Study In Malaysia for International Students

Overview

Study in Malaysia for International Students is one of the most popular places for high-quality study abroad, hosting more than 2 lakh International students studying in Malaysia. Politically stable and geographically secure, Malaysia is a nation free of natural calamities. Malaysia offers a secure and comfortable area to live and study thanks to its modern infrastructure and effective transportation system.

Malaysia, with its political stability and geographical safety, has become a premier choice for international students, attracting over 200,000 individuals seeking education in this vibrant nation. The absence of natural disasters, coupled with modern infrastructure and an efficient transportation system, ensures a secure and comfortable environment for both living and studying. Nestled in Southeast Asia, Malaysia boasts a thriving population of over 30 million, offering a unique blend of magnificent beaches, diverse festivals, and delectable cuisine. In addition to its cultural and natural attractions, Malaysia stands out for its top-notch universities and institutions, delivering high-quality education in various disciplines. The academic landscape includes programs conducted in English, catering to students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Its cultural richness, combined with abundant natural resources, has turned Malaysia into a global education hub, hosting 170,000 foreign students from 162 countries across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa by 2023. The affordability of education and living costs, coupled with warm hospitality, make Malaysia an attractive destination for those seeking a well-rounded and enriching study-abroad experience. With its blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and a welcoming atmosphere, Malaysia's multicultural environment enriches the overall study experience, fostering interactions among students from different corners of the globe. Malaysia presents an appealing prospect for international students aspiring to broaden their horizons.

How Much Does It Cost To Study In Malaysia for International Students

Category	Approximate Cost (USD)
Undergraduate Programs
- Engineering	$6,000 - $12,000 per year
- Business and Management	$5,000 - $10,000 per year
- Arts and Humanities	$4,000 - $8,000 per year
- Medicine	$20,000 - $50,000 per year
Postgraduate Programs
- Master's in Engineering	$10,000 - $15,000 per year
- MBA	$6,000 - $15,000 per year
- Master's in Arts and Humanities	$4,000 - $12,000 per year
- PhD Programs	$4,000 - $18,000 per year
Living Expenses
- Accommodation	$120 - $350 per month (depending on type and location)
- Food	$70 - $170 per month
- Transportation	$20 - $70 per month
- Miscellaneous	$40 - $100 per month
Please note that these are average estimates, and actual costs may vary based on the specific university, course, and individual lifestyle choices.

Best Universities in Malaysia for International Students

The following universities stand out as top preferred universities in Malaysia for international students pursuing their studies:

University	QS Ranking	Local Malaysian Ranking	Location
University of Malaya (UM)	59	1	Kuala Lumpur
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)	187	2	Johor Bahru
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)	160	3	Bangi, Selangor
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)	165	4	Penang
Taylor's University	379	Private University	Subang Jaya, Selangor
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)	159	5	Serdang, Selangor
Monash University Malaysia	55 (Global)	International University	Bandar Sunway, Selangor
Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP)	601-650	6	Seri Iskandar, Perak

List of Top Private Universities in Malaysia for International Students

Here is a list of top private universities in Malaysia for international students:

• Taylor's University
• Monash University Malaysia
• Sunway University
• Multimedia University (MMU)
• INTI International University
• UCSI University
• Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
• Heriot-Watt University Malaysia
• Limkokwing University of Creative Technology
• Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus

List of Top Courses to Study in Malaysia for International Students

International students aiming for higher education in Malaysia have a diverse array of courses and programs to choose from. The educational landscape encompasses Certificate, Pre-University, Diploma, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and PhD programs across various study disciplines.

This broad range allows students to tailor their academic journey to their specific interests and career goals. Whether pursuing a foundation in Certificate or a specialized PhD program, Malaysia provides a comprehensive educational environment that caters to the diverse needs and aspirations of international students. Explore the following courses for your study abroad experience in Malaysia, where academic excellence meets cultural diversity:

• Study Law in Malaysia
• Study Finance in Malaysia
• Study Medicine in Malaysia
• Study Business Administration
• Study Psychology in Malaysia
• Study Architecture in Malaysia
• Study Dentistry in Malaysia
• Study MBA in Malaysia
• Study Pharmacy in Malaysia
• Study Engineering in Malaysia
• Study Business Administration in Malaysia
• Study Management in Malaysia
• Study Computer Science in Malaysia 
• Study Information Technology in Malaysia
• Study Healthcare Sciences in Malaysia
• Study Accounting in Malaysia 
• Study Hospitality in Malaysia 
• Study Tourism Management in Malaysia
• Study Architecture in Malaysia
• Study Environmental Science in Malaysia
• Study Multimedia and Animation in Malaysia
• Study International Relations in Malaysia
• Study Political Science in Malaysia            
• Study Radiography in Malaysia

