a Pre-University course first such as Foundation, A-Levels, AUSMAT, South Australian Matriculation (SAM), Canadian Pre-U (CPU), etc. You have about 1 year in the Pre-University course to really figure out what to study for your degree. So, the most important thing is to choose the right Pre-University course that fits you.

I talked to a group of students who were advised by an Agent to take an external Pre-University programme. They did not achieve the necessary results to enter into university therefore wasted their money and time. When I asked them why they did not go for the Foundation programme at the private university since they knew that they wanted to study IT and also locally in Malaysia, they just said that they followed the advise of the agent whom they thought they could trust.

4. You can afford to go to a Private University in Malaysia.

My mother whatsapped EduSpiral & he provided vital information to help me make my decision to transfer my diploma. Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University
My mother whatsapped EduSpiral & he provided vital information to help me make my decision to transfer my diploma.
Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University

If you make the assumption that you cannot afford a private university or college in Malaysia based on the tuition fees, you will miss out. It is difficult to talk about money, but if you investigate all the options and ask for help and advice, you will find affordable choices.

Not all colleges and universities in Malaysia or Singapore have the same price tag and there are a variety of ways to cut your costs. Most universities offer scholarships, and students are able to apply for the PTPN Loan, EPF withdrawal, etc

Many students have chosen the cheapest private university to study, not taking into consideration the important skills that they could have gained from a better university. Higher education is an investment for a better future that takes sacrifice.

5. Campus Culture and Community Life at the Private Universities in Malaysia

EduSpiral explained the courses in detail and took us around the campus to view the Pharmacy facilities to help me make a good decision about my future career. Ka Jun, Pharmacy at UCSI University
EduSpiral explained the courses in detail and took us around the campus to view the Pharmacy facilities to help me make a good decision about my future career.
Ka Jun, Pharmacy at UCSI University

When developing your list of top universities, consider the schools’ values such as commitment to diversity, vibrant campus life, and dedication to academic excellence. Also consider the range of student organizations, student support services, sports and recreational activities.

It is important to choose a private university in Malaysia that has an English-speaking environment, students who are ambitious and serious about studies, and a globalised student body. Mixing around with international students will help to improve your English language skills and understanding of different cultures.

Some private universities in Malaysia are known for their focus on lifestyle or known as party universities. There is nothing wrong with choosing them if you are able to control yourself. If not, you have to consider that this could affect your future.

A private university in Malaysia that has a diverse student body with many international students would help students to improve their English-language and cross-cultural communication skills. With globalisation, many top companies in the world are looking for professionals who are dynamic with strong management skills to lead a globalised work force.

In addition, the university’s relationship with the larger community, availability of on- and off- campus housing, quality of food and health care services, and campus security contribute to the quality of university life.

6. Quality/reputation/ranking of the Private University in Malaysia

There is no official ranking system in Malaysia for private universities. The MQA and Ministry of Higher

EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university. Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College
EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university.
Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College

Education in Malaysia has a rating system for universities in Malaysia. It is the SETARA rating system.

Looking at the number of awards that the university and its students have won in competitions related to the course can be a guide in helping you to make the right choice. Many students make the mistake of just listening to advertisements or friends without checking the information.

Students should look at the qualifications of the lecturers at the university. How many are PhD and Master degree holders. Are the lecturers mostly part time or full time? Experienced lecturers would be able to guide students to achieve academic success.

All foundation, diploma and degree programmes must be accredited by MQA in Malaysia.  Taking a professional certificate course with a title “diploma” would not allow you to continue on into a degree programme accredited by MQA.

Students should check with the relevant professional bodies to see if the courses the university of interest are accredited. For example, Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Nursing Board, Pharmacy Board, Malaysian Bar, Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA), Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia, etc.

7. The Most Important Factor in Choosing a College or University in Malaysia is Fit.

EduSpiral provided facts & evidence to support their advise to me. He also took me & my parents to tour the campus to help me make the right choice.
Kezhan, Diploma in Interior Design at First City University College

Choosing a university or college in Malaysia because your friends are going there or because of where it ranks on a list does not take into account who you are and who you will become. University is a match to be made, not a prize to be won. Finding a good fit requires time, effort and thoughtfulness.

The best way to really get a feel for a university is by visiting the campus, taking a tour, meeting with students & lecturers, attending a class, reading the campus newspaper, eating in the cafeteria, etc. You have to feel “at home” at the place where you will spend the next four years of your life, so visiting is important.

EduSpiral Consultant Services provides a Free Campus Tour for our students to help them make the right choice for their university studies.

For more information and strategies, read our article, EduSpiral University Campus Tours to Help Students Choose the Best Universities. If some universities on your list are just too far away to make a trip, then you can add us on Facebook (EduSpiralsik) and we can show you videos and photos of the campus and its facilities. Or you can add me in WhatsApp at 01111408838 and I can send the pictures to you and share my advise with you on how to choose the right course and university.

8. Decide What You Want in a Private College or University in Malaysia

EduSpiral meets students at top private universities in Malaysia to give them in-depth advise on choosing the right course & university.

Ask yourself what’s important to you, where you want to be and who you want to become. Then you can figure out what types of colleges will allow you to achieve your goals.

Here are some important points to consider when choosing a university in Malaysia:

  • Size of the university
  • Accreditation of the University’s courses by MQA and other relevant professional bodies in Malaysia
  • Location
  • Student culture – is it an English-speaking students environment
  • Makeup of the student body – are there a lot of international students at the university so that you can mix around with them to improve your English and gain invaluable global perspectives
  • Available degree programmes
  • Hostel choices
  • Available extracurricular activities
  • Campus atmosphere

Which of these aspects are things you feel you must have to be comfortable at a private university in Malaysia or private college in Singapore? Which things are you flexible on?

In addition, think about what you want to accomplish in your college life. Do you want to train for a specific job or get a wide-ranging education? If you have a specific degree programme in mind, is the private college that you’re considering strong or famous in that area of study?

9. Talk to a Knowledgeable & Experienced Education Consultant to Help you to Choose the Best Private University or College in Malaysia

Lonnie Sik, Founder & Managing Director of EduSpiral Consultant Services has more than 20 years experience in the private education industry and counseling students on choosing the right course

Choosing a the right university to study after SPM or O-Levels in Malaysia takes time, it is a process in finding out which university in best for you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor would be able to provide detailed information about the course, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about which university would be suit you. While an experienced counselor would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

A knowledgeable education consultant means that he or she would know the entry requirements, course details, in-depth knowledge of the hundreds of courses out there, career prospects, job demand, professional recognition requirements, accreditation, best universities for the course, and other information that would help a confused student to make the right choice.

While an experienced education consultant would have had counseled hundreds of students analysing their

EduSpiral has more than 10 years of experience in counseling students on choosing the right courses
EduSpiral has more than 10 years of experience in counseling students on choosing the right courses

personalities and skilfully guiding them to the right course and university.

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. After knowing which course, we can then determine which private university in best for that course.

Talk to the Best Education Consultant in Malaysia to Help you Make the Right Choice in your Studies

My mum contacted EduSpiral and he gave me in-depth information on the courses & universities. He arranged for us to tour the universities to help me make the right choice.
Bryan Yap, Foundation in Business (Actuarial Science) at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Choosing a course to study after SPM, O-Levels, STPM, A-Levels, UEC or Pre-University takes time, careful thinking, planning and effort.

It is a process in finding out who you are and what you are good at. An experienced Education Advisor would be invaluable in assisting you to choose the right course in Malaysia or Singapore. 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.

My friend introduced me to EduSpiral. He gave me all the information on Facebook & then met us at the Education Fair to guide us on how to choose the right university
Lyngkaran, Engineering at Taylor’s University

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.

Study at the Best Private Universities and Colleges in Malaysia

EduSpiral helped me to find the right college for A-Levels, & now they have helped me to choose what to study after my A-Levels. Chee Kin, Actuarial & Finance degree at UCSI University
EduSpiral helped me to find the right college for A-Levels, & now they have helped me to choose what to study after my A-Levels.
Chee Kin, Actuarial & Finance degree at UCSI University

Switzerland

Malaysia

  1. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
  2. Curtin University, Sarawak campus
  3. Asia Pacific University (APU) 
  4. APIIT
  5. UCSI University
  6. Taylor’s University
  7. Taylor’s College Subang Jaya and Sri Hartamas
  8. UCSI University Sarawak Campus
  9. First City University College
  10. HELP University
  11. HELP Academy
  12. KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
  13. KDU College Damansara Jaya
  14. KDU Penang University College
  15. YTL International College of Hotel Management
  16. IACT College
  17. Point College
  18. Saito College
  19. Nilai University
  20. Reliance College

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling on courses and universities in Malaysia.

EduSpiral advised me to go for the best college for A-Levels in order to fulfil my dream of entering an Ivy League university in the USA. He met us at Taylor’s College Subang to talk to us and tour the college.
Gi Hang, A-Levels at Taylor’s College

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.

These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.

If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.

Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

Top Tips in Choosing the Best Private University in Malaysia

Helping Students after SPM or O-Levels to Choose the Best Private University in Malaysia

Written by EduSpiral Consultant Services For more information contact 01111408838

Choosing a top private university in Malaysia to study after SPM or O-Levels takes time, it is a process in finding out which one best fits you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor would be able to provide detailed information about the university and its courses, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about which university would be suit you. While an experienced counselor would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

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.

For more information contact 01111408838

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

A Guide to Choose the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study

I was lost after my UEC & my friend introduced me to EduSpiral. He gave good advise and helped me to apply to study in Singapore. Lucky Lee, Business at MDIS Singapore
I was lost after my UEC & my friend introduced me to EduSpiral. He gave good advise and helped me to apply to study in Singapore.
Lucky Lee, Business at MDIS Singapore

If you’re among the lucky who can factor more than cost and proximity into where you decide to go, studying in a private university in Malaysia is a ticket to an adventure beyond the boundaries of what you’ve experienced so far. It’s a passport to the far side of what you already know. It’s a chance to be challenged, not coddled. To be provoked, not pacified.

