Study Destination
Study in Malaysia
Islamic-friendly, affordable, and globally accredited
3
Partner Universities
$400
Avg. Monthly Living
Islamic
Country Environment
Top 70
UM World QS Ranking
Partner Universities
Top Universities in Malaysia
University of Malaya (UM)
National University · Kuala Lumpur
- Oldest and highest-ranked university in Malaysia
- Strong engineering, medicine, and business schools
- Fully English-medium instruction for international students
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
National University · Serdang, Selangor
- World-class life sciences, agriculture, and veterinary programmes
- AACSB-accredited business school
- International student support office with Urdu-speaking staff
HELP University
Private University · Kuala Lumpur
- Affordable private university with strong international community
- Business, psychology, and accounting focus
- Twinning programmes with UK and Australian universities
Cost of Study
Understanding Your Budget
Annual Tuition
$3,000 – $8,000 / year
Monthly Living
$400 – $600 / month
All-In Estimate
$7,000 – $14,000 / year (all-in)
Malaysia offers one of the best value-for-money study experiences globally. Costs are significantly lower than UK or Canada, while degrees carry strong regional and international recognition.
Detailed Breakdown
| Item | Range |
|---|---|
University Tuition | $3,000 – $8,000/yr |
On-Campus Accommodation | $100 – $200/month |
Off-Campus Apartment (shared) | $200 – $400/month |
Monthly Food & Groceries Halal food is the default | $120 – $200/month |
Public Transport | $20 – $40/month |
Student Pass (annual) | $100 – $150/year |
Health Insurance | $150 – $300/year |
Books & Materials | $150 – $300/year |
Funding Opportunities
Scholarships for Malaysia
MARA Scholarship
Malaysian Government (MARA)Full tuition + living allowance
Primarily for Malaysian nationals but some international partnerships exist. Best pursued via bilateral Malaysia–Pakistan education agreements.
University Merit Scholarship
Individual Malaysian Universities10% – 50% tuition reduction
Based on academic achievement. Available to international students at HELP, UPM, and UM. No separate application — assessed during admissions.
Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
Malaysian Ministry of Higher EducationFull tuition + RM 1,500/month stipend + return flights
Open to postgraduate applicants (Master's / PhD) from partner countries including Pakistan. Strong academic record required. Apply online via MIS portal.
HEC Need-Based Scholarship
Higher Education Commission PakistanPartial tuition support for enrolled students
Pakistani students enrolled at recognised Malaysian universities. Financial need-based. Apply through HEC Pakistan post-enrollment.
Life as a Student
Student Life in Malaysia
Islamic Country
Malaysia is an officially Islamic country. Mosques are present in every neighbourhood, Azan is called five times daily, and Islamic values are respected at a national level.
Halal Food Capital
Malaysia is globally renowned for its halal food culture. University canteens, shopping malls, and street food stalls offer an enormous variety of affordable halal options.
Tropical Climate
Malaysia has a warm tropical climate year-round (25–35°C). No winter clothing needed, making Malaysia one of the most comfortable transitions for Pakistani students.
English-Friendly
English is widely spoken in Malaysia's urban centres and is the medium of instruction at all major universities. Pakistani students face minimal language barrier.
Gateway to Southeast Asia
Kuala Lumpur is a major aviation hub. Budget airlines connect Malaysia to Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, and beyond — ideal for travel-loving students.
Globally Recognised Degrees
Malaysian university degrees are recognised by HEC Pakistan, UK NARIC, and international employers. Several universities offer dual degrees twinned with UK institutions.
How to Apply
Admission Process for Malaysia
GlobeTrek handles every step from profile assessment to airport arrival. Here is the typical timeline for Pakistani students applying to Malaysia.
Start Your ApplicationProgramme Selection
1–2 daysGlobeTrek counsellors shortlist programmes based on your qualifications, career goals, and budget. We confirm entry requirements and preferred intake date.
Application & Documents
1–2 weeksWe prepare your complete application — academic transcripts, O/A Level certificates, English proficiency, personal statement — and submit to the university.
Offer Letter
2–4 weeksMost Malaysian universities issue conditional offer letters within 2–4 weeks. We help you meet any remaining conditions and confirm your enrollment.
Student Pass Application
4–8 weeksThe university applies to EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services) for your Student Pass approval. GlobeTrek monitors and supports the application process.
Malaysian Student Visa
2–4 weeksWith Student Pass approval, we assist with the visa sticker application at the Malaysian High Commission in Islamabad. Required documents are prepared in full.
Arrival & i-KAD
First weekOn arrival, GlobeTrek connects you with our Malaysia student network. You complete medical screening and collect your i-KAD (student identification card) within the first week.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malaysia a good option compared to Turkey?
Both are excellent. Malaysia offers a fully Islamic environment and a tropical climate, while Turkey offers European proximity and stronger scholarship opportunities. Malaysia is typically slightly more affordable for living costs and tuition is comparable.
Do I need to learn the Malay language?
No. All our partner universities in Malaysia teach in English. Learning basic Bahasa Malaysia phrases is helpful for daily life but is not a requirement for your degree or Student Pass.
Can I work part-time in Malaysia as a student?
International students in Malaysia are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks at approved on-campus or off-campus locations. Part-time work during term is restricted.
How does the Malaysian Student Pass work?
Your university applies on your behalf to EMGS. The Student Pass is approved before you travel and is collected at the immigration counter on arrival. GlobeTrek monitors the entire EMGS application process.
Are Malaysian degrees recognised in Pakistan?
Yes. Degrees from UM, UPM, and other recognised Malaysian universities are attested by HEC Pakistan. Many alumni continue to postgraduate studies in the UK, Australia, or USA.
What are the English requirements for Malaysian universities?
Most programmes require IELTS 5.5–6.0 or equivalent. Students from Pakistan with O-Level/A-Level English credits may be exempt. GlobeTrek confirms the exact requirement for your chosen programme.
Ready to Study in Malaysia?
Talk to a GlobeTrek counsellor today — free consultation, no commitment.