THE deadline for online application to enter public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) for Sijil Tinggi Pelajaran Malaysia (STPM) holders is March 23.

The Higher Education Ministry said in a statement that the applications could be submitted by calling the ministry at 03-8883 5801, 03-8883 5802 and 03-8883 5848 or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Those wishing to enter Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) can apply directly through the university’s website at pohon.usm.my.

Meanwhile the deadline for online applications to enter public institutions of higher learning for holders of the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) or its equivalent for the 2009/2010 academic session is March 25.

The online application allows applicants to submit one application and three updates until the closing date.

Applicants need to buy only one unique ID number costing RM10.60 at Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) counters throughout the country, using the ATM or SMS banking for BSN account holders.

Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early.

Those who had applied for courses before the results were out are allowed to update their choice of courses based on their actual results.

For enquiries, please contact the ministry at the numbers mentioned above.