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Complete guide to studying in Malaysia

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Everything you need to know about becoming an international student in Malaysia

Top reasons to study in Malaysia:

  • Affordable tuition fees and low living costs
  • High-quality education with strong international links
  • Culturally diverse and welcoming society
  • Wide range of English-taught programmes
  • Strategic location in Southeast Asia with excellent travel connections

A quick introduction to Malaysia

Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country located just north of the Equator, made up of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia on the island of Borneo. It borders Thailand, Indonesia and Brunei, and is well connected to the rest of Asia by air.

For international students, Malaysia offers a unique blend of modern development and rich cultural heritage. The country is known for its friendly people, diverse communities and relaxed lifestyle, making it an appealing place to live and study.

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city, is a major regional hub for finance, education and culture. It is home to many international universities and branch campuses, as well as a large student population from across Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

Malaysia’s higher education system is internationally oriented, with many universities offering degrees taught entirely in English. The country has also positioned itself as an education hub, hosting branch campuses of well-known universities from the UK, Australia and other countries.

International students form a significant part of Malaysia’s student population, and the government actively supports international education through simplified visa processes and investment in higher education infrastructure.

The regions of Malaysia

Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions. Peninsular Malaysia is home to major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor Bahru, while East Malaysia consists of the states of Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo.

Each region has its own cultural influences, landscapes and lifestyle, giving students a wide range of living experiences to choose from. Urban areas offer modern facilities and fast-paced life, while smaller cities and towns provide a quieter, more relaxed environment.

All universities in Malaysia

Malaysia’s higher education system

Malaysia has a large and diverse higher education sector, made up of public universities, private universities, university colleges and international branch campuses.

Public universities

Public universities are government funded and are known for strong academic standards, particularly in areas such as engineering, medicine, science and education. Examples include Universiti Malaya, Universiti Putra Malaysia and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

Teaching at public universities often balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, and many institutions have strong research output and international collaborations.

Private universities and university colleges

Private institutions play a major role in Malaysian higher education and are particularly popular with international students. They offer flexible entry requirements, smaller class sizes and a wide range of English-taught programmes.

Well-known private universities include Taylor’s University, Sunway University and Monash University Malaysia. Many private institutions have close links with industry, which can be beneficial for employability.

International branch campuses

Malaysia hosts several international branch campuses from countries such as the UK and Australia. These include the University of Nottingham Malaysia, Heriot-Watt University Malaysia and Monash University Malaysia.

Students at these campuses typically study the same curriculum as those at the home campus and graduate with the same degree, often at a lower cost.

Climate

Malaysia has a tropical climate, which means warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. There are no four seasons, and the weather is generally consistent.

Daily temperatures usually range between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius, with warm days and mild evenings. Light, breathable clothing is essential, and air conditioning is common in classrooms, accommodation and public transport.

Rainfall is frequent, especially during the monsoon seasons, which vary by region. Rain tends to come in short, heavy bursts rather than lasting all day, so carrying an umbrella is a good habit.

Lifestyle and welfare

Malaysia offers a comfortable and affordable lifestyle for students, with modern infrastructure, good healthcare and a strong focus on community.

International students often find it easy to settle in, thanks to the country’s multicultural society and widespread use of English, particularly in urban areas and universities.

Healthcare

Malaysia has a well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals providing high-quality medical care. Private healthcare is widely used by international students due to short waiting times and reasonable costs.

International students are required to have medical insurance for the duration of their studies. Many universities arrange health insurance as part of the enrolment process, but it is important to check what is covered.

Registering with a nearby clinic or hospital once you arrive will make accessing healthcare easier if you need it.

Food

Food is one of the highlights of living in Malaysia and is a big part of student life. The country’s cuisine reflects its diverse population, with influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian and international traditions.

Meals are affordable, especially if you eat at local food courts or street stalls. Rice and noodle dishes are staples, and vegetarian options are widely available.

Students often eat out rather than cook at home, as food is inexpensive and easily accessible at all hours.

Leisure

Malaysia offers plenty of ways to relax and explore outside of your studies. Shopping centres, cinemas, cafés and gyms are common in cities, while nature lovers can enjoy beaches, rainforests and national parks.

Universities have active student societies, sports clubs and cultural groups, which are a great way to meet people and settle in.

Weekend travel is popular, whether it is exploring nearby islands, hiking in the hills or visiting neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia.

Transport

Getting around Malaysia is relatively easy, especially in major cities. Kuala Lumpur has an extensive public transport system, including trains, metro lines and buses.

Ride-hailing apps are widely used and affordable, making them a convenient option for students. Long-distance buses and domestic flights make travelling around the country straightforward.

Safety

Malaysia is generally considered a safe country for international students. Violent crime is rare, and students usually feel comfortable moving around cities, especially in well-populated areas.

As with any country, it is important to take basic precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings in crowded places. Universities also provide support services for student welfare and safety.

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Languages

The official language of Malaysia is Malay, but English is widely spoken and is the main language of instruction at most private universities and international programmes.

In daily life, you will hear a mix of languages, including Malay, English, Mandarin and Tamil. While learning some basic Malay is helpful and appreciated, it is possible to live and study comfortably using English.

University cities

Malaysia offers a variety of student-friendly cities, each with its own atmosphere and advantages.

Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur is the main destination for international students in Malaysia. It is a modern, fast-growing city with a large number of universities and colleges.

Students benefit from excellent facilities, diverse food options and strong transport links. Living costs are higher than in smaller cities, but still affordable compared to many global capitals.

Penang

Penang, particularly George Town, is known for its cultural heritage, food scene and relaxed lifestyle. It is home to several universities and is popular with students who prefer a smaller city with character.

Johor Bahru

Located near Singapore, Johor Bahru offers lower living costs and growing educational opportunities. It is a good option for students interested in business and cross-border connections.

Student visa

International students must obtain a Malaysian student visa before beginning their studies. The process is usually coordinated by the university through Education Malaysia Global Services.

Once approved, students receive a visa approval letter and complete the visa process before or upon arrival. It is important to keep your visa and student pass valid throughout your studies.

Costs of studying

Course fees

Tuition fees in Malaysia are one of its biggest attractions. Public universities generally charge between £2,000 and £4,000 per year for international students, depending on the programme.

Private universities and international branch campuses typically charge higher fees, ranging from £4,000 to £10,000 per year, though this is still competitive internationally.

Living costs

Living costs in Malaysia are low compared to many popular study destinations. Monthly expenses, including accommodation, food and transport, often range from £400 to £700, depending on location and lifestyle.

Overall, Malaysia offers excellent value for money for international students.

How to apply to university in Malaysia

Students apply directly to universities, either through the institution’s website or via authorised representatives. Application requirements vary, but usually include academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency and a copy of your passport.

Deadlines differ between universities, and many offer multiple intakes throughout the year, providing flexibility for international students.

Job prospects for international students

International students are generally not permitted to work during term time, though some limited on-campus work may be allowed.

After graduation, employment opportunities depend on your field of study and visa status. Malaysia offers growing opportunities in areas such as engineering, IT, business and hospitality, particularly for graduates with specialised skills.

Frequently asked questions

Is it free to study in Malaysia?

No. Tuition fees apply, but they are relatively affordable compared to many other countries.

Am I allowed to work while I study?

In most cases, international students are not allowed to work during their studies, though limited exceptions may apply during holidays with permission.