√Top Scholarships to Study in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most popular study destinations in Southeast Asia. It’s known for its diverse cultures, growing university sector, relatively affordable living costs, and strong English-language programs. For international students seeking quality education with financial support, there are many scholarship opportunities both from the government and universities.

In this article you will learn about the top Malaysia scholarships for, eligibility, benefits, application tips, and how to choose the one that fits you best.

Why Study in Malaysia?

Before we dive into specific scholarships, here are some of the reasons many international students choose Malaysia:

• Affordable tuition and living costs compared to Western countries or some Asia-Pacific destinations.

• Strong universities: Malaysian universities regularly appear in rankings like QS and Times Higher Education, and many offer modern facilities.

• English-medium programs: Many programs are taught in English, which lowers the language barrier for international students.

• Cultural diversity & safe environment: Malaysia is multiethnic and multicultural, which makes adaptation easier.

• Strategic location: Good for networking in Southeast Asia; many scholarships are aimed at students from ASEAN or developing countries.

Top Government-Funded Scholarships in Malaysia

Here are some of the major scholarships offered or supported by the Malaysian government for international students (2025):

1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)

• What it is: A flagship government scholarship aimed at attracting high achievers from foreign countries to pursue postgraduate studies (Master’s & PhD) in Malaysia. FULLSCO+3FullyFundedScholarship.org+3Mastersportal+3

• What it covers: Tuition fees fully funded; monthly stipend (≈ RM 1,500); visa fees; health insurance. FULLSCO+3FullyFundedScholarship.org+3Mastersportal+3

• Who can apply: International students; typically for Master’s and PhD levels. Must meet academic excellence and sometimes English proficiency. FULLSCO+2BFFS Scholar Quest+2

• When to apply: Applications generally open around mid-year; deadlines may be in May-June. Check the official MIS announcements. Mastersportal+2FULLSCO+2

2. Malaysia Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP)

• What it is: A government scholarship for students from developing countries, aimed at boosting technical and professional capacity. BFFS Scholar Quest+2EduTravel Malaysia+2

• What it covers: Tuition, living allowance, airfare for eligible programs (often Master’s), sometimes accommodation. BFFS Scholar Quest+1

• Who can apply: Students from developing countries; strong academic record; often Master’s level. EduTravel Malaysia+1

• When / deadlines: Varies by country; usually once a year. EduTravel Malaysia

Top University Scholarships & Merit Awards

Besides government initiatives, many Malaysian universities also provide scholarships or merit awards. Some are full scholarships, others partial waivers.

Here are several notable ones:

3. University of Malaya (UM) Excellence / Global Scholarships

• UM offers scholarships for international postgraduate students with strong research proposals or academic performance. Media Top Study World+2FullyFundedScholarship.org+2

• These may include full or partial tuition waivers, sometimes with allowances or research funding. FullyFundedScholarship.org+1

4. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Scholarships

• UPM has several international scholarship schemes, including the UPM-SEARCA joint scholarship (for agriculture, sustainable development) which offers full fee waivers, stipends, etc. BFFS Scholar Quest+2ScholarshipTab+2

• UPM also offers Graduate Research Scholarships or International Graduate Student Scholarships. Media Top Study World+1

5. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) & Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

• USM provides Graduate Student Assistance (GRA-ASSIST) funding for international PhD students, often covering tuition or first semesters based on merit and research proposals. Media Top Study World

• UTM offers International Doctoral Fellowships and scholarships for postgraduate students, sometimes including partial tuition waivers, research grants. Media Top Study World

6. Private / Specialized Institutions (IMU, UCSI, Taylor’s, etc.)

• International Medical University (IMU): Scholarships & bursaries for certain undergraduate & postgraduate programs. Global Leadership Scholarships etc. easyuni.com.bn+1

• UCSI University: Trust Scholarships, partial tuition waivers for international students; many merit-based grants. easyuni.com.bn

• Taylor’s University: Scholarship programs including merit awards, partial or sometimes full fee waivers for outstanding international students. Media Top Study World+1

What These Scholarships Generally Cover

Understanding coverage is essential when applying. Here are common components:

Eligibility / Requirements (Frequent)

While each scholarship has unique terms, here are typical eligibility criteria:

• Citizenship from eligible countries (often developing countries or ASEAN)

• Strong academic record (e.g. good GPA, research experience for postgraduate)

• For Master’s or PhD: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree respectively; sometimes research proposal required

• English proficiency (TOEFL / IELTS or equivalent)

• Sometimes age limits or professional experience depending on program

Tips for Success When Applying

To improve your chances of winning one of these scholarships, follow these tips:

1. Start early — government scholarship cycles may open once per year. Track MIS, MTCP, etc.

2. Prepare documents carefully — transcripts, recommendation letters, research proposal (if required).

3. Tailor your application — match your academic interests to what Malaysia is known for (e.g. research in tropical sciences, engineering, sustainability).

4. Check university & government deadlines — they vary; don’t miss them.

5. Proofread and present well — good writing often sets applicants apart.

6. Reach out to universities — contact international student offices to clarify criteria, additional internal awards, etc.

Recent / Notable Updates (2025)

• The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is among the most sought after for postgraduate study globally. Mastersportal+1

• MTCP remains an important scholarship for students from developing countries. BFFS Scholar Quest+1

• Universities like UPM, UM, USM & UTM have increased allocations for research-based postgraduate scholarships. Media Top Study World+1

• Private / foundation & merit scholarships (e.g. IMU, UCSI, Taylor’s) are expanding, especially for undergraduates. easyuni.com.bn+2Apply Scholarships Hub+2

Possible Challenges and Things to Check

• Many scholarships are for postgraduate level. Fully funded scholarships for international undergrad students are fewer or more competitive.

• Some universities limit scholarships mostly to their own partner list or certain regions.

• English proficiency requirements or research proposal quality can be strict.

• Living allowances may only cover basic costs; additional private funding may still be needed depending on lifestyle and location.

Conclusion

If you’re an international student aiming to study abroad, Malaysia offers many great scholarship opportunities in 2025. From top government programs like MIS and MTCP to merit-based university awards, there are options for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD levels.

By choosing the right scholarship, preparing carefully, and applying early, studying in Malaysia can be both affordable and enriching — academically, culturally, and personally.