Secondary education in Malaysia for international students

In Malaysia, formal learning starts at five years old in various institutions, adhering to a British-influenced model. This journey includes two main stages: primary (grades 1-6) and secondary (grades 7-12). The system is known for its quality, closely mirroring the respected British educational structure.

Primary Learning Phase

Children commence their primary phase at seven, experiencing a six-year curriculum. Two primary types of institutions exist, distinguished by their language focus: National (Malay) and National-type (Tamil or Chinese). Rigorous state oversight ensures high standards. The culmination of this phase involves comprehensive examinations in math, science, and languages (English and Malay).

Esther Diaz

Education specialist, career coach and consultant. She worked for Inspired Education Group and directed the admissions department at the International School san Patricio Toledo.

What would you say is the most important when choosing a school?

This is the quality of support and work of the management, the opportunity to study at IB, the prestige of the school and the percentage of successful completion of the diploma stage of IB, recommendations for further universities. It is worth considering the national "recruitment" of campus students, opportunities for extracurricular development and activities, the availability of medical services and consultations, opportunities for language immersion. Is education at the chosen school based on the values you share? Is the school a close-knit community? Is academic support good?

Secondary education in Malaysia, spanning five years, is offered in classical high schools, private institutions, and boarding schools. The primary language of instruction is Malay, with compulsory English language studies. Additionally, students can choose to learn Tamil, Chinese, Arabic, French, or Japanese. A hallmark of both primary and secondary education is the teaching of core subjects like chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology in English. This prepares students for global academic pursuits and aids in overcoming language barriers. The secondary school journey culminates in unified written examinations.

International Schools in Malaysia: Tailored for Global Careers

Malaysia also hosts international schools offering specialized curricula designed for students aiming for international careers. These schools present an excellent opportunity for students to study disciplines aligned with their future academic and professional goals.

Transition to Higher Education

Post-secondary education often involves attending private colleges, many of which collaborate with institutions in Europe, the USA, Australia, and Britain. Malaysia's higher education landscape includes state institutions and branches of renowned international universities, ensuring high-quality education that meets international standards.

For enrollment in prestigious secondary institutions, foreign learners need a student visa, for which the document list is standardized. Specialized departments in these institutions offer necessary assistance to international learners. A student visa also permits part-time work, blending learning with practical experience.

In summary, Malaysia's learning system, from primary to higher education, is tailored to equip learners with the skills needed for both local and international success. The system's diversity and alignment with global standards make it an appealing choice for international education.

Secondary education in Malaysia is the main stage of the educational system and includes two main stages: junior school and senior school. Junior school lasts 6 years and is intended for children aged 7 to 12 years, while senior school lasts 5 years and covers ages 13 to 17 years. An important feature of the Malaysian education system is its emphasis on developing students' moral and ethical values.

"Matrikulasi" is a university preparation program in Malaysia. It provides high school graduates with the opportunity to take special courses for one or two years before entering university. The Matrikulasi program is focused on preparing students to study at a high level.

The secondary education curriculum in Malaysia includes a diverse range of subjects: mathematics, science, history, languages ​​(Malay and English), geography, art, physical education and others. The educational program is developed taking into account national standards and takes into account cultural and social aspects.

At the end of high school, students take an exam called Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM). This exam is a mandatory and important step in the educational career of students. SPM evaluates students' knowledge and skills in various subjects and determines their qualifications.

Yes, international students have the opportunity to complete their secondary education in Malaysia. There are many private and international schools that accept international students. However, for admission, certain requirements and procedures must be completed, including visa formalities and the application for admission.

Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) is the official language of instruction in Malaysian schools. However, many private and international schools also provide instruction in English, especially at the high school level.

Many Malaysian educational institutions actively cooperate with universities in other countries and participate in student exchange programs. This provides students with the opportunity to travel and study abroad as part of an academic exchange.

Many Malaysian educational institutions provide a variety of services and support programs for international students. These may include cultural adaptation, language courses, counseling and orientation, and activities for social integration.

Studying in Malaysia covers not only academic aspects but also the development of moral and ethical values. Respect for teachers and elders is an important part of the Malaysian educational culture.

The school year in Malaysia usually starts in January and ends in November. There are several holiday breaks throughout the year, including summer and winter holidays, as well as short breaks between semesters.