Study in Malaysia

Looking for a truly international study destination that also offers some of Asia’s best universities and a great student lifestyle? Malaysia gives international students a very warm welcome. The country is swiftly becoming a top destination for studying abroad and has worked hard and invested a great deal to become so. There is a great mix of Asian culture here, low crime rate, wonderful food and lively cities, though it still holds some beautiful rural areas which are steeped in their own cultures and traditions.

Many of the country’s top universities are based around the capital, Kuala Lumpur. The educational system is constantly developing and improving, and many of the courses offer a ‘2+1’ degree option, which allows students to study for part of their degree with a partner university in another country.

Why Study in Malaysia?

With more than 30 years of experience in international education, our unique, well-structured higher education system offers you the opportunity to pursue an international qualification at a competitive rate.

At the beginning of 2010, there were more than 80,000 international students in Malaysia from more than 100 countries pursuing courses ranging from diplomas; English language programs; degrees at private higher educational institutions, public universities, and foreign university branch campuses. The confidence of students across the globe in choosing Malaysia as an international education destination is evident.

Malaysia has years of experience educating international students. Thus, most of the private higher educational institutions, English language schools, and public universities have the experience to provide you with the qualification needed in an environment conducive to learning.

The International Student Offices in Malaysian institutions are accustomed to working with international students of various ethnic, cultural and educational backgrounds. Therefore, these students will receive support and attention during their studies here. By studying in Malaysia, you can acquire the knowledge and skills needed to meet the demands of a global market, as well as enjoy a comfortable and an enriching experience.

About Malaysia

Malaysia is a southeast Asian country that is simultaneously modern, traditional, developed and historic with a peaceful multicultural population. Multiculturalism has not only made Malaysia a gastronomical paradise, it has also made Malaysia home to hundreds of colourful festivals. It's no wonder that we love celebrating and socialising. As a people, Malaysians are very laid back, warm and friendly.

Geographically, Malaysia is as diverse as its culture. There are two parts to the country, 11 states in the peninsula of Malaysia and two states on the northern part of Borneo. Cool hideaways are found in the highlands that roll down to warm, sandy beaches and rich, humid mangroves.

One of Malaysia's key attractions is its extreme contrasts. Towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, and five-star hotels sit several metres away from ancient reefs.

Crime is low and transport links are excellent with major towns and cities connected by air and, failing that, by inexpensive bus. Opportunities for a vivid cultural experience are very high while politically and economically the country is considered to be stable.

Making it a perfect place for studying abroad.

Place of Interest in Malaysia Include:

• Putrajaya
• Batu Caves
• Genting Highlands
• Cameron Highlands
• Petronas Twin Tower (KLCC)
• Sunway Lagoon
• Merdeka Square
• Bukit Tinggi
• Fraser Hills
• Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary

Cost of Living in Malaysia

Living costs to study in Malaysia is relatively cheap compared to other countries. This is a major advantage for international students when choosing to study in Malaysia. The expenditure here is very affordable but again it all depends on the students’ lifestyle which may determine his or her actual cost of living either on campus or off campus.

On campus living can be just accommodation without any facility or it may come with facilities for students to prepare their own meals and to do their own laundry. Typically on campus accommodation includes a shared or private bedroom with bathroom facilities in student residences. The cost of on campus accommodation can be anywhere from RM 350.00 to RM 650.00 a month.

Off campus living in Malaysia is very common among the local and international students, as most of the housing areas are located within a short distance of the college or university. The housing areas are normally consisting of houses (single/double storey), apartments and condominiums which may have 3 or 4 bedrooms together with a living hall, kitchen and bathrooms.

The landlord may require the students for a minimum one year contract (lease) agreement with a deposit of 2 or 3 months rental. The rentals are to be paid monthly and other utilities such as water, electricity; gas and cable TV are to be paid by the students themselves according to the monthly usage. The cost of off campus accommodation per student can be anywhere from RM 150.00 to RM 900.00 a month depending the area of living, type, furniture, facilities and number of students sharing.

Student meals expense is estimated to be around RM500 to RM800 a month the estimated cost is for three decent meals. For those who love to cook and share among the housemates the cooking expenses can be lower as the cost can be shared among your housemates.

Students who stay on campus or near campus may not incur any cost of travelling to and from the campus as most of the universities and colleges in Malaysia provide free transportation (bus services), but students who wish to use this service must follow their strict timetable otherwise you need to use a public transport or you must have your own vehicle to commute.

For staying in touch with others and to surf the internet the students can allocate around RM 50.00 to RM 150.00. International students are advised to use prepaid international calling card which is cheaper to be in touch with your family and friends back home. As for the personal expenses, it all depends on the individuals’ lifestyle. The cost can be estimated to be between RM150.00 and RM300.00 per month which includes your socializing needs, toiletries, haircut, clothes, movies and other recreational activities.

Visas
All international students are required to have a Student Pass (equivalent to a student visa) to study in Malaysia. A Student Pass is an approved document issued by the Immigration Department.
Once you have an offer of admission, your visa application can be made through your university’s International Students’ office/service prior to entry for a fee (see below). Your University will provide you with guidelines and forms to apply for your Student Pass. Please note that your Student Pass is only valid to study at the University it refers to. If you wish to transfer to another university, a new Student Pass will be required.

Language
(Bahasa Melayu) Malay is the national language in use, but English is widely spoken. The ethnic groups also converse in the various languages and dialects.