Are you a Malaysian student looking for the perfect study destination? This article compares the UK and Australia to help you make your final decision.

For many students who wish to study abroad, the UK and Australia are two of the top popular choices. Both countries have prestigious education systems and a high quality of life. Each year, Malaysian students arrive in both countries to further their studies and many choose to stay on to build their careers after that. Here, we weigh up the pros and cons of these two locations to help you decide which country will suit your needs best.

International student population

With over 485,000 international students enrolled on UK higher education programmes, the overseas student population is great. Whilst the number of students from Malaysia account for just over 1 per cent of the overseas student population, the small number could be advantageous to Malaysians. Being one of the few means you’ll have to get out of your comfort zone, mingle with people from all walks of life and create new friendships that will prove to be an enlightening experience. However, if you wish to study in Australia, you’ll find a lot more students from Malaysia and other neighbouring countries. Not only will you feel way more at home, but you’ll be able to fit in quickly and not feel like a fish out of water.

Sporting activities

Sports play a big role in both the UK and Australia. From football and rugby to cricket, fans (and even nonfans) pile into pubs and stadiums to watch these sporting events – which are often considered a fun social gathering amongst friends. Of course, if you’re new to the country, joining in is a good way to make new friends and break the ice. Because the UK goes through hot and long wet, cold spells, doing sports outdoors may be limited to only the spring and summer. On the other hand, you’ll be able to do more sports outdoors in Australia throughout the year due to its hot and friendlier climate.

British and Australian cultures

It’s difficult to define the British culture as the wide variety of students flocking to UK institutions from around the world has created such a melting pot of different cultures in addition to the diversity of the country itself. So, if you’re adventurous and would love to experience the world in one location, Britain is the perfect study destination. Whereas in Australia, the culture’s not too different from Malaysia’s. If you crave open friendliness, outdoor space, a laidback lifestyle and sun, Australia will be a good choice.

Working visas

For many students, having the opportunity to work in a foreign country after completing their studies is a plus point. In the UK, students can apply for the postgraduate work visa which entitles you to stay for two years to find employment, as long as you have previously studied in the UK for at least one year. If you’re interested, have a look at some of the UK courses that will enable you to remain in the UK after graduation.

In Australia, international graduates are entitled to stay for 2-4 years as long as two years of prior study have been completed in the country. This is also known as the Temporary Graduate Visa. You can find out more about your rights to stay in Australia with our handy visa guides. Make the most of this opportunity and search for courses in Australia now.

University recognition

Australian universities are recognised as world leaders in subjects such as business, economics, sciences, medicine, geology, physical geography, social work and sports science. With the Great Barrier Reef right on the doorstep, studying marine biology and conservation will give weight to your qualifications.

During your research, look out for the mention of the group of eight, as refers to eight leading universities in Australia known for excellence in research and international impact. Alternatively, the UK is also recognised for its world-class education. With universities like Oxford and Cambridge consistently ranking within the top three institutions in the world, the UK offers unbeatable education. With a UK degree, you’ll find yourself a lot more marketable and employable in many other parts of the world.

Begin your journey by searching our extensive list of UK undergraduate and Australia undergraduate courses. Or alternatively, use our course matcher tool to quickly find a course and university based on your preferences.