Does brand matter? To a point. There are indeed future employers in Malaysia who see certain degrees as seals of approval, as pre-screening of a sort. However, obtaining a degree from a famous private university will only take you so far.

Some private universities have spent millions of Ringgit throughout the years telling you that they are the best. You should objectively look at the information carefully to assess which university in Malaysia is best for you. If you do not have the necessary knowledge and skills, you won’t get far in your career.

We must be careful when choosing a private university in Malaysia as many students listen to advise from friends and relatives who are not knowledgeable offering information not supported by facts and evidence. Choosing a private university should be done carefully and objectively, not based on the number of glitzy advertisements you have heard or seen about that university.

I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights. Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College
I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights.
Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College

Talking to counselors from the private universities is a common practice to obtain the necessary information to help you to decide. You should evaluate the information provided to see if what they say is true and supported by facts and evidence. There are also many agents in Malaysia offering their services where most of the staff are young and inexperienced. They would not have the skills to guide you on this most important decision in your life.

How many of a college’s or university’s students are coming from other countries? Favour private universities with higher percentages of foreigners, because as much of your education will happen outside as inside any lecture theatre, and globalisation is here and real. The dexterity with which you can navigate other cultures — your awareness of, and openness to, them — could be more valuable than any knowledge gleaned from a book.

Choosing a university is important as it will help to shape your mind, character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career. Therefore, not all private universities are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fits your needs.

Many students in Malaysia also make the common mistake in choosing a university because their friends are going there. I even had one student tell me that his choice of university depends on where his girlfriend is going! This is one of the most important decisions that may change your life forever hence it should not be taken lightly.

Common Factors in Choosing the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study

Here’s a list of common criteria in choosing a top private university in Malaysia:

EduSpiral arranged for me to talk to a counselor at HELP and took me to tour their facilities. This helped me to decide which college to choose to study. Ee-Lyn, A-Levels at HELP Academy
EduSpiral arranged for me to talk to a counselor at HELP and took me to tour their facilities. This helped me to decide which college to choose to study.
Ee-Lyn, A-Levels at HELP Academy
  • 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.)

    Not satisfied after completing our diploma at Inti & EduSpiral helped us with the credit transfer. He arranged for us to talk to lecturers & staff at APU to guide us on which IT course to study. Chin Mun & Li Ching, Business Computing at Asia Pacific University
    Not satisfied after completing our diploma at Inti & EduSpiral helped us with the credit transfer. He arranged for us to talk to lecturers & staff at APU to guide us on which IT course to study.
    Chin Mun & Li Ching, Business Computing at Asia Pacific University
  • 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

Take Time and Effort to Choose the Right Private University in Malaysia to Study at

I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights. Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College
I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights.
Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College

Choosing a university is important as it will help to shape your mind, character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career. Therefore, not all private universities are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fits your needs.

Many students in Malaysia also make the common mistake in choosing a university because their friends are going there. I even had one student tell me that his choice of university depends on where his girlfriend is going! This is one of the most important decisions that may change your life forever hence it should not be taken lightly.

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria. To help you to choose the best university that fits you, you can build a list of top universities in Malaysia that meets your criteria.

Talk to the Best Education Consultant in Malaysia to Help you Make the Right Choice in your Studies

Choosing a course to study after SPM is not a science, it is a process

Lonnie Sik, Founder of EduSpiral, has more than 15 years of experience counseling thousands of students on how to choose the right course & university
Lonnie Sik, Founder of EduSpiral, has more than 15 years of experience counseling thousands of students on how to choose the right course & university

in finding out who you are and what you are good at. An experienced Education Advisor would be invaluable in assisting you to choose the right course in Malaysia or Singapore.

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

EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University's Orientation
EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University’s Orientation

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.

Study at the Best Private Universities and Colleges in Malaysia

Initially I was planning to go to a "famous" design college. EduSpiral showed me that the "famous" college is only good for animation & hasn't won any awards in Interior Design. KBU has won many top awards for Interior Design. Zhi Yih, Interior Design at First City University College
Initially I was planning to go to a “famous” design college. EduSpiral showed me that the “famous” college is only good for animation & hasn’t won any awards in Interior Design. KBU has won many top awards for Interior Design.
Zhi Yih, Interior Design at First City University College

Switzerland

Malaysia

  1. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
  2. Curtin University, Sarawak campus
  3. Asia Pacific University (APU) 
  4. APIIT
  5. UCSI University
  6. Taylor’s University
  7. UCSI University Sarawak Campus
  8. First City University College
  9. HELP University
  10. HELP Academy
  11. HELP College of Arts & Technology
  12. KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
  13. KDU College Damansara Jaya
  14. KDU University College Penang
  15. YTL International College of Hotel Management
  16. IACT College
  17. Point College
  18. Saito College
  19. Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
  20. Nilai University
  21. Reliance College

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling

I didn't want to leave Penang for my studies but EduSpiral provided detailed information to help me make my decision. Vincent Lim, Software Engineering, Asia Pacific University
I didn’t want to leave Penang for my studies but EduSpiral provided detailed information to help me make my decision.
Vincent Lim, Software Engineering, Asia Pacific University

on courses and universities in Malaysia.

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.

These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.

If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.

Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

How to Choose the Best Private University to Study in Malaysia

Talk to the Best Education Consultant in Malaysia to Get Solid Information to Help you Choose the Best Private University or College to Study

Written by EduSpiral Consultant Services For more information contact 01111408838

Choosing a top private university in Malaysia to study after SPM or O-Levels takes time, it is a process in finding out which one best fits you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor would be able to provide detailed information about the university and its courses, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about which university would be suit you

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria. To help you develop a good list of criteria, you need to talk to the right counselors or education consultant who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor or education consultant  in Malaysia would be able to provide detailed information about the university and its courses, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about  which university would be suit you. An experienced counselor or education consultant would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

I have come up with the step-by-step guide on how to choose a top private university in Malaysia that would best fit you.

For more information contact 01111408838

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

A Guide to Choose the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study

Lonnie, Founder of EduSpiral, has more than 15 years of experience counseling students and helping them to choose the right course & university
Lonnie, Founder of EduSpiral, has more than 15 years of experience counseling students and helping them to choose the right course & university

If you’re among the lucky who can factor more than cost and proximity into where you decide to go, studying in a private university in Malaysia is a ticket to an adventure beyond the boundaries of what you’ve experienced so far. It’s a passport to the far side of what you already know. It’s a chance to be challenged, not coddled. To be provoked, not pacified.

Does brand matter? To a point. There are indeed future employers in Malaysia who see certain degrees as seals of approval, as pre-screening of a sort. However, obtaining a degree from a famous private university will only take you so far.

Some private universities have spent millions of Ringgit throughout the years telling you that they are the best. You should objectively look at the information carefully to assess which university in Malaysia is best for you. If you do not have the necessary knowledge and skills, you won’t get far in your career.

We must be careful when choosing a private university in Malaysia as many students listen to advise from friends and relatives who are not knowledgeable offering information not supported by facts and evidence. Choosing a private university should be done carefully and objectively, not based on the number of glitzy advertisements you have heard or seen about that university.

I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights. Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College
I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights.
Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College

Talking to counselors from the private universities is a common practice to obtain the necessary information to help you to decide. You should evaluate the information provided to see if what they say is true and supported by facts and evidence. There are also many agents in Malaysia offering their services where most of the staff are young and inexperienced. They would not have the skills to guide you on this most important decision in your life.

How many of a college’s or university’s students are coming from other countries? Favour private universities with higher percentages of foreigners, because as much of your education will happen outside as inside any lecture theatre, and globalisation is here and real. The dexterity with which you can navigate other cultures — your awareness of, and openness to, them — could be more valuable than any knowledge gleaned from a book.

Choosing a university is important as it will help to shape your mind, character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career. Therefore, not all private universities are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fits your needs.

Many students in Malaysia also make the common mistake in choosing a university because their friends are going there. I even had one student tell me that his choice of university depends on where his girlfriend is going! This is one of the most important decisions that may change your life forever hence it should not be taken lightly.

Take Time and Effort to Choose the Right Private University in Malaysia to Study at

Our mum asked us to talk to EduSpiral as we did not know what to study. EduSpiral had helped our older sister before. He met us at Taylor's, talked to us and then gave us a tour.  Gan twins, Foundation in Arts at Taylor's University
Our mum asked us to talk to EduSpiral as we did not know what to study. EduSpiral had helped our older sister before. He met us at Taylor’s, talked to us and then gave us a tour.
Gan twins, Foundation in Arts at Taylor’s University

Choosing a university is important as it will help to shape your mind, character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career. Therefore, not all private universities are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fits your needs.

Many students in Malaysia also make the common mistake in choosing a university because their friends are going there. I even had one student tell me that his choice of university depends on where his girlfriend is going! This is one of the most important decisions that may change your life forever hence it should not be taken lightly.

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria. To help you to choose the best university that fits you, you can build a list of top universities in Malaysia that meets your criteria.

Here’s some advice for trying to find the university in Malaysia or Singapore that works for you.

1. Start with who you are and why you are going to university in Malaysia

EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills. Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University
EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills.
Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University

You need to examine yourself and your reasons for going to college before you start your search. Why, really, are you going? What are your abilities and strengths? What are your weaknesses? What do you want out of life — something tangible or intangible?

Are you socially self-sufficient or do you need warm, familial support? Talk with your family, friends and high-school counselors as you ask these questions. The people who know you best can help you the most with these important issues.

2. A name-brand university in Malaysia will not guarantee your success.

EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University's Orientation
EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University’s Orientation

Think about the people in your life who are happy and successful and find out where (and if) they went to college. Ask the same about “famous” people. You will likely find that success in life has less to do with the choice of college than with the experiences and opportunities encountered while in college, coupled with personal qualities and traits.

Some private universities have spent millions of Ringgit throughout the years telling you that they are the best. You should objectively look at the information carefully to assess which university in Malaysia is best for you. If you do not have the necessary knowledge and skills, you won’t get far in your career.

