This paper aims to examine the factors that influence SPM leavers [n=694] in their choices of university courses. Socio-economic and personality factors such as interest in work-related experience and ambivalence have been frequently cited as the main factors affecting students' career aspirations. Noting that the cost of tuition fees correlate strongly with the affordability of the course chosen, and taking into consideration the fact that the cost of enrolling in a public university is lower than in a private university, this study found no evidence to suggest any significant difference between the career aspirations of students studying in public and private universities. This study, found choice of university is dependent on gender (Chi-square =7.131, p=0.008), that is more female students (67.6%) prefer to attend a public university in contrast with males (55.7%). The study also found that the most important criterion in the decision making is the availability of scholarships.