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Study in Malaysia

Are you looking for study in Malaysia? If so, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will cover all aspects regarding the higher education of Malaysia for an international student. So, grab a coffee and take a good at this until the end.

Introduction to Study in Malaysia

Before diving deeper about studying in Malaysia, let us give you a brief about Malaysia itself.

Malaysia is a southeast Asian country with an area of 330,803 km2 (yup, that’s from Wikipedia). It is a multicultural and multiethnic country with the majority of Malay people. Apart from that, Chinese and Indians represent minorities of their population. Most speak Malaysian Malay as the official language, but English has a good reputation as a major language. Malaysia’s capital is Kuala Lampur, while Penang, Johor Bahru, Malacca, and Kuching are the other major cities. They have two major geographical areas: East Malaysia and Peninusular Malaysia. Most people live in East Malaysia, while the Peninsula Malaysia covers most forests with less population density. Their neighboring countries are Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Brunei, and the Philippines.

The Malaysian government has given significant support to their education in the recent past. As a result, there are a number of universities, and some branches of the world-class universities have been established in Malaysia. The country is becoming a top choice among the international students who are seeking quality education at an affordable cost. . With their diverse culture, top class universities, beautiful landscapes, and strategic location in Southeast Asia, Malaysia offers a unique and enriching experience for the international students.


In this article, we’ll explore deeply why Malaysia is an ideal destination for your higher education and how Agape Education can help you achieve your study dreams in Malaysia.

Why do international students choose Malaysia as their higher education destination?

Quality Education: There are numerous top ranked and world-ranked universities established in Malaysia. Those universities offer a wide range of programs well matched to international standards, which have recognition’s all over the globe.

Affordable Tuition Fees:  If we compare with countries like the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, Malaysia offers significantly lower tuition fees, making it a budget friendly option for quality education. That has forced many global students to choose Malaysia as their higher education destination.

Cultural Diversity: Malaysia is a country with many cultures, majority are Malays people. That diversity is providing international students with a unique and enriching experience that they can’t experience in their home countries. This multicultural environment also helps students feel welcomed in Malaysia.
Strategic Location: Malaysia is a Southeast Asian country that shares borders with Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Brunei. This easy access to other major Asian countries and cities makes it a significant hub for international students.
English-Medium Instructions: The majority of universities in Malaysia offer their programs in English, making it easier for international students to adapt and continue their academics. Also, Malaysia accepts English as a key language, which helps international students do their day-to-day life activities without any trouble.
Safe and Friendly Environment: There is a high safety in Malaysia with a low crime rate. People are friendly with peaceful minds. That allows international students to do their academic activities with a free mindset.
Beautiful Landscapes:  Malaysia is a top tourist attraction in Asia, with many tropical rain forests and pristine beaches. There are so many beautiful destinations to visit, which can be explored during your semester breaks and holidays.

Top Universities in Malaysia

Like we said earlier, Malaysia is home to top ranked universities and its branch campuses. Below are some fantastic private universities you should know about:

Monash University Malaysia

Monash University Malaysia is one of the top branches of Monash University Australia. With 98% of graduate property, Monash University Malaysia ranks 5 in the Malaysia rankings and 12 in the Southeast Asian Rankings. According to the QS World University rankings, it takes 42nd position. One of the best private universities to study in Malaysia with world-class education. Monash University offers top programs from foundation level to PhD level, including Medicine & Health Sciences, Business & Economics, IT, Engineering, Art, Social Sciences, Science, Law, and Education.

Swinburne University of Technology

Another branch campus of Australian Swinburne University, where Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak, ranks 17th in Malaysia and 76th in Southeast Asia rankings. It is one of the top choices of international students with high-quality education. It also ranks 291 in the QS World University Rankings (2024). From foundation level to PhD level, they offer various programs, including: information technology, business and management, design and creative arts, engineering, health science, science, social science, and media and communication.

