Degrees in Malaysia 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Imagine earning a world-class degree while exploring breathtaking landscapes and immersing yourself in a rich, multicultural society. 

Sounds too good to be true? 

Well, it’s not!

Welcome to Malaysia, a land where your academic dreams meet affordability and adventure! 

Whether you’re taking your first steps into higher education or pursuing an advanced degree, Malaysia has something extraordinary to offer.

This guide explains the types of degrees in Malaysia, admission requirements, scholarships, costs, and what life as an international student looks like.

What Is the Higher Education Pathway in Malaysia?

Malaysia’s higher education system is diverse and inclusive. It starts with pre-university courses and extends to diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and PhDs.

This structure allows international students to enter at different levels depending on their qualifications.

What Are the Top Universities for Degrees in Malaysia?

Malaysia is home to universities accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). 

This accreditation guarantees global recognition of your degree.

According to the QS World University Rankings 2026, the University of Malaya (UM) remains Malaysia’s top-ranked university, while Sunway University recorded one of the biggest global improvements, rising more than 120 places.

Types of Universities in Malaysia

Malaysia’s universities fall into 3 main categories (public, private, foreign), each offering unique advantages: 

What Types of Degrees Can You Study in Malaysia?

Let’s explore each level of degree in Malaysia:

Diploma Programs

• A diploma course is a level below an undergraduate degree, and can be considered equivalent to a first year of a university degree.
• Diploma focuses on practical skills and real-world knowledge. 
• Graduates can either start working or enter a related bachelor’s degree from Year 2.
• Fields Offered: Design, Business, Management, Computer Science, IT.

Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Degrees

• Many good universities in Malaysia offer a diverse and outstanding range of bachelor's degree programs, making it an ideal destination for students seeking high-quality education.
• Most bachelor's programs require 120 credit hours, covering general and specialized courses.
• Some universities offer twinning programs (e.g., 2 years in Malaysia + 2 years abroad) and others offer dual degree programs (receive two degrees from two universities after fulfilling requirements for both).
• Fields Offered: Engineering, Medicine, Business, IT, Arts, Humanities etc.

According to Education Malaysia (EMGS), bachelor’s degrees are the most popular program, making up 44% of new international applications in Q2 2025.

💡You can check the list of available courses in Malaysia or visit our website to read more detailed articles about each specialization.

Postgraduate (Master’s) Degrees

• Master’s programs are for students who want to deepen their knowledge or specialize in a specific area. They can be coursework-based, research-based, or a mix of both.
• Master’s degree requires the completion of (40 credits) hours.
•  Research-based Master’s degrees do not use a credit system.
• Fields Offered: MBA, Engineering, Management, Data Science.

Doctoral (PhD) Degrees

• PhD programs in Malaysia focus on advanced research and innovation. 
• Students must conduct independent research and present findings in seminars.
• PhD programs by research do not have credit values
• Fields Offered: Architecture, Science, Business, Engineering
  

Flexible Study Options in Malaysia

Many universities offer degrees in Malaysia in flexible options (online, short, and part-time courses) tailored to diverse learning needs:

• Short Courses

Offered for short periods, usually ranging from a few days to a few months, and aim to improve specific skills or provide additional knowledge in certain fields.

• Part-Time Courses

Allow students to pursue their studies at a slower pace, enabling them to balance between study, work, or other commitments.

• Online Courses

Provide students the opportunity to study remotely, offering greater flexibility to access education from anywhere in the world.

What Are the Admission Requirements for Degrees in Malaysia?

General requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Previous transcripts and certificates.

2. English Proficiency: Most universities require TOEFL or IELTS scores.

3. Passport and Documentation: Valid passport and other necessary documents.

4. Application Form: Submit your application to us and pay fees if required.

*Each program may have specific requirements.

💡For more details, check out: A Simple Guide to Exploring Malaysia University Admission.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Degree in Malaysia?

One of the biggest reasons to earn a degree in Malaysia is affordability.

Tuition fees are significantly lower than in Western countries while maintaining high-quality education.

Here are the details of the cost of degree in Malaysia for international students:

Are There Scholarships and Grants  for Degrees in Malaysia? 

Yes. Many universities provide scholarships for international students.

Scholarships may cover full tuition, partial tuition, or provide financial assistance for outstanding academic achievements.

Visit the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) official website  for updated opportunities.

Examples of Tuition Fee Waivers:

INTI Tertiary Scholarship:

• CGPA 3.8 or higher: RM14,000 per year (USD3,500)
• CGPA 3.6 or higher: RM12,000 per year (USD3,000)
• CGPA 3.4 or higher: RM10,000 per year (USD2,500)

Universities Offering Financial Assistance

• Taylor’s University – merit-based scholarship.
• Sunway University – scholarships for top achievers and financially challenged students.
• HELP University – leadership or talent scholarships and special fee waivers.

