dear thread starter, use this diagram as u fit in explaining the course of study after SPM. explanation:

this diagram below explains what u can do after SPM, if ur considering tertiery studies. the red dotted lines indicate choices that u can make, and the path that u need to take. but it doesnt explain how big a choice u do have.

but i've arranged the diagram so that the option with the biggest choice sits on the top most part. this means that A-level has the biggest option of choice, and foundation is the least. note that foundation is attached to the degree, compared to matriculation. this is due to the nature of the foundation programme itself, that serves as a feeder programme for the degree courses. not all courses offer foundation programmes. most still require u to take matrics or other qualifications.

foundation courses does not usually offer a break. immediately after u finish foundation, u will start ur degree course (if u pass, that is). u cant choose to change the programme. once ur in foundation, it's either finish it, or start another course all over again.

anywhere in this diagram, u can opt to take a certificate qualification programme. u can take this in between or during studies. it's up to u.