We must be careful when choosing a private university in Malaysia as many students listen to advise from friends and relatives who are not knowledgeable offering information not supported by facts and evidence. Choosing a private university should be done carefully and objectively, not based on the number of glitzy advertisements you have heard or seen about that university.

Employers and graduate schools are looking for outstanding skills and experience, not how famous a university is in Malaysia that you come from. Remember that the employer will be interviewing you and not the university that you come from, therefore, if you do not possess the necessary knowledge and skills, you would not get hired even if you come from a top university.

3. You don’t need to know what major you want for your degree yet

"EduSpiral gave me advise over phone, Facebook, Skype and even took me to visit the universities. He spent a lot of time to help me make my decision on what to study and at which university." Ban Moon (Left), Scored 3As in the A-Levels at HELP Academy
“EduSpiral gave me advise over phone, Facebook, Skype and even took me to visit the universities. He spent a lot of time to help me make my decision on what to study and at which university.”
Ban Moon (Left), Scored 3As in the A-Levels at HELP Academy

Very few high-school students have enough information or experience to choose a major. You need the variety and depth of college coursework to determine your interest and aptitude. Most college students change their minds two or three times before they settle on a major.

After SPM or O-Levels you will take a Pre-University course first such as Foundation, A-Levels, AUSMAT, UNSW Foundation Year, etc. You have about 1 year in the Pre-U course to really figure out what to study for your degree. So, the most important thing is to choose the right Pre-University course that fits you.

I talked to a group of students who were advised by an Agent to take an external Pre-University programme. They did not achieve the necessary results to enter into university therefore wasted their money and time. When I asked them why they did not go for the Foundation programme at the private university since they knew that they wanted to study IT and also locally in Malaysia, they just said that they followed the advise of the agent whom they thought they could trust.

4. You can afford to go to a Private University in Malaysia.

My mother whatsapped EduSpiral & he provided vital information to help me make my decision to transfer my diploma. Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University
My mother whatsapped EduSpiral & he provided vital information to help me make my decision to transfer my diploma.
Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University

If you make the assumption that you cannot afford college based on the “sticker price” of tuition, you will miss out. It is difficult to talk about money, but if you investigate all the options and ask for help and advice, you will find affordable choices.

Not all colleges and universities in Malaysia or Singapore have the same price tag and there are a variety of ways to cut your costs. Most universities offer scholarships, and students are able to apply for the PTPN Loan, EPF withdrawal, MARA Loan, etc

Many students have chosen the cheapest private university to study, not taking into consideration the important skills that they could have gained from a better university. Higher education is an investment for a better future that takes sacrifice.

5. Campus Culture and Community Life at the Private Universities in Malaysia

EduSpiral explained the courses in detail and took us around the campus to view the Pharmacy facilities to help me make a good decision about my future career. Ka Jun, Pharmacy at UCSI University
EduSpiral explained the courses in detail and took us around the campus to view the Pharmacy facilities to help me make a good decision about my future career.
Ka Jun, Pharmacy at UCSI University

When developing your list of top universities, consider the schools’ values such as commitment to diversity, vibrant campus life, and dedication to academic excellence. Also consider the range of student organizations, athletic and recreational activities.

It is important to choose a private university in Malaysia that has an English-speaking environment, students who are ambitious and serious about studies, and a globalised student body. Mixing around with international students will help to improve your English language skills and understanding of different cultures.

Some private universities in Malaysia are known for their focus on lifestyle or known as party universities. There is nothing wrong with choosing them if you are able to control yourself. If not, you have to consider that this could affect your future.

A private university that has a diverse student body with many international students would help students to improve their English-language and cross-cultural communication skills. With globalisation, many top companies in the world are looking for professionals who are dynamic with strong management skills to lead a globalised work force.

In addition, the university’s relationship with the larger community, availability of on- and off- campus housing, quality of food and health care services, and campus security contribute to the quality of university life.

6. Quality/reputation/ranking of the Private University in Malaysia

There is no official ranking system in Malaysia for private universities. The MQA and Ministry of Higher

EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university. Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College
EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university.
Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College

Education in Malaysia has a rating system for universities in Malaysia. It is the SETARA rating system.

Looking at the number of awards that the university and its students have won in competitions related to the course can be a guide in helping you to make the right choice. Many students make the mistake of just listening to advertisements or friends without checking the information.

Students should look at the qualifications of the lecturers at the university. How many are PhD and Master degree holders. Are the lecturers mostly part time or full time? Experienced lecturers would be able to guide students to achieve academic success.

All foundation, diploma and degree programmes must be accredited by MQA in Malaysia.  Taking a professional certificate course with a title “diploma” would not allow you to continue on into a degree programme accredited by MQA.

Students should check with the relevant professional bodies to see if the courses the university of interest are accredited. For example, Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Nursing Board, Pharmacy Board, Malaysian Bar, MIA, Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia, etc.

7. The most important factor in choosing a college or university in Malaysia is fit.

EduSpiral took us to tour the campus and helped us to make a good decision after our A-Levels. Jolene & Aaron, MA Business & Finance at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
EduSpiral took us to tour the campus and helped us to make a good decision after our A-Levels.
Jolene & Aaron, MA Business & Finance at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Choosing a college because your friends are going there or because of where it ranks on a list does not take into account who you are and who you will become. College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won. Finding a good fit requires time and thoughtfulness.

The best way to really get a feel for a university is by visiting the campus, taking a tour, meeting with students & lecturers, attending a class, reading the campus newspaper, eating in the cafeteria, etc. You have to feel “at home” at the place where you will spend the next four years of your life, so visiting is important.

For more information and strategies, read our article, EduSpiral University Campus Tours to Help Students Choose the Best Universities. If some universities on your list are just too far away to make a trip, then you can add EduSpiral on Facebook and we can show you videos and photos of the campus and its facilities.

8. Decide What You Want in a Private College or University in Malaysia or Singapore

"I attended EduSpiral's Education Fair at KInta Riverfront after my SPM exam and obtained great information there. Although Asia Pacific University is famous for IT but I found out that they have a solid accounting programme and I can get a UK degree. I got a scholarship as well from APU." Julian Hum, Accounting at Asia Pacific University
“I attended EduSpiral’s Education Fair at KInta Riverfront after my SPM exam and obtained great information there. Although Asia Pacific University is famous for IT but I found out that they have a solid accounting programme and I can get a UK degree. I got a scholarship as well from APU.”
Julian Hum, Accounting at Asia Pacific University

Ask yourself what’s important to you, where you want to be and who you want to become. Then you can figure out what types of colleges will allow you to achieve your goals.

Here are some important points to consider when choosing a university in Malaysia:

  • Size of the university
  • Accreditation of the University’s courses by MQA and other relevant professional bodies in Malaysia
  • Location
  • Student culture – is it an English-speaking students environment
  • Makeup of the student body – are there a lot of international students at the university so that you can mix around with them to improve your English and gain invaluable global perspectives
  • Available degree programmes
  • Hostel choices
  • Available extracurricular activities
  • Campus atmosphere

Which of these aspects are things you feel you must have to be comfortable at a private university in Malaysia or private college in Singapore? Which things are you flexible on?

In addition, think about what you want to accomplish in your college life. Do you want to train for a specific job or get a wide-ranging education? If you have a specific degree programme in mind, is the private college that you’re considering strong or famous in that area of study?

9. Talk to a Knowledgeable & Experienced Education Consultant to Help you to Choose the Best Private University or College in Malaysia

EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students
EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students

Choosing a the right university to study after SPM or O-Levels in Malaysia takes time, it is a process in finding out which university in best for you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor would be able to provide detailed information about the course, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about which university would be suit you. While an experienced counselor would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

A knowledgeable education consultant means that he or she would know the entry requirements, course details, in-depth knowledge of the hundreds of courses out there, career prospects, job demand, professional recognition requirements, accreditation, best universities for the course, and other information that would help a confused student to make the right choice.

While an experienced education consultant would have had counseled hundreds of students analysing their

EduSpiral has more than 10 years of experience in counseling students on choosing the right courses
EduSpiral has more than 10 years of experience in counseling students on choosing the right courses

personalities and skilfully guiding them to the right course and university.

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. After knowing which course, we can then determine which private university in best for that course.

10. Study at the Best Private Universities and Colleges in Malaysia

Switzerland

EduSpiral helped me to transfer my business diploma into UCSI University. He had advised me to go for a university with an English-speaking environment so that I can improve myself. Kwang Wei, Business graduate from UCSI University
EduSpiral helped me to transfer my business diploma into UCSI University. He had advised me to go for a university with an English-speaking environment so that I can improve myself.
Kwang Wei, Business graduate from UCSI University

Malaysia

  1. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
  2. Curtin University, Sarawak campus
  3. Asia Pacific University (APU) 
  4. APIIT
  5. UCSI University
  6. Taylor’s University
  7. UCSI University Sarawak Campus
  8. First City University College
  9. HELP University
  10. HELP Academy
  11. HELP College of Arts & Technology
  12. KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
  13. KDU College Damansara Jaya
  14. KDU University College Penang
  15. YTL International College of Hotel Management
  16. IACT College
  17. Point College
  18. Saito College
  19. Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
  20. Nilai University
  21. Reliance College

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling on

courses and universities in Malaysia.

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide

EduSpiral gave me all the information I needed to help me make the best decision. Now, I am studying my passion. Wei Kang, Culinary Arts at KDU University College
EduSpiral gave me all the information I needed to help me make the best decision. Now, I am studying my passion.
Wei Kang, Culinary Arts at KDU University College

range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.

These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.

If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.

Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

Guide in Choosing the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study after SPM

What to Ask the Best Education Advisor About What to Study in Malaysia after SPM?

Written by EduSpiral Consultant Services For more information contact 01111408838

After SPM, there are many different pathways for you to choose from and sometimes it can be confusing. Students who are not sure of what to study after SPM can contact EduSpiral Consultant Services to help guide you to choose the right course and university.