💡For more details, read the article: Are There Tuition Free Universities in Malaysia? Here’s the Answer. 

How to Apply for a Degree in Malaysia?

1. Through an Education Agency
   You can rely on an agency (education consultants)to simplify the entire process from choosing a course and university, preparing documents, submitting applications, to handling the student visa. We can support you with this step – contact us anytime and don’t hesitate.

2. By Yourself
   You handle the process independently by researching universities, applying through their official portals, preparing documents, and managing your visa application directly via the EMGS system.

Steps to Apply for a Degree in Malaysia

Applying to a Malaysian university is straightforward. 

Just follow these steps:

Step 1: Choose Your University & Program

Find a university that matches your career or academic goals. Compare rankings, fees, and course content.

Step 2: Check the Requirements

✔ For Bachelor’s degree: high school diploma (A-levels or equivalent).

✔ For Master’s degree: a recognized Bachelor’s degree.

✔ For PhD: a recognized Master’s degree.

✔ Minimum GPA (depends on the university).

✔ English proficiency: IELTS / TOEFL (score varies by level and university).

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

✔ Academic transcripts.

✔ Passport copy.

✔ White background photo.

✔ Other documents (CV, research proposal, or recommendation letters) if required.

Step 4: Submit Your Application & Pay Fees (if required)

Submit your application directly or through YourUni and pay any required fees.

Step 5: Get Your Offer Letter

Once accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter by your personal email.

Step 6: Apply for a Student Visa

You have two options to apply for a Malaysia student visa:

Your university will help you apply.

Or YourUni can act as your representative to apply for your visa. Send us the required documents, and we’ll handle everything.

In general, the student visa process takes 4–6 weeks.

💡For more details about student visas in Malaysia, check out our Visa Section.

What Is Student Life Like in Malaysia?

Student life in Malaysia is a unique and opportunity-filled experience. 

Malaysia offers international students a culturally rich environment, affordable living, and a high level of safety.

While some may wonder if Malaysia is expensive or high-cost, the reality is that students can live comfortably on a reasonable budget.

• Safety: Malaysia is considered one of the safest study destinations in Asia, giving students peace of mind during their stay.
• Cost of Living: Budget-friendly accommodation, food, and transportation.
• Student Discounts: Special rates on transport (LRT Student Card), restaurants, and shops using the student card (iKAD).
• Practical Student Essentials: Opening a bank account for easy transactions and getting a local SIM card to stay connected affordably.
• Festivals & Public Holidays: Experience Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali, and more!

Job Opportunities for International Students in Malaysia

Are you wondering if international students can work while studying? The answer is yes! 

International students can work part-time under specific conditions. 

💡To learn more about these conditions, check out the article: Can International Students Work in Malaysia While Studying?

What about after graduation? 

Yes, international students can work in Malaysia after completing their degree! 

They can apply for a Graduate Pass to work in fields like technology, hospitality, tourism, and more.

💡For more details, read the article: Can International Students Work in Malaysia After Graduation?

Your Dream Degree in Malaysia Awaits!

Now you see it, don’t you? 

Malaysia offers more than just a degree—it’s an experience that stays with you forever. 

Whether you’re starting your academic journey or advancing your career, Malaysia has a place for you. 

If you have chosen your degree in Malaysia or still need more information, don’t hesitate to book your free consultation with us.

We’ll be happy to help you chose 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Degrees in Malaysia

Q1: Is a degree from Malaysia recognized internationally?
Yes, thanks to MQA and MOHE accreditation, Malaysian degrees are recognized worldwide.

Q2: Can international students study medicine or engineering in Malaysia?
Yes, many universities offer globally recognized degrees in medicine, engineering, IT, and more.

Q3: Is Malaysia cheap for international students?
Yes. Tuition fees are lower than in the UK, US, or Australia, while maintaining strong academic standards.

Q4: Can I work while studying for a degree in Malaysia?
Yes. International students can work part-time under specific conditions and may apply for work opportunities after graduation.

Q5: Do I need to know Malay to study in Malaysia?
No, most programs are taught in English. However, learning basic Malay can enhance your daily life experience.

Q6: How long does the visa process take?
Typically 4-6 weeks for complete processing after submitting all required documents.

Q7: How much does it cost to live as a student in Malaysia?

Most students need between $365 - $557 monthly (RM1,700 - RM2,600) depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Q8: How many years is a degree in Malaysia?
A bachelor’s degree usually takes 3-4 years, while medicine and related programs may take 5-6 years.

Q9: How much does a degree cost in Malaysia?
Tuition fees vary by program: 

• Diplomas range from USD 1,808 – 16,380 per year.
• Bachelor’s degrees USD 1,888 – 35,850 per year.
• Master’s degrees USD 900 – 25,000 per year.
• PhDs USD 900 – 26,538 per year.