Business Administration Course in Malaysia : Complete Guide for International Students

Overview

Studying Business Administration in Malaysia offers international students quality education at an affordable cost. Malaysian universities provide Business Administration courses at various levels, from diploma and bachelor’s degrees to MBA and doctoral programs, catering to students at different academic stages.
Tuition fees for a Business Administration course in Malaysia range from $4,000 to $10,000 per year, depending on the university and program level. Malaysia is home to top-ranked universities like Universiti Malaya and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, recognized for their excellent business programs.
After graduation, students with a Business Administration degree in Malaysia can earn an average starting salary of $12,000 to $18,000 annually, with potential growth in diverse fields like finance, marketing, and management. International students come from various countries, including Indonesia, China, and India, to study in Malaysia due to its multicultural environment, globally recognized degrees, and strategic location in Southeast Asia.

Why Study Business Administration Course in Malaysia

Choosing to study Business Administration in Malaysia offers numerous benefits for international students. Malaysia is renowned for its high-quality education system, with Business Administration courses in Malaysia being globally recognized and affordable. With a strategic location in Southeast Asia, Malaysia provides a multicultural environment that enriches the academic experience and fosters global networking opportunities.
Top universities offering Business Administration courses in Malaysia include Universiti Malaya (UM) in Kuala Lumpur, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) in Bangi, and Taylor’s University in Subang Jaya. These institutions are well-regarded for their comprehensive curriculum, experienced faculty, and strong industry connections, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for global business careers.

Most Business Administration courses in Malaysia are taught in English, making it an ideal choice for international students. Universities typically require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 79 to meet the English proficiency requirement.
Malaysia’s affordable tuition fees, ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 annually, and low living costs compared to Western countries, make it an attractive destination for students pursuing a Business Administration course in Malaysia. With diverse career opportunities and a thriving business environment, Malaysia offers a solid foundation for a successful career in business management.

International Students Studying Business Administration Course in Malaysia

Malaysia has become a popular destination for international students to study Business Administration in Malaysia. The Business Administration course in Malaysia offers students a comprehensive education in management, marketing, finance, and leadership, preparing them for successful careers in the global business world.
Malaysia’s top universities provide high-quality programs, with English as the medium of instruction, ensuring that international students from around the world can seamlessly integrate into the academic environment. Courses like the Bachelor in Business Administration, MBA, and other postgraduate programs attract students from countries such as China, India, Indonesia, the Middle East, and beyond, due to the affordability and quality of education.

The cost of studying Business Administration in Malaysia is relatively lower compared to other international education destinations, and Malaysia’s diverse culture provides a welcoming atmosphere for students. Moreover, the country offers excellent infrastructure, modern campuses, and opportunities for internships with multinational companies, enhancing students’ employability.
Graduates from Business Administration courses in Malaysia are highly sought after by employers, with many opportunities available in sectors like banking, marketing, human resources, and consultancy. International students can also enjoy Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and friendly locals while pursuing their studies, making it an ideal place to further their education in business administration.

Living Cost to Study Business Administration Course in Malaysia

Comparison of Business Administration Courses in Malaysia vs. the US and UK

Top Universities for Business Administration

• Universiti Malaya (UM) – Kuala Lumpur
• Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) – Bangi
• Taylor's University – Subang Jaya
• Monash University Malaysia – Bandar Sunway
• Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) – Serdang
• INTI International University – Nilai
• Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) – Skudai
• Sunway University – Bandar Sunway
• Asia Pacific University (APU) – Kuala Lumpur
• Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) – Penang

Education Levels of Business Administration Course in Malaysia

In Malaysia, Business Administration courses are available at various educational levels, catering to students at different stages of their academic journey:
Diploma: The Business Administration course in Malaysia offers a diploma program, typically lasting 2-3 years. This entry-level course provides foundational knowledge in business management and prepares students for entry-level roles in various industries.
Undergraduate: The bachelor's degree in Business Administration in Malaysia is a 3-4 year program, offering in-depth studies in areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, and management. This level prepares students for professional roles in business management.
Postgraduate (MBA): For those looking to advance their careers, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program is available. This postgraduate program, typically 1-2 years, focuses on leadership, strategic management, and advanced business skills.
PhD: For academic or research-oriented careers, a PhD in Business Administration in Malaysia provides an opportunity to specialize in areas such as business strategy, economics, or corporate governance, typically taking 3-5 years.