For a personalised advise on how to choose the right course contact 01111408838

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

 

Talk to the Best Education Consultant in Malaysia to Help you Make the Right Choice in your Studies

Lonnie Sik, Founder of EduSpiral Consultant Services, has more than 20 years in counseling students on how to choose the right course and university in Malaysia
Lonnie Sik, Founder of EduSpiral Consultant Services, has more than 20 years in counseling students on how to choose the right course and university in Malaysia

Choosing a course to study after SPM is not a science, it is a process in finding out who you are and what you are good at. An experienced Education Advisor would be invaluable in assisting you to choose the right course in Malaysia or Singapore.

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

EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University's Orientation
EduSpiral took these students separately to tour the campus and provided course counseling to help them make the right choice. Kian Yong (Mechanical Engineering), Yammie (Business), & Kenneth Pang (Architecture) at UCSI University’s Orientation

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.

For more information contact 01111408838

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

  

Help! I don’t know what course to choose to study at university- what do I do?

It is important to choose the right course to study – you don’t want to waste your time and money on a

EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students
EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students

course you don’t want to do (or end up dropping out of). To help you decide which course is right for you, make a list of courses that are of interest to you.

Is it a subject you have already studied? For example, maybe you loved the English subject and you read novels for pleasure in your own time. You can consider Teaching English as a Second Language, journalism or Mass Communication. In addition, you don’t have to do a journalism degree to become a journalist – many degrees are considered!

Maybe you’ve always been interested in computers and the internet at home, and enjoyed maths at school, so are considering a degree in computer science, a course subject you probably won’t have studied before. Experienced education counselors are able to analyse your interests, personality and exam results to help you make a list of possible courses for consideration.

Looking at your results in SPM could help you to decide which course you would be good at. If you are good in Maths & Physics then you can consider Engineering courses. Having good results in Chemistry, Biology & Maths, you can think of a career in Food Science, Pharmacy or Medicine. Talking to an experienced education advisor would help you to navigate through this confusing time of choosing the best course that fits you.

Many students after SPM make the mistake of just listening to advise without verifying whether

My friend introduced me to EduSpiral because for a long time after SPM I still did not know what and where to study. EduSpiral took time to explain the courses to me and even took me around the university for a tour. Yammie Chau, Diploma in Business at UCSI University
My friend introduced me to EduSpiral because for a long time after SPM I still did not know what and where to study. EduSpiral took time to explain the courses to me and even took me around the university for a tour.
Yammie Chau, Diploma in Business at UCSI University

the information given is true or not. In addition, just because you have heard or seen a lot of advertisements by a particular university, doesn’t mean that it is the best in that course.

Many of the course counselors at the universities are paid by the universities to get you to register there, so their main motivation is to get you to register, not to help you make the right choice.

You should also ask yourself if you would still be interested in that subject for a further three or four years – enough to motivate yourself to work and research independently? Remember, you are going to work in this career for the next 50 years after graduation, therefore, you should have a high interest in the course.

The course that you choose should also have a job demand for you after you graduate. Choosing a course that you are passionate about without job demand and you may end up being jobless. Look for statistics and research to support whether there is a job demand for your future career in Malaysia or Singapore. Here at EduSpiral Consultant Services, we do our research on the job demand for the careers in Malaysia, Salary Reports, and universities so that we can advise our students based on facts and evidence.

Now why would you want to talk to EduSpiral Consultant Services when you can contact the private universities directly? Well, 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.

We have 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.

What am I good at? What am I not good at?

"I attended EduSpiral's Education Fair at KInta Riverfront after my SPM exam in December and obtained great information there. Although Asia Pacific University is famous for IT but I found out that they have a solid accounting programme and I can get a UK degree. I got a scholarship as well from APU." Julian Hum, from SMK St. Michael Institution, Ipoh studying Business at Asia Pacific University.
“I attended EduSpiral’s Education Fair at KInta Riverfront after my SPM exam in December and obtained great information there. Although Asia Pacific University is famous for IT but I found out that they have a solid accounting programme and I can get a UK degree. I got a scholarship as well from APU.”
Julian Hum, from SMK St. Michael Institution, Ipoh studying Business at Asia Pacific University.

An undergraduate degree course in Malaysia lasts three to five years – that’s a long time to spend studying something which you don’t enjoy, especially at a more intense level! First of all ask yourself what you have enjoyed studying at secondary school in Malaysia.

Your SPM results will show what you are actually good at. Having good results in Maths, you can consider Actuarial Science, Accounting, Computing or Finance courses. Having narrowed down to these courses, you can go for the Foundation in Arts for 1 year before really choosing which one to study for your degree.

Alternatively you can also think about subjects you definitely don’t want to study at university level and which you can’t wait to say goodbye to. Crossing these off will make your list of options smaller and less overwhelming.

Your parents and friends would also be able to give you an idea of what you are good at. Looking at your hobbies and interests would help to narrow down the list. Your hobby in drawing could open the possibility of choosing design courses.

What qualifications do I have already?

You may already have an idea of the area you want to study and find a career in, which will have dictated what subjects you’re already studying at school. However it’s good to look at the qualifications and grades you have (or are predicted to have) to see what you are already eligible to study. Some students want to study medicine but in their SPM results, they only managed to get 5Cs. To study in medicine, one needs to have at least 5Bs including the science subjects. Students need to be realistic in choosing their course of study by looking at their actual results.

If your actual results do not meet the entry requirements for your particular course of interest, then you may need to consider other options or to resit the SPM exam to get the necessary results.

What are my interests?

"I went for EduSpiral's Change Your Life Education Fair at Kinta Riverfront in Ipoh after my SPM exams. Even after the fair I still had questions and he met me and my mother at Old Town to explain further. We decided to register at KDU because through much discussion with EduSpiral we found that it is the best university that fit my needs." Gary Ng (Right), Accounting at KDU University College with Jun Sern, Mass Comm
“I went for EduSpiral’s Change Your Life Education Fair at Kinta Riverfront in Ipoh after my SPM exams. Even after the fair I still had questions and he met me and my mother at Old Town to explain further. We decided to register at KDU because through much discussion with EduSpiral we found that it is the best university that fit my needs.”
Gary Ng (Right), Accounting at KDU University College with Jun Sern, Mass Comm

If you can’t think of an academic subject which you’re especially strong at or one which you would want to pursue at university-level, think about your non-academic interests outside of school. It’s likely that you’re much more passionate about these but you’ve never even thought you could study a course related to these (or pursue a career in this area).

Your hobbies, interests and which clubs & societies that you have joined in secondary school would give you some idea of what you are good at. These, together with your actual results would contribute to your decision-making process in choosing the right course of study.

New courses are being created all the time to prepare and develop talent for growing industries, such as animation or computer game design. Projects, events and knowledge related to these interests can all contribute to show that you’re passionate about this area and eligible to study on a course which can prepare you for a related career.

In other cases there may be several routes to your dream career, some of which may allow you to study something different before transferring or. Talk to those who are already working in this area to see how they got to where they are now, including what they studied (or even what they wish they had studied).

What do I want to do for my career in Malaysia or Singapore?

You may have a clear idea of what you want to do for a career which makes choosing a course to study

After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and took us around for a campus tour. Hui Ying, Diploma in Accounting at Asia Pacific University
After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and took us around for a campus tour.
Hui Ying, Diploma in Accounting at Asia Pacific University

easier, particularly if you want to become a doctor or lawyer. You can search our articles section to see if we’ve already written about your dream graduate career and how you can achieve this.

When making a decision about your career, it is important to take into consideration the average salary. Starting salaries in Malaysia is about RM2800 to RM3000 for most careers while starting salaries in Singapore is about SGD2714. Although starting salaries is generally the same level for everyone, what you do in the following years of your job will determine how much higher you would get.

Therefore, it is also important to choose the right university that would equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to move up in your career. Many students make the mistake of choosing the cheapest university for their studies and then later realise that they cannot get the promotion or salary increment because they did not get the skills needed. English is one of these skills that most students do not take seriously about its importance for promotion and salary increments in future jobs.

Think about it, if you are unable to write a report or email in proper English or do a presentation smoothly, how would you be able to become a manager or CEO eventually?

Best Education Pathway After SPM in Malaysia

I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights. Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College
I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights.
Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College

There are basically 2 pathways after SPM  in Malaysia. You can either go for a Diploma course or Pre-University Course in Malaysia or Singapore. “Pre” means before, therefore, “Pre-University” means the course that you take before entering into a university bachelors degree programme. The common courses under Pre-University are STPM, A-Levels, Foundation, AUSMAT, etc.

Students after SPM in Malaysia who are not sure what to study at degree level can go for the Pre-University course in Malaysia like A-Levels, AUSMAT or Foundation and then proceed on to the degree in Malaysia or Singapore.

Students who choose to study at top private colleges in Singapore can complete the degree in less than 3 years after their SPM. Some private universities in Malaysia cost more than RM100,000 to study at and they are just famous in Malaysia so why not pay the same amount to study in Singapore and complete the degree faster and obtain a UK or Australian degree awarded by top universities?

Choosing the right Pre-University course in Malaysia that fits you would mean that you have to ask yourself which methods of assessment best suit you? Exams, coursework, practicals, group projects and presentations could all be in the mix in differing quantities. Every Pre-University course will include a % breakdown of assessment. You need to understand yourself and capabilities in order to decide which Pre-University course would best suit you.

Students in Malaysia who are sure of what they want to study after SPM can enter the Diploma course

After starting class at college, I was still confused if the course suited me. I took a bus from Seremban to meet up with EduSpiral for counseling. I have a clearer picture of what to do now. Kuang Joe, Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at HELP College of Arts & Technology
After starting class at college, I was still confused if the course suited me. I took a bus from Seremban to meet up with EduSpiral for counseling. I have a clearer picture of what to do now.
Kuang Joe, Diploma in Mechanical Engineering at HELP College of Arts & Technology

first. The Diploma pathway in Malaysia for students after SPM is 2 or 2.5 years and then enter into Year 2 of the Degree programme.

Completing a degree at top private colleges in Singapore is the fastest pathway after SPM. Students will take 7 to 12 months to complete a Diploma and then enter into the Degree programme for another 2 years.

