Study in Malaysia: Top Universities, Courses, and Admissions

Have you ever dreamed of getting a top-notch education abroad but are worried about breaking the bank or living in an unsafe place? Well, pack your bags because if you study in Malaysia, all these problems will be taken care of automatically!

This vibrant Southeast Asian nation is quickly becoming a hotspot for international students, and for good reason. Did you know? According to the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025, Malaysia aims to attract over 2,50,000 international students by 2025

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When you study in Malaysia, it means you’re setting yourself up for a stable, safe environment with modern infrastructure and reliable transportation. Ready for the adventure?

Key Highlights 

Ready to explore why you should study in Malaysia? Here’s a table tailored just for you. It provides a detailed snapshot view of everything you will read in the blog post.

Why Study in Malaysia?

International students in Malaysia can work part-time in restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini markets, and hotels, but not as cashiers, singers, masseurs, musicians, guest relations officers, or in any activity deemed immoral. 

This work flexibility is just one of the many reasons why Malaysia is an attractive destination for international students.

Need more reasons to understand why you should study in Malaysia? Let’s give you 5. 

1. You’re Setting Yourself Up for High-Quality Education

Malaysian universities, such as the University of Malaya, offer programs recognised globally, ensuring your degree is respected and valued worldwide.

For medical studies, institutions like Universiti Sains Malaysia are highly regarded, making MBBS in Malaysia for Indian students a popular choice.

2. The Tuition Fees is Super Affordable

The tuition fee in Malaysia is considerably lower compared to Western countries, ranging from INR 1.35 lakh to 4.50 lakh (MYR 7.5k to 25k) per semester. In contrast, in the US, tuition fees range from approximately INR 15 lakh to INR 37 lakh (USD 20k to USD 50k) per year. 

The Malaysian education system maintains high standards and provides excellent value for money, making it an attractive option if you are cost-conscious. 

3. You Will Find Programmes in English

Many universities in Malaysia offer English programs, allowing you to study in Malaysia without IELTS. This makes it easier for international students to integrate and succeed academically.

Here are some alternative English proficiency tests that Malaysian universities accept:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): A popular alternative to IELTS, with a required score typically ranging from 79 to 95.
• PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English Academic): Another accepted test with a required score usually between 58 and 64.
• MUET (Malaysian University English Test): Specifically designed for Malaysian universities, with a required Band score of 4 and above.
• Cambridge English Qualifications: C1 Advanced (CAE) and C2 Proficiency (CPE) usually require scores of 169 and above for CAE and 180 and above for CPE.

4. You Get Financial Help in the Form of a Scholarship in Malaysia for International Students

Numerous scholarships are available for international students in both private and public universities in Malaysia. 

For example, the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) provides a monthly stipend of MYR 1,500 (INR 27,000). These scholarships significantly reduce the cost of studying in Malaysia.

5. Malaysia is Very Safe for International Students

Malaysia’s consistent safety record and welcoming attitude towards international students make it an ideal study destination. According to the 2023 Safety Index by Numbeo, Malaysia has a Safety Index score of 50.46, which positions it as a relatively safe country, especially when compared to many other nations in the region

Choosing to study in Malaysia, whether at a private university or a public institution, provides an enriching educational experience with ample support and opportunities for international students. 

 Top 5 Universities to Study in Malaysia

Did you know that Malaysia established branch campuses in EduCity, Johor, a 350-acre development just 5 km north of Singapore? This educational hub hosts eight international branches of prestigious universities, providing students with world-class education and facilities in a single, accessible location.

Having said that, it’s time for you to look at the top 5 universities in Malaysia. 

Whether you’re interested in a private university in Malaysia or public, here’s a list of the best institutions to consider based on their QS World Ranking 2025. This will help you explore all your options for studying in Malaysia as an international student: 

1. University of Malaya 

The University of Malaya, established in 1949, is Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious institution. Imagine yourself attending classes in one of Malaysia’s top universities, which is home to over 27,000 students from around the world. 

The university boasts an elite class of professors, including notable guest faculty such as Nobel laureate Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. With its distinguished faculty and strong academic reputation, the University of Malaya is consistently ranked among the best in the country, making it an ideal choice for international students.

Here’s an approximate range of the tuition fees you will spend at this university:

Notable Alumni:

• Najib Razak: Former Prime Minister of Malaysia and a significant political figure who has contributed extensively to Malaysian politics.
• Tan Sri Dr Jemilah Mahmood is a respected humanitarian and medical professional known for her leadership in global health and disaster response.

Planning to study in Malaysia at this university? Understand its admission criteria listed below.

2. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Founded in 1970, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) stands as one of the premier public universities in Malaysia. Picture yourself studying at this prestigious institution, which hosts a diverse community of over 30,000 students from various countries.

The university boasts an elite class of professors, including notable faculty such as Professor Dr. Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud, a renowned scholar in Islamic studies. With its distinguished faculty and strong academic reputation, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia is consistently ranked among the best in the country, making it an ideal choice for international students.

