Malaysia is an increasingly popular choice for international students with it’s metropolitan, multicultural lifestyle and affordable average tuition fees. You can choose to study at the following higher education institutions: public universities, private universities and foreign branch campus universities. These latter are international universities with their own campus in Malaysia.

International students also have the unique option of ‘twinning' when studying in Malaysia, offering students the chance to complete their undergraduate degree across partnering institutions in two different countries. Participating countries include the UK, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, France, Germany and the US.

Undergraduate courses in Malaysia

Whilst fees vary between institution and study area, undergraduate tuition fees across the nation are comparatively low.  Fees across Malaysian private universities and colleges vary depending on subject area and institution. Fees are generally lowest in public universities.

Postgraduate courses in Malaysia

Tuition fees for postgraduate studies in Malaysia are also very competitive, and like undergraduate degrees, fees differ between public and private study institutions. Some universities charge per module rather than per course. Other institutions charge per semester. Always check the institution’s website for details.

How much are tuition fees in Malaysia

The fees below are a guide; we always recommend checking with the institution or department for the exact fee of the course you’re interested in.

Public universities

Public universities are government-funded and self-managed, and will generally be your cheapest study option.

Undergraduate international student fees at public universities in Malaysia

Postgraduate international student fees at public universities in Malaysia

*Fees correct at time of writing.

Students are also required to pay a personal bond of between USD 42 - USD 425 that is refunded upon completion of their studies, depending on their country of origin.

Private universities

At a Malaysian private university, students would look to pay around the following per course, by subject area:

Undergraduate international student fees at private universities in Malaysia

Postgraduate international student fees at private universities in Malaysia

Foreign Branch Campus universities

A number of overseas universities have their own foreign (international) branch campus in Malaysia. Below are a few examples:

Undergraduate international student fees at foreign branch universities in Malaysia

Postgraduate international student fees at foreign branch universities in Malaysia

Once more, we always recommend you confirm the fees for a specific course with the institution or department themselves. This information is available on our site or you can contact the institution themselves through us.

What extra costs do I need to think about?

You will need to take into account the following extra costs when considering studying abroad in Malaysia:

• Accommodation – USD 64 – 670 per month depending on if its university accommodation or private rental.
• Utilities (gas, electricity, water) – USD 39 – 69 per  month
• Cost of living
• Health insurance
• Visa application

Specific institutions also offer a number of scholarship options to international students in Malaysia. Details are available on specific university websites which you can access through their profile on our site.