E-learning was abruptly adopted as a strategic response to the sudden closure of institutions of learning induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast to the conventional voluntary adoption of e-learning, this study aims to explore a new trail by drawing challenges of e-learning eclectically from recent literature to develop an alternative theoretical model of future preferred mode of learning against the background of the sudden closure of institutions of higher learning induced by the COVID-19 pandemic. The theoretical model was validated via an empirical study based on the responses obtained from 352 Malaysian undergraduates. Results from the multinomial regression revealed that the model was significant (p-value < 0.01). Moreover, Information and Communication Technology infrastructure positively predicted whereas bottom 40% household income category and disadvantages of e-learning negatively predicted undergraduates' future preference for blended learning (relative to 100% conventional classroom learning). Being male and possessing discipline for e-learning positively predicted whereas living in semi-urban area and disadvantages of e-learning negatively predicted undergraduates' future preference for 100% e-learning (relative to 100% conventional classroom learning). This study adds to the body of knowledge by way of an alternative theoretical model of undergraduates' future preferred mode of learning, which may facilitate future meta analysis on similarities and differences in challenges related to e-learning during the closure of institutions of higher learning across different countries. This study concludes with some reflective thoughts in terms of theory, practice and policy about one important lesson learned from this unprecedented closure of institutions of higher learning, which is readiness for blended learning to deal with future unexpected crises.