Higher education in Malaysia for international students

Many people believe that Malaysia is a country where you can enjoy a comfortable stay and exotic nature. But not only! In fact, there is an opportunity to get a high-quality international education.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice would you give to potential students before applying to a university?

Be proactive and start your application early, ideally almost a year in advance. Seek recommendations from your teachers and academic advisors. The earlier you apply, the more time universities have to consider your application, and the more time you have to explore your options and make an informed decision.

High-Quality Education Malaysia’s educational institutions, including many branches of leading global universities, are known for their high quality. They are under constant quality control with the presence of international assessment organizations. The government's active role in attracting foreign students is a testament to the strong educational infrastructure.

Widespread English Usage Approximately 2000 educational programs are offered in English in Malaysian universities, and 60% of the local population is fluent in English. This widespread use of English facilitates a comfortable learning environment for international students.

Diverse Educational Programs Malaysian higher education institutions offer a wide range of programs, including British and international ones like IGCSE, A-Levels, and IB. These programs are supported in the EU and the USA, and international certificates and degrees allow students to continue their education at institutions worldwide.

Affordable Education Costs The cost of higher education in Malaysia is roughly three times cheaper than in the UK, making it a financially attractive option for international students.

Multinational Society Malaysia’s multicultural society ensures a comfortable and safe environment for people of all nationalities and faiths. The country’s tolerance towards foreigners and their cultures enhances the overall experience.

Work-Study Opportunities Malaysia offers students the opportunity to combine work and study, providing a practical aspect to their educational journey.

Scholarships and Grants A significant number of scholarships and grants are available to both local and international students, recognizing serious and academically successful candidates.

Simple Visa Process The process for obtaining a student visa in Malaysia is straightforward and quick, adding to the ease of pursuing education in the country.

Safe and Stable Environment Malaysia boasts a high level of safety and low crime rates, supported by a stable political regime. The country is also part of a select group in Asia with a high Human Development Index (0.804), offering a high quality of life with modern infrastructure and low living costs.

Tropical Climate and Geographical Location Malaysia’s tropical climate and geographical position make it an ideal location for relaxation and exploration outside of academic pursuits.

A Foodie’s Paradise Malaysia offers a diverse range of cuisines, providing an exceptional gastronomic experience.

Structured after the British model, the system here is multi-tiered, mapping to various academic qualifications:

1. Ph.D. (Level 8)

2. Research Master’s, Master’s, Postgraduate Diploma/Certificate (Level 7)

3. Bachelor’s, Advanced Diploma/Certificate (Level 6)

4. Advanced Diploma (Level 5)

5. Diploma (Level 4)

6. Certificate, Professional Qualification (Levels 1-3)

Qualifications are similar to those in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, with an applied focus except for research or humanities.

Junior specialist programs, lasting 2-4 years, are the entry point. A junior specialist diploma enables work in a specialty or continuation to a bachelor's level.

Over the last decade, significant educational reforms have positioned Malaysia as a top destination for international learners. There are 20 public and 50 private universities, 30 polytechnic academies, 70 municipal colleges, and approximately 500 other institutions.

They are classified into:

1. Public (multidisciplinary, research, specialized)
2. Private
3. Branches of foreign institutes

Many are branches of leading global institutes, collaborating in program development and practical activities. Transfer and dual degree programs open up prospects for further study in partner institutions in Australia, Europe, and the USA. They are well-equipped with scientific and technical facilities and thoughtfully designed campuses. Scholarships are also available.

Private institutes, sometimes government-funded, are popular among international learners.

Top Institutes in Malaysia

• APU — Asia Pacific University

• University of Malaya (UM)

• International Islamic University

• Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)

• Universiti Utara Malaysia

To enroll, applicants must have completed 12 years of education. There are several ways to bridge the academic gap:

1. Enroll in a Foundation program.

2. Attend a college or polytechnic in Malaysia on a junior specialist (Diploma) program. After three years, students are admitted directly to the second year of a bachelor's program. English programs are available.

