Are you planning to further your studies at a public or private university in Malaysia but worried about the cost? Good news! The Perbadanan Tabung Pendidikan Tinggi Nasional (PTPTN) education loan scheme is here to help.
At StudyMalaysia.com, we understand how important it is for students to get financial support for their higher education. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you understand how PTPTN loans work, who is eligible, how much you can borrow, and what you need to apply.
What is the PTPTN Education Loan Scheme?
The PTPTN Education Loan Scheme was established to help Malaysian students pursue higher education by covering tuition fees and living expenses at local Higher Education Institutions (IPTs). This includes Public Universities (IPTA), Private Universities (IPTS), Polytechnics, and Community Colleges.
Educational Loans Offered
The PTPTN education loan is available for various study levels, including full-time, part-time, and distance learning (PJJ) modes.
| Level of Study | Eligible Institutions |
|---|---|
| Full-Time Diploma | IPTA, Polytechnic, IPTS |
| Part-Time Diploma | IPTA, Polytechnic, IPTS* |
| Long Distance Learning (PJJ) | Diploma at IPTA |
| Advanced Diploma | IPTA and Polytechnic |
| Full-Time First Degree | IPTA and IPTS |
| Part-Time First Degree | IPTA and IPTS* |
| Master's / PhD (Full/Part-Time/PJJ) | IPTA |
| Professional Courses (Full/Part-Time/PJJ) | IPTA |
*Subject to approval by PTPTN.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for a PTPTN loan, you must:
- Be a Malaysian citizen.
- Be 45 years old or younger at the time of application.
- Have parents/guardians with a gross monthly income not exceeding RM50,000 (after deducting RM250 per dependent).
- Have received an official offer from an IPTA, IPTS, or Polytechnic.
- Be enrolled in a course approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and MQA, and registered with PTPTN.
- Have at least one semester remaining in your studies.
- Own a Simpan SSPN Prime (15-digit) or Simpan SSPN Plus account.
How Much Can You Borrow?
Your loan amount depends on your household income and whether you or your family are listed as a Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) recipient.
Loan Eligibility
| Loan Level | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| 100% (Maximum) | STR recipients |
| 75% | Household income ≤ RM8,000 (not in STR) |
| 50% | Household income > RM8,000 (not in STR) |
Annual Loan Amounts for Full-Time Programmes
Public Institutions (IPTA, Polytechnic, Community College):
| Programme Level | Max (RM) | 75% (RM) | 50% (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma/Integration | 4,750 | 3,560 | 2,380 |
| Bachelor's (Science) | 6,650 | 4,990 | 3,330 |
| Bachelor's (Literature) | 6,180 | 4,630 | 3,090 |
| Master's | 9,500 | 7,130 | 4,750 |
| PhD | 24,700 | 18,530 | 12,350 |
| Professional Courses | 5,700 | 4,280 | 2,850 |
Private Institutions (IPTS):
| Programme Type | Max (RM) | 75% (RM) | 50% (RM) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation / Diploma | 6,800 | 5,100 | 3,400 |
| Diploma (Pharmacy/Dentistry/Health) | 12,750 | 9,560 | 6,380 |
| Bachelor's (Science) | 14,030 | 10,520 | 7,010 |
| Bachelor's (Literature) | 13,600 | 10,200 | 6,800 |
| Bachelor’s (Pharmacy/Health) | 17,000 | 12,750 | 8,500 |
| MBBS (Medical Degree) | 50,000* | 37,500* | 30,000* |
*Applicable to selected approved MBBS programmes only.
What is Takaful Protection?
PTPTN loans come with group takaful protection that covers death and total permanent disability, 24/7, worldwide. The takaful contribution is:
- Included in the loan amount (for loans approved from 6 April 2016 onward)
- Deducted from each disbursement (for older loans)
Education Loan Offers
First-Time Applicants
- Offer subject to PTPTN eligibility.
- Valid for 14 days from the date of approval.
- Must include signed agreement, revenue stamp, and admission letter.
- To reject the loan, submit a Borang Pembatalan dan Penolakan.
Second-Time Applicants
- Must have completed previous studies or fully settled previous loans.
- Can apply for same or higher education level.
Disbursement Process
- First payment: After submitting all required documents.
- Future payments: Must
- Be actively enrolled in the approved course and institution.
- Achieve a GPA of 2.0 or above.
Note: Loan payments go directly into the student’s personal bank account.
Why Loan Disbursement May Be Withheld
Loan payments will be withheld if:
- The student gets a GPA below 2.0
- Studies are deferred or suspended
Example for IPTA/Polytechnic Students
| Semester | GPA | Payment Status |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | < 2.0 | Paid |
| 2 | ≥ 2.0 | Paid |
| 3 | < 2.0 | Not paid (based on Sem 1) |
| 4 | ≥ 2.0 | Paid |
| 5 | ≥ 2.0 | Not paid (based on Sem 3) |
| 6 | ≥ 2.0 | Paid |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long will it take to receive the loan?
Up to 21 working days after submitting a complete set of documents.
Q: Why is the disbursement amount different each semester?
It’s due to takaful deductions and WPP (if applicable).
Q: What if I graduate early?
You will only receive loans up to your actual graduation date.
Q: Can the money be paid to someone else’s account?
No. All disbursements go to your personal bank account.
Q: How do I cancel my loan?
Submit a cancellation form and an official letter. If you’ve received another scholarship, include the sponsor’s offer letter.
Q: Can I apply for PTPTN again?
Yes—if you’ve settled your previous loan or are continuing to a higher education level.
Apply Now
Visit the official PTPTN portals for more information and to apply:
References
- Search for PTPTN-eligible Courses
- First City UC - Foundation and Diploma in Computing, Design, Business
- LSBF College (London School of Business and Finance) - ACCA Foundations and Diploma
- Saito University College - Business and Design Integrated Programmes
- KPJ Healthcare University - Nursing, Medicine, Life Sciences, Healthcare Foundation, Certificate, Diploma & Degree
- Malaysia Science University (MSU) - Explore 100+ Career Focused Programmes
- Asia Pacific University (APU) - ODL Foundation in Computing, Diploma and Degree
Information accurate as of 2025. Subject to change by PTPTN.
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