LAST week, we looked at students who had a good GPA in their STPM and were able to secure places in the local IPTA. But how about those who only got a GPA of below 2.00. Is there any hope for them?
Try again
If your GPA is below 2.00 and you feel you deserve better, please retake STPM (pic) . I know many people will say it was a waste of time. But if you are not satisfied with your results, only you can correct the mistake. If you are a good student and have always worked very hard in your studies, try again.
Better your results and carry on with your life. Imagine you are in the final year of your university, and you did badly in your final examination. Will you just walk out? I am sure you will retake it. Similarly, if your STPM results are bad, you have the choice to retake. Don’t worry about what others say.
Below GPA: 2.00
Many IPTAs would not accept a GPA below 2.00 as an admission qualification. However, if you are over 21 years old and have some working experience, you can apply as a mature student. This is another route to IPTAs. You will be required to sit for the APEL C qualification test. Your working experience will earn you credits. Your transfer credits will be taken into account for admission.
Take the diploma route
The other alternative is for you to use your weak STPM GPA to enter a diploma programme offered by local IPTAs, polytechnics, etc. This is almost similar to resitting for STPM. For example, if you intend to do a degree in accounting, join a diploma programme first. Complete your accounting diploma and build a strong foundation in accounting. Use your diploma to enter a local IPTA as a mature student. There are full-time programmes, part-time programmes, and ODL programmes offered by IPTAs. This will lead you to a degree in accounting.
Take the professional route
If the courses you are taking have a professional route, explore this too. For instance, if you want to do accounting, do a professional course such as ACCA, CIMA, MACPA, etc. You can use your STPM and enrol in the professional courses. When you complete your professional exams, you can apply for membership with the relevant bodies. Explore and see if there are any professional routes for the career you wish to pursue. Not all careers have professional routes, but they are worth exploring.
Career Tips
If you were not offered a place at the local university after your STPM, drop me a line.
Send me your transcript and state your passion. After looking at your results, I may be able to suggest some routes for you. Have some confidence in you. If your STPM results are weak, it is not the end of the world. Write to: [email protected].