3. Complete one year of a bachelor’s program in their home country, then apply to a Malaysian university.

4. Complete A-Level or IB programs. Applications can be submitted online with a list of required documents, which need to be translated into English or Malay. Proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0-6.5) is a crucial criterion for admission.

The academic year in Malaysia runs from January to November. Upon arrival, students must undergo a medical examination within seven days.

Cost of Higher Education in Malaysia

• Pre-university preparation (17+): 1-2 years, average cost per year $4714, IELTS 4.0
• Professional education (17+): 2-3 years, average cost per year $5185, IELTS 4.0
• Bachelor’s degree (18+): 3-5 years, average cost per year $5892, IELTS 6.0/TOEFL 550
• Master’s degree (21+): 1-3 years, average cost per year $6364, IELTS 6.0+/TOEFL 550+
• Ph.D. (21+): 3-5 years, average cost per year $8249, IELTS 6.0+/TOEFL 550+

Additional living expenses average around $500 per month.

Scholarships and Grants in Malaysian Universities Foreign students can apply for scholarships and grants awarded to academically successful candidates. The Malaysian Ministry of Education offers several scholarship programs:

• The Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS) for master’s and Ph.D. students covers tuition, travel, living expenses, educational materials, medical insurance, and for Ph.D. students, research and publication costs.
• The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Scholarship (MTCP) is available primarily for master’s and Ph.D. candidates in technical fields.

Scholarships are mostly available for master’s and Ph.D. students, with fewer options for bachelor’s students at the government level.

In Malaysia, funding is not only provided by the government but also by over 30 different funds, both public and private. The list of grants is regularly updated, so it is advisable to track the latest information on Malaysia's official educational portal.

• Malaysia is ruled by a king elected for a specific term.
• The main airport in Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, features a real tropical forest.
• One-fifth of all known animal species can be found in Malaysia.
• The country is home to the "walking" tree, whose roots originate in the middle of the trunk and move slowly in search of moisture.
• Malaysia houses the world's largest cave grotto, Sarawak, measuring 600m in length, 415m in width, and 100m in height.
• Malaysia ranks among the top ten most visited tourist countries.
• 80% of all cars and motor scooters are locally manufactured due to high import duties.
• Most Malaysians do not smoke or consume alcohol.

There is no age limit in Malaysia, but students from all countries may not be eligible for scholarships.

Students who have completed a specialty degree in Russia can apply for a master's degree. Universities do not accept Ph.D.

Studying in Malaysia is different in that classes usually start three to four times a year. Therefore, the start of studies can be planned at different times.

The most common certificates for studying in English are TOEFL and IELTS. It is important to note that Duolingo EnglishTest is not accepted.

Education in Malaysian schools lasts 12 years. If the student studied under the 12-year education system, then the school certificate is suitable for immediately enrolling in a Malaysian university. If a student studied under the 11-year system, then another year is needed to enter a Malaysian university. Such a student can:

• Take preparatory courses (Foundation);

• Study for one year at universities in your country;

• Enroll in secondary specialized education in Malaysia (Diploma), and then go on to the 2nd year of a bachelor’s degree.

Universities approve a change of major if the applicant is able to demonstrate that he has a sufficient level of knowledge at the undergraduate level.

The diploma is accepted worldwide. If a student has completed a bachelor's degree in Malaysia and decided to study for a master's degree in another country, then he can do this without any problems. You can apply either with a Malaysian diploma or with a diploma from a partner university.

Private universities in Malaysia offer foundation programs for those students who studied in countries with an 11-year education system to compensate for the difference in education systems.

There is no need to affix an apostille to submit documents. It is necessary to have the documents translated and certified by a notary.

There is no requirement to pass any exams for admission; admission is based on the documents provided on academic qualifications, as well as a language certificate.