✕
✕

Malaysia

Malaysia

Explore the endless opportunities in top study-abroad destinations

Studying in Malaysia offers a unique blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity. With internationally recognized universities such as Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Taylor’s University, students benefit from high-quality education in fields ranging from engineering and medicine to business and the arts. Malaysia’s education system is known for its affordability, English-medium instruction, and strong emphasis on research and innovation, making it an attractive destination for international students seeking both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Beyond academics, Malaysia provides a vibrant and multicultural environment that enriches the student experience. The country’s rich heritage, tropical climate, and modern infrastructure create a comfortable and stimulating atmosphere for learning and personal growth. Students can explore diverse cuisines, languages, and traditions while enjoying safe and affordable living conditions. With its strategic location in Southeast Asia, Malaysia also offers easy access to neighboring countries, making it ideal for students who wish to broaden their global perspective.

Highlights of studying in Malaysia

Factors

Malaysia

Average tuition fees (per year)

Benchmark and Midrange Figures: MYR 7,000 – MYR 25,000 per annum depending on the course and institution.

Eligibility criteria

Admission criteria vary by university and program. Generally required: academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL), personal statement, recommendation letters, and passport copy.

Test score requirements

IELTS: 5.5–6.5; TOEFL: 60–90; Some programs may not require GRE/GMAT.

Popular courses

Business Administration, Engineering, Medicine, Hospitality & Tourism, Islamic Studies

Student Visa Rules

Apply through EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services). Requires offer letter, passport, medical screening, and visa approval letter. Rules may change—refer to official EMGS website.

Why study in Malaysia

Malaysia is emerging as a top destination for international students, offering affordable education, multicultural experiences, and globally recognized degrees.

Globally recognized education

With over 100 higher education institutions, including Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Monash University Malaysia, Malaysia is gaining global recognition for its academic quality and international collaborations. The country offers a wide range of programs in English, ensuring accessibility for students from around the world. Malaysian degrees are increasingly valued for their affordability, multicultural learning environment, and strong regional employability.

From engineering, Islamic finance, and hospitality to health sciences, digital technology, and sustainability, Malaysia offers a wide range of academic programs aligned with global and regional job market demands. With a growing reputation for innovation and industry-relevant education, Malaysian universities attract students seeking practical skills and future-ready qualifications. Recent surveys show that over 80% of international students report high satisfaction with their academic experience in Malaysia.

In Malaysia, students can complete a bachelor’s degree in 3 to 4 years and a master’s degree in 1 to 2 years, depending on the program and institution. The country also offers short-term programs such as professional certificates and diplomas that can be completed within 6 to 12 months. With lower tuition fees and living costs compared to Western countries, Malaysia provides a cost-effective pathway to quality education and career advancement.

Malaysia is becoming a regional hub for career development, especially in sectors like technology, finance, education, and hospitality. International graduates can apply for work permits or employment passes through employer sponsorship, depending on job offers and qualifications. While Malaysia does not currently offer a fixed post-study work visa like some Western countries, many students transition into full-time roles through industry partnerships and internship programs. Opportunities are especially strong for graduates in high-demand fields such as engineering, IT, and healthcare.

Student visa requirements for Malaysia

International students planning to study in Malaysia must apply for a Student Pass through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) after receiving an offer letter from a Malaysian institution. The visa application process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on documentation and medical screening.

Documents required for a Malaysia student visa (Updated for 2025)

  • Valid passport (with at least 12 months validity)
  • Offer letter from a recognized Malaysian institution
  • Visa Approval Letter (VAL) issued by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses (recommended minimum: MYR 1,000–1,500 per month)
  • Medical screening report from an approved clinic (required before visa endorsement)
  • Passport-sized photographs (as per EMGS specifications)
  • Consent letter from parents or legal guardian (if the applicant is under 18)
  • Proof of relationship with parents or guardian (for applicants under 18)

Top courses to study in Malaysia

The table below showcases the top 10 courses to study in Malaysia along with key information and average tuition fees for international students.

Course name

Top universities

Average tuition fees (per year)

Business Management

- Top Universities: Universiti Malaya, Taylor’s University, Sunway University, Monash University Malaysia - Average Salary: MYR 36,000 – MYR 72,000 per year

MYR 15,000 – MYR 30,000

Engineering/Technology

- Top Universities: Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Universiti Malaya, Monash University Malaysia - Average Salary: MYR 40,000 – MYR 80,000 per year

MYR 18,000 – MYR 35,000

Medicine

- Top Universities: International Medical University (IMU), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), AIMST University - Average Salary: MYR 60,000 – MYR 120,000 per year

MYR 30,000 – MYR 60,000

Law

- Top Universities: Universiti Malaya, Taylor’s University, HELP University - Average Salary: MYR 48,000 – MYR 96,000 per year

MYR 20,000 – MYR 35,000

Computer Science/IT

- Top Universities: Multimedia University (MMU), Asia Pacific University (APU), Universiti Malaya - Average Salary: MYR 42,000 – MYR 84,000 per year

MYR 18,000 – MYR 30,000

Hospitality & Tourism

- Top Universities: Taylor’s University, Sunway University, UCSI University - Average Salary: MYR 36,000 – MYR 72,000 per year

MYR 15,000 – MYR 28,000

Top Universities to Study in Malaysia

Top Universities to Study in Malaysia (Based on QS World University Rankings 2023)

Universiti Malaya (UM) QS World University Ranking: #70

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

QS World University Ranking: #123

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

QS World University Ranking: #129

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

QS World University Ranking: #143

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

QS World University Ranking: #203

Taylor’s University

QS World University Ranking: #284

UCSI University

QS World University Ranking: #300

Sunway University

QS World University Ranking: Top 500 (by subject and reputation)

Monash University Malaysia

Ranked globally under Monash University Australia (QS #37), with strong regional presence in Malaysia

Scholarships to study in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a wide range of government-funded, university-specific, and private scholarships for international students. Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process.

  • Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) A prestigious government-funded scholarship for international students pursuing postgraduate studies in Malaysian public universities. Covers tuition fees, living allowance, and airfare.
  • MTCP Scholarship (Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme) Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for students from developing countries to pursue master's degrees in Malaysia. Includes full tuition, monthly stipend, and travel costs.
  • Khazanah Global Scholarship A highly competitive scholarship for exceptional students to study at top universities in Malaysia and abroad. Covers full tuition, living expenses, and leadership development programs.
  • Shell Malaysia Scholarship Programme Provides financial support for Malaysian and international students pursuing undergraduate studies in engineering, sciences, and business-related fields.
  • Taylor’s University Talent Scholarship Merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students applying to undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Taylor’s University.
  • Taylor’s University Talent Scholarship Merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students applying to undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Taylor’s University.