Here’s an approximate range of the tuition fees you will spend at this university:

Notable Alumni:

• Zeti Akhtar Aziz: Former Governor of the Central Bank of Malaysia and a respected economist.
• Nurul Izzah Anwar: Malaysian politician and member of Parliament known for her advocacy on human rights and democracy.

But before you plan to study in Malaysia at this university, understand its admission criteria, listed below.

3. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), founded in 1969, is a top public research university. USM hosts over 28,000 students from around the world and is renowned for its medical programs. Consistently ranked among the best in the country, USM offers an exceptional educational experience for international students. 

Notably, the university has been home to inventive research in tropical medicine and public health, contributing significantly to global scientific advancements.

Here’s an approximate range of the tuition fees you will spend at this university:

Notable Alumni:

• Dr. Mazlan Othman: Astrophysicist and former Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.
• Zainal Abidin: Prominent Malaysian singer and songwriter known for his contributions to the local music industry.

Ready to begin your educational journey at Universiti Sains Malaysia? Here’s what you need to know about the admission criteria to study in Malaysia at this prestigious institution first.

4. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), established in 1971, is one of Malaysia’s leading research universities. The university hosts over 24,000 students from around the globe. Known for its strong emphasis on research and development, UPM consistently ranks high in global university rankings.

Here’s an approximate range of the tuition fees you will spend at this university:

Notable Alumni:

• Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr. Haji Zulkifli Mohamad Al-Bakri: Former Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department for Religious Affairs.
• Tan Sri Dr. Lim Wee Chai: Founder and Executive Chairman of Top Glove Corporation, the world’s largest manufacturer of gloves.

Here are the key admission requirements you need to meet to Study in Malaysia at UPM:

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Studying in Malaysia Without IELTS at UPM

Universiti Putra Malaysia provides diverse options for proving English proficiency, making it easier to study in Malaysia without IELTS.

Here is the English proficiency requirements table at UPM: 

5. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia

Choosing to study in Malaysia at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) offers you an exceptional education and the opportunity to be part of a dynamic academic community. 

Established in 1972, it is one of Malaysia’s premier universities, particularly renowned for its engineering and technology programs. Located in Skudai, Johor, UTM is home to over 17,000 students, including a significant number of international students. 

Here’s an approximate range of the tuition fees you will spend at this university:

Notable Alumni:

• Dr. Mazlan Othman: Renowned astrophysicist and former Director of the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs.
• Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah: He is the Director-General of Health in Malaysia and has been recognised for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Here’s what you need to know about the admission criteria to study in Malaysia at this prestigious institution.

Also Read: Top Universities in Malaysia for Indian Students

Studying in Malaysia Without IELTS at UTM

UTM offers various alternatives to the IELTS, welcoming international students with open arms.This approach ensures that language barriers do not stand in the way of talented international students seeking quality education. 

Here is the English proficiency requirements table for UTM: 

Top 5 Courses to Study in Malaysia

Are you considering studying in Malaysia but not sure which course to pursue? With over 150 higher education institutions and a massive enrollment of international students, choosing the right course can be a challenging decision. However, this section is designed to guide you through your options and help simplify your choice.

Ready to trade your chapatis for some “nasi lemak” (fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk)?

Here’s a table outlining the top universities in Malaysia for various courses based on the provided information. 

1. Medical Courses to Study in Malaysia

Did you know? Medicine programs in Malaysia usually last five or six years and are divided into pre-clinical and clinical phases. The pre-clinical phase covers basic medical sciences, while the clinical phase involves practical training in various medical disciplines. 

Medicine programs in Malaysia are accredited by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and recognised by various international bodies such as the World Health Organization (WHO), the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK, and the Australian Medical Council (AMC). 

Here are some of the top courses for MBBS in Malaysia for Indian students. 

2. Engineering Courses to Study in Malaysia 

Did you know? Engineers in Malaysia earn competitive salaries across various disciplines. On average, they can earn between MYR 36,000 and MYR 180,000 per year, which is approximately INR 6.5 lakhs to INR 32.5 lakhs, depending on their specialisation, experience, and qualifications. 

Here are some of the top courses for engineering in Malaysia for Indian students.

3. Computer Science Courses to Study in Malaysia

According to the World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report 2024, Malaysia ranks 32nd out of 141 economies for technological readiness. This highlights Malaysia’s active investment in creating a tech-savvy workforce. 

Whether you’re interested in a data science course in Malaysia or another tech-focused program, you could be part of this dynamic and rapidly evolving sector!

Here’s a guide to some of the top courses for computer science in Malaysia for Indian students:

4. Business Administration Courses to Study in Malaysia

Ever dreamt of being the boss? Maybe you’ve got a killer business idea brewing, or you just crave the challenge of making organisations tick. If so, a Business Administration degree in Malaysia could be your launchpad to success!