There are many types of diploma and Pre-University courses in Malaysia & Singapore as well as hundreds of undergraduate majors to choose from. But knowing the right one for you is the most difficult decision. If you read this guide from start to finish, you’ll know the best courses in Malaysia that would suit you.

If you are not sure what to study, do ask a trained counselor and always make decisions based on evidence and facts. The decisions that you make now, can change your life forever.

You can contact us for a free career test to help you understand yourself better so that you are able to make the right decision.

How to Choose the Right Course to Study in Malaysia or Singapore after SPM?

I was confused what to study & which university. My cousin introduced me to EduSpiral who helped me to make the right choice. Ye Lun, Actuarial Science at Asia Pacific University
I was confused what to study & which university. My cousin introduced me to EduSpiral who helped me to make the right choice.
Ye Lun, Actuarial Science at Asia Pacific University

It can be confusing to choose the right course after SPM  in Malaysia. You should carefully think about what are the options available to you. To choose the best course that fits you, you need to consider the following:

  • Look at your results – what are your best & worst subjects, and which subjects are your favourite?
  • What are your interests & hobbies?
  • What is your passion?
  • Job demand for the career of choice. There is no point in choosing a course out of passion and then graduate to find out that you cannot get a job in that field.
  • Salary of the career of choice
  • Discuss the budget for your studies with your parents. There is no point in choosing a course like Pharmacy or Medicine, if you cannot afford it.

Choosing the Best Course to Study after SPM

After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Because of Eduspiral, I am able to pursue my studies at Asia Pacific University. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and even brought me to visit the university when I went to KL alone. Jeremy Lee, APU scholarship student
After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Because of Eduspiral, I am able to pursue my studies at Asia Pacific University. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and even brought me to visit the university when I went to KL alone. Jeremy Lee, APU scholarship student

Choosing the right course to study in Malaysia or Singapore after high school is one of the most important decisions you can make in your life. This can be a confusing and difficult time if you are unprepared.

With the wide variety of courses available to a student, the time after SPM can be a confusing one if not guided properly by an experienced and knowledgeable education counselor.

It can be confusing for students to choose the right major for their undergraduate degree studies in Malaysia.

Preparations should have been made even before this time but fear not it is still not too late if you have not decided on a career path. It is important for you to research carefully the career that you intend to pursue.

Students after SPM would need to go through some sort of a Pre-University programme before entering into the degree course. Therefore, you still have about 1 to 1.5 years in your Pre-U programme to really figure out what to study for your degree.

Choosing the Best Course in Malaysia to Study after SPM

I was confused about which university to study. EduSpiral talked to me and took me to tour the campus to help me with my decision. Eddy Soo, Business at HELP University
I was confused about which university to study. EduSpiral talked to me and took me to tour the campus to help me with my decision.
Eddy Soo, Business at HELP University

After completing your Pre-University programme such as Foundation, A-Levels, AUSMAT, UNSW Foundation, etc. you will need to choose what to study in your degree. You do not have the time to choose which degree course. The time that you took during your Pre-U should have been used to decide what to study at degree level.

Your results in SPM would give you an idea of what you are actually good at. Furthermore, you would need to look at the entry requirements into the degree programmes as well.

If you do not meet the entry requirements, then there is no point to consider taking that particular course.

Decision-Making Process on How to Choose the Best Course to Study in Malaysia or Singapore

At EduSpiral Consultant Services, we have counseled and helped thousands of students to choose the right course and private university to study in Malaysia. Based on our experience we have come up with three simple steps that I will call the GEM method which will help you in your decision-making.

  1. Gather Information.
  2. Evaluate the Information.
  3. Make a Decision.

1.   Gather Information – Gather information relevant and related to your course & career of interest

A.    Gather all relevant information on the courses that interest you. Make a list of your interests, likes,

EduSpiral provides free transport to students to visit our partner universities such as the top ranked Heriot-Watt University Malaysia at the new campus in Putrajaya
EduSpiral provides free transport to students to visit our partner universities such as the top ranked Heriot-Watt University Malaysia at the new campus in Putrajaya

strengths, hobbies and talents. Also ask your family members and friends to tell you what you are good at.

Make a simple list of your interests, your hobbies and what you are actually good at. Don’t put down things that you are interested to do but write down things that you know that you are good at. For example, you are good in debates, sports, mathematics, fixing cars, and others.

Your interests should be realistic and related to your strengths and what you are good at. For example, if you are interested in becoming an engineer but your results in Mathematics and Physics are consistently low, you may want to reconsider your choice or if you want to be a musician but cannot play any instrument, it would be an unwise move to choose music as your career pathway.

B.    Show your family members and friends the list and ask them whether you are actually good at the things you have listed.

Have your friends go through the list and give comments on how good you are at your interests, hobbies and talents. Your parents and trusted friends may give you a different perspective on what you are good at. This is valuable insight that will help you in your decision-making.

C.    Talk to your parents, uncles, aunts, cousins and older siblings who are knowledgeable or working in that field

I met EduSpiral a few years ago after completing my Diploma at LKW. I wanted to continue my degree at a better university & EduSpiral showed the number of awards won by First City UC for interior design which convinced me. Jun Hao at his graduation showcase, Interior Design at First City University College
I met EduSpiral a few years ago after completing my Diploma at LKW. I wanted to continue my degree at a better university & EduSpiral showed the number of awards won by First City UC for interior design which convinced me.
Jun Hao at his graduation showcase, Interior Design at First City University College

Your parents and older siblings may have good insights into your abilities and offer good suggestions. Ask them what talents they think you have and maybe what career options would be good for you.

Know yourself. Your SPM results is a guide of what you are good at. If you do well in Sejarah, BM and English, you can consider Marketing, Mass Comm, or Business. If you are good in Modern Maths, you can consider Business Admin, Finance or Accounting. For Add Maths & Physics, engineering, software engineering, IT, or programming.

So, choose according to what you are good at, not what you think you are good at. If you are still not sure, talk to your parents,

friends, school counselor or professionals in your field of interest to find out more.

Remember some relatives just simply share information that is not supported by facts or evidence. When asking for opinions, ask from people who are knowledgeable and experienced. Would you ask a doctor how to repair your car? If not, then do not simply listen to hearsay and gossip.

D.    Talk to an experienced career guidance counsellor in Malaysia

Look for an experienced Career Guidance Counselor or Education Advisor in Malaysia to help you. They should have years of experience in helping students in making the right choices. Some of these education advisors have no experience or are just fresh graduates working at the Agents’ Offices. You must ask yourself how much experience would a 24-year old in counseling students? Is he or she knowledgeable about the course content, the requirements for professional accreditation, job demand, job salary, and other important information.

E.    Talk to professionals in the field of interest in Malaysia

Talk to professionals in the fields that you are interested in to find out what they do. Ask them what they do in their jobs, what they like about it, what are its future prospects, what type of talents are required for the work, and other relevant questions.

Visit their place of work if possible to gain a ‘feel’ for their type of work. Talking to the professionals will help you gain a wider perspective and insight into the type of work. They will be able share with you inside information on the work.

F.     Attend education fairs in Malaysia

I met EduSpiral at the Education Fair and he helped me to filter all the information from the universities and choose the best university that fit me." Vincent Hoy, Scholarship student at Asia Pacific University
I met EduSpiral at the Education Fair and he helped me to filter all the information from the universities and choose the best university that fit me.”
Vincent Hoy, Scholarship student at Asia Pacific University

Go for education fairs and talk to the lecturers and counselors but do not register to quickly. Listen to their advise and take the information and then talk to your parents. Remember that the colleges and universities want your money for their “business” so they will want you to register quickly.

Take time to think carefully and do not be taken in by the sales gimmicks of getting a car or iPad or discount if you register on the spot.

Talk to the various counsellors at the booths to find out more information about the individual careers. Ask about tuition costs,

short description of the career, job prospects, facilities offered in the college, and others.

Check with them to see if the course is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), if you can apply for the PTPTN loan and how much you can apply for, how long is the course, etc.

Students should also visit the university’s campus to get a feel of what the student environment is like,

After counseling the student online, EduSpiral met the student & family at KDU University College Penang to tour & finally register for the engineering course
After counseling the student online, EduSpiral met the student & family at KDU University College Penang to tour & finally register for the engineering course

look at the facilities and talk to the lecturers. EduSpiral Consultant Services provides a free campus visit to our partner universities.

G.    Use the Internet 

Google the Internet to find out in detail about your course of interest. Use these resources available to you to find out more information about the careers that you are interested in.

H. Course Content of the Degree Programmes

Even though the title of the degree programme is the same at various universities, the course content or subjects offered are different. You should look at the subjects from the universities and compare. Make sure that they are solid enough to prepare you for a successful career in Malaysia or Singapore.

2.     Evaluate the information.

I talked to EduSpiral on Facebook to find out which is the best place to study A-Levels to help me achieve my goals. I am glad I did. Gan Wei Cheng, 3A* in A-Levels at KDU College Penang and now JPA Scholarship at U. of Sydney for Pharmacy
I talked to EduSpiral on Facebook to find out which is the best place to study A-Levels to help me achieve my goals. I am glad I did.
Gan Wei Cheng, 3A* in A-Levels at KDU College Penang and now JPA Scholarship at U. of Sydney for Pharmacy

After you have gathered all the necessary information then you need to weigh your options.

Go through all the information and choose the careers that you would like to take up and take out those that you don’t like.

Make a pros and cons list for each career that you like. From the information evaluate the points carefully on its workability, your financial viability, future prospects, your interests and results.

You can make a ranking of the top choices down to the least favourable choices.

The entry requirements for the courses and the budget for your studies will also assist in making your decision.

Should you be interested in medicine but is not from the Science stream or have at least 5Bs in the SPM, then it is not possible to study medicine.

Or if you want to study medicine but do not have at least RM400,000 for the fees, then it is no point to choose this course unless you score very high and is able to get a scholarship to study in private or you take the STPM to enter into Public University.

