√Study in Malaysia: Explore the Best Scholarship Programs

Malaysia has become a top destination for international students seeking high-quality education, affordable tuition, and a vibrant multicultural experience. With its diverse range of universities offering world-class programs, Malaysia attracts students from all over the world for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD studies.

One of the most important factors for students is financing their education. Fortunately, Malaysia offers numerous scholarship programs that cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and research support. These programs are provided by the government, universities, and international organizations, making study in Malaysia accessible for global learners.

This guide explores the best scholarship programs in Malaysia, eligibility criteria, benefits, application procedures, and tips to secure funding.

1. Why Study in Malaysia?

Understanding why Malaysia is a preferred destination helps students make informed decisions:

• High-quality education: Institutions like Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) are internationally recognized.

• Affordable tuition and living costs: Compared to Western countries, Malaysia provides a cost-effective study environment.

• English-friendly programs: Most courses are taught in English, simplifying the transition for international students.

• Cultural diversity: Malaysia is home to Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities, providing a multicultural experience.

• Strategic location in Southeast Asia: Students can travel across neighboring countries during holidays.

With scholarships, students can study in Malaysia without financial burden, making it an ideal destination for global learners.

2. Types of Scholarships in Malaysia

Scholarships in Malaysia are generally divided into three categories:

A. Government-Funded Scholarships

These are highly competitive and prestigious scholarships designed to attract international talent.

1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)

• Target Audience: Master’s and PhD students

• Benefits: Full tuition coverage, monthly stipend (RM 1,500–RM 2,000), research grants, health insurance, travel allowance

• Eligibility: Non-Malaysian, CGPA 3.0+, English proficiency (IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL 550), admission from a Malaysian university

• Application Process: Apply online via MIS Portal after securing an offer

• Application Period: March – May annually

2. Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship

• Target Audience: Master’s students from developing countries

• Benefits: Tuition, monthly allowance, airfare, medical insurance, research support

• Eligibility: Citizens of MTCP-recipient countries, under 45, CGPA 3.0+, English proficiency

• Application Process: Apply through the local Malaysian embassy or MTCP portal

• Application Period: February – June

3. Other Government Scholarships

• ASEAN Scholarships: Focused on students from ASEAN countries

• Commonwealth Scholarship Malaysia: For students from Commonwealth nations pursuing postgraduate studies

• Bilateral/Development Scholarships: Funded through agreements with other countries to promote international collaboration

B. University Scholarships

Many Malaysian universities offer scholarships based on merit, research, or talent to attract international students.

Top Universities and Scholarships

1. Universiti Malaya (UM)

   • UM International Student Scholarship for Master’s & PhD

   • Postgraduate Research Fund (PGRF) for research-based programs

   • Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, research grants

2. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

   • Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA)

   • Alumni Scholarship Scheme

   • Coverage: Tuition, monthly stipend, research funding

3. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

   • International Doctoral Fellowship (IDF)

   • Zamalah Scholarship

   • Coverage: Tuition, living allowance, research support

4. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

   • Graduate Assistantship Scheme

   • Vice-Chancellor Award for Excellence

   • Coverage: Partial or full tuition, monthly stipend

5. Private Universities

   • Taylor’s University: World Class Scholarship, Merit & Community Scholarship

   • Sunway University: Jeffrey Cheah Foundation Scholarship, Sunway Talent Scholarship

   • Monash University Malaysia: High Achiever Award, Graduate Research Merit Scholarship

C. International or External Scholarships

Global organizations also provide funding for studying in Malaysia:

• Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship – For graduate students from member countries

• ASEAN University Network (AUN) Scholarships – For regional cooperation programs

• Other international foundations – Offer partial or full funding to students in specific fields

3. Eligibility Requirements

Most scholarships require:

• Non-Malaysian citizenship

• Strong academic performance (CGPA 3.0+ or equivalent)

• Admission offer from a Malaysian university

• English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)

• Recommendation letters and personal statement

• Research proposal for postgraduate students

Some scholarships also value leadership experience, community service, and extracurricular involvement.

4. Application Process

1. Research available scholarships – Government, university, or international programs

2. Choose a university and program – Ensure the scholarship covers your desired course

3. Prepare required documents – Academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, recommendation letters, passport, English test scores

4. Secure admission – Most scholarships require a conditional or full offer

5. Submit applications – Online portals or university websites

6. Attend interviews – Some scholarships require an online interview

7. Accept scholarship and apply for student visa – Universities often assist with visa processing

5. Tips for Maximizing Scholarship Success

• Start applications early to meet deadlines
• Maintain excellent academic records
• Write a compelling personal statement or motivation letter
• Highlight research, leadership, and community engagement
• Contact potential supervisors for research-based programs
• Keep all documents organized and verified

6. Life as a Scholarship Student in Malaysia

Scholarship students enjoy:

• Access to modern academic and research facilities

• Exposure to culturally diverse student communities

• Affordable campus housing and living expenses

• Opportunities to explore Southeast Asia

• Hands-on experience through research projects, internships, and community engagement

Malaysia provides a unique balance of academic quality, affordability, and cultural immersion, making scholarships highly valuable for international students.

7. Scholarship Deadlines (Estimated)

(Always check official websites for updated deadlines.)

8. Conclusion

Malaysia offers a diverse range of scholarship programs for international students across all academic levels. From government-funded programs like MIS and MTCP to university-specific and international scholarships, students have many options to study affordably while receiving world-class education.

Careful planning, strong academics, and well-prepared applications can help students secure scholarships and enjoy a rewarding educational experience in Malaysia in 2025.

Scholarships in Malaysia not only provide financial support but also open doors to cultural immersion, research opportunities, and international networking, making them a key step toward a successful global career.