Do I need to submit IELTS scores or other English proficiency tests for admission if I have a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter from my college in Malaysia?
It depends entirely on your target university and country. Many institutions across the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and Europe waive IELTS if your prior degree was fully taught and examined in English. Highly selective universities or strict visa mandates may still require an official test score.
Whether your Medium of Instruction letter from Malaysia can replace IELTS depends entirely on the specific university and country you are applying to, since there is no universal rule. Many institutions worldwide accept a properly worded MOI letter as a full waiver, while others still insist on a formal test score. Verify directly with each university rather than assuming either outcome.
Where MOI Letters Are Commonly Accepted
| Applying To | Typical MOI Acceptance |
|---|---|
| UK, US, Canada, Australia, select Europe | Often accepted if your prior degree was fully English taught |
| Highly selective or visa mandated programs | May still require IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo regardless of MOI |
| Local Malaysian universities | Policy varies by program and institution |
What Your MOI Letter Must Include
- Official college letterhead with the institution's logo and address.
- Explicit wording confirming English was the medium of instruction and examination for your entire program.
- A signature and stamp from an authorized official, such as the Registrar or Controller of Examinations.
My Advice
Request your MOI letter with the exact explicit wording universities expect before you submit your application, and keep the Duolingo English Test as a fast backup plan in case your target university insists on a formal score anyway.
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