More than 15,000 international students receive scholarships in Malaysia every year, making it one of the most affordable study destinations in Asia. From fully funded government scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses to university awards offering discounts of 20-100%, students have access to more than 300 funding opportunities annually. If you're looking for scholarships for international students in Malaysia, this guide covers the latest options, eligibility requirements, and application details based on updated 2026 information from official sources.
Overview of Types of Scholarships Available in Malaysia
There is a wide range of scholarships for international students in Malaysia that meet the various needs. These include government scholarships offered through international cooperation programs, as well as scholarships provided by public and private universities to academically outstanding students. Other support programs are also available from educational institutions and private organizations to alleviate the financial burden of studying.
These scholarships vary in funding amount and benefits offered. Some cover full tuition fees and provide living allowances, while others offer partial tuition waivers or academic discounts. Admission requirements and application deadlines also differ from program to program, so it is advisable to review the specific requirements of each scholarship before beginning the application process.
Type of Funding | Coverage Level | Target Group | Provider | Application Period |
Malaysian Government Scholarships | Full funding in many programs | International postgraduate students and researchers | Government of Malaysia | Varies by program |
Public University Scholarships | Partial or full coverage | Undergraduate and postgraduate students | Public universities in Malaysia | According to university intake schedules |
Private University Scholarships | Partial discounts or full tuition waivers | Both local and international students | Private universities | Throughout the year or intake-based |
Merit-Based Scholarships | Varies depending on academic performance | High-achieving students | Universities and educational institutions | Varies by provider |
Institutional and Private Scholarships | Partial or full funding | Selected student groups | Private organizations and companies | Annually, depending on the program |
Research Grants and Fellowships | Financial support and research allowances | Master’s and PhD students | Universities and research centers | Based on research cycles and intake periods |
These funding options provide students with flexibility in choosing the most suitable scholarship based on their academic background and financial needs. The following sections provide a detailed overview of the main scholarship opportunities available in Malaysia.
Malaysian Government Scholarships (MTCP, MIS, MyBrainSc)
There are several prestigious scholarships for international students in Malaysia offered by the Malaysian government, mainly designed to support postgraduate studies and attract high-achieving candidates from developing countries. These programs differ in eligibility, funding coverage, and academic level, but they all aim to strengthen international cooperation and develop skilled human capital.
MTCP (Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program) scholarship
MTCP scholarship is one of the oldest technical cooperation programs launched by the Malaysian government in 1980 as part of the South-South Cooperation Initiative. This scholarship aims to support students from developing countries to pursue postgraduate studies (master's degrees) in Malaysia, with a focus on human resource development in the recipient countries.
The MTCP scholarship provides full tuition fee coverage for the entire duration of the study, with payments made directly to the university. Selected scholars also receive a monthly living allowance of around RM3,500 to support accommodation, food, and daily expenses while studying in Malaysia. In addition, the program includes a round-trip economy class flight ticket from the student’s home country to Malaysia and comprehensive health insurance coverage throughout the study period.
Field | Information |
Levels Available | Master’s Degree Programs (Coursework, Mixed-Mode, or Research-Based) |
Fields of Study | Priority areas such as ICT, engineering, STEM, economics, law, public policy, environmental studies |
Number of Seats | Limited, competitive selection (varies each intake) |
Application Period | Usually opens around May–June annually |
Responsible Authority | Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia (MOFA) – Malaysia Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP). |
MyBrainSc Scholarship (Postgraduate Studies)
MyBrainSc is a Malaysian government scholarship managed by the Ministry of Higher Education. It is designed for outstanding students pursuing postgraduate studies in science-related fields. The program supports master’s and PhD candidates in core disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and mathematics, based on officially published scholarship information from Malaysian education authorities.
Field | Information |
Monthly Allowance | Monthly stipend provided according to program level and study stage |
Target Fields | Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics |
Eligibility Requirements | Open to high-achieving postgraduate students with strong academic results; at the master’s and PhD levels |
Application Requirements | Full-time postgraduate enrollment in approved Malaysian institutions; research-based programs in most cases |
Application Period | Announced by the ministry of higher education; varies by intake cycle |
Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)
MIS is a government-funded program designed to attract international postgraduate students to study in Malaysia at Master’s and PhD levels. It is open to selected countries across Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and other eligible regions.
Public University Scholarships (UM, UPM, UKM, UTM, USM)
Public universities in Malaysia offer competitive scholarships based mainly on academic performance, with limited seats each year due to high demand from local and international students. These scholarships may cover part or all of the tuition fees, and some postgraduate programs also include research funding or monthly support depending on the university and program. These programs fall under scholarships for international students in Malaysia, and the conditions differ from one university to another based on study level and academic results.
University | Scholarship Name | Coverage | Study Levels | Key Fields |
UM Scholarships / Research Grants | Partial to full tuition fee coverage | Master’s, PhD | Medicine, Engineering, Science, Business | |
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Master’s, PhD | Graduate Research Scholarship (Zamalah) | Tuition waiver + monthly allowance (some programs) | Master’s, PhD | Agriculture, Veterinary, Science, Engineering |
UKM Zamalah Scholarships | Partial funding + research support | Master’s, PhD | Medicine, Social Sciences, Engineering | |
UTM Research Scholarships / ASCEND | Tuition coverage + monthly stipend (selected programs) | Master’s (research), PhD | Engineering, Technology, AI | |
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) | Graduate Assistantship | Partial fee waiver + research allowance | Master’s, PhD | Science, Medicine, Pharmacy, Technology |
Private University Scholarships in Malaysia
Private universities offer several scholarships for international students in Malaysia, which are often more accessible than those offered by public universities. Most of these scholarships take the form of tuition fee reductions, either automatically for early application or based on academic merit. Some universities also offer additional discounts, such as sibling or family discounts, depending on the specific circumstances.
University | Scholarships Available | Discount Range | Requirements | Details Link |
| Up to 100% | Good grades with early application | https://university.taylors.edu.my/en/study/scholarships-and-financial-aid/undergraduate-scholarships | |
| 10% – 100% | Strong academic results | https://www.ucsiuniversitytrust.com/scholarship/ | |
Merit Scholarship | 10-30% discounts | Minimum CGPA 2.50 annualy | https://www.apu.edu.my/apu-international-students-scholarships-merit-awards | |
| Up to 100% | academically or excel in extracurricular achievements | ||
| 10% – 100% | Strong academic record | ||
| 10% – 100% | Academic performance |
Tips to keep in mind:
Applying early increases your chances of getting a higher discount.
Adding certificates such as extracurricular activities or achievements strengthens your application.
Writing a clear and simple motivation letter can make a difference in securing scholarships for international students in Malaysia.
Scholarships by Study Level in Malaysia
Understanding scholarship options based on study level helps students identify the available opportunities more easily, as each stage has different funding value and requirements.
Undergraduate Scholarships in Malaysia
Most undergraduate scholarships in Malaysia are partial, covering around 20% to 50% of tuition fees. Full scholarships are limited and highly competitive and are usually awarded to students with high academic performance. Here is a list for the most prominent universities that offer undergraduate scholarships and their requirements:
Scholarship | University | Tuition Fee Reