Frequently Asked Questions - Malaysia - Study in Asia Insights

Who are the partner institutions in Malaysia affiliated with Study in Asia?

Study in Asia is proud to collaborate with top-tier universities and colleges across Malaysia:

Sunway University
Sunway Le Cordon Bleu
UCSI University
University of Reading Malaysia
Asia Pacific University (APU)
INTI International University & Colleges
UTAR (Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman)
University of Wollongong in Malaysia (KDU Campus)
Asia School of Business (MBA Program, Kuala Lumpur)
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak

Malaysia is a multicultural hub offering world-class education, recognized UK/Australian degrees, and competitive tuition fees.

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What types of institutions can international students apply to in Malaysia?

Public Universities – Government-funded, research-intensive
Private Universities – Offer globally recognized degrees with industry partnerships
Foreign University Branch Campuses – UK and Australian campuses in Malaysia
Vocational & Professional Institutions – Specializing in culinary, design, business, tech

What languages are programs taught in?

Most programs are taught in English
Bahasa Malaysia is used in some public institutions or courses
No need to speak Malay to study — but it’s a plus for everyday life!

What are the English language proficiency requirements?

For most degree programs (especially at private and foreign branch universities):

Test	Minimum Score (Undergraduate)	Minimum Score (Graduate)
IELTS Academic	5.5–6.0	6.0–6.5+
TOEFL iBT	60–80	79–100+
PTE Academic	50–58	59–65+
Duolingo English Test	90–105	105–120+
MUET	Band 3–4	Band 4+

Some universities may waive the English test if previous studies were in English.

What are the general admission requirements?

For Undergraduate Programs:

Completion of 12 years of schooling (high school diploma or equivalent)
Academic transcripts and school leaving certificate
Valid passport copy
Proof of English language proficiency
Application form and processing fee
Financial proof (bank statement, sponsor letter)

For Graduate Programs:

Bachelor’s degree (minimum CGPA 2.5 or equivalent)
Academic transcripts and certificates
Resume or CV
Personal statement or study plan
Letters of recommendation (2)
English test score
Passport and photo

MBA applicants may also need relevant work experience (2–3 years).

What types of programs are popular with international students?

Western Degree Pathways (Our partner schools offer a 2+2 programs wherein students can study up to the first 2 years of their degree in Malaysia and then transfer to their partner universities in countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia)
Business & Management (MBA, Finance, Marketing)
Engineering & IT
Culinary Arts & Hospitality (e.g., Le Cordon Bleu)
Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Biotechnology
Design, Media & Communication
Foundation & Diploma Pathway Programs

Are there pre-university programs available?

Yes, many universities offer:

Foundation in Science / Arts – 1-year programs for students post-high school
Diploma programs – 2–2.5 years, often lead to direct entry into Year 2 of a degree
International Year One / A-Level / UEC / IB options at some institutions

When are the intakes?

Semester	Intake Period
Main Intake	January / February
Mid-Year Intake	May / June / July
Final Intake	September / October

Language and short courses may have more flexible intakes.

Are scholarships available for international students?

Yes! Most private and foreign branch universities offer:

Merit-based Scholarships – Based on academic excellence or English proficiency
Talent or Leadership Awards – For students with co-curricular or leadership achievements
Sibling/Alumni Grants – Discounts for family or returning students
Early Bird or Regional Discounts – For early applicants or students from partner countries

What are the tuition and living costs?

Category	Estimated Cost
Tuition (Undergrad)	MYR 25,000 – 45,000/year (~USD $5,500–$10,000)
Tuition (Postgrad)	MYR 30,000 – 60,000/year (~USD $6,500–$13,000)
Living Expenses	MYR 1,500 – 2,500/month (~USD $350–$550)

Malaysia is one of the most affordable study destinations in Asia with high-quality education.

Can international students work while studying?

Yes, with restrictions:

Allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays
Jobs allowed: restaurants, hotels, mini-marts (no cashiering, massage, or similar work)
Must obtain approval from the Immigration Department
Not allowed to work during the academic semester without prior permission

How does the student visa process work?

Apply to a Malaysian institution
Receive an Offer Letter
Institution submits application to EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services)
Once VAL (Visa Approval Letter) is issued, student applies at local Malaysian embassy
Upon arrival in Malaysia, student receives Student Pass

The entire process usually takes 4–8 weeks, so early application is encouraged.

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Can students stay in Malaysia after graduation?

Yes, options include:

Apply for jobs and convert to Employment Pass (sponsorship required)
Join industry-specific graduate trainee programs
Some graduates work regionally in Singapore or Australia after earning a recognized degree
MBA and postgraduate students can benefit from networking opportunities and internships in KL