Diploma in Business Administration in Malaysia

The Diploma in Business Administration in Malaysia is an entry-level program designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills in business management. This course covers topics like marketing, finance, human resources, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for various administrative roles in business.
Intakes
Most universities offering the Business Administration course in Malaysia have intakes in March, July, and November, allowing students flexibility in choosing the best time to start their studies.
Entry Requirements
To study Business Administration in Malaysia, students typically need:
A high school diploma or its equivalent (SPM, O-Levels, or equivalent)
Minimum grade requirements (varies by university)
Proficiency in English (usually IELTS score of 5.5 or TOEFL score of 60, depending on the university)
Tuition Fee
The tuition fees for a Diploma in Business Administration in Malaysia typically range from USD 2,000 to USD 5,000 per year, depending on the university and location.
Jobs for Diploma in Business Administration Holders in Malaysia
Graduates with a Diploma in Business Administration in Malaysia can pursue various job opportunities, including:

• Business Assistant
• Administrative Officer
• Sales Manager
• Marketing Coordinator
• Human Resources Assistant
• Financial Assistant

Bachelor in Business Administration in Malaysia

The Bachelor in Business Administration in Malaysia is a 3 to 4-year undergraduate program designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in various aspects of business management. Students will study areas such as marketing, finance, entrepreneurship, strategic management, and human resources, equipping them for leadership roles in a wide range of industries.

• Intakes

Most universities offering the Business Administration course in Malaysia have intakes in March, July, and September, giving students flexibility in choosing when to begin their studies.

• Entry Requirements

To study Business Administration in Malaysia, students typically need:
A high school diploma (SPM, O-Levels, or equivalent) or a recognized pre-university qualification (e.g., STPM, A-Levels, Foundation)
Minimum grade requirements (varies by university)
English proficiency (usually IELTS score of 6.0 or TOEFL score of 79, depending on the university)

• Tuition Fee

The tuition fees for a Bachelor in Business Administration in Malaysia typically range from USD 5,000 to USD 15,000 per year, depending on the university and program.

Jobs for Bachelor in Business Administration Holders in Malaysia

Graduates with a Bachelor in Business Administration in Malaysia can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths, including:

• Business Manager
• Marketing Executive
• Financial Analyst
• Human Resources Manager
• Sales Manager
• Project Manager
• Operations Manager
• Business Development Manager
• Account Manager
• Entrepreneur
• Management Consultant
• Brand Manager
• Risk Manager

Master's in Business Administration in Malaysia

The Master's in Business Administration in Malaysia (MBA) is a postgraduate program designed for professionals and graduates who want to enhance their leadership and managerial skills. The program focuses on advanced business concepts, strategic management, financial analysis, leadership development, and entrepreneurship, preparing students for high-level roles in various industries. The MBA in Malaysia is recognized internationally for its quality and relevance to global business practices.
Intakes
Most universities offering the Business Administration course in Malaysia have intakes in March, July, and September, allowing students flexibility in choosing the ideal time to begin their studies.
Entry Requirements
To study Business Administration in Malaysia at the master's level, students typically need:
A bachelor's degree in any discipline (or equivalent) from a recognized university
At least 2-3 years of professional work experience in a related field (varies by university)
English proficiency (usually IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 90, depending on the university)
Tuition Fee
The tuition fees for a Master's in Business Administration in Malaysia generally range from USD 8,000 to USD 20,000 per year, depending on the university and program type (full-time or part-time).
Jobs for Master's in Business Administration Holders in Malaysia
Graduates with a Master's in Business Administration in Malaysia can pursue senior leadership and strategic roles in various industries. Potential job titles include:

