Lifelong Learning Courses
The School of Languages, Literacies and Translation (SoLLaT), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) offers language and communication courses that promote lifelong learning, professional growth, and personal enrichment. Open to university students, working professionals, retirees, and members of the public, our courses provide opportunities to learn a new language, develop new skills, and build confidence in communication within a supportive academic environment.
Who Can Join?
The Lifelong Learning Language Courses are open to:
• University students
• Working professionals
• Retirees
• Members of the public
• International participants (subject to applicable immigration requirements)
Languages Offered
Courses are offered in the following languages, subject to demand and availability:
- Arabic
- Bahasa Melayu
- Chinese
- English
- French
- German
- Japanese
- Korean
- Spanish
- Tamil
- Thai
Courses are available at various proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced.
Available Open Elective Courses
Open Elective language courses are available for the following languages:
- Arabic
- Chinese
- French
- Japanese
Course Duration
All language courses are conducted over a 14-week semester.
Contact Hours
Course Fees
Note: Course fees are charged on a per-course, per-semester basis.
Registration Process
Registration opens prior to the commencement of each semester. Interested participants may register by following the steps below.
Step 1
Review the available courses and consult the course instructor to determine the appropriate course level and schedule.
Step 2
Obtain the instructor's approval and signature in the section labelled "To be filled by the teacher" on the registration form.
Step 3
Submit the completed and signed registration form to the School for processing.
Step 4
Upon approval of the registration, applicants will be required to make payment of the applicable course fee.
Ready to Register?
Interested participants may download the registration form and contact the relevant course instructor for advice on course selection and placement.
Important Registration Information
Registration will only be considered complete upon submission of the registration form and full payment of the applicable course fee. Participants who fail to submit the required documents and payment by the stipulated deadline may not be enrolled in the course.
Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Do language courses follow a fixed schedule?
Yes. Language courses are conducted according to the University's academic calendar and the fixed timetable of the full-time undergraduate programme.
Can I obtain a student visa to enrol in a language course?
No. Student visas are issued only to individuals enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate degree programmes at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). As the language courses are offered under the Lifelong Learning Programme, enrolment in these courses does not qualify applicants for a student visa.
Are language courses available to international participants?
Yes, international participants are welcome to enrol in the courses. However, participants are responsible for ensuring they hold the appropriate immigration status, as the University does not provide student visa sponsorship for these courses.
When is my registration confirmed?
Your registration is confirmed upon submission of the completed registration form and receipt of full payment, subject to course availability.
Can I register for more than one language course?
Yes, subject to timetable compatibility and course availability.
Whom should I contact if I need to change my class schedule?
If you need to request a change to your class schedule or have any timetable-related concerns, please contact your course instructor directly. Any changes are subject to the instructor's approval and the availability of alternative class arrangements.
Do I have to sit for the final examination, and will I receive a certificate?
No. Sitting for the final examination is optional. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion. If you choose to sit for the examination, your grade will be reflected on the certificate. Otherwise, the certificate will be issued without a grade.
Contact Us
School of Languages, Literacies and Translation (SoLLaT)
Universiti Sains Malaysia
11800 USM Penang, Malaysia
📧 Email: ppblt_courses@usm.my
📞 Tel: 04-653 3751/3154
For enquiries regarding registration, course schedules, fees, or other administrative matters, please contact the Lifelong Learning Courses administration team.
Disclaimer: Course offerings, schedules, fees, and minimum enrolment requirements are subject to revision by the University without prior notice. Classes are conducted according to the fixed timetable of the University's full-time undergraduate programme.