Taylor’s University Malaysia

Taylor’s University is a UK-based university located in Subang Jaya, Malaysia. It is also a top ranked private university with 251 in the QS world university rankings. Offering high quality education, they have a wide range of programs including architecture, bioscience, business, mass communication, culinary arts, Hospitality & tourism, computer science, engineering, and law.

Asia Pacific University

Situated in Kuala Lampur, Asia Pacific University is considered the No. 1 technological campus in Malaysia. They rank 8 in Malaysian rankings and 620 in QS World University Rankings in 2024. With 96% of the graduate employment rate, the university offers top programs like computer science, software engineering, information technology, business information technology, artificial intelligence, data science, electrical and electronic engineering, and cyber security. These programs are available from foundations to PhD levels. Asia Pacific University is one of the top choices of most considering studying in Malaysia.

Curtin University Malaysia

Curtin University Malaysia is another Australian-based campus situated in Miri, Sarawak. It is one of the most renowned universities in Malaysia, among the top 1% universities worldwide. They offer a wide range of programs from undergraduate level to postgraduate level, including engineering, business, science, health sciences, arts, and humanities. Curtin University Malaysia is a well-known institute for its strong industry partnerships and research focus. This opens students with valuable opportunities for practical experience and exposure to research-based activities.

UOW Malaysia
One of the famous Australian universities is situated in Malaysia. The University of Wollongong Malaysia currently ranks 12th in Malaysian rankings. Becoming among the top 50 universities in Southeast Asia, it ranks 162 in the QS World University Rankings. With a 97% graduate property rate, this university offers top programs including business Business Administration, computer science, engineering, psychology, communication and media studies, hospitality management, accounting and finance, and international relations.

University of Southampton Malaysia
This is another UK-based university in Malaysia. It is the branch campus of renowned Southampton University, UK. According to QS World University Rankings, UOSM ranks 81st . Located in Johor, the university offers world class education to international students, with transfer options available to the UK. In here, you can study many programs in engineering, science, and business, from foundational levels to PhD levels.

UNITEN (University of Tenaga Nasional)
Known as ‘The Energy University’ is another popular private university in Malaysia. According to the QS World University Rankings, UNITEN ranks 649 (2024), and it ranks 11th in the Malaysia Rankings. With 98% of graduate prosperity, UNITEN offers top programs in engineering, computer science, business administration, computer science, and accounting.

IUKL (Infrastructure University)
Another famous Malaysian university with 98% of graduate property. IUKL takes 11th in Malaysian rankings and 652th in QS World University Rankings. They offer foundations to PhD level, including top programs in engineering, architecture, business administration, computer science, biotechnology, and communication studies.

Inti International University
Another prominent private university in Malaysia with the top choice of most of the international students. They have multiple campuses across Malaysia, including Nilai, Subang, and Penang. Inti International University is well known for its transfer opportunities to the USA and Canada. This opens students to start their studies in Malaysia and transfer their degrees to top ranked USA or Canada universities. Apart from that, Inti offers various programs, including business, engineering, IT, art, science, and fashion design.

Programs to Study in Malaysia

Malaysian universities provide an extensive variety of applications in numerous fields of study. It’s no matter whether you’re interested in engineering, medicine, business, IT, or the arts, there’s a definite program for you. Here are some of those popular study fields in Malaysian universities:

Apart from these top study levels, Malaysia offers 1000+ programs in different categories. Students have many choices where they can choose the most ideal program for them.

Engineering: Malaysia is renowned for its engineering programs, especially in fields like civil, mechanical, electrical, and chemical engineering. Many universities offer a wide range of engineering programs from undergraduate levels to postgraduate levels.

Business & Management: Many Malaysian universities offer top-notch business and management related programs, including MBAs, which are highly recognized internationally. It’s no matter whether you are looking for HR, marketing, business administration, sales, or anything in this field, you have your program at any of the Malaysian universities.

Information Technology: With the growing demand for IT professionals globally, Malaysia’s universities offer cutting-edge programs in computer science, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, digital marketing, and software engineering. Asia Pacific University (APU) is one of the best choices in this category if you are planning your future in IT.

