Study in Malaysia for International Students

According to UNESCO, Malaysia is the world’s 11^th-best country for international students who want to study abroad. Study in Malaysia for international students with its growing and thriving is internationally recognized in terms of education and is attracting thousands of international students to pursue higher education in Malaysia.

One of the reasons, Malaysia is drawing international students is because the education and the living cost in the country is quite affordable way less than other countries of the region and in the world overall. The average tuition fee in Malaysian universities is MYR 7,000 – MYR 30,000. The universities in Malaysia have recognized English as their academic language therefore, the students who want to study in Malaysia have to go for the English Proficiency Test before getting admission to Malaysian University. Most universities accept 6.5 bands in IELTS AND 92 scores in TOEFL for English language certifications.

Moreover, the universities also offer English improvement courses to their students. Students are recommended to take 1-2 courses in Malay to get exposure and learn the local language of Malaysia. Usually, Malaysian universities open their admissions in September and February every year. However, below is the comprehensive guide that will help the students secure admission to Universities Malaysia and if you are looking for it you should check the details described below:

Benefits of Studying in Malaysia

Malaysia has gained recognition for its world-class education and facilities. Here’s why you should consider studying in Malaysia:

Quality Education: Malaysian universities are renowned for their high academic standards and modern teaching methods. Also recognized by UNESCO

Global Recognition: Any degree from Malaysia is recognized worldwide, allowing you to practice and work in various countries.

Multicultural Environment: Malaysia’s diverse culture ensures a welcoming atmosphere for international students.

English-Medium Programs: Most programs are conducted in English, eliminating language barriers.

Malaysia International Scholarships 

Following are the few scholarships that the Malaysian Government, welfare organizations, and Universities are offering in which international students can apply:

1. Malaysian Government Scholarship 2024
2. Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships
3. APU Merit Scholarship
4. Graduate Research Scholarship
5. Malaysia International Bursaries at International Medical University

1. Malaysian Government Scholarship 2024

The Malaysian Government Scholarship program is an excellent initiative by the Malaysian Government to fascinate students from all across the world to pursue advanced education in Malaysia. The courses offered under this fully funded scholarship program may include biotechnology, environmental studies, infrastructure and utility, economics, Islamic finance, information and communication technology, and many others.  Applicants can submit their application from May 15, 2024, till Jun 15, 2024. The universities giving admission under this scholarship program include:

• Universiti Sains Malaysia
• Multimedia University
• Universiti Malaysia Kelatan
• Universiti PutraMalaysia
• University Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia
• Universiti Malaysia Sabah
• University Teknologi Malaysia & many others

2. Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships

The Malaysian Commonwealth Scholarship offers various fellowships and scholarships to international students. The scholarship is offered To Masters students and Fellowship to Doctorate students. This fully funded scholarship covers tuition fees, airfare, monthly maintenance allowance, annual grant for books, medical and health insurance, internal travel allowance, thesis allowance, and study visa. The eligibility criteria to fall under this program is that the student has a CGPA of 3.5/4, 6.5 IELTS band, or a TOEFL 92 score. Annual deadlines for this program usually end in December.  

3. APU Merit Scholarship

The Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation offers scholarships for bachelor's and Master's degree programs. The scholarship is fully funded and merit-based, granted to those students who have a CGPA OF 3.70. High academic performance and an impressive profile can help students to secure this scholarship. The scholarship is granted on a first come first serve. Therefore, students are advised to apply as soon as the call for application opens. The applications for admissions are open from 24 February 2024.

4. Graduate Research Scholarship

The University of Putra Malaysia is offering a Graduate Research Program to international students enrolled in the bachelor's program degree. THE Scholarship is merit-based and is awarded to those students who have a good academic record and excellent performance in extracurricular activities. The candidates who got selected are granted 1125-1500 MYR. For September intake the last date to apply under this scholarship program is not announced yet.

5. Malaysia International Bursaries at International Medical University

The International Medical University in Malaysia grants scholarships to exceptionally deserving international candidates. The program is designed for those students who want to pursue their medical education in Malaysia. The financial grant offered to medical students is RM 5000, RM 8000, and RM 8400 during their Master's, the requirement for this scholarship is only an impressive application with a minimum CGPA. The applications for September intake are open from 15 July 2024 and will end on 18 August, 20204.

