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5 Tips For Studying In Malaysia For International Students
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Deciding to study abroad is a monumental decision, and choosing the right destination is paramount. Malaysia, with its unique blend of affordability, academic excellence, cultural diversity, and breathtaking landscapes, has become an increasingly popular choice for international students. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the top 5 things you should know to study in Malaysia! Let’s get started.
Studying In Malaysia For International Students
Malaysia is a great study destination for those seeking an enriching academic experience. Let's explore why Malaysia stands out as an excellent study-abroad option for international students.
1. Affordable Education Cost
The cost of education is a big deal for most international students deciding which country to study in. That is why studying in Malaysia for international students has been, for many years, the jewel destination and is viewed as a country offering world-class education at affordability. It is also home to many top-ranking universities, including branches of renowned Australian and UK institutions.
The currency appeal of the Ringgit plays a big factor. It is a game-changer for many students taking advantage by spending the first few years of their programmes in Malaysia and completing the remaining 1-2 years in Australia or in the UK.
Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses in Malaysia are comparatively lower, making it a financially prudent choice for those seeking quality education on a budget.
Uni Enrol is a study abroad expert in catering for higher education study in Malaysia. It will be able to advise you on the tuition fees and help you structure your education programme to suit your budget.
2. Many Top Ranking Universities
Malaysia has firmly established itself as an education hub, boasting a plethora of universities that consistently rank high in the prestigious QS World University Rankings. There are 7 public universities and 3 private universities that are on the QS Rankings, namely Taylor’s University, UCSI University and Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP). Some of the top universities in Malaysia for international students are:
Universiti Malaya (UM)
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Universiti Putra Malaya (UPM)
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Taylor’s University
Sunway University
Asia Pacific University
UCSI University
HELP University
These institutions cover a diverse range of academic disciplines, ensuring that students have ample choices to pursue their desired fields of study.
The academic curriculum and pedagogy of Malaysian universities are rigorous and on par with many top universities around the world. As such, students are assured cultivation of deep knowledge combined with practical application to prepare them for challenges in the real world. The reputation of these institutions also opens doors to global opportunities, making studying in Malaysia for international students a valuable asset.
3. High-Quality Education and World-Class Facilities
Quality education is not complete without state-of-the-art facilities supporting the learning experience of students. Malaysian universities invest significantly in world-class equipment and technology that are being used in the working environment.
Many top universities also maintain laboratories and cutting-edge research centres that churn new discoveries and research publications every year, contributing to an atmosphere that nurtures innovation and application.
Top Malaysian institutions are home to lecturers who hold PhD qualifications, ensuring that students receive education from highly qualified professionals. On top of this, varsities ensure they employ lecturers who have immense industry experience to create highly relevant and practical syllabi. This commitment to academic excellence fosters an environment that encourages critical thinking, innovation, and a holistic approach to studying in Malaysia for international students.
4. Cultural Diversity and Endless Food Choices
Malaysia is a melting pot of ethnicities, cultures and friendly people. For many international students, transitioning and finding a community from their home country is often not an issue. Universities also provide a supportive hand to help students overcome study abroad challenges with ease through the student bodies, societies and volunteer ambassadors.
The majority of international students come to study in Malaysia from India, China, Indonesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. There are also students from Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the Philippines and countries from Central Asia who come to study in Malaysia.
The culinary spectacle of Malaysia brings together people from diverse backgrounds. The country is a haven for food enthusiasts, offering an endless array of choices that cater to different tastes and preferences. Regardless of where you come from, you are likely to find familiar dishes that provide a comforting taste of home. From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, Malaysia's culinary scene is a delightful journey of flavours waiting to be explored.
5. Many Places To Travel
Beyond the academic realm, Malaysia offers students the opportunity to explore its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. The country is a treasure trove of beautiful and captivating point-of-interests, ranging from urban crawls to nature retreats.
Urban enthusiasts can explore the bustling metropolises of Kuala Lumpur, Johor or Penang (where many campuses are located) experiencing the vibrant culture, modern architecture, and lively street life. For those seeking a retreat into nature, Malaysia boasts pristine rainforests, picturesque beaches, and serene highlands. Places like Langkawi, Cameron Highlands, and Taman Negara offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Studying in Malaysia should be one of the top choices for international students seeking a holistic and enriching educational experience. The combination of affordable education, top-ranking universities, high-quality education, cultural diversity, and travel opportunities makes Malaysia a compelling choice. We hope that this guide to study in Malaysia has unveiled some thoughts and validated your decision to plan your academic and personal growth in this vibrant Southeast Asian nation.
Uni Enrol is Malaysia’s largest online university enrolment platform that is authorised by more than 200 private universities and colleges to study in Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and the United Kingdom to help students choose the right higher education course, save more on education and apply to universities.
Talk to their super friendly and experienced counsellors and let them help you take that first international education step.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top Malaysian universities for international students?
The top public universities to study in Malaysia are UM, USM, and UKM. Leading private universities include Taylor’s, Sunway, and UCSI, known for diverse international student populations. Monash, Nottingham, Heriot-Watt, and Curtin are prominent foreign branch campuses for international students in Malaysia.
What is the estimated cost of living in Malaysia?
It depends on whether you are living in the main city or further away and your lifestyle. On-Campus Accommodation will cost - RM500 - RM1,500 per room per month (USD 120 - USD 400). Living Costs - RM1,000 - RM2,000 per month (USD 250 - USD 400) Do set aside some funds for emergencies or ad hoc purchases/expenditures from time to time.
Are there scholarships for international students?
Typically, scholarships for international students who want to study in Malaysia go up to 20%. Uni Enrol helps you to apply for scholarships together with your university application.
What is the visa application process for international students to study in Malaysia?
To study in Malaysia, get accepted by a school, apply for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) and Entry Visa, clear immigration, register at your institution, and obtain your Student Pass from the Malaysia Immigration Department. Consult Uni Enrol’s education consultants for assistance.
What is the common language of instruction at Malaysian universities?
In Malaysia, Bahasa Malaysia is the local language, but English is widely spoken. Most university programs are conducted in English, and there are classes available to improve proficiency if needed.