Application Process for International Students in Malaysia

The application process for Malaysian students is relatively simple. However, there is no centralised process for admission. Students must apply directly to the educational institution in question. However, private institutes can also be applied to via an online system.

Key considerations: Students must get to know the Malaysian education system before venturing out. Students need to be aware of the educational system in the institution and identify the correct institutions for admission. Qualification for admissions into universities is another important consideration. Most bachelor’s degree programmes are open to persons who have passed their higher secondary examinations. Students must submit the application forms as well as relevant documents  and application fee to concerned institutions. Applications can either be accepted or rejected. Those successful candidates who receive an acceptance letter can apply for student pass/visa and move on to study in Malaysia.  

Assessing Requirements: Students also need to assess if they meet relevant academic qualifications and are proficient in English. The official representative of the selected institution is also the right person to consult for admission procedures. There are also Malaysian Education Promotion Centres overseas. Applying to study in a Malaysian institution of your selection is simple. Completing the relevant International Student Application Forms is an important step in the admission process. Students can return the form to the concerned institution with the following documents, as per Education Malaysia:
  • Certified copies of relevant exam results and academic certificates translated into English( in case they are in another language)
  • Completed accommodation form (in case accommodation is needed)
  • Photocopies of valid international passports
  • Xerox of the identity card
  • Passport sized colour photographs
  • Medical health report
  • Application fees from USD 160 to USD 250  
Application forms: Students can submit application forms online. Also application forms can be obtained from the website of the institution or from institution’s overseas representative. Students will be asked for proof of academic achievement and English proficiency. Application should be made within 2 months before the intake date. 

Offer of Place Letter: Following receipt of the application, around 5 to 7 days will be needed to process the application. If students are accepted, an Offer of Place letter will be sent to them. Full time course details as well as commencement dates and invoice for tuition fees as well as other details will be communicated via the letter. 

Payment Arrangements: Arrangements can be made for the payment of fees and the institution should be requested to issue a receipt following confirmation of payment. Large amounts of cash should not be used for fee payment as bank transfers and credit cards are more preferred. The next step in the procedure of admission is the Student Pass. An institution will apply for approval for a student pass from the Malaysian Immigration Department in Malaysia on their behalf. This takes around 7 to 14 days and all documents should be in order.

Visa Approval: The institution will notify the students regarding the status of approval or rejection. Separate visas are not needed for entering Malaysia. For Single Entry Visa, students can proceed to their nearest Malaysian embassy/ consulate. Students can inform their education institutions of the location of a concerned embassy at which they have applied for the visa. 

Accreditation: Other factors also have to be considered such as course fee, presence of learning facilities and global student support services as well as size and location of institution, living expense and global mix of students in institutions. Check the accreditation as well as legality and quality of courses. Check out the education cost for the entire time period as well.  

Application Deadlines for International Students in Malaysia

The deadlines for application are based on the educational institution chosen. Each Malaysian university has its own time table and the year is split into 3 semesters/trimesters for a total of 12 weeks each. During the later part of February or the early part of March, university year begins. It needs in October mostly.

International students should be able to complete the visa processing formalities and screening processes so that they can be in time for the commencement of the course. Certain universities also begin in July. Summer schools are held in the duration between November and February.
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