Top Courses in Malaysia for International Students

Course	Approximate Fee Range per Year
Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Computer Science)	$5,000 - $15,000
Business Administration and Management	$6,000 - $18,000
Computer Science and Information Technology	$5,000 - $14,000
Medicine and Healthcare Sciences	$20,000 - $50,000
Accounting and Finance	$6,000 - $16,000
Hospitality and Tourism Management	$5,000 - $14,000
Architecture	$8,000 - $20,000
Environmental Science	$5,000 - $15,000
Multimedia and Animation	$6,000 - $18,000
International Relations and Political Science	$5,000 - $14,000
Please note that these are approximate figures, and the actual fees may vary based on the university and other factors.

Cost of Study in Malaysia for International Students

Considering the Study Fees structure and Living Cost in Malaysia as follow: While the overall cost of living in a country depends on personal preferences for factors such as housing, food, and city of choice, here is an approximate monthly breakdown for living in Malaysia:

Country	Tuition Fees (per year)	Living Expenses (per year)
Malaysia	$5,000 - $15,000	$5,000 - $8,000
Canada	$7,000 - $30,000	$10,000 - $15,000
Australia	$15,000 - $35,000	$18,000 - $25,000
United States	$20,000 - $50,000	$15,000 - $25,000
United Kingdom	£10,000 - £30,000	£12,000 - £15,000
New Zealand	$18,000 - $35,000	$12,000 - $15,000

Please note that these are general estimates, and the actual costs may vary based on factors like the specific university, course, location, and personal lifestyle choices. Additionally, currency exchange rates may fluctuate, affecting the converted values for UK fees. Always check with the universities directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Cost of Living to Study in Malaysia for International Students

The cost of living for international students in Malaysia varies depending on factors such as accommodation, lifestyle, and location. Here is a general estimate of monthly expenses:

Expense Category	Type	Monthly cost Range (USD)
Accommodation	On-campus university housing	$150 - $300
	Off-campus rental	$200 - $500 (varies by location and type of accommodation)
Food	Monthly groceries	$100 - $200
	Dining out or meals on campus	$3 - $8 per meal
Transportation	Public transportation	$20 - $50
	Monthly transport pass	$12 - $25
Miscellaneous	Mobile phone and internet	$10 - $30
	Personal items and entertainment	$50 - $100
These are approximate figures and can vary based on personal choices and the city you choose to live in.

Admission process to Study in Malaysia for International Students

Step	Description	How to do
1.	Choose Your University	Explore Malaysian universities and select the one that aligns with your academic goals.
2.	Check Eligibility	Ensure you meet academic and language proficiency requirements.
3.	Application Portal	Visit the official university website and locate the admissions or international students section.
4.	Create an Account	Register on the university's online application portal.
5.	Select Program	Choose the desired program and review specific admission requirements.
6.	Prepare Documents	Gather necessary documents - academic transcripts, test scores, recommendation letters, and passport copies.
7.	Online Application	Fill out the online form with accurate personal and academic information.
8.	Submit Application Fee	Pay the application fee, the amount varies by university.
9.	Upload Documents	Upload the required documents to complete the application.
10.	Application Review	Wait for the university to review your application, this process may take some time.
11.	Receive Offer Letter	Once accepted, you'll receive an offer letter from the university.
12.	Acceptance and Visa	Accept the offer and proceed to apply for a student visa.
13.	Travel Arrangements	Plan your travel to Malaysia, considering accommodation and logistics
14.	Orientation	Attend university orientation to familiarize yourself with campus facilities.
15.	Begin Studies	Commence your academic journey at the Malaysian university.

Required Documents to Study in Malaysia for International Students

The admission requirements for international students planning to study in Malaysia can vary depending on the level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, etc.) and the specific university or college.