• CEO (Chief Executive Officer)
• CFO (Chief Financial Officer)
• Marketing Director
• Business Consultant
• Project Director
• Operations Director
• Human Resources Director
• Entrepreneur/Founder
• Management Consultant
• Financial Manager
• Business Development Director
• Risk Manager
   

PhD in Business Administration in Malaysia

The PhD in Business Administration in Malaysia is a research-based program aimed at individuals interested in academic careers or advanced research in the field of business management. This program focuses on strategic leadership, organizational behavior, business innovation, and advanced management theories. It is designed for students who wish to contribute to the academic body of knowledge or hold high-level positions in research and development within business sectors.

• Intakes

The Business Administration course in Malaysia at the PhD level typically offers intakes in March, July, and September, allowing candidates flexibility in starting their research journey.
Entry Requirements
To study Business Administration in Malaysia at the doctoral level, students usually need:
A Master’s degree in Business Administration or a related field from a recognized university
A strong research proposal outlining the area of interest and research objectives
Minimum academic qualifications, usually with a distinction in the master’s program
English proficiency (usually IELTS score of 6.5 or TOEFL score of 90, depending on the university)

• Tuition Fee

The tuition fees for a PhD in Business Administration in Malaysia typically range from USD 10,000 to USD 30,000 for the entire duration of the program (usually 3-5 years), depending on the university and the student's status (local or international).

Jobs for PhD in Business Administration Holders in Malaysia

Graduates with a PhD in Business Administration in Malaysia have numerous career options, including:

• University Professor (Business School)
• Researcher in Government or Private Research Institutes
• Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
• Senior Management Consultant
• Director of Strategic Planning
• Corporate Trainer/Consultant
• Entrepreneur/Founder of a Business Venture
• Policy Advisor for Government or International Organizations
• Business Development Director

Career Prospects of Business Administration in Malaysia

The career prospects for graduates of Business Administration courses in Malaysia are strong, with significant job growth in the field. As businesses continue to expand in Malaysia, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals in business management, including accounting, finance, and administrative roles.

The salary for Business Administration course graduates in Malaysia varies based on experience and specialization, with fresh graduates earning between $12,000 to $18,000 annually. Professionals with a few years of experience can earn higher salaries, with senior roles in management or accounting offering $25,000 to $40,000 or more annually.
There is high demand for Business Administration course professionals in Malaysia, especially in industries such as banking, finance, multinational corporations, and government sectors. Companies like Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, and EY are some of the top firms in Malaysia hiring accounting and business administration professionals, offering competitive salaries and career advancement opportunities.

Overall, studying Business Administration in Malaysia opens doors to a variety of career paths with excellent growth prospects, especially in the accounting and finance sectors. With the expanding business landscape in Malaysia, graduates are well-positioned to secure rewarding and long-term careers.
 

Application Process for Business Administration Course in Malaysia

• Research and Choose the Right Program

Start by researching and selecting the right Business Administration course in Malaysia based on your educational background, career goals, and preferred university. Consider the course duration, specialization options, and university ranking.

• Check Eligibility and Requirements

Review the entry requirements for the Business Administration in Malaysia program. Ensure you meet the minimum academic qualifications, English proficiency standards (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores), and other specific requirements set by the university.

• Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary documents, including:

• Academic transcripts (high school or previous university degrees)
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
• Passport copy
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) for postgraduate programs
• Personal statement or research proposal (for postgraduate courses)
• Reference letters (if required)

Submit Online Application

Complete the online application for the Business Administration course in Malaysia on the university’s official website. Ensure that all required documents are uploaded correctly.
Pay Application Fee
Some universities may require a non-refundable application fee, which can be paid online during the application process.
Attend an Interview (if applicable)
Some universities may require an interview as part of the selection process, especially for postgraduate programs like an MBA or PhD in Business Administration in Malaysia.
Receive Offer Letter and Accept Admission
Once accepted, you will receive an offer letter. Review the offer carefully and confirm your acceptance. Some universities may ask for a deposit payment to confirm your spot.
Apply for Student Visa
After accepting the offer, apply for a student visa through the Malaysian Immigration Department or the university’s international office to study Business Administration in Malaysia.
Prepare for Arrival and Orientation
Once your visa is approved, make arrangements for travel, accommodation, and orientation sessions. Familiarize yourself with university life in Malaysia and the local culture.

