Guide to Studying in Malaysia: Terms and How to Register

Last updated on May 21st, 2025 at 11:13 am

Many Indonesian students want to study in Malaysia. There are many Indonesian students currently pursuing their education there. 

This is because of the affordable tuition fees, the lower cost of living compared to European countries and Australia, its close location to Indonesia, and the many reputable universities with various programs. 

Before starting your studies in Malaysia, there are a few important things to understand and prepare for. Check out and read the full information below!

Introduction to Studying in Malaysia

Studying in Malaysia offers an exciting educational experience with affordable costs, a safe environment, and a rich cultural diversity. The universities there offer a variety of high-quality study programs and affordable living costs. 

With government support for international students, as well as a multicultural environment and the common use of English, Malaysia becomes an attractive destination for those seeking an international educational experience. 

Reasons to Choose Studying in Malaysia

Many international students choose Malaysia as their primary destination for higher education abroad. Malaysia ranked 12th in 2014 in terms of the number of foreign students studying there. There are several reasons why they choose Malaysia as their study destination:

1. High-quality education
2. Affordable tuition fees
3. Availability of various higher education levels
4. Lower competition for university admission
5. Improvement in English language skills
6. Availability of foreign universities with more affordable fees
7. Opportunities for cultural exchange between countries
8. Economical cost of living
9. Ease in the visa process
10. Internship opportunities at multinational companies
11. Diverse recreational activities and abundant food choices
12. Safe and supportive environment

Requirements for Studying in Malaysia

Malaysia applies various entry requirements that vary at each university, especially for certain study programs. However, there are general points that are commonly applied by most universities in Malaysia for admission to undergraduate (S1) and master's (S2) programs:

Entry Requirements for Undergraduate Programs (S1) in Malaysia:

1. High school diploma with an average grade of 7-9.
2. Relevant diploma (D3) with a minimum GPA of 2.5.
3. Meeting the minimum IELTS score of around 4-6.5 or TOEFL score of around 450-550.
4. Completion of Foundation/ GCE/ O Level/ IB programs.
5. Additionally, there are specific requirements that apply to certain majors.

Entry Requirements for Master's Programs (S2) in Malaysia:

1. Possess a Bachelor's degree (S1).
2. Meet the minimum IELTS score of around 6.0 or TOEFL score of around 550.
3. Provide proof of work experience (if any) and evidence of scientific work or scientific journals (if any).
4. As with S1, there are also specific requirements that vary depending on the chosen major.

How to Apply for University in Malaysia

If you plan to continue your studies in Malaysia, here are the steps you need to take:

1. Choose a university that suits your interests and needs.
2. Check and ensure that you meet all the required admission requirements.
3. Submit your application to the chosen university.
4. Prepare the necessary documents such as transcripts, English language certificates, and passport.
5. Accept the offer from the university if you are accepted.
6. Process your student visa at the Malaysian embassy in your home country.
7. Prepare tuition fees and living expenses during your studies in Malaysia.
8. Make sure you meet the health requirements required by the Malaysian government.
9. Arrange accommodation for your stay while studying in Malaysia.
10. Travel to Malaysia and join the university you have chosen.

By following these steps, your process of continuing your studies in Malaysia will run smoothly. Make sure to comply with all the required conditions and be ready to face a new experience during your time studying there.

How to Apply for a Student Visa in Malaysia

For those planning to study in Malaysia, it's important to understand the process of applying for a student visa. Since 2014, the Malaysian government has implemented a new rule that prohibits the conversion of a Social Visit Visa to a Student Pass/student visa.

The visa used for studying in Malaysia is the second type, the Single Entry Visa (SEV). This visa can then be converted into a Multi Entry Visa that allows you to obtain a a Student Pass/student visa. Below are the steps to apply for a a Student Pass/student visa to study in Malaysia:

Obtain Visa Approval Letter (VAL). After receiving the Offer Letter from the university, the next step is to apply for the VAL through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

Obtain Single Entry Visa (SEV). After the VAL is issued, the next step is to apply for the SEV at the Malaysian embassy or visa office, with a cost of around IDR 900,000. The required documents include:

1. 1. Original and photocopy of your ID card (KTP)
   2. Original and photocopy of your passport
   3. Passport photo size 35 x 55 mm with a white background
   4. Offer Letter

Visa Approval Letter (VAL)

After obtaining the Single Entry Visa Single Entry Visa (SEV) and arriving at the university in Malaysia, submit your passport to the responsible visa administration office at the university. The university will then proceed with the conversion of the Single Entry Visa (SEV) to a Multi Entry Visa (MEV), which is the a Student Passstudent visa, you are eligible to study legally in Malaysia.

Life in Malaysia

Life in Malaysia is quite similar to that in Indonesia, so many Indonesian students studying there do not notice significant differences. The majority of Malaysia’s population consists of ethnic Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other ethnic groups. Among these groups, there are also Indonesians from Java, Bugis, Sumatra, Dayak, and other regions who have migrated to Malaysia.

The common language spoken daily is Malay, and English is frequently used as the primary language in formal education institutions. In areas with a dominant Chinese and Indian ethnic population, they use Mandarin and Tamil as their everyday languages.

Food and culture in Malaysia are very similar to Indonesia because both countries share a close historical relationship. In Malaysia, you can find Indonesian dishes such as lontong, ayam penyet, rendang, nasi lemak (nasi uduk), and others. Additionally, the arts and culture in Malaysia also have similarities with Indonesia.

Cost of living in Malaysia relatively affordable, almost comparable to the cost standards in Indonesia. The transportation system in Malaysia includes electric trains, monorails, buses, taxis, cars, and motorbikes, with security maintained and rarely experiencing traffic jams.

Read Also: Travel Guide and Tips in Malaysia

The environment in Malaysia is clean, well-organized, and its housing is well-arranged. There are very few beggars, and they are strictly regulated. Public facilities are well-maintained and clean, providing comfort for those living and studying in Malaysia.

There are many recreational spots in Malaysia offering various types of activities, from nature, modern, historical, and more. This variety is one of the reasons for Malaysia's popularity among international students.

Top 10 Universities in Malaysia

One factor that makes universities in Malaysia attractive to international students is the high level of education quality, proven by the QS World University Rankings , where Malaysian universities have consistently ranked higher. Here is a list of the top universities in Malaysia:

Cost of Living in Malaysia

Accommodation and living costs in Malaysia vary depending on location, lifestyle, and other factors. In general, the cost of living and accommodation in Malaysia is not significantly different from Indonesia. Here’s an estimated breakdown of accommodation and living expenses in Malaysia:

Read Also: 9 Best Hospitals in Kuala Lumpur

This data is important for your budget planning and groundwork before your studies in Malaysia. As we mentioned, we hope these figures assist you in document preparation for your studies in Malaysia!

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