Starting 2005, the selection process for the programme is done through a race-based quota system, where 90% of the places are reserved for bumiputeras students while the remaining 10% are open for non-bumiputeras.
[2] This has sparked multiple controversies and backlashes that upsets the non-Bumiputera community such as not being privileged to continue studying in the programme despite having excellent results.
One has to fulfill the requirements stated based on the grades achieved in the SPM result obtained in the previous year.
The selection of potential candidates entering the programme are based on the result of the trial examination for Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).
Prior to 2019, seats for matriculation programme has been increased from 25,000 to 40,000 but the 90:10 quota retained, sparking controversy especially among non-Malay political parties and community for marginalizing Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) candidates.