Decoding the Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF)
by StudyMalaysia.com on April 17, 2025 | Higher Education in Malaysia, Top Stories
If you’ve ever felt confused by all the different courses — Foundation, Diploma, Degree, and more — don’t worry, you’re not alone. That’s where the Malaysian Qualifications Framework (MQF) comes in. It’s like a roadmap that helps you understand how each qualification fits into your study and career journey in Malaysia.
What Is the MQF?
The MQF is a national system created by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) to standardise all qualifications — from certificate to PhD level — across public and private universities, colleges, polytechnics, and skills training providers.
It helps make sure that every qualification meets a certain standard and that you can move from one level to the next (like upgrading from a diploma to a degree, or a foundation to a bachelor's programme).
The Main Levels in MQF
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main levels:
Malaysian Qualifications Framework 2nd Edition
There’s also Foundation / Matriculation, which isn't officially numbered in the MQF but serves as a stepping stone into Level 6 (Bachelor’s Degree).
Can You Move Between Levels?
Yes — one of the best parts of MQF is that it supports flexible progression. For example:
- You can start with a Certificate (Level 3), move up to a Diploma (Level 4), and then do a Bachelor’s Degree (Level 6).
- If you’ve finished a Foundation programme, you can jump straight into a degree.
- Even if you have work experience or informal learning, there are APEL (Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning) options to help you qualify for further study.
Why Should You Care?
- Helps you choose the right course path (no more guessing what comes after a diploma!)
- Ensures your qualification is recognised, especially when transferring or applying for jobs
- Makes it easier to study abroad, as MQF qualifications are comparable with many international frameworks
Summary
Think of MQF as your education GPS. Whether you’re aiming for a diploma, a degree, or even a master's one day, it shows you how to get there — step by step.
References
- Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) Official Website,
- Chart: Malaysian Qualifications Framework 2nd Edition,
- Wikipedia: Malaysian Qualifications Framework,
- Search Programmes with MQA qualification: /what/
You May Also Be Interested In...
Deciding Where And What To Study
“Your best years in education are those spent in college or universi...Private Higher Educational Institutions: Study Opportunities For Upper & Post Secondary School Leavers
Private Higher Educational Institutions (PHEIs) or better known as Ins...The Malaysian Higher Education System - An Overview
A Snapshot of Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia The higher ed...Private Education Route for Bachelor's Degree Programmes and Professional Qualifications
From the early 1980s, Malaysian private colleges pioneered in the prov...A Glance At The Malaysian Education System
Children in Malaysia begin their education as early as at the age of f...Bachelor Degrees
BA, Bsc, BEng, LLB – Hons or without – major, minor and specialisa...
You can discover a wide range of universities and colleges in Malaysia that align with your academic goals , campus preferences, location and within your budget. Find the perfect place to pursue your studies and achieve your aspirations. Parents too, can explore a list of quality international schools for their children.
