University preparation in Malaysia for international students

Over recent years, Malaysia has emerged as a key destination for higher education, attracting more than 170,000 international students from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The popularity of studying in Malaysia is on the rise. However, it's not yet as overwhelmingly sought-after as some neighboring countries in Europe and Asia. This scenario presents a unique opportunity for international applicants to gain admission into local universities, pursue their desired courses of study, and receive quality education at an affordable cost, all within Malaysia’s comfortable climate.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university? Subjects, employer value, percentage of employment in the first year after graduation?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Since the early 1990s, Malaysian universities have been accepting international students. The country's government aims to host over 250,000 foreign students by 2025. As of 2023, Malaysia's higher education institutions include:

• 53 public universities and polytechnic schools
• 50 private universities
• 16 private university colleges
• 10 foreign university branch campuses

International students in Malaysia can choose from various course options, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. There are also transnational programs, recognized by foreign universities for completion in Malaysia, and credit transfer programs that allow students to earn credits based on American or European standards (ECTS).

• Malaysia's central location in Southeast Asia provides a rich cultural diversity that eases the adaptation process for international students.
• Studying in Malaysia is more affordable compared to other countries, with numerous scholarship options available for international students.
• The country's incredible nature and unique cuisine make living and studying in Malaysia an enjoyable and fascinating journey.

• Direct admission to a Malaysian university immediately after completing high school in Russia is not possible. International applicants must complete a Foundation, IB, or A-levels program or study for a year at a university in their home country.
• The Malaysian government and many colleges assist international applicants by recommending schools with suitable programs. However, applicants must also analyze and understand their academic interests, carefully exploring employment opportunities and university options in their chosen field.

General Degree Requirements for International Students in Malaysian Universities:

• Certificate programs typically last one to three years and accept students aged 17 and older.
• Diploma programs generally last two to three years and also accept students aged 17 and older.
• Bachelor's degree programs, more theoretical than professional institutions, take about three to five years.
• Master's degree programs, ranging from one to three years, may require a thesis defense.
• Doctoral programs, typically lasting three to five years, usually involve coursework and a dissertation.

Application Deadlines for International Students in Malaysian Universities:

• Fall enrollment: Applications should be submitted by June for September admission.
• Spring enrollment: Applications should be submitted by November for February admission.

Each Malaysian institution has specific requirements for international applicants, so it's essential to consider both general and individual criteria. Common admission requirements for higher education in Malaysia include:

• Previous education diploma/certificate
• Recommendation letters
• Language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL certificate)
• Academic transcripts
• Application fee payment (receipt)
• Motivation letter
• Additional documents, such as portfolios or exam results, may be required for some programs.

The cost of preparing for university in Malaysia varies depending on the chosen preparation course. Prospective students should research and compare fees and course offerings to find the best fit for their needs and budget.

Legalization is required to use foreign documents in Malaysia.

After 11 years of secondary education, before entering university, you must complete the Foundation program due to the difference in education systems.

Typically, IELTS 4.0 is required for the Foundation program and IELTS 6.0 and above for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

• Completed introductory form;

• Copy of passport;

• Certificate/diploma;

• Transcript of grades;

• Motivation letter;

• Certificate confirming English language proficiency;

• Summary;

• Letters of recommendation;

• Certificate of financial solvency.

Some universities require a GPA above 3.0 for admission. A high GPA is also required to apply for scholarships.

As a rule, there are no entrance exams; for admission it is enough to present a language certificate.

To enter a university in Malaysia, you need 12 years of secondary education or 11 years and a Foundation/undergraduate year in your country/A-Level/IB.

After arriving in Malaysia, you need to apply for a student visa. To do this, you must obtain approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department.

Most universities have 3 application periods per year. The deadlines for submitting documents are set by universities; applications are usually accepted 2-2.5 months before the start of classes.

Malaysia has a huge selection of bachelor's and master's programs in English, for which knowledge of Malay is not required for admission.