However, here are some common admission requirements:

• Completed application form
• High school diploma or equivalent (for UG)
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent (for PG)
• Academic transcripts
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
• Passport-sized photographs
• Copy of passport
• Letter of recommendation (if required)
• Personal statement or essay

Benefits Of Studying In Malaysia for International Students

Studying in Malaysia offers a holistic experience, combining academic excellence with cultural diversity and various lifestyle advantages. Here are the benefits of studying in Malaysia for international students:

Benefit	Description
Diverse Culture	Malaysia is known for its cultural diversity, providing an enriching environment where students can interact with people from various backgrounds.
Quality Education	Malaysian universities offer high-quality education with globally recognized programs. Many institutions have partnerships with renowned universities worldwide.
English Language	English is widely used as the medium of instruction, making it accessible for international students.
Affordable Living Costs	Compared to Western countries, Malaysia has a lower cost of living, including accommodation, food, and transportation, making it budget-friendly for students.
Work Opportunities	Students are allowed to work part-time during their studies, providing opportunities to gain work experience and support living expenses.
Post-Graduation Opportunities	Malaysia offers post-graduation work opportunities, allowing students to explore career options and contribute to the local workforce after completing their studies.
Modern Infrastructure	Malaysia boasts modern infrastructure and a well-developed transportation system, ensuring students have access to top-notch facilities.
Safety and Stability	Malaysia is politically stable and has a low crime rate, contributing to a safe and secure environment for international students.
Natural Beauty	Beyond academics, students can enjoy Malaysia's natural beauty, from stunning beaches to lush rainforests, offering a unique and enjoyable experience.
Global Student Community	With a large number of international students, Malaysia provides a global student community, fostering cross-cultural understanding and networking opportunities.
Multilingual Society	Exposure to multiple languages, including English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil, enhances language skills and cultural adaptability.

Study in Malaysia without IELTS / TOEFL for International Students

Malaysian universities that, historically, have been known to accept international students without requiring an English proficiency test. Keep in mind that admission policies may change, so it's crucial to verify this information with the universities themselves:

• University of Malaya (UM)
• Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
• Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
• Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
• Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
• Multimedia University (MMU)
• Taylor's University
• Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
• Curtin University, Malaysia

Malaysian Student Visa Requirements for International students: step by step process

Generally, the student visa application process in Malaysia involves the following steps:

• Receive an Offer of Admission: Apply and receive an acceptance letter from a recognized Malaysian educational institution.
• Secure a Medical Report: Obtain a medical report from an approved panel clinic or hospital. The medical examination should include tests for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis.
• Purchase Medical Insurance: Purchase a comprehensive medical insurance policy that covers the entire duration of your stay in Malaysia.
• Complete the Visa Application Form: Obtain the Malaysian Student Visa Application Form (IMM.47) from the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate. You can also download it from the official website.

Prepare Required Documents for Student Visa:

Gather all necessary documents, including:

• Passport-sized photographs
• Copy of the passport
• Acceptance letter from the educational institution
• Visa application form (IMM.47)
• Medical report
• Proof of financial capability to cover tuition fees and living expenses
• Flight itinerary
• Proof of accommodation in Malaysia
• Proof of payment of visa processing fee

1. Submit the Application: Submit the completed visa application form along with all required documents to the nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate. Some countries may allow online submission.
2. Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the visa processing fee, which may vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa.
3. Wait for Visa Approval: Once the application is submitted, you will need to wait for the visa approval. The processing time can vary.
4. Collect the Visa: If your visa application is approved, collect your visa from the embassy or consulate.
5. Travel to Malaysia: After obtaining the visa, you can travel to Malaysia within the specified entry period.
6. Report to the Educational Institution: Upon arrival in Malaysia, report to your educational institution and undergo any additional orientation or registration processes.

Global Scholarships to study in Malaysia for International Students

Scholarship Name	Provider	Eligibility	Level of Study	Approximate Grant
Malaysian International Scholarship	Malaysian Government	Postgraduate studies (Master's and Ph.D.)	Master's and Ph.D.	Full tuition, living allowance, and more
Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan	Commonwealth Governments	Varies depending on the specific program	Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Ph.D	Varies
Khazanah Global Scholarship	Khazanah Nasional Berhad	High-achieving Malaysians and international students	Master's and Ph.D	Full tuition, living allowance, and more
ASEAN Scholarships	ASEAN Secretariat	Citizens of ASEAN member countries	Master's and Ph.D	Full tuition and more
Petronas Education Sponsorship Programme (PESP)	PETRONAS	Malaysian and international students pursuing studies in specific disciplines	Undergraduate	Full tuition, living allowance, and more
Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Scholarship	Jeffrey Cheah Foundation	Malaysian and international students	Undergraduate	Full or partial tuition fee waiver
HELP Distinction Award	HELP University	Malaysian and international students	Undergraduate	Partial tuition fee waiver
INTI Premier Scholarship	INTI International University	Malaysian and international students	Undergraduate	Full or partial tuition fee waiver
Limkokwing Global University Scholarships	Limkokwing University of Creative Technology	Malaysian and international students	Undergraduate	Full or partial tuition fee waiver
Sunway University Entrance Scholarships	Sunway University	Malaysian and international students	Undergraduate	Full or partial tuition fee waiver
UCSI University Trust Scholarship	UCSI University	Malaysian and international students	Undergraduate	Full or partial tuition fee waiver

