The DB40 Scholarship 2025 is a special program under the Public Service Department of Malaysia (JPA) designed to support students from the B40 income group (low-income households). This scholarship allows deserving students to pursue higher education, particularly in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and diploma-level studies, at selected institutions.
Details About of DB40 Scholarship 2025
- Type: Financial Sponsorship / Variable Loan (PBU)
- Level of Study: Diploma & TVET programs
- Eligibility: Malaysian students from the B40 household income group
- Study Institutions: Public Universities (UA), Polytechnics, Public Skills Institutes (IKAs), and selected Private Higher Education Institutions (IPTS)
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living allowance, and other study-related expenses
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the DB40 Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be Malaysian citizens.
- Belong to the B40 household group, with a per capita household income of RM4,849.00 per month or less.
- Parents/guardians must not be blacklisted by JPA.
- Have already received admission into a recognized institution before applying.
Academic Requirements
- Must pass Malay and History subjects in SPM.
- Achieve at least a Grade C in relevant subjects required by the program.
- Be accepted into a TVET, diploma, or skills-based program approved by JPA.
Eligible Institutions
Students can apply if admitted to:
- Polytechnics
- Public Skills Institutes (IKA) such as:
- MARA High Skills College
- Japan-Malaysia Technical Institute (JMTI)
- National Youth High Skills Institute (IKTBN)
- MARA Skills Institute
- High Technology Training Center (ADTEC)
- Public Universities (UA)
- Selected Private Higher Education Institutions (IPTS) with high industry marketability programs
What the DB40 Scholarship Covers
The DB40 Scholarship provides allowances and benefits such as:
- Tuition Fees
- Living Allowance
- Book Allowance
- Research/Practical Training Allowance (if applicable)
- Accommodation Allowance
How to Apply for DB40 Scholarship
- Visit the official JPA portal: eSILA JPA.
- Register for an eSILA-ID.
- Fill in the online application form and upload required documents.
- Print the confirmation slip as proof of submission.
- Shortlisted candidates may need to attend a psychometric test or interview.
Documents Required
- Copy of MyKad (IC).
- Certified copy of SPM results.
- Proof of household income (salary slip / income statement).
- Admission letter from Polytechnic / UA / IPTS / IKA.
- Other supporting documents (if required by JPA).
Why DB40 Scholarship Matters
The DB40 program plays a vital role in bridging the education gap for low-income families in Malaysia. By focusing on TVET and diploma programs, it prepares students with practical skills that are in high demand in industries, increasing their employability and future career opportunities.
Contact for Queries
For more details, visit the official JPA website or contact the helpdesk:
03-8885 5650 / 5661 / 5690
mbj.bs@jpa.gov.my
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the DB40 Scholarship?
Only Malaysian citizens from the B40 income group (household income ≤ RM4,849 per month) who have been admitted into TVET, diploma, or approved study programs.
2. What level of study does the DB40 Scholarship cover?
It mainly supports Diploma and TVET programs at Polytechnics, Public Skills Institutes (IKA), Public Universities (UA), and selected Private Institutions (IPTS).
3. Does DB40 cover full tuition fees?
Yes Tuition fees are covered along with allowances for living expenses, books, accommodation, and practical training (if applicable).
4. Do I need to pass a psychometric test for DB40?
Not always. Some shortlisted candidates may be required to take a psychometric test or interview, depending on JPA’s selection process.
5. Can students from the M40 or T20 group apply for DB40?
No. DB40 is strictly for B40 students (low-income group). Applicants from higher income categories are not eligible.
6. How do I know if my institution is eligible for DB40?
Check the list of approved institutions on the eSILA JPA portal before applying.
7. Can DB40 scholars work part-time during studies?
Yes, but only if it does not interfere with academic performance. Always check with your institution’s rules.