3.     Make the decision

I went for the EduSpiral Education Fair and gained a lot of information. After the fair, EduSpiral even arranged to take me around for a campus tour, assisted me with application and accommodation as well. Nixonn Cheong, Engineering at UCSI University
I went for the EduSpiral Education Fair and gained a lot of information. After the fair, EduSpiral even arranged to take me around for a campus tour, assisted me with application and accommodation as well.
Nixonn Cheong, Engineering at UCSI University

After evaluating all the information that you have, now you are ready to make a decision. Decide on maybe four career choices. For example, you may want to put your first career choice as Medicine, second in Pharmacy, third in Food Science and fourth in Nutrition. When one does not work out because of grades, finances or interest then you have a back up choice.

Remember two things: It is okay to change career options during your time of study, however, you need to make informed and educated choices. Secondly, the career that you choose should meet your needs and fit your beliefs and character. You must be happy with the choice and one where it would fit your desired financial status.

  • List your strengths, what you are good at, your favourite subjects, the subjects that you do well in, etc.
  • List your weaknesses, what you are not good at, what you don’t like, the subjects that you suck at, etc.
  • List down your hobbies, interests, likes and dislikes, your personality, etc.
  • Discuss the list with your parents, teachers, counselors, or friends
  • Search the Internet for descriptions of careers and courses
  • Does the course you have chose interest you, how much is the starting salary? What does the work involve?

Some of the Best Pre-University & Degree Programmes at Top Private Universities in Malaysia

Pre-University Programmes in Malaysia

I was confused about what to study and to find an affordable college. After advising me, EduSpiral took me to visit the college campus which helped me to decide. Teck Sang, Hotel & Tourism Management at Reliance College
I was confused about what to study and to find an affordable college. After advising me, EduSpiral took me to visit the college campus which helped me to decide.
Teck Sang, Hotel & Tourism Management at Reliance College

Engineering and Built Environment Courses in Malaysia

Computing and Information Technology Courses in Malaysia

Applied and Health Sciences in Malaysia

Business Courses in Malaysia

Social Science Courses in Malaysia

Design Courses in Malaysia

Hospitality and Culinary Arts Courses in Malaysia

Education and Music Courses in Malaysia

Top Scholarships Available from Top Private Universities in Malaysia

Study at the Best Private Universities and Colleges in Malaysia & Singapore

Singapore

  1. MDIS College
  2. PSB Academy

Malaysia

  1. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
  2. Curtin University, Sarawak campus
  3. Asia Pacific University (APU) 
  4. APIIT
  5. UCSI University
  6. UCSI University Sarawak Campus
  7. HELP University
  8. HELP Academy
  9. HELP College of Arts & Technology
  10. KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
  11. KDU College Damansara Jaya
  12. KDU University College Penang
  13. First City University College (Formerly known as KBU International College)
  14. Reliance College Kuala Lumpur
  15. YTL International College of Hotel Management
  16. Point College
  17. Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
  18. Nilai University

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling on courses and universities in Malaysia & Singapore.

EduSpiral gets to know our students personally in order to be able to advise on which course & university is the best such as these 2 students after a visit of Asia Pacific University
EduSpiral gets to know our students personally in order to be able to advise on which course & university is the best such as these 2 students after a visit of Asia Pacific University

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get. These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable.

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.

These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.

If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.

Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

How to Choose the Best Private University in Malaysia to Study after SPM, UEC, STPM, O-Levels or A-Levels

Talk to the Best Education Consultant in Malaysia to Get Solid Information to Help you Choose the Best Private University or College to Study

Written by EduSpiral Consultant Services For more information contact 01111408838

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria. To help you develop a good list of criteria, you need to talk to the right counselors or education consultant who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor or education consultant  in Malaysia would be able to provide detailed information about the university and its courses, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about  which university would be suit you. While an experienced counselor or education consultant would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

For more information contact 01111408838

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

Take Time and Effort to Choose the Right Private University in Malaysia to Study at

I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights. Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College
I was confused about what to study and talking to EduSpiral helped me a lot. Coming from Sarawak made it difficult for me to know which university was best in Malaysia & EduSpiral provided good insights.
Eric Lu, Business at KDU University College

Choosing a university is important as it will help to shape your mind, character and help you to develop the necessary skills for a successful career. Therefore, not all private universities are the same. You should not choose a university because it is the cheapest, easiest and nearest. It should be based on which university that best fits your needs.

Many students in Malaysia also make the common mistake in choosing a university because their friends are going there. I even had one student tell me that his choice of university depends on where his girlfriend is going! This is one of the most important decisions that may change your life forever hence it should not be taken lightly.

Part of finding the right college or university in Malaysia for you will be picking out the criteria that matters to most to you, and then seeing if any of the top private colleges or universities in Malaysia that you’re looking at fit those criteria. To help you to choose the best university that fits you, you can build a list of top universities in Malaysia that meets your criteria.

Here’s some advice for trying to find the university in Malaysia or Singapore that works for you.

1. Start with who you are and why you are going to university in Malaysia

EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills. Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University
EduSpiral emphasised the importance of having good English for our future career. I am glad to join a globalised university which has helped me to improve my communication skills.
Vincent Yeoh, Accounting & Finance at Asia Pacific University

You need to examine yourself and your reasons for going to college before you start your search. Why, really, are you going? What are your abilities and strengths? What are your weaknesses? What do you want out of life — something tangible or intangible?

Are you socially self-sufficient or do you need warm, familial support? Talk with your family, friends and high-school counselors as you ask these questions. The people who know you best can help you the most with these important issues.

2. A name-brand university in Malaysia will not guarantee your success.

We didn't know that First City University College had won many awards for Interior Design until EduSpiral showed us the awards. The "famous" college that we had planned to join hadn't even won any awards in interior design. Zhi Yih & Chin Xien, Foundation in Design at First City University College
We didn’t know that First City University College had won many awards for Interior Design until EduSpiral showed us the awards. The “famous” college that we had planned to join hadn’t even won any awards in interior design.
Zhi Yih & Chin Xien, Foundation in Design at First City University College

Think about the people in your life who are happy and successful and find out where (and if) they went to college. Ask the same about “famous” people. You will likely find that success in life has less to do with the choice of college than with the experiences and opportunities encountered while in college, coupled with personal qualities and traits.

Some private universities have spent millions of Ringgit throughout the years telling you that they are the best. You should objectively look at the information carefully to assess which university in Malaysia is best for you. If you do not have the necessary knowledge and skills, you won’t get far in your career.

We must be careful when choosing a private university in Malaysia as many students listen to advise from friends and relatives who are not knowledgeable offering information not supported by facts and evidence. Choosing a private university should be done carefully and objectively, not based on the number of glitzy advertisements you have heard or seen about that university.

Employers and graduate schools are looking for outstanding skills and experience, not how famous a university is in Malaysia that you come from. Remember that the employer will be interviewing you and not the university that you come from, therefore, if you do not possess the necessary knowledge and skills, you would not get hired even if you come from a top university.

3. You don’t need to know what major you want for your degree yet

"EduSpiral gave me advise over phone, Facebook, Skype and even took me to visit the universities. He spent a lot of time to help me make my decision on what to study and at which university." Ban Moon (Left), Scored 3As in the A-Levels at HELP Academy
“EduSpiral gave me advise over phone, Facebook, Skype and even took me to visit the universities. He spent a lot of time to help me make my decision on what to study and at which university.”
Ban Moon (Left), Scored 3As in the A-Levels at HELP Academy

Very few high-school students have enough information or experience to choose a major. You need the variety and depth of college coursework to determine your interest and aptitude. Most college students change their minds two or three times before they settle on a major.

After SPM or O-Levels you will take a Pre-University course first such as Foundation, A-Levels, AUSMAT, UNSW Foundation Year, etc. You have about 1 year in the Pre-U course to really figure out what to study for your degree. So, the most important thing is to choose the right Pre-University course that fits you.

I talked to a group of students who were advised by an Agent to take an external Pre-University programme. They did not achieve the necessary results to enter into university therefore wasted their money and time. When I asked them why they did not go for the Foundation programme at the private university since they knew that they wanted to study IT and also locally in Malaysia, they just said that they followed the advise of the agent whom they thought they could trust.

4. You can afford to go to a Private University in Malaysia.

My mother whatsapped EduSpiral & he provided vital information to help me make my decision to transfer my diploma. Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University
My mother whatsapped EduSpiral & he provided vital information to help me make my decision to transfer my diploma.
Soon Hong, Marketing at HELP University

If you make the assumption that you cannot afford college based on the “sticker price” of tuition, you will miss out. It is difficult to talk about money, but if you investigate all the options and ask for help and advice, you will find affordable choices.

Not all colleges and universities in Malaysia or Singapore have the same price tag and there are a variety of ways to cut your costs. Most universities offer scholarships, and students are able to apply for the PTPN Loan, EPF withdrawal, MARA Loan, etc

Many students have chosen the cheapest private university to study, not taking into consideration the important skills that they could have gained from a better university. Higher education is an investment for a better future that takes sacrifice.

5. Campus Culture and Community Life at the Private Universities in Malaysia

EduSpiral explained the courses in detail and took us around the campus to view the Pharmacy facilities to help me make a good decision about my future career. Ka Jun, Pharmacy at UCSI University
EduSpiral explained the courses in detail and took us around the campus to view the Pharmacy facilities to help me make a good decision about my future career.
Ka Jun, Pharmacy at UCSI University

When developing your list of top universities, consider the schools’ values such as commitment to diversity, vibrant campus life, and dedication to academic excellence. Also consider the range of student organizations, athletic and recreational activities.

It is important to choose a private university in Malaysia that has an English-speaking environment, students who are ambitious and serious about studies, and a globalised student body. Mixing around with international students will help to improve your English language skills and understanding of different cultures.

Some private universities in Malaysia are known for their focus on lifestyle or known as party universities. There is nothing wrong with choosing them if you are able to control yourself. If not, you have to consider that this could affect your future.

A private university that has a diverse student body with many international students would help students to improve their English-language and cross-cultural communication skills. With globalisation, many top companies in the world are looking for professionals who are dynamic with strong management skills to lead a globalised work force.

