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Other Options

Trying to fund your studies is not always the easiest thing to do, but where there is a will, there is a way (thats's what we believe at least). This page is a collection of suggestions that you may want to consider if other options don't work out. We understand that this is not ideal or comfortable but we can assure you it is worth it.

1. CHOICE OF COLLEGE

How much salary you eventually earn is rarely dependent on which college you attended. So, what is it that is really attracting you to attend certain colleges in particular? 

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  • Most believe that attending a top college abroad is the best choice. Think about this carefully. Why is this “the best”? Is this really the best choice financially?
     

  • Can you financially support yourself or be supported through local college with an option for twinning abroad? How about completing it all locally?
     

  • Can you qualify for a place in a local public university? Can you support yourself or be supported through a local public university until graduation?

2. CHOICE OF COURSE

Not all academic courses are charged equally.

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  • Research and understand the different pricing for different courses.
     

  • Think about your career choices for a moment. Do you think you would get the same job through a different course?
     

  • A-levels versus foundation versus Form 6 STPM versus matriculation. Do you qualify? Which makes more sense? Can the college of choice accept all?
     

  • Certificate versus diploma versus advance diploma versus degree. Which route should you take? Would you want to “pause” your studies or go all the way? Can you qualify for a scholarship?

3. PART-TIME WORK

You may need to work part-time to partially cover living expenses. While this may affect your studies, you will learn time management, budgeting, sorting priorities, and learn to appreciate the cost of things.

 

  • Consider the options for part-time work. Is the workplace safe? How about transport?
     

  • Take extra effort to check yourself regularly. It is a struggle to cope with time management? Seek help to sort out priorities and overcome problems.
     

  • Monitor yourself for overwhelming stress or loss of focus. You don’t want to end up  failing exams or ignoring your health.
     

  • In some colleges, students can apply for part-time jobs on campus, for example as research assistants, dorm leaders.

4. POSTPONE COLLEGE 

You may want to consider postponing college for a year to be able to work and save up some money so that you have enough to start your course.​

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  • Sometimes there is just no other choice. Think about this and be honest about your current situation.
     

  • Be encouraged to take up a job while still keeping in touch with academic subjects so you won’t be left behind when you continue your studies.
     

  • Seek help and guidance to navigate through life. Abandoning their studies can be a tempting option at this point. Never forget the importance of keeping your eye on the goal of graduating.
     

  • Reflect on what you want in career and life. This is your opportunity to grow up faster than other children.

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