Study in Malaysia

Malaysia has been steadily emerging as one of the preferred study abroad destinations among international students. As per data from EMGS’s official website, in Q2 2025 (April-June), Malaysia received 1,388 applications from India. The Malaysian government is aiming to attract 2.5 lakh foreign students by 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing international education hubs in Asia.

International students are choosing Malaysia for higher studies because of multiple reasons: affordable tuition fees and cost of living, globally recognised degrees, diverse student community, top universities ranked in QS World Rankings, availability of courses in English, part-time job opportunities, and good career prospects after graduation.

Studying in Malaysia

Malaysia offers a wide range of courses across different streams. Students interested in pursuing STEM courses, business and management programmes, IT and technology courses, or even medicine can find good quality universities here. One of the biggest advantages is that education costs in Malaysia are lower compared to Western countries, but students still gain an international degree that is widely accepted across the world.

Top universities in Malaysia like University of Malaya (ranked 58th in QS World Rankings), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Universiti Sains Malaysia, and Universiti Putra Malaysia attract thousands of international students every year. Apart from public universities, Malaysia also has reputed private universities like Taylor’s University and UCSI University offering specialised programmes.

The cost of studying in Malaysia ranges between RM 11,000 to RM 25,000 (INR 2.5 Lakh to 5 Lakh) per year in public universities and around RM 8,000 to  RM 50,000 (INR 1.6 Lakh to 10 Lakh) per year in private universities, which is quite similar to Indian universities. Living expenses in Malaysia are also reasonable, averaging around INR 25,000 per month. Students are allowed to work part-time under 20 hours per week, which helps cover living costs.

Graduates from Malaysian universities also benefit from good post-study opportunities. The average salaries in fields like finance, IT and technology, and healthcare are considered attractive, especially given the lower cost of living and favourable taxation policies in the country.

Latest Updates for Studying in Malaysia 2025:

From July 1, 2025, onwards, Malaysia has imposed a 6% service tax on private education for international students under the revised Sales and Service Tax (SST) rules. This will directly impact international students enrolling in private preschools, schools, colleges, universities, and language centres in Malaysia.

Study in Malaysia 2025: Highlights

Education System in Malaysia

The Malaysian education system is structured into primary, secondary, and post-secondary levels. When it comes to higher education, Malaysia has two main types of universities: public universities and private universities. There are many other branch campuses of international universities and private colleges that provide diploma and degree pathways.

Types of Higher Education Institutions in Malaysia:

• Public Universities

• Private Universities

• Foreign University Branch Campuses

• Private Colleges and Language Centres

Top 10 Courses in Malaysia in 2025

Engineering, business, hospitality, information technology, and healthcare are among the most sought-after courses in Malaysia. With globally recognised degrees and affordable tuition fees, international students have a wide range of options to choose from. Some of the popular courses in Malaysia are:

• Engineering

• Business and Management

• Information Technology

• Medicine and Healthcare

• Hospitality and Tourism

• Finance and Accounting

• Biotechnology

• Data Science

• Architecture

• Media and Communication

Admission Requirements to Study in Malaysian Universities

Admission requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Malaysia will vary depending on the course and institution. Below are the general admission requirements to study in Malaysia:

• Academic transcripts (10+2 for UG, bachelor’s degree for PG)

• English proficiency test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, or MUET – Malaysian University English Test)

• Statement of Purpose (SOP)

• Letter of Recommendations (LORs)

• Copy of valid passport

• Proof of finances (minimum ~INR 8 lakhs for visa purposes)

• Updated resume or CV (for PG courses)

• Medical fitness certificate

Scholarships to Study in Malaysia

International students can apply for both government and university-specific scholarships. The Malaysian Government Scholarship is one of the most popular options, covering tuition fees and providing a living allowance for postgraduate and PhD students. For undergraduate students, several private universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.

Candidates looking for scholarships to study in Malaysia can explore the most comprehensive study-abroad scholarships listed on our website. 

Also Check: Scholarship for International Students

Student Visa in Malaysia

Malaysia issues a single type of student visa, but the requirements and process differ slightly depending on the level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, or PhD). Check out the table below to understand the different factors related to the Malaysian student visa:

International students applying for admission to Malaysia must note that visa applications are processed through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) system. Applicants need to submit an offer letter, passport, academic documents, proof of funds, medical report, and a personal bond document signed by the university. It is mandatory to hold a valid Malysian student visa to begin studies in Malaysia.

Post-Study Work Permit in Malaysia

Malaysia does not have a formal post-study work visa policy like some Western countries. However, international graduates can apply for employment in Malaysia after completing their studies if they secure a job offer. Work permits are usually issued under the Employment Pass scheme, depending on the job sector and employer.

Popular job sectors for international graduates include finance, information technology, and healthcare, where salaries are considered competitive compared to the low cost of living.

Malaysia Permanent Residence Permit

A Malaysian Permanent Residence (PR) gives foreign people the right to live and work in Malaysia without any time limit. A Malaysia Permanent Resident Identity Card (often called the "Red IC") serves as proof of this status.

Students cannot get PR directly just after graduation. To be eligible for PR in Malaysia, you need to stay and work for a few years, show good economic contribution, or sometimes through marriage to a Malaysian citizen.

The PR in Malaysia is normally given under categories like investment, employment, or special talent, but final approval is always with the Malaysian government.