Medicine & Health Sciences: Malaysia has some of the best medical schools in the region, offering MBBS and other health-related programs. As well, many Malaysian universities offer pharmacy and nursing related programs too.

Hospitality & Tourism: Malaysia’s thriving tourism industry makes it an ideal place to study hospitality and tourism management. Tourism is also a growing field in Malaysia, where you will open many opportunities in the same country after completing your programs. Some of the universities offer work based learning opportunities for hospitality and tourism programs.

Arts & Humanities: For those inclined toward creative fields, Malaysian universities offer programs in design, communication, and the arts. From undergraduate levels to postgraduate levels, they offer some unique programs that are unavailable in other universities in some countries.

Tuition Fees: They vary depending on the program and the selected university. If we get an average, tuition fees range from USD 4,000 to USD 10,000 per year for undergraduate programs, while USD 5,000 to USD 15,000 for a postgraduate program at a top Malaysian university. Most of the universities offer up to 80% scholarships to international students where the tuition fee is fairly less than the above mentioned average cost.

Living Expenses: The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively low compared to the USA, UK, Europe, and its regional countries. If we take an average, monthly expenses range from USD 300 to USD 600, including accommodation, food, transportation, etc. But it will depend on the student and his living style.

Other Expenses: This can include costs for books, study materials, medicine, and personal expenses. However, this can add another USD 500 to USD 1,000 per year for a student.

Programs to Study in Malaysia

One of the main attractions of studying in Malaysia is its affordability. It is very less compared to other popular study destinations like the UK, USA, Canada, or even Australia. That has caused students to choose Malaysia as their higher education destination. Here’s a breakdown of those major costs:

Overall, we can say that studying in Malaysia offers a high-quality education at slightly less cost compared to the other western countries.

Accommodation in Malaysia for International Students

Malaysia offers several accommodation options for the international students. Here are the major options:

On-Campus Accommodation: Many Malaysian universities offer on-campus hostel facilities, including dormitories and apartments. These options are convenient and provide easy access to campus facilities. Most of these hostel facilities are located on the university boundaries, while students have easy access. International students can apply for these on campus accommodations where the cost is slightly reduced compared to the other accommodation options.

Off-Campus Accommodation: For those who prefer more independence, off-campus housing is available. This includes apartments and shared houses. Most of these are often located near the university and offer a range of amenities. But students must be careful when selecting an off-campus accommodation, whether the place is near their university.

Private Rentals: International students can also choose to rent private apartments or houses, either alone or with their roommates. This option offers more privacy and flexibility but can be more expensive.
Homestays: For an immersive cultural experience, some students opt for homestays with local families, providing a unique opportunity to experience Malaysian culture and way of life.
Condominiums: There are many condominiums available in most of the urban areas of Malaysia. So, students can choose this option where most of these large condominiums are located near the LRT stations.

Scholarships for International Students

Scholarships for International Students

Aiming to make higher education more accessible, many Malaysian universities offer scholarships to international students. including Monash Malaysia and Taylor’s University offer merit-based scholarships that can cover partial or full tuition fees for a student. The Malaysian government also offers various scholarships for international students, including the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS). Several private organizations and companies also offer scholarships to students pursuing specific fields of study, such as engineering or business. Apart from them, Agape Education works closely with universities to provide exclusive scholarships for students who apply through their consultancy.

Study in Malaysia with Agape Education

Agape Education, we are a student placement center for higher education in Malaysia. Our head office is located in Kuching City, Sarawak, Malaysia. We also have branch offices in Sri Lanka and the Philippines.
Founded in 2018, we have helped and guided 300+ worldwide students to come and pursue their higher studies in Malaysia. We have a deep understanding of the Malaysian education system and strong partnerships with top universities, where we ensure that you find the right program and university that aligns with your academic and career goals in the future.

Our Mission:

To shape a better future by transforming every-day lives and building the life of tomorrow, today

Our Vision

Our vision is to create a transparent and trustworthy environment where our clients and students will let us guide them through their migration journey.