The average salary for someone with a business administration degree in Malaysia ranges from approximately INR 5.9 lakhs to INR 16.2 lakhs (MYR 33,000 to MYR 90,500) per month, depending on the specific role and level of experience.

Here are some of the top courses for business administration in Malaysia for Indian students,

5. Arts and Humanities Courses to Study in Malaysia

Did you know? Dr. Mohd. Anuar Rethwan, an alumnus of the University of Malaya, has significantly impacted the arts and humanities field in Malaysia, especially in Malay literature.

This highlights that not everyone is excited about spending years solving complex equations, programming, or studying human anatomy. Perhaps your passion lies in writing the next great novel, analysing historical mysteries, or delving into the depths of human culture.

Here are some of the top courses for arts and humanities in Malaysia for Indian students.

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Intakes at Top Universities in Malaysia

If you’ve reached this point, it is obvious that you’re considering Malaysia for your studies. Malaysia offers a wide range of exciting activities for students. Sunway Lagoon, a theme park in Bandar Sunway, features a water park, amusement rides, and a wildlife park with over 150 species of animals.

With that in mind, it’s time to plan your journey. Malaysian universities offer two main intakes: Fall intake (September) and Spring intake (February/March). This flexibility allows you to start your academic adventure at a time that best suits your schedule and preparation.

Here are the intake dates for the top five universities in Malaysia:

Cost of Living in Malaysia for Indian Students

Macing (that’s Malay for “doing well”) as a student in Malaysia goes beyond just hitting the books! Sure, tuition fees are important, but let’s get real: you’ll also need a place to crash, tasty eats to keep you fueled, and maybe some cash for exploring this awesome country. 

​​Malaysia is a highly affordable study destination, with monthly living expenses ranging from INR 21.6k to 45k (MYR 1.2k to 2.5k). This is significantly lower than in other Asian countries such as Singapore, where the average monthly living expenses for students range from INR 55k to 1.1L (MYR 3k to 6k).

Here’s a snapshot of what you might expect to spend as a student in Malaysia:

Scholarships to Reduce the Cost of Study in Malaysia

Malaysia is dedicated to establishing itself as a global education hub, offering a variety of scholarships to international students to make higher education more accessible and affordable.

These scholarships not only help in covering tuition fees but also provide stipends that can assist with living expenses. The grants can be quite substantial, with some scholarships offering as much as MYR 46,000 (approximately INR 9L) annually. 

These opportunities range from government-funded awards, such as the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS), to university-specific scholarships, each designed to cater to different needs, including academic merit, research potential, and financial need. 

Here are some scholarships in Malaysia for international students:

*Note: These are average estimates — specific amounts and benefits may vary.

With a scholarship in Malaysia for international students, your financial stability for studying in Malaysia is assured. The next essential step is obtaining a visa, which legally allows you to live and study in the country. 

Application Process for a Visa to Study in Malaysia

With a student visa in Malaysia, you can enjoy up to two years of stay-back options to work and gain experience in the country after completing your studies. In the 2023-2024 academic year, over 20,000 Indian students applied for student visas to study in Malaysia, where student visa application fee for Malaysia is approximately INR 8.5k (MYR 500)

Here’s what you need to gather to get started:

Documents Required:

• Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay)
• Completed visa application form
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Proof of tuition fee payment
• Proof of accommodation in Malaysia
• Proof of travel plans, such as a flight reservation
• Medical insurance covering the duration of your stay of at least INR 2.7L (MYR 15k)
• Proof of sufficient financial means approx. INR 3L (MYR 17k)
• Bank statements or a scholarship letter showing you have at least INR 3L (MYR 17k) for your stay.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Get your acceptance letter from a top Malaysian university. This is your golden ticket!
2. Pay the visa application fee. 
3. Submit your application through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) portal.
4. Attend a visa interview if required. Be ready to discuss your study plans and financial situation.
5. Patience is key! Processing times can vary, but typically it takes about 14-30 days.

Top High-paying Jobs You Can Get After Your Study in Malaysia

As of 2024, the average gross annual salary in Malaysia is about INR 2.4Cr (MYR 138k). Imagine working with a diverse team at top global companies such as Petronas, Maybank, Shell Malaysia, and others while earning a competitive salary!

Here’s a look at some of the top high-paying careers you can pursue after completing your degree, along with their estimated annual salaries: 

To Conclude

Is Malaysia whispering roti canai and teh tarik dreams in your ear? Well, then, it’s time to get going with those applications. 

Begin your study journey in Malaysia and benefit from affordable tuition at globally recognised universities like the University of Malaya. Enjoy a rich cultural mix and programs in English, with no IELTS required.

Use scholarships to offset costs, and appreciate Malaysia’s safety and stability. Take advantage of part-time work opportunities to gain experience and support your studies. This combination of affordability, academic excellence, and vibrant culture positions Malaysia as an ideal destination for your educational journey!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)