not really sure bout how good UTAR is in engineering sector but u can expect a lot of new stuffs since their new campus in Setapak is just newly built. neways, to thread starter, usually ppl opt for TARC coz they can't afford to go to private institutions that costs a bomb. if u want, u can apply for PTPTN loan in ur diploma year, i believe these 2 years is enuff for u evaluate on which road u should take after ur diploma, either the top up program or UTAR degree. so just say, when u enter UTAR and u got ur ptptn loan rejected, u can always opt for Kojadi loan from MCA, but take note that their interest is quite high, last i heard it was 8%.