Study in Malaysia: Universities, English-Taught Degrees and Costs

Malaysia has developed a diverse higher education system that attracts students from different countries.

According to Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), the country’s official international education platform, English is widely used in higher education, with many university courses delivered in English.

Key Reasons Students Explore Malaysia

• English-Taught Education: Many universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate programmes taught in English.
• Different University Options: Students can explore public universities, private universities and international branch campuses.
• International Degrees: Some foreign universities operate Malaysian campuses, offering qualifications associated with their parent institutions.
• Range of Tuition Fees: Universities offer programmes at different price points, allowing students to compare options according to their budgets.
• Multicultural Environment: Malaysia brings together different languages, cultures and communities, offering an international learning environment.
• Variety of Academic Fields: Students can pursue qualifications in business, engineering, healthcare, technology, humanities and other disciplines.

These advantages make Malaysia worth researching, but students should evaluate individual universities rather than assuming that every institution offers the same academic quality or affordability.

Yes. Many Malaysian universities offer degree programmes taught in English.

EMGS confirms that English is widely used in Malaysian higher education.

However, not every programme is delivered entirely in English, and language requirements differ between institutions.

Business and Management

Students can explore programmes in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics and business analytics.

Computer Science and Information Technology

Universities offer programmes covering software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence and information systems.

Engineering

Depending on the university, students can find programmes in mechanical, civil, electrical, chemical, biomedical and other engineering disciplines.

Medicine and Health Sciences

Programmes may include medicine, pharmacy, psychology, biomedical sciences and other healthcare-related subjects.

Clinical placements or professional practice components may involve additional language or licensing requirements.

Hospitality and Tourism

Malaysia also offers degrees related to hotel management, tourism, hospitality operations and event management.

Not necessarily in every case, but students must meet the English-language requirements applicable to their university, programme and Student Pass application.

Universities may accept recognised tests or other evidence of English proficiency, depending on their policies.

EMGS separately specifies the English-language evidence accepted for Student Pass applications.

Before applying, check:

• Whether your chosen course is entirely English-taught.
• The university’s minimum English-language requirement.
• Which test qualifications are accepted.
• Whether an exemption is available.
• Whether additional evidence is required for immigration purposes.

Important: A university’s English-language exemption does not automatically establish that you satisfy every immigration-related language requirement.

Official reference: EMGS Student Pass Requirements.

Tuition fees depend on the university, qualification, field of study and academic year.

Public universities, private universities and international branch campuses have different fee structures.

Professional programmes such as medicine can also cost substantially more than some business or humanities degrees.

Examples of University Tuition Fees

The following examples illustrate the variation in international student tuition fees.

Monash University Malaysia

For international undergraduate students, the university’s published 2027 tuition fees include:

• Bachelor of Arts and Social Sciences: RM53,280 per year.
• Bachelor of Business and Commerce: RM54,240 per year.
• Bachelor of Computer Science: RM57,600 per year.
• Bachelor of Engineering (Honours): RM68,160 per year.
• Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours): RM74,400 per year.

These figures apply to the specified academic year and programmes. Additional charges may apply.

Official reference: Monash University Malaysia Undergraduate Fees.

Universiti Malaya

Universiti Malaya’s published international undergraduate fee schedule for the 2025/2026 academic session provides examples such as:

• Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Engineering): RM89,200.
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Data Science): RM160,100.

These are programme tuition figures based on the university’s published fee structure for the normal or minimum study period, rather than annual tuition rates.

They are included to illustrate how costs can vary even within one institution.

For future intakes, students should obtain the latest applicable fee schedule before comparing universities.

Before accepting an offer, ask the university:

• Are the published fees annual, per semester or for the complete programme?
• Are there additional laboratory, examination or administrative charges?
• Does the quoted amount include applicable taxes?
• Can fees increase during the degree?
• Are scholarships or tuition discounts available?
• What is the refund policy if you withdraw or cannot enrol?

Tip: Compare the complete cost of the degree instead of looking only at the first year’s tuition.

Living expenses are another important part of your education budget.

Your actual spending will depend on the city, accommodation, food preferences, transportation needs and lifestyle.

According to Education Malaysia’s official cost-of-living guide, the estimated average living cost is approximately US$582 per month. This is a broad planning reference rather than a guaranteed student budget.