In addition, the university’s relationship with the larger community, availability of on- and off- campus housing, quality of food and health care services, and campus security contribute to the quality of university life.

6. Quality/reputation/ranking of the Private University in Malaysia

There is no official ranking system in Malaysia for private universities. The MQA and Ministry of Higher

EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university. Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College
EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university.
Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College

Education in Malaysia has a rating system for universities in Malaysia. It is the SETARA rating system.

Looking at the number of awards that the university and its students have won in competitions related to the course can be a guide in helping you to make the right choice. Many students make the mistake of just listening to advertisements or friends without checking the information.

Students should look at the qualifications of the lecturers at the university. How many are PhD and Master degree holders. Are the lecturers mostly part time or full time? Experienced lecturers would be able to guide students to achieve academic success.

All foundation, diploma and degree programmes must be accredited by MQA in Malaysia.  Taking a professional certificate course with a title “diploma” would not allow you to continue on into a degree programme accredited by MQA.

Students should check with the relevant professional bodies to see if the courses the university of interest are accredited. For example, Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM), Nursing Board, Pharmacy Board, Malaysian Bar, MIA, Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia, etc.

7. The most important factor in choosing a college or university in Malaysia is fit.

EduSpiral took us to tour the campus and helped us to make a good decision after our A-Levels. Jolene & Aaron, MA Business & Finance at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
EduSpiral took us to tour the campus and helped us to make a good decision after our A-Levels.
Jolene & Aaron, MA Business & Finance at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Choosing a college because your friends are going there or because of where it ranks on a list does not take into account who you are and who you will become. College is a match to be made, not a prize to be won. Finding a good fit requires time and thoughtfulness.

The best way to really get a feel for a university is by visiting the campus, taking a tour, meeting with students & lecturers, attending a class, reading the campus newspaper, eating in the cafeteria, etc. You have to feel “at home” at the place where you will spend the next four years of your life, so visiting is important.

For more information and strategies, read our article, EduSpiral University Campus Tours to Help Students Choose the Best Universities. If some universities on your list are just too far away to make a trip, then you can add EduSpiral on Facebook and we can show you videos and photos of the campus and its facilities.

8. Decide What You Want in a Private College or University in Malaysia or Singapore

"I attended EduSpiral's Education Fair at KInta Riverfront after my SPM exam and obtained great information there. Although Asia Pacific University is famous for IT but I found out that they have a solid accounting programme and I can get a UK degree. I got a scholarship as well from APU." Julian Hum, Accounting at Asia Pacific University
“I attended EduSpiral’s Education Fair at KInta Riverfront after my SPM exam and obtained great information there. Although Asia Pacific University is famous for IT but I found out that they have a solid accounting programme and I can get a UK degree. I got a scholarship as well from APU.”
Julian Hum, Accounting at Asia Pacific University

Ask yourself what’s important to you, where you want to be and who you want to become. Then you can figure out what types of colleges will allow you to achieve your goals.

Here are some important points to consider when choosing a university in Malaysia:

  • Size of the university
  • Accreditation of the University’s courses by MQA and other relevant professional bodies in Malaysia
  • Location
  • Student culture – is it an English-speaking students environment
  • Makeup of the student body – are there a lot of international students at the university so that you can mix around with them to improve your English and gain invaluable global perspectives
  • Available degree programmes
  • Hostel choices
  • Available extracurricular activities
  • Campus atmosphere

Which of these aspects are things you feel you must have to be comfortable at a private university in Malaysia or private college in Singapore? Which things are you flexible on?

In addition, think about what you want to accomplish in your college life. Do you want to train for a specific job or get a wide-ranging education? If you have a specific degree programme in mind, is the private college that you’re considering strong or famous in that area of study?

9. Talk to a Knowledgeable & Experienced Education Consultant to Help you to Choose the Best Private University or College in Malaysia

EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students
EduSpiral Consultant Services staff have more than 15 years experience in counseling students

Choosing a the right university to study after SPM or O-Levels in Malaysia takes time, it is a process in finding out which university in best for you. You need to talk to the right counselors who are knowledgeable and experienced.

A knowledgeable counselor would be able to provide detailed information about the course, facts & evidence to support the job prospects for the course and in-depth information about which university would be suit you. While an experienced counselor would be able to analyse your results, understand your personality & skills to figure out which course and career suits you.

A knowledgeable education consultant means that he or she would know the entry requirements, course details, in-depth knowledge of the hundreds of courses out there, career prospects, job demand, professional recognition requirements, accreditation, best universities for the course, and other information that would help a confused student to make the right choice.

While an experienced education consultant would have had counseled hundreds of students analysing their

EduSpiral has more than 10 years of experience in counseling students on choosing the right courses
EduSpiral has more than 10 years of experience in counseling students on choosing the right courses

personalities and skilfully guiding them to the right course and university.

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. After knowing which course, we can then determine which private university in best for that course.

10. Study at the Best Private Universities and Colleges in Malaysia & Singapore

Singapore

Initially I was planning to go to a "famous" design college. EduSpiral showed me that the "famous" college is only good for animation & hasn't won any awards in Interior Design. KBU has won many top awards for Interior Design. Zhi Yih, Interior Design at First City University College
Initially I was planning to go to a “famous” design college. EduSpiral showed me that the “famous” college is only good for animation & hasn’t won any awards in Interior Design. KBU has won many top awards for Interior Design.
Zhi Yih, Interior Design at First City University College
  1. MDIS College
  2. PSB Academy

Malaysia

  1. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
  2. Curtin University, Sarawak campus
  3. Asia Pacific University (APU) 
  4. APIIT
  5. UCSI University
  6. UCSI University Sarawak Campus
  7. HELP University
  8. HELP Academy
  9. HELP College of Arts & Technology
  10. KDU University College Utropolis Glenmarie
  11. KDU College Damansara Jaya
  12. KDU University College Penang
  13. First City University College (Formerly known as KBU International College)
  14. Reliance College Kuala Lumpur
  15. YTL International College of Hotel Management
  16. Point College
  17. Malaysian Institute of Art (MIA)
  18. Nilai University

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling on

courses and universities in Malaysia & Singapore. EduSpiral Consultant Services also represents MDIS Singapore and PSB Academy Singapore.

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide

EduSpiral gave me all the information I needed to help me make the best decision. Now, I am studying my passion. Wei Kang, Culinary Arts at KDU University College
EduSpiral gave me all the information I needed to help me make the best decision. Now, I am studying my passion.
Wei Kang, Culinary Arts at KDU University College

range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.

These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.

If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.

Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Best University in Malaysia that Fits You

How to Choose the Best Private University in Malaysia that Fits You

Choosing the right university after SPM, O-Levels or UEC exams takes time to decide. Students should visit the university campuses and talk to the staff and lecturers there to find out more about the courses, subjects and focus. Make sure you check their facts to see what they say is true.

EduSpiral picked us up from KL Sentral to tour the universities in KL. They provided in depth information which helped me make the right decision for my career. Wen Hao, Biotechnology at UCSI University
EduSpiral picked us up from KL Sentral to tour the universities in KL. They provided in depth information which helped me make the right decision for my career.
Wen Hao, Biotechnology at UCSI University

Students after SPM, UEC and O-Levels should take time to see if the environment and facilities of the private universities in Malaysia are good and that the students communicate in English there. EduSpiral Consultant Services takes students to visit the universities’ campuses to take them around for a tour and to give them in-depth counseling so that they are able to make a wise decision about their future.

Some students choose their university because their friends are going there, or because their relatives said it was good, or the university was famous or glamourous. These are valid reasons but should not be the main reason in choosing the university that would determine your future success.

Remember, you are choosing a university that will help to prepare you to work for the next 60 years of your life. If the university doesn’t equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills, you would get a low salary for the next 60 years of your life.

When making a decision, it is important to decide based on facts and evidence. Many students have told me that they chose a university because their auntie or uncle said that it was good.

But the question is, “What is their definition of good?” What is actually specifically good about the university? They don’t check to verify what is actually good.

When we ask these uncles and aunties this question, they would say because they have heard of the university before or someone told them that it was good. Now, that’s not a really good guide on choosing the university.

You must make your decisions based on facts and evidence, not on hearsay or gossip that is not supported by statistic, research, report or evidence. The decisions that you make now can change your life forever.

Many students spend more time doing research to buy your mobile phone than on choosing the university. Don’t you think spending time doing research and asking the right people about the university that could determine your future is more important? Would you ask a Doctor on how to repair your car?

Ten Reasons on how NOT to Choose a University to Study at

Even though KBU is not
Even though KBU is not “famous” but after we told these students that KBU International College had won many awards for Interior Design, they decided to join KBU.
  1. My Uncle and Auntie said that the university is good but gave no solid reasons
  2. It has the cheapest course that I want
  3. I have seen a lot of the ads so it must be good
  4. It is the nearest university to my house
  5. My friends are going there
  6. Got offered a Full scholarship
  7. Got discount or free iPad
  8. The university’s counselor told me that it is the best university to study at
  9. I like the lake and lifestyle there
  10. The university is famous for one area of study so I assume that it must be the best for everything else related to that area. For example, one academy is famous for 3D Animation & multimedia design, so I assume that it is the best for Interior Design even though the academy had not won any awards for the course.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information. 

Now, choosing to go to a university based on any one of the reasons above is not wrong as long as it is supported by other valid reasons for going there.

The best university in Malaysia may not be the best university for you. In order to choose the right university that best fits you, you have to look at a few important points:

Know yourself in order to choose the right university in Malaysia

Choose the university in Malaysia with the best facilities

A campus tour with professional advise helps EduSpiral's students to make a better decision. Pic - Some of our clients touring Asia Pacific University
A campus tour with professional advise helps EduSpiral’s students to make a better decision. Pic – Some of our clients touring Asia Pacific University
  • The most expensive universities doesn’t mean that they are the best. The university should have adequate facilities in order to run the course.
  • If you do not have opportunities to work with the tools or equipment, you won’t get the training needed.
  • I know of students who would pay RM30,000 for a diploma at a college in KL city without any sports facilities or a student centre when they can get a university with more facilities for the same diploma at a slightly cheaper fee. You should visit the universities before making a final decision.
  • Visit the university to see if they have the necessary facilities for the course such as the engineering labs, pharmacy labs, computer software, biotechnology labs, recording studio, photo studio, computer labs, wifi connections etc.
  • If you like sports, look for a university with the necessary facilities to support your interests.

