01Why study in Malaysia?
Malaysia combines English-taught university education with costs that are moderate compared with many study destinations, in a multicultural society that welcomes international students.
It is a Muslim-majority country where halal food and mosques are widely available — a comfortable choice for many students and their families.
- Many programs taught in English
- Moderate study and living costs
- Halal food and mosques everywhere
- International academic partnerships at some universities
02The education system
Higher education is overseen by the Ministry of Higher Education, and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) accredits programs and assures their quality.
- Foundation: around one year, preparing for a bachelor's
- Diploma: around two to three years
- Bachelor's: usually 3–4 years, longer for medicine
- Master's: around one to two years
- PhD: three years or more
03Cost of living
Living costs depend on your city, type of accommodation and lifestyle. Housing is usually the biggest item, followed by food and transport.
Use the budget calculator for an estimate based on your choices.
Open the budget calculator04Tuition fees
Fees vary by university type, program and level. Public universities usually charge less than private ones, and medical programs cost the most.
Browse universities and estimated fees05Student visa
After you receive an offer, your university applies for your student pass through EMGS. This involves uploading documents and a medical check, after which an electronic visa approval letter (eVAL) is issued for travel and your student pass is endorsed in your passport after arrival.
- A passport with sufficient validity
- Your university offer letter
- Photos to the required specification
- Medical check and health insurance
06Accommodation
Options range from university housing to shared apartments and private rooms. We recommend staying close to your campus or to public transport.
07Student life
Malaysian universities offer a wide range of clubs and activities, plus Arab and international student communities that help you settle in quickly.
08Transportation
Kuala Lumpur and its surroundings have a rail and bus network connecting the city with university areas, plus widely used ride-hailing apps.
09Safety
Malaysia is generally a comfortable environment for international students. As in any large city, follow normal safety precautions and live in well-known areas.
10Language
The official language is Malay, but English is widely used on campus and in daily city life, and most programs for international students are taught in English.
11Popular study fields
Popular choices among international students include computer science, engineering, business, health sciences and design.
Browse programs12Intakes
Private universities often have several intakes a year, while public universities have fewer, most notably in September and February. Dates vary by university and program.
FAQ
It depends on the university, program, city and your lifestyle. Public universities are usually less expensive than private ones, and medical programs cost the most. Use our budget calculator for a rough estimate, then we'll confirm exact figures for the university you choose.
Most programs are taught in English and ask for proof such as IELTS, TOEFL or an accepted equivalent. If you don't have a certificate yet, many universities offer preparatory English programs or an internal test. We'll tell you what applies to your program.
After you receive an offer, your university applies for your student pass through EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services). This involves uploading documents and a medical check, after which an electronic visa approval letter (eVAL) is issued for travel and your student pass is endorsed in your passport after arrival. We guide you through each step.
International students are generally allowed to work part-time only during semester breaks, for limited hours, in specific sectors and with the required approvals. Rules can change, so check current regulations and don't rely on work income to fund your studies.
Yes. Most programs for international students are taught in English, and English is widely used in daily life in Malaysian cities.