Why You Should Choose Agape Education to Study in Malaysia

Agape Education stands out as the top choice for students who are looking to study in Malaysia. Here are some of the reasons why you should choose us:

  • Collaborate with Top Ranked Universities in Malaysia: Agape Education partners with over 20 high ranked Malaysian universities, giving you access to a wide range of programs and opportunities with world class education.
  • Expert Guidance from Beginning: Our team of experienced and certified counselors provides personalized guidance and support throughout the application process from the very beginning until you settle in Malaysia. It includes selecting the right university and securing your student visa.
  • 100% Free Services: Unlike many other agencies, Agape Education offers 100% free consultation and application services, ensuring that you get the best advice without any hidden costs. We also advise students to pay directly to their respective university.
  • High Success Rate: We pride ourselves on a 99% visa approval rate, ensuring that your journey to studying in Malaysia is smooth and hassle-free without any doubt.
  • Award Winning Agency: Agape Education recently won awards for best counseling and as a best student placement center. It was organized by one of the best universities in Malaysia. These awards show our excellence in this business further.

Study in Malaysia with Agape Education

At Agape Education, we follow a streamlined process to ensure that your application is handled efficiently. Here is our process in brief:

  • Initial Consultation: We begin your Malaysia study journey with a detailed consultation to understand your academic background, career goals, future ambitions, and preferences.
  • University and Program Selection: Based on your profile, we recommend suitable universities and well matched programs that match your aspirations.
  • Application Assistance: We guide you through the application process from the very beginning, ensuring that all documents are correctly submitted and deadlines are met. The application process starts when you are obtaining the offer letter from your selected university.
  • Visa Processing: Our team assists you with student visa applications, providing all the necessary information and support to ensure a successful outcome.
  • Pre-Departure Briefing: After the visa processing other payment confirmations, we offer pre-departure briefings to prepare you for your journey to Malaysia, covering topics like accommodation, culture, and academic expectations. Here we will connect you to a representative from your selected university.
  • Ongoing Support: Our support doesn’t end once you arrive in Malaysia. We continue to provide assistance throughout your university registration, medical checkup, accommodation, and study process, ensuring that you have a smooth and successful experience in Malaysia.

Our Partner Universities in Malaysia

Agape Education is proud to partner with some of the best universities in Malaysia. Here are some of those:
• Monash University Malaysia
• Swinburne University of Technology, Sarawak
• Curtin University Malaysia
• University of Wollongong Malaysia
• University of Southampton Malaysia
• INTI International University
• Asia Pacific University (APU)
• Taylor’s University
These partnerships allow us to offer exclusive benefits to our students, including scholarships, expedited application processing, and personalized support.

Study in Malaysia for Sri Lankan Students

As our main target audience, Sri Lankan students receive special attention and support from Agape Education. Here are some reasons why studying in Malaysia is a great option for a Sri Lankan student:

Proximity: Malaysia is just a short flight away from Sri Lanka (around 2.5 hours), making it a convenient and accessible destination for higher education.

Cultural Similarities: Both countries share similar cultural values, making it easier for Sri Lankan students to adapt and feel at home in Malaysia.

Affordable Education: Malaysia offers high-quality education at an affordable cost, making it a viable option for Sri Lankan students seeking international education.

Career Opportunities: Graduates from Malaysian universities are highly sought after by employers, both in Sri Lanka and globally, ensuring strong career prospects.

Climate: Malaysia’s climate is somewhat similar to Sri Lanka. Temperature is the same, and no special summer or winter can be experienced in Malaysia.

How to Contact Agape Education to Study in Malaysia
Ready to take the next step?

Contact Agape Education today to start your journey towards studying in Malaysia.
• Call us: +9471 781 2869 | +9470 238 3016 (Sri Lanka).
• WhatsApp: +60 16-354 2461 | +9471 781 2869 | +9470 238 3016

Sri Lanka office Address: 258/A, D.S. Senanayaka Street, Kandy
• Email: info@studywithagape.com

Agape Education Malaysia Your Gateway to Higher Education in Malaysia