Choose a university in Malaysia that’s recognised with years of experience

  • An experienced university would be approved by the Malaysian Ministry of Education and have its courses accredited by
    After chatting with EduSpiral on Facebook, I knew which course and university to join. They even picked me up from KL Sentral to drop me off at my hostel. Dexter Leung, A-Levels at HELP University
    After chatting with EduSpiral on Facebook, I knew which course and university to join. They even picked me up from KL Sentral to drop me off at my hostel.
    Dexter Leung, A-Levels at HELP University

    MQA.

  • The experienced university would have its courses accredited or recognised by the various professional bodies such as the Board of Engineers Malaysia, Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia, Pharmacy Board, Nursing Board, Malaysian Medical Council, etc.
  • With years of experience, the university would have set in place systems that work, have networks with the industry, and the industry would know the university’s graduates.
  • Universities with experience have won awards or their students have won awards in the various fields of study thus providing evidence that the programme there is good.
  • How long has the university or college been established?
  • How long has the course been offered at the university?
  • What is the experience of the lecturers? Do they have at least a Masters degree with teaching experience? Are they fresh graduates?

I know of a student whose mother decided to enrol him at a university in Nilai for the diploma in IT because of a 20% discount. Instead of sending him to a more expensive university which is the best for IT, she wanted to “save” on the cost. The student told me that his first day of class, there were 20 students. 1 year later, only 10 students remain in the course.

The same university also discontinued the Electrical & Electronic degree programme and told about 50 current students to change to a different university to continue their course. Although the students were given a refund for the course, it still does not justify their action. The university is not famous for the engineering courses as well. Students chose the university because of the many ads the university had put up.

Recently, a student chose to study at a college which had been upgraded to university college status. He chose to study engineering there even though I told him that the college has no experience running the degree course, the college is not famous for engineering, the engineering course is not accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia. I guess he just chose to study there because it is cheap.

Choose a university in Malaysia that has good Quality

After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Because of Eduspiral, I am able to pursue my studies at Asia Pacific University. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and even brought me to visit the university when I went to KL alone. Jeremy Lee, APU scholarship student
After I finished my SPM, I felt confused about my further study. Because of Eduspiral, I am able to pursue my studies at Asia Pacific University. Eduspiral, was so patient to answer all my questions and even brought me to visit the university when I went to KL alone. Jeremy Lee, APU scholarship student

It is difficult to find out whether the quality of the course at the university is good because Malaysia doesn’t have a ranking system. The SETARA 2013 & 2011 for universities and MyQuest for colleges can be used as a guide but do not follow it blindly.

You can also determine the quality of the course by looking at the following:

  1. How many students does the university have for the course?
  2. How long has the course been offered at the university?
  3. What do other students say about this course at the university?
  4. Is the university famous for this course?
  5. What are the awards won by the students in this course?

Choose a university with an English-speaking student environment

After counseling the student online, EduSpiral met the student & family at KDU College Penang to tour & finally register for the engineering course
After counseling the student online, EduSpiral met the student & family at KDU College Penang to tour & finally register for the engineering course
  • A strong command of the English language is necessary for a successful future career. A campus where the students communicate well in English will help you to improve your communication skills.
  • Research has shown that graduates with a good command of the English language earn higher salaries and get promoted faster than those who are weak.
  • Star newspaper reported that in a research, graduates with a good command of the English language gets a 25% higher salary and achieves promotions quicker. If you want to pass a job interview at a Multi-National Company, you will need to be able to communicate well in English.
  • You cannot tell your future employer during the interview that you would take English courses to improve if they offer you the job. By that time, it is too late.

How much is the budget you have to study in Malaysia?

EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university. Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College
EduSpiral took my father & I to visit KDU University College and talk to the Game Technology lecturer & Head. I was able to make a good decision in choosing the right university.
Choon Meng, Game Technology at KDU University College

A lot of students I talk to do not know how much the budget is for their university studies. Some also say that their parents also do not know how much they have saved for their education. You should sit down and talk to your parents to find out how much they have set aside or are willing to pay for your education. Private education can cost from RM30,000 to RM100,000 not including the cost of living.

If you are buying a phone, the first thing you decide is the budget so that you will know which model would suit your budget. There is no point to go looking at HTC One or iPhone 5S when your budget is only RM1,000.

You are going to join a university that would shape you into what you will become for the next 60 years of your life. It is important to invest some money for this very important decision.

  • Many students have no idea how much their parents have set aside for their studies. It is like going to test drive a BMW and then tell the sales person that you don’t have the money for it. Don’t take it as an insult but it will sure save a lot of time if you know how much your parents have set aside for your studies.
  • Do ask your parents how much they are willing to spend. You can take the PTPN Loan and your parents can withdraw from their EPF for your studies. If you don’t plan, you won’t get there.
  • Financial aids are available such as scholarships, PTPN loan, EPF withdrawal, KOJADI loan, MARA Loan, and others.

Cheapest courses may not have the best environment, expensive courses may not be the best

When EduSpiral students tour the campus & see the environment for themselves, it helps them to decide whether the university fits them. Pic - Students touring the library at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
When EduSpiral students tour the campus & see the environment for themselves, it helps them to decide whether the university fits them. Pic – Students touring the library at Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

If your command of the English language is not strong, choosing a cheap course at a university with a Mandarin-speaking environment may not help you to improve your communication skills. Remember, you may “save” a few thousand Ringgit during the 4 years of study at the cheap university but if you don’t get the necessary skills and knowledge, you will not be able to save money for the next 60 years of your work life because of low salary.

Famous doesn’t mean the university is good

Just because a university is “famous” because of a lot of advertisements doesn’t mean that the university is good in quality. You must ask yourself, what exactly is “good” about that university. Are  you choosing the university because you have heard a lot about it from friends and advertisements? List down what are the good points of the university and the course that you are interested in and then you will be able to make a better decision.

Accessibility

It is important to visit the university or college to see what are the amenities nearby such as banks, restaurants or food courts, LRT stations or bus stops, hypermarkets, and accommodation.

You can go for an expensive university by a lake and then find out that you have to drive out of campus to have lunch because there are no shops within walking distance.

Student culture at the university in Malaysia

“EdusSpiral counseled me through Facebook providing valuable information and advise. My application to Curtin University Sarawak went smoothly.”
Kai Chun, Chemical Engineering at Curtin Sarawak

Every university has its own university culture. Some are party universities, some are top academic environments, some are middle-class, some are mainly Mandarin-speaking students, some are serious, etc.

It is important to choose a university where the student culture fits who you are. However, for some, even if it fits you, it may not be the best choice. Party universities can be distracting to your studies. Mandarin-speaking campuses may not help you to improve your English language skills.

Is the investment worth it?

If your parents are rich, then this doesn’t matter. If not, then you must ask yourself if paying RM50,000 for a diploma to become a mechanic with a salary of RM1,200-RM1,500 is worth the investment. Or paying RM60,000 for a diploma in 3D-animation or fashion design is worth the sacrifice.

Some students would pay more than RM100,000 for a lifestyle university by the lake famous only in Malaysia because of a lot of advertisements compared to paying the same amount for Heriot-Watt University Malaysia or Curtin University Sarawak which are ranked top in the world.

Personal Attention by the Lecturers

Even though the fees may be cheap but if there are too many students in the class, you may not get the personal attention that you need from the lecturer. Especially in technical & design courses, it is very important that the classes are small so that the lecturer can guide you, provide criticisms & suggestions for you to improve.

EduSpiral Represents the Best Colleges and Universities in Malaysia

EduSpiral Consultant Services is an officially appointed representative of top universities and colleges in Malaysia to provide counselling and information on their courses. We get to know our students personally to guide them on making this life-changing decision from our years of experience in higher education through providing information that is supported by facts and evidence, and taking students to tour the campuses.

We have helped hundreds of students to choose the right course and university that best fit their needs. EduSpiral Consultant Services represents

Lonnie Sik, Founder of EduSpiral Consultant Services, has more than 20 years of experience in counseling students and helping them change the world!
Lonnie Sik, Founder of EduSpiral Consultant Services, has more than 20 years of experience in counseling students and helping them change the world!

top universities and colleges such as:

EduSpiral Consultant Services- Your Personal Online Education Advisor

Established since 2009, EduSpiral Consultant Services helps provide information and counselling

We didn't know which college fit us, so, EduSpiral picked us up from KL Sentral and took us to visit 4 universities to help us make a wise decision. SMJK Kwang Hwa Klang students, now studying Hospitality & Tourism at Reliance College KL
We didn’t know which college fit us, so, EduSpiral picked us up from KL Sentral and took us to visit 4 universities to help us make a wise decision.
SMJK Kwang Hwa Klang students, now studying Hospitality & Tourism at Reliance College KL

on courses and universities in Malaysia & Singapore. EduSpiral Consultant Services also represents Northampton University, UK, MDIS Singapore and PSB Academy Singapore.

EduSpiral Consultant Services represents the best colleges and universities in Malaysia offering a wide range of choices for students to choose from. These colleges and universities offer value for money in the quality of education and excellent facilities that you get.

These universities and colleges are chosen by EduSpiral because they represent the best in their fields in Malaysia and affordable. EduSpiral provides in-depth information and counseling on their courses so that students are able to make the right choice.

If you are still not sure what to study, please contact us and we will send you a free EduSpiral Career Assessment Form.

Please contact us for more details.

Please fill up the form for more information. If you do not give your mobile number or full name as in IC, your query will not be answered. Please make sure you give a correct email address and check your email including the SPAM or JUNK email folder within 48 hours as we will email you the information.