Accommodation Costs

Education Malaysia provides the following illustrative monthly accommodation estimates:

• On-campus accommodation: Approximately US$50–150.
• Off-campus accommodation: Approximately US$100–300.

Actual rental prices vary according to location, property type, facilities and whether accommodation is shared.

Food and Groceries

Malaysia offers options ranging from university cafeterias and local food outlets to restaurants and supermarkets.

Food expenses depend on how frequently you cook, eat outside and purchase imported products.

Transportation

Transport options include buses, rail networks and ride-hailing services.

Cities such as Kuala Lumpur have established public transportation networks, while students in other locations may have different commuting requirements.

Other Monthly Expenses

Remember to account for:

• Electricity, water and internet.
• Mobile phone services.
• Health insurance.
• Books and academic materials.
• Personal expenses.
• Emergency savings.

How to Prepare Your Budget

Calculate your expected expenses for the entire study period using the following approach:

Total Education Budget = Full Programme Tuition + Living Expenses + Insurance + Student Pass Costs + Travel + Other Academic Expenses

If you’re converting fees into another currency, use a current exchange rate and allow for possible currency fluctuations.

Official reference: Education Malaysia Cost of Living Guide.

Admission requirements vary according to your degree level and chosen university.

For undergraduate degree admission, EMGS states that international students generally need at least 12 years of education and a recognised national or international examination qualification.

However, individual universities may impose additional academic requirements.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Depending on the programme, you may need:

• Recognised secondary school qualifications.
• Minimum grades in relevant subjects.
• English-language proficiency evidence.
• A valid passport.
• Academic transcripts and certificates.
• Additional course-specific documentation.

Programmes in engineering, healthcare and other specialised fields may have subject prerequisites.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements

For master’s programmes, universities generally assess whether applicants hold a relevant recognised bachelor’s degree.

Additional requirements may include:

• Minimum academic performance.
• Relevant professional experience.
• English-language proficiency.
• Academic or professional references.
• A research proposal for certain programmes.

Doctoral applicants may also need to demonstrate research preparation and identify a suitable academic research area.

Students should always review the official admission requirements for their chosen programme rather than assuming all Malaysian universities use identical standards.

International students generally require the appropriate immigration permission to pursue full-time studies in Malaysia.

The student immigration process is facilitated through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), working with the relevant Malaysian authorities.

General Student Pass Application Process

1. Receive an Admission Offer: Obtain an offer from an eligible Malaysian education institution.
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather the required academic records, passport information, English-language evidence and other documents.
3. Submit the Student Pass Application: Follow the institution’s instructions and the applicable EMGS process.
4. Wait for Immigration Approval: Complete the relevant approval process before travelling, where required.
5. Complete Arrival Formalities: Follow applicable entry, medical screening and Student Pass endorsement requirements after arrival.

Student Pass Costs

In addition to tuition, students may need to pay charges for application processing, immigration approval, medical screening, health insurance and related services.

These fees depend on individual circumstances and the applicable application schedule.

EMGS provides an official calculator to estimate relevant charges.

Official reference: EMGS Application Fee Calculator.

Student Pass rules, entry requirements and immigration fees can change. Confirm the latest requirements with EMGS and your university before travelling.

Malaysia permits eligible international students to undertake limited part-time employment, subject to immigration rules.

According to EMGS guidance, qualifying students may work for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays exceeding seven days, with prior approval and restrictions on permitted workplaces.

This is not a general entitlement to work 20 hours every week throughout the academic year.

Students should not rely on part-time employment to cover their tuition or essential living expenses.

Malaysia also has a Graduate Pass scheme allowing certain eligible international graduates to remain in the country for a limited period after completing their studies.

However, eligibility depends on nationality, qualifications and other conditions. Employment permissions under this pass are restricted and should not be confused with unrestricted full-time work authorisation.

Students considering long-term employment in Malaysia should verify the immigration route relevant to their circumstances.

Scholarships may be offered by universities, government programmes and other funding organisations.

However, funding availability and eligibility differ considerably.

University Scholarships

Some Malaysian universities offer merit-based scholarships, programme-specific awards or other financial assistance.

Students should check whether the award is available to international applicants and whether it applies to their intended programme.

Government and Postgraduate Funding

Some scholarship programmes support eligible international students pursuing postgraduate education or research.

These awards may be subject to nationality restrictions, academic requirements and specific application periods.

