Cover image via Canva Teams
Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Teachers play a huge role in shaping future generations
If you've ever thought about becoming one, there isn't just one "correct" path. There are actually several routes you can take depending on your SPM results and long-term goals.
Here's a breakdown to help you decide:
1. The most direct route: Study at Institut Pendidikan Guru (IPG)
If you already know you want to teach in a government primary school, this is one of the most popular pathways. What you need after SPM:
- Minimum A- in five subjects
- Minimum C in BM, Sejarah, and English
- Meet requirements for your chosen subject (e.g. Seni Visual needs A-)
How it works
STEP 1: Apply for IPG. You'll need to submit your application online and choose your preferred teaching major. If you're shortlisted, you'll then go through several assessments, including the teacher qualification test (e-UKCG), a teaching video submission, and a physical fitness video.
STEP 2: Take Program Persediaan Ijazah Sarjana Muda Perguruan (PPISMP) for one year. This is like a foundation/pre-u programme.
STEP 3: Continue to Program Ijazah Sarjana Muda Perguruan (PISMP) for four years. This is your full teaching degree, where you'll learn your subject specialisation, develop effective teaching methods, and gain hands-on experience through school internships and teaching practicals.
STEP 4: Register with the Education Service Commission (SPP) if you want to teach in government schools. After your interview, you'll simply wait for your teaching posting.
End result: You'll become a qualified primary school teacher in a government school.
2. Didn't manage to get into IPG? You can still take a Diploma in Education.
Not getting into IPG doesn't mean the end of the road. What you need after SPM:
- At least three credits (C) in SPM (varies by institution)
How it works
STEP 1: Take a Diploma in Education (two to three years). During this programme, you'll learn key teaching methods, how to manage a classroom effectively, and ways to deliver lessons clearly to different types of students.
You'll also complete a teaching practicum.
STEP 2: Register with SPP (for government schools)
Same process — register, attend interview, then wait for posting.
End result: You'll be qualified to teach at primary schools or can apply directly to private schools.
3. Want to teach in a secondary school? You'll need a Degree in Education.
If your goal is to teach older students, this is the route to take. After SPM you'll first need to complete one of these:
- STPM
- A-Levels
- Foundation
- Diploma
How it works
STEP 1: Complete pre-u/diploma
STEP 2: Take a Degree in Education ( three to four years)
STEP 3: Register with SPP for government schools. You'll need to attend an interview and then wait for your teaching posting.
End result: You'll be eligible to teach at secondary schools (DG41 level) and can also apply to private or international schools.
4. Already have a degree? Take a Postgraduate Diploma in Education.
Maybe you didn't plan to be a teacher at first, and that's okay. You can still switch paths later.
How it works
STEP 1: Complete any degree (It doesn't have to be in education)
STEP 2: Take a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (1 year)
STEP 3: Register with SPP (for government schools)
End result: You can qualify to teach in primary or secondary schools even if your first degree wasn't in education.
