SPM and IGCSE are popular examinations in Malaysia. Students and parents are often unsure on which path they should take: SPM or IGCSE? This is an important decision to make as it is the last examination students take before moving on to tertiary education.
Even though SPM and IGCSE are both equivalent qualifications, there are significant differences between them. From cost to the type of subjects offered, there are many aspects that set them apart. Therefore it is justified that students and parents put in a lot of thought regarding which examination is better: SPM or IGCSE?
In this article we will explore the pros and cons of both examinations objectively. We will look at many different aspects such as cost, programs duration and many more in order for you to get a clear insight on both examinations.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with these examinations, let us give you a brief overview. SPM stands for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia and is taken by students who study under the Malaysian National Curriculum. They sit for this exam at the end of Form 5 when they are 17 years old.
IGCSE which is short for International General Certificate of Secondary Education, is based on British curriculum is offered by two examination board, Pearson Edexcel and Cambridge. Students sit for this exam at the end of their secondary education.
What is the cost for SPM & IGCSE?
One of the important factor to consider before deciding on the path you want to choose is your finances.
With SPM, the only cost born by students and parents are for the school uniform, additional study materials and extra tutoring after school if necessary. Students studying in the government schools do not pay school fees and the SPM examination is considered free.
If you choose to register as a private candidate for SPM, each subject’s cost does not exceed RM25. The most expensive expenses might be textbooks and revision books.
Meanwhile, IGCSE examinations can cost anywhere from RM20,000 to RM100,000 per year depending on the school you attend, how many papers you take and the textbooks you use.
There are other options which are more affordable such as private learning centres or hiring tutors or home-schooling which will reduce the cost compared to attending international or private school.
However, students learning from home-schooling or private centres might miss out on socialising with others and extra-curricular activities that are available in a regular school.
In terms of price, SPM is clearly more affordable but IGCSE is a good option for parents who can afford the cost and is looking for an alternative to SPM.
Is There a Difference in Quality of Education?
SPM which is a part of the Malaysian education system is a universal system that is aimed at providing education which is best suited for everyone across the board.
There are more than 10,000 government schools all over Malaysia that is funded by the government to provide decent education without any school fees in order to ensure that every Malaysian child have access to education.
The core curriculum emphasises Bahasa Malaysia, the national language and the teaching of all subjects, except other languages, is done primarily in Bahasa Malaysia. This is in line with the government’s aim is to ensure that everyone from both urban and rural areas are able to follow the syllabus.
IGCSE which is based on British curriculum is the international equivalent of the GCSE examinations in the UK. All subjects are taught in English except for subjects of other languages which will enable students to have a good grasp of the English language.
While SPM’s syllabus which is more in depth is designed to test student’s memory, IGCSE syllabus is designed to test student’s understanding.
SPM’s in depth syllabus does help student when they join pre-university programmes, for example, if you did SPM biology, you would have probably learned so much stuff that you would be finding your first year in A-levels or pre-med a breeze. However, many students spend a lot of time memorising and mugging without really understanding the subject matter.
Meanwhile, IGCSE has a variety of assessment techniques to ensure that students don’t just memorise without understanding but learn, understand and apply what they have learned in an appropriate manner.
In terms of quality of education, IGCSE’s emphasis on understanding the subject matter and the use of English language are major plus points compared to SPM. However, the benefits of the in depth syllabus of SPM cannot be overlooked.
Do SPM & IGCSE Have Equal Recognition?
While both SPM and IGCSE are equivalent qualifications, there is a difference in terms of recognition. Both qualifications can get you into any reputable college or university depending on your grades.
If you are planning to pursue tertiary education in a public university, matriculation or continue on to sit for STPM, SPM is the best way forward. However, it you would be a little challenging to get into public universities or matrikulasi in Malaysia with IGCSE. If you aim to enter a local or international private university or college, IGCSE is a great choice.
This does not mean SPM certificate holders do not have the option to study overseas. After completing SPM, they must proceed to complete Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia, STPM (which is equivalent to pre-university programme such as A-level), or complete pre-university programmes such as A-levels, South Australian Matriculation (SAM), Foundation or even Diploma before pursuing their preferred degree.
IGCSE is internationally accepted and Malaysian students who take IGCSE can apply to private or overseas universities to further their studies. As for public universities and colleges, you have to apply directly to the preferred local universities. The approach might be a hassle and there is so much paperwork that needs to be done. It is much simpler for students with SPM as these students are from the public school system.
Therefore, it is important to reflect on what you are looking for post secondary school. Both SPM and IGCSE is recognised but takes you in different paths according to your decision.
What is the Duration of SPM & IGCSE?
In terms of duration, IGCSE has the upper hand because students have the option to complete the programme quickly. If you are a fast learning student, you will be allowed to sit for the examination earlier and complete secondary school education at the age of 16.
Meanwhile with SPM, students must follow the standard path set by the Malaysian ministry of education where you go through the syllabus and progress to a higher level each year. Students start primary school by joining standard 1 when they are 7 years old and sit for SPM at the age of 17 which is at the end of form 5. Everyone goes through 11 years of education irrelevant of their ability before sitting for SPM.
Furthermore, IGCSE examination is held twice every year. Once in May/June and once in October/November. This gives students the chance to attempt their exams twice in a year. Results for Cambridge IGCSE are issued in August and January which is just in time for university entrance and scholarship application. You will be able to view your marks through the Candidate Result website.
Meanwhile, SPM examination is conducted only once a year which is held in late February after the pandemic. There are SPM papers scheduled in September for any students who wish to resit but only for the Malay language, History and Mathematics paper. Results are usually released in June. Candidates can access their results via online website, or short message service (SMS).
Duration of study is a matter of personal preference and depends on each student’s ability. If you would like to complete secondary education early, IGCSE is a better choice for you.
SPM or IGCSE: Which is Better Suited For You?
Both SPM and IGCSE are examinations of equivalent level and will open many doors towards excellent tertiary education options. One is definitely not better than the other but each has its own pros and cons. Choose the best option for you based on your budget, ability, preferred duration and where you plan to pursue your tertiary education.
While SPM is structured to suit the masses in Malaysia, IGCSE is a worthy alternative for parents and students to consider.
We hope that you will take time to research and consider all aspects before making the decision on whether SPM or IGCSE is better suited for you. What you choose will determine your tertiary education pathway.
If you are wondering where to find tutors to help with IGCSE or SPM preparations, there are a lot of online tutoring websites you can look for on the internet. One of the most reputable online tutoring website has to be Superprof.
With Superprof, you can definitely find tutors in just about any subjects. IGCSE English, IGCSE Chemistry or even if you need help for SPM in English or Mathematics subjects, you would find the best tutor through the website.
You can opt for physical or online learning sessions based on your preference. You can schedule your lessons to suit your convenience. Discuss with your tutors what times are the best fit for both of you.
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