Best Cities to Study in Malaysia for International Students

Malaysia offers a diverse range of cities for international students to choose from, each with its unique characteristics, cultural attractions, and educational institutions. When choosing a city to study in Malaysia, consider factors such as the location of your chosen university, cost of living, cultural attractions, and lifestyle preferences. Each city has its own charm and advantages, so it's essential to find the one that aligns with your academic and personal preferences.

Here are some of the top cities in Malaysia for international students:

• Kuala Lumpur: As the capital city of Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is a bustling metropolis known for its modern infrastructure, vibrant culture, and diverse culinary scene. It's also a major hub for education, with several top universities and colleges.
• Petaling Jaya: Adjacent to Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya is a well-planned city and a popular suburb. It offers a mix of residential and commercial areas and is home to educational institutions, shopping malls, and recreational facilities.
• Penang (George Town): Penang, particularly George Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant street art. It's a cultural hub and has several reputable universities.
• Subang Jaya: Subang Jaya, located in the state of Selangor, is a suburban city that is part of the Klang Valley. It's known for its educational institutions, including universities and private colleges.
• Johor Bahru: Johor Bahru is the capital of Johor and is located at the southern tip of Peninsular Malaysia, near the border with Singapore. It has several universities and is a growing city with a mix of modern and traditional elements.
• Cyberjaya: Known as Malaysia's technology hub, Cyberjaya is a city with a focus on information technology and innovation. It's home to several tech-related companies and educational institutions with a strong emphasis on IT programs.
• Putrajaya: As Malaysia's administrative capital, Putrajaya is known for its well-planned architecture, government offices, and beautiful landscapes. While it may not have as many universities as other cities, it's a peaceful and modern city.
• Kuching (Sarawak): Kuching, located in the state of Sarawak on the island of Borneo, is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. It has a few universities and offers a unique study environment.

Job Opportunities after Studying in Malaysia for International Students

Here is a simplified table summarizing potential job opportunities for international students in Malaysia after studying, along with approximate salary ranges:

Industry	Job Opportunities	Job Descriptions	Approximate Salary Range	Approximate Salary Range (USD)
Information Technology	Software Developer, IT Consultant, Data Analyst	Develop software, provide IT solutions, analyze and interpret data	MYR 3,000 - MYR 8,000 per month	$715 - $1,905 per month
Engineering	Electrical Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Civil Engineer	Design, implement, and maintain engineering systems	MYR 3,000 - MYR 8,000 per month	$715 - $1,905 per month
Business and Finance	Accountant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Executive	Financial analysis, accounting, marketing planning	MYR 3,000 - MYR 7,000 per month	$715 - $1,665 per month
Healthcare	Medical Officer, Nurse, Healthcare Administrator	Medical care, patient support, healthcare management	MYR 2,500 - MYR 6,000 per month	$595 - $1,430 per month
Tourism and Hospitality	Hotel Manager, Event Coordinator, Travel Consultant	Manage hotel operations, coordinate events, plan travel itineraries	MYR 2,500 - MYR 6,000 per month	$595 - $1,430 per month
Oil and Gas	Petroleum Engineer, Geologist, Project Manager	Extract and process oil and gas, geological studies, project management	MYR 4,000 - MYR 10,000 per month	$950 - $2,380 per month
Manufacturing and Automotive	Production Engineer, Quality Control Specialist, Operations Manager	Oversee manufacturing processes, ensure quality standards	MYR 3,000 - MYR 7,000 per month	$715 - $1,665 per month
Education and Research	Lecturer, Research Assistant, Education Consultant	Teach, conduct research, provide education consultancy	MYR 3,000 - MYR 8,000 per month	$715 - $1,905 per month