Thinking about getting your degree in Malaysia? Great choice!
Malaysia is a top destination for students because of its affordable tuition, world-class universities, and diverse student life.
With international partnerships and globally recognized programs, you can get a high-quality education without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about studying a bachelor’s degree in Malaysia, from program types to visa applications, cost, student life, and more.
Why is Bachelor’s Important?
A bachelor’s degree is your ticket to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and career growth.
It helps you gain in-depth knowledge, develop critical skills, and opens doors for postgraduate studies like a master’s or PhD.
Not to mention, in today’s job market, having a degree makes all the difference.
Overview of Bachelor's Degree Programs in Malaysia
Duration
Most programs take 3 to 4 years to complete, depending on your field of study
Some fields like engineering, pharmacy, architecture, or medicine may take 4 to 5 years
Type of Degrees
The type of bachelor’s degree they will earn depends on their area of study you are pursuing.
The types of degrees include:
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Bachelor of Arts (BA) – Humanities, Social Sciences, Communication
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Bachelor of Science (BSc) – Sciences, IT, Psychology
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Bachelor of Engineering (BEng) – Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, etc.
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Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – Business & Management
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Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) – Medicine
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Bachelor of Laws (LLB) – Law
Assessment Methods
Assessments in Bachelor's Degree programs vary but usually include:
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Coursework – Essays, reports, presentations
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Exams – Midterms, finals
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Research Projects – Final-year thesis
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Internships – Hands-on experience
The coursework to exams ratio varies based on the university and the course outline.
Popular Fields of Study
Field |
Popular Course Example |
Average Annual Fees (USD) |
Bachelor's Degree in Business |
3,300 - 9,100 |
|
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering |
3,750 - 15,250 |
|
Bachelor's Degree in Science (Medicine, Pharmacy) |
4,150 - 13,750 |
|
Bachelor's Degree in Arts |
2,626 - 11,250 |
|
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science |
4,500 - 10,650 |
* Click on the field in the table for Bachelor's Degree course details.
* Fees are calculated as per 4.0 exchange rate.
If you’re looking to dive deeper into a particular field / course, check out our detailed course guides that include all information about your desired course.
Top Universities for Bachelor's Degree Programs in Malaysia
University |
Global Ranking |
Popular Fields of Study |
#60 |
Sciences |
|
#146 |
Business and Engineering |
|
#251 |
Business & Hospitality |
|
#138 |
Engineering & Medicine |
|
#539 |
Business & IT |
|
#265 |
Pharmacy & Healthcare |
Entry Requirements for Bachelor's Degree in Malaysia
Academic Requirements
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Completion of A-Levels, STPM, Foundation, IB Diploma, or equivalent
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Minimum grades may vary by university and course
English Proficiency (For International Students)
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IELTS: 4.5 – 6.5
-
TOEFL: 60 – 100 (iBT)
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MUET: Band 3 or above
Specific Subject Prerequisites
Certain courses like medicine, engineering, and IT may require subjects like Math, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology in your pre-university studies.
Bachelor's Degree Program in Malaysia Student Visa
Documents You Need:
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University offer letter
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Passport copy
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Proof of financial support
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Medical check-up report
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Visa application fee (MYR 2,000 – 3,000)
Application Process:
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Receive your offer letter from the university.
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Apply for your visa through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).
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Complete a medical check-up.
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Get your Visa Approval Letter (VAL).
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Collect your student pass when you arrive in Malaysia.
Know the full details about Malaysian student visa requirements in this article.
Can International Students Work in Malaysia While Studying?
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Yes! International students can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during semester breaks. Popular job options include retail, food & beverage, and tourism.
Know more about working in Malaysia as an international student in this article. [internal link]
How to Apply to a University in Malaysia
Step-by-Step Guide
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Research universities and programs.
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Check the entry requirements.
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Prepare necessary documents.
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Apply online through the university’s website.
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Accept your offer letter and pay any required fees.
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Apply for your student visa.
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Plan your arrival and accommodation.
Required Documents & Deadlines
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Academic transcripts & certificates
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English proficiency test results
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Passport copy
-
Deadlines vary, so apply 3-6 months before intake!
Cost of Living in Malaysia for International Students
If you are planning to study a Bachelor's Degree program in Malaysia and wondering about the living expenses, here’s a simple breakdown of the necessary monthly expenses you will need:
Category |
Estimated Budget in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) |
Estimated Budget in US Dollars (USD) |
Accommodation |
||
Full Apartment |
1,500.00 |
320.00 |
Room in Shared Apartment |
600.00 |
128.00 |
Food |
550.00 |
118.00 |
Groceries |
200.00 |
43.00 |
Bills |
150.00 |
32.00 |
Transport |
100.00 |
22.00 |
Entertainment |
100.00 |
22.00 |
Total Budget: |
1,700.00 - 2,600.00 |
365.00 - 557.00 |
Disclaimer: these estimated budget ranges are for a single person.
Know more information about the living expenses in Malaysia on this page.
Student Life in Malaysia
Campus Life & Student Activities
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Universities have student clubs, sports teams, and networking/career-related events
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Opportunities for volunteering, cultural festivals, and exchange programs
Multicultural Experience
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Malaysia is home to students from over 100 nationalities
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Affordable and diverse food options cater to all dietary needs
Accommodation Options
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On-campus: Affordable, secure, and convenient
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Off-campus: More privacy, varying rent prices depending on location
Get familiar with the student life in Malaysia for international students in 2025 here on this page!
Apply to Study Bachelor’s Degree in Malaysia
Studying a Bachelor's Degree program in Malaysia is an excellent investment in a successful university education.
To apply to study in Malaysia, our experienced and dedicated team will simplify the process for you, offering step-by-step assistance in selecting the best university for you.
We'll guide you through the entire application process—from preparing your documents to submitting your application, handling your visa, arranging accommodation in Malaysia and even picking you up in the airport when you arrive.
Get in touch with our team now for free consultation and advice!