What to Verify Before Applying

• Eligibility for your nationality and degree level.
• Academic requirements.
• The expenses covered by the scholarship.
• Whether funding is renewable.
• The relevant application deadline.
• Any conditions attached to maintaining the award.

Never assume a scholarship is guaranteed simply because a university advertises funding opportunities.

The best university for your education depends on more than its ranking or reputation.

Start by identifying the academic and financial factors that matter most to you.

1. Check Programme Accreditation

Before applying, verify that the qualification has the relevant accreditation or recognition.

The Malaysian Qualifications Register (MQR), maintained by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency, provides official information about accredited qualifications and higher education providers.

For regulated professions, also check whether the qualification meets the professional requirements of the country where you intend to work.

2. Review the Course Curriculum

Compare modules, specialisations, project work, practical training and research opportunities.

Two degrees with similar names can differ significantly in content.

3. Calculate Total Costs

Consider tuition, accommodation, living expenses, insurance and additional academic charges over the full duration of the degree.

4. Evaluate the Location

Think about the university’s location, accommodation options, transportation and student environment.

5. Understand Career Opportunities

Review internship opportunities, career services and any verified programme-specific graduate outcomes.

A university’s employment statistics should not be interpreted as a guarantee of employment.

Choosing a university in Malaysia involves comparing courses, admission requirements, education costs and long-term career opportunities.

My Study Offers (Mysto) is a global education platform for students that helps you explore universities, understand available degree programmes and access reliable information about international education opportunities.

Through personalised education counselling, you can assess which institutions and academic pathways align with your qualifications, budget and future goals.

Visit mystudyoffers.com to explore your education options and speak with an expert advisor.

Malaysia offers a diverse range of higher education opportunities through public universities, private institutions and international branch campuses.

Its English-taught programmes and different tuition fee structures make it a destination worth considering for students exploring international education.

However, affordability, academic quality and career relevance vary from one university and programme to another.

Before deciding to study in Malaysia, compare official programme information, check accreditation, calculate your complete education budget and understand the relevant immigration requirements.

A well-researched university choice should support both your education goals and your financial circumstances.

Important: Tuition fees, scholarships, immigration rules and programme requirements may change. Always verify the latest information directly through official university websites, Education Malaysia Global Services and the relevant Malaysian authorities before applying.

Q1. Is Malaysia a good destination for international students?

Malaysia offers public universities, private institutions and international branch campuses with programmes across many academic fields. English is widely used in higher education, and students can compare universities at different tuition fee levels. Whether it is suitable for you depends on your academic interests, budget and long-term goals.

Q2. Can I study in Malaysia without IELTS?

Some universities may accept alternative English-language qualifications or provide exemptions under specific conditions. However, students must also satisfy the applicable EMGS language documentation requirements. Always check both university admission and Student Pass requirements.

Q3. How much does it cost to study in Malaysia?

The total cost depends on the university, programme, duration and city. For example, Monash University Malaysia lists international undergraduate tuition of RM54,240 per year for its Bachelor of Business and Commerce in 2027. Other institutions and courses may have different fees, so compare official university schedules before budgeting.

Q4. Which universities in Malaysia offer English-taught degrees?

Universities such as Monash University Malaysia, University of Nottingham Malaysia and numerous Malaysian public and private institutions offer English-taught programmes. The language of instruction must be verified for each course, as not every programme is necessarily delivered entirely in English.

Q5. What are the living expenses for students in Malaysia?

Education Malaysia’s cost guide cites an approximate average living cost of US$582 per month. Actual spending depends on accommodation, location, transportation and lifestyle. Students should prepare a personalised budget rather than relying on a single national estimate.

Q6. Can students work part-time in Malaysia?

Eligible international students may work for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or qualifying holidays, subject to immigration approval and restrictions on permitted workplaces. The rules do not provide unrestricted employment permission throughout the academic year.

Q7. Are Malaysian university degrees internationally recognised?

Recognition depends on the institution, qualification, programme accreditation and the rules of the country where you plan to study further or work. Check the Malaysian Qualifications Register and any applicable professional licensing requirements before enrolling.

Q8. Are scholarships available for international students in Malaysia?

Yes, some Malaysian universities and funding organisations offer scholarships to eligible international students. Availability, eligibility, award amounts and deadlines differ between programmes. Always consult the official scholarship provider for current information.