Visa Process for Business Administration Course in Malaysia

Receive an Offer Letter from the University
The first step in the visa process for Business Administration in Malaysia is to receive an official offer letter from the university where you have been accepted to study Business Administration in Malaysia. This letter is essential for visa application.
 

Confirm Your Acceptance

Once you have received your offer letter, confirm your acceptance by paying any required tuition deposit or fees. This ensures your spot in the Business Administration course in Malaysia.
 

Apply for the Student Visa (Visa Approval Letter - VAL)

With your offer letter, you can apply for the Student Visa (Visa Approval Letter - VAL) through the university’s international office. The university will submit your application to the Malaysian Immigration Department on your behalf.

Required Documents for Student Visa

• Prepare the following documents for your visa application:
• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity
• Offer letter from the university
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses
• Passport-size photographs
• Visa application form (provided by the university)
• Medical report (if required by the university)

Wait for the Visa Approval Letter (VAL)

The university will process your application, and once your visa is approved, you will receive the VAL, which allows you to enter Malaysia as a student.
 

Pay Visa Processing Fees

Depending on the university, there may be visa processing fees that you will need to pay. These fees are usually non-refundable.
 

Travel to Malaysia

Once you receive your VAL, you can apply for a Malaysian entry visa at your nearest Malaysian embassy or consulate. After obtaining the entry visa, you can book your flight to Malaysia.

Application Timeline for Business Administration in Malaysia

Scholarships for International Students Studying Business Administration in Malaysia

Studying Business Administration in Malaysia offers several scholarship opportunities for international students. These scholarships help ease the financial burden of tuition fees and living costs while ensuring access to top-tier education in a globally recognized business environment. Below are some popular scholarships for international students pursuing a Business Administration course in Malaysia:
1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)

• Eligibility: Open to international students from eligible countries with excellent academic records.
• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, and other related expenses.
• Details: The Malaysian government offers the MIS to attract outstanding international students to pursue higher education in Malaysia, including programs like Business Administration.

2. University-specific Scholarships

• Eligibility: Offered by various Malaysian universities based on merit and financial need.
• Coverage: Full or partial tuition fee waiver.
• Details: Many universities in Malaysia, such as the University of Malaya (UM), Monash University Malaysia, and Taylor’s University, offer scholarships for international students enrolling in Business Administration courses in Malaysia. These scholarships may cover tuition fees or provide financial support based on academic performance or need.

3. ASEAN Scholarships

• Eligibility: Available for students from ASEAN member countries.
• Coverage: Full or partial tuition fee coverage, plus a living allowance.
• Details: Aimed at strengthening academic collaboration within ASEAN countries, this scholarship allows students from ASEAN nations to study Business Administration in Malaysia at a reduced cost.

4. Commonwealth Scholarships

• Eligibility: For students from Commonwealth nations with outstanding academic qualifications.
• Coverage: Full tuition fees, living stipend, and travel allowance.
• Details: These scholarships are available for students to study in Malaysia at various universities offering Business Administration courses in Malaysia.

5. Corporate Sponsorships

• Eligibility: International students with exceptional leadership potential and academic achievements.
• Coverage: Full tuition fees and internship opportunities.
• Details: Some multinational companies sponsor students in Business Administration courses in Malaysia as part of their corporate social responsibility programs, offering financial support and internships during the study.

How to Apply:

1. Research available scholarships and check eligibility criteria on the university website.
2. Gather necessary documents, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of financial need.
3. Submit your application along with the required documents before the scholarship deadline.