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Universities in Malaysia for International Students

1. University of Malaya
2. University Putra Malaysia
3. University Kuala Lumpur
4. University of Kebangsaan Malaysia
5. University Sains Malaysia

1. University of Malaya

The University of Malaya is the leading University in Malaysia. The university offers various courses in the fields of physics, mathematics, Social Science, Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Quantum Physics, etc. To get admission to the university IELTS is a must. The average tuition fee of the university is 1500 USD per year. The deadline for the undergraduate program is March 31, 2024, and the last date to apply for the postgraduate program is November 31, 2024.

2. University Putra Malaysia

The University of Putra Malaysia offers a wide range of courses and is one of the renowned universities in the country. The courses include Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Biology, Social Sciences, and many more. The average tuition fee for admission is 3000-5000 USD per year. The last date to apply is 17 MARCH 2024.

3. University Kuala Lumpur

The University of Kuala Lumpur was founded in the year 2002. The programs of bachelor's and master's include courses like Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Biology, Social Sciences, Organic Chemistry etc. The average tuition fee of the university is 1500-8000 USD per year. The last date to apply for the year 2024-5 is 30^th August 2024.

4. University of Kebangsaan Malaysia

University of Kebangsaan Malaysia UKM established in 1971 is a leading university of Malaysia. The university offers a diverse range of courses in the fields of Chemistry, Medicine, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Science, Biology, Social Sciences, Organic Chemistry, accounting and physics. The average tuition fee of the institute is 3000-5000 USD per year. IELTS is necessary to get admission to the university. The admissions are open from 31^st MARCH and the last date to apply for admission is 7^th April 2024.

5. University Sains Malaysia

University Sains Malaysia is a research university in Malaysia ranked 137^th in the world by QS World Universities ranking. The main thrust of the university is development of higher education in the fields of Applied Sciences, Natural Sciences, Building Sciences & Technology Medical and Health Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Education. USM is the only University in Malaysia, enjoying special status rendered by the Ministry of Higher Education. The average tuition fee of the university ranges from 3,000 to 6000 USD. The admissions for spring session 2024 are open from 25 March to 4 August 2024.

Admission Requirements and Documents List

In Malaysia each university has its requirements for international students so once the students select their university, they should go through the application process of the university. However, there are a few basic requirements for admission to Malaysian universities:

• Filled Application Form
• Copy of valid passport
• Passport-size photographs (at least 2) white background
• Educational Transcripts
• English proficiency Certificate (IELTS, TOFEL, etc.)
• CV/Resume
• Recommendation Letters (2 at least)
• Intent Letter
• Employment/Experience Certificate
• Health Insurance/Examination Report
• Receipt of paid admission fee
• Research Proposal (For Masters and PhD)

Visa Requirements and Documents List

International students who want to study in Malaysia will need a ‘Student Pass,’ which is also called student visa. Students can do this online or can ask the university in which they are applying for admission to do it on the behalf of student. Irrespective of who applies students need to prepare the following:

• Copy of university acceptance/offer letter
• Photograph (Passport sized)
• Academic transcripts and relevant certificates. 
• Insurance Proof
• Copy of passport
• Certification of English Proficiency
• Health Certificate
• Proof of sufficient funds i.e., bank statement (1000 USD at least) for your studies.  

Cost of Living in Italy

Malaysian Universities offer quality education at a very affordable tuition fee than other countries in the region. Moreover, living in Malaysia for international students is quite affordable. The on-campus housing is quite cheap and students have to pay 150 MYR roughly every month.  However, the monthly cost of living including food, transport, and other expenses ranges from 1000-1200 MYR on average. The standard living cost breakdown could be:

Part-time working and Income

During the semester students are not allowed to work but, during the semester break, they are allowed to work 20 hours per week. The average hourly wage in Malaysia for students is 3-5 USD which is quite good. The students can easily manage their studies and cost of living by working 20 hours per week. Part-time work not only gives Financial Support but also Skill DEVELOPMENT and work Experience and helps in social networking.

After Study work permit/Future opportunities

For international graduates, the Malaysian Government has introduced post-study work opportunities. International students, depending on their qualifications can get the MY Second Home (MM2H) program which can help them stay and earn a livelihood in Malaysia. Moreover, an employment pass is issued to skilled workers and laborers internationally.  After graduating students need to get an employment pass or work permit to continue their jobs in the country and after working for a specific period, they can get citizenship in Malaysia.