√How to Study in Malaysia with a Scholarship

Malaysia has become one of Asia’s fastest-growing education hubs, attracting thousands of international students each year. Known for its world-class universities, cultural diversity, and affordable living, Malaysia offers a welcoming environment for students from all over the world.

The best part? You can study in Malaysia with a scholarship — many of which are fully funded by the government, universities, and international organizations. Whether you want to pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, Malaysia provides a wide range of scholarships that cover tuition fees, living costs, and even travel expenses.

In this article, you’ll find a complete guide on how to study in Malaysia with a scholarship, including types of scholarships, eligibility, benefits, the application process, and expert tips to help you get accepted.

1. Why Choose Malaysia for Higher Education?

Before diving into scholarships, let’s look at why Malaysia is one of the most appealing study destinations in Asia:

• World-class universities: Malaysia is home to top-ranked institutions like Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

• Affordable education: Tuition fees and living costs are lower than in Western countries or neighboring Singapore.

• Diverse academic programs: Many universities offer programs in English, recognized by global accreditation bodies.

• International collaboration: Malaysian universities often partner with the UK, Australia, and Japan for dual-degree or exchange programs.

• Multicultural environment: Students from over 100 countries study in Malaysia, making it a vibrant hub of cultural exchange.

With these benefits, studying in Malaysia on a scholarship means getting quality education and cultural exposure — all at minimal cost.

2. Types of Scholarships in Malaysia

There are three main categories of scholarships available to international students in Malaysia:

a. Government-Funded Scholarships

1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)

The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is the most prestigious national program for global learners. It is open to outstanding international students pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees at Malaysian public or private universities.

Benefits:

• Full tuition coverage

• Monthly living allowance

• Health insurance

• Research and thesis grants

• Visa and airfare support

Eligibility:

• Strong academic background

• Excellent English proficiency

• Admission offer from a Malaysian university

2. Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship

Funded by Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this scholarship supports students from developing countries to pursue Master’s degrees in Malaysian universities.

Benefits:

• Full tuition fee

• Monthly living allowance

• Return airfare

• Medical insurance

Focus areas: Public policy, economics, technology, management, and sustainable development.

b. University-Based Scholarships

Many universities in Malaysia offer scholarships specifically for international students. These programs are either merit-based, need-based, or research-focused.

1. Universiti Malaya (UM) International Students Scholarship

UM offers postgraduate scholarships for high-performing international students. It includes tuition waivers and living stipends for research-based programs.

2. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) International Postgraduate Awards

UTM provides funding to postgraduate students pursuing engineering, technology, and innovation studies. Applicants are evaluated based on academic excellence and research potential.

3. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Graduate Research Assistantship

UPM’s assistantship allows international students to work on research projects while pursuing their studies, receiving monthly stipends and tuition coverage.

4. Taylor’s University and Sunway University Scholarships

Private universities such as Taylor’s and Sunway also offer partial and full scholarships for international students, particularly for programs in business, hospitality, and creative arts.

c. External or International Scholarships

Apart from national and university scholarships, international organizations also support students studying in Malaysia. Examples include:

• ASEAN University Network (AUN) Scholarships — for students from ASEAN member countries.

• Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship — for students from Muslim-majority countries.

• Commonwealth Scholarship Malaysia — for students from Commonwealth nations.

3. Eligibility Requirements for Malaysian Scholarships

Eligibility varies by program, but here are the most common requirements:

• Must be a citizen of a non-Malaysian country.

• Academic excellence (minimum CGPA of 3.0 or equivalent).

• Proficiency in English (IELTS/TOEFL).

• Valid university admission offer from a Malaysian institution.

• Strong motivation letter or statement of purpose.

• Recommendation letters from academic supervisors.

Some scholarships may also prioritize applicants from developing nations or specific regions.

4. Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Scholarship in Malaysia

Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you apply successfully:

Step 1: Research Available Scholarships

Visit official websites such as:

• Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)

• MTCP Official Portal

• University scholarship pages (UM, UTM, USM, UPM)

Make a list of scholarships that match your field of study and degree level.

Step 2: Choose a Malaysian University

Before applying for most scholarships, you need an offer letter from a Malaysian university.
Apply directly to your target university and wait for admission confirmation.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Commonly required documents include:

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Passport copy

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)

• Motivation letter or statement of purpose

• English test results (IELTS/TOEFL)

• Research proposal (for postgraduate applicants)

• Letters of recommendation

Step 4: Submit Your Scholarship Application

Most applications are completed online through the official scholarship portal or university website.
Double-check all required fields and documents before submission.

Step 5: Wait for the Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates are usually invited for an online interview or document verification. The process may take several weeks to months, depending on the scholarship.

Step 6: Receive Your Offer and Apply for a Student Visa

Once you receive your scholarship confirmation, apply for a student visa (VAL) through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) portal. Your university will assist you in this process.

5. Application Tips for Higher Success

• Start early: Scholarship applications often open months before the academic intake.

• Focus on academic excellence: High GPAs and research experience increase your chances.

• Write a compelling motivation letter: Explain why you chose Malaysia, your field, and how you’ll contribute after graduation.

• Contact professors early: For postgraduate studies, securing a research supervisor boosts your application strength.

• Keep copies of everything: Always have digital and physical copies of your submitted documents.

6. What Is It Like to Study in Malaysia as a Scholarship Student?

Studying in Malaysia offers an unforgettable experience. Scholarship recipients enjoy not only world-class education but also exposure to a blend of Asian and Western cultures.

You’ll find:

• Affordable accommodation and food options

• Friendly and multicultural communities

• Easy access to travel destinations (Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia)

• Modern campuses with advanced research facilities

From bustling Kuala Lumpur to cultural cities like Penang and Johor Bahru, Malaysia offers both academic growth and adventure.

7. 2025 Scholarship Deadlines (Estimated)

Always confirm the latest dates on official scholarship websites before applying.

8. Final Thoughts

Studying in Malaysia with a scholarship is an incredible opportunity to gain a high-quality education, experience cultural diversity, and build global networks — all without heavy financial burdens.

With programs like MIS, MTCP, and numerous university scholarships, Malaysia is not just a study destination; it’s a place to grow academically and personally.

If you plan ahead, maintain strong academic performance, and follow the right application process, you can make your Malaysian study dream come true.