MATSEC AM Computing
MATSEC Advanced Level Computing
More study resources
Cheat sheet
Keep the key ideas within reach.
ExploreKey terms
Get comfortable with the vocabulary.
ExploreStudy plan
Give each week a clear focus.
ExploreCommon mistakes
Understand the traps and how to avoid them.
ExploreCase studies
Put your knowledge to work in context.
ExploreExam-day guide
Prepare for the day ahead.
ExploreAbout this exam
MATSEC Advanced Level Computing is a subject examination offered under the MATSEC Examinations Board, which is part of L-Università ta' Malta. The board publishes its regulations, guidelines and policies, syllabi, current session information, applications, past papers, and marking schemes and exemplars through its section of the University of Malta website. This independent study page is not affiliated with the board and does not reproduce its materials; it exists to help candidates organise revision around the four broad areas the syllabus is built on: computer systems and architecture; programming and software development; data, databases and algorithms; and networks, security and social and ethical issues. It suits students preparing for advanced matriculation who already program in at least one language and are willing to read beyond code, into hardware, data organisation, and the legal and ethical context of computing. Because the board publishes the current syllabus, past papers and marking schemes, preparation should begin there: download the syllabus for the session you will sit, work through past papers under timed conditions, and compare your answers against the published marking schemes and exemplars. Confirm all administrative details, including session dates, application procedures and any fees, directly with the MATSEC Examinations Board before relying on them.
What you'll study
About MATSEC AM Computing preparation
Who sets and administers this examination?
The MATSEC Examinations Board, based at the University of Malta in Msida. The board publishes regulations, guidelines and policies, syllabi, current session information, applications, past papers, and marking schemes and exemplars. Contact the board directly for anything binding: [email protected] or +356 2340 2814/5/6.
Where do I find the official syllabus and past papers?
Both are published by the MATSEC Examinations Board on its section of the University of Malta website, alongside marking schemes and exemplars. Always download the syllabus for the session you will actually sit, since content and structure can differ between sessions. This page is independent and does not host or reproduce them.
How should I structure my revision?
Start from the current syllabus and divide it into the four areas: systems and architecture, programming and software development, data and algorithms, and networks, security and ethics. Cover the theory areas first so they are not left until the end, then practise programming questions regularly, and finish with timed past papers marked against the published schemes.
How much programming practice do I need?
More than reading about programming. Write complete programs and trace code by hand, because written papers reward accurate dry-running, correct syntax and clear logic rather than vague descriptions. Work through past-paper programming questions and compare your solutions with the marking schemes and exemplars the board publishes.
What causes candidates to lose marks most often?
Common patterns are ignoring the command words in a question, giving vague definitions instead of precise technical terms, and neglecting the theory areas in favour of coding. In written answers, unlabelled or unstructured responses also cost marks. Reading marking schemes shows how credit is allocated, which is the fastest way to correct these habits.
Can I resit if I do not get the grade I need?
Resit arrangements are set by the MATSEC Examinations Board, not by this page. Check the board's regulations, guidelines and policies and its current session information for the rules that apply to you, and confirm with the board by email or phone before making plans.
How do I apply and when are the sessions?
Application procedures and session dates are published by the MATSEC Examinations Board under current session information and applications. Because dates change between sessions, consult the board's pages and confirm with the board directly rather than relying on second-hand timings. This page deliberately states no dates or deadlines.
Does this page have any official status?
No. It is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to the MATSEC Examinations Board or the University of Malta. Treat the board's own published regulations, syllabi and notices as the only authoritative source for anything that affects your entry or grade.