University preparation in Malaysia for international students

Since the 1990s, local universities have been inviting international students to study. The ambitious plan of the Malaysian government stipulates acceptance of more than 250,000 foreign students by 2025. According to the data of 2023,  the system of Malaysia's higher education institutions consists of: 

• 53 public universities and polytechnic schools
• 50 private universities
• 16 private university colleges
• 10 foreign university branch campuses

When entering Malaysian universities, foreign students are provided with a wide choice of educational programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. In addition, students can attend transnational programs, which have gained recognition from universities abroad. Earning academic credits under transfer program are based on American or European standards (ECTS).

• Malaysia is located in central  Southeast Asia, which contributes to a cultural diversity, mitigating  the adaptation period for foreign students.
• Compared to other countries in Asia and Europe, the cost of studying in Malaysia is lower, as foreign students can participate in scholarship aid programs.
• When completing studies, graduates mention Malaysian wonderful nature and unique cuisine. Students are fond of living and studying in Malaysia, considering it as an exciting academic trip.

• To enter, foreign applicants must complete a Foundation, IB, or A-levels program.  As an alternative, students can study for a year at a university in their home country.
• The Malaysian government and many colleges assist international applicants by recommending schools with suitable programs. Simultaneously, applicants must consider and understand their academic goals, individual preferences.

General Degree Requirements for International Students in Malaysian Universities:

• Certificate programs with a duration of 1-3 years;  to be accepted, the student's age is 17 years old and above.
• Diploma programs, typically lasting for 2-3 years; students aged 17 and older are invited.
• Studying under Bachelor's degree programs lasts for 3-5 years. Education is offered in more theoretical institutions, rather than professional ones.
• Studying under Master's degree programs takes from one to three years. Upon completing studies,  a thesis defense is stipulated.
• Doctoral programs, typically lasting three to five years, usually involve coursework and a dissertation.

Application Deadlines for International Students in Malaysian Universities:

• Fall enrollment: Applications should be submitted by June for September admission.
• Spring enrollment: Applications should be submitted by November for February admission.

Each Malaysian institution is featured by its own requirements for foreign students. So, prior to applying, it is recommended to consider both general and individual requirements. Common admission requirements for higher education in Malaysia include:

• Previous education diploma/certificate
• Recommendation letters
• Language proficiency proof (IELTS/TOEFL certificate)
• Academic transcripts
• Application fee payment (receipt)
• Motivation letter
• Additional documents, such as portfolios or exam results, may be required for some programs.

The cost of preparing for university in Malaysia varies depending on the chosen preparation course. Prospective students should research and compare fees and course offerings to find the best fit for their needs and budget.

Legalization is required to use foreign documents in Malaysia.

After 11 years of secondary education, before entering university, you must complete the Foundation program due to the difference in education systems.

Typically, IELTS 4.0 is required for the Foundation program and IELTS 6.0 and above for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

• Completed introductory form;

• Copy of passport;

• Certificate/diploma;

• Transcript of grades;

• Motivation letter;

• Certificate confirming English language proficiency;

• Summary;

• Letters of recommendation;

• Certificate of financial solvency.

Some universities require a GPA above 3.0 for admission. A high GPA is also required to apply for scholarships.

As a rule, there are no entrance exams; for admission it is enough to present a language certificate.

To enter a university in Malaysia, you need 12 years of secondary education or 11 years and a Foundation/undergraduate year in your country/A-Level/IB.

After arriving in Malaysia, you need to apply for a student visa. To do this, you must obtain approval from the Malaysian Immigration Department.

Most universities have 3 application periods per year. The deadlines for submitting documents are set by universities; applications are usually accepted 2-2.5 months before the start of classes.

Malaysia has a huge selection of bachelor's and master's programs in English, for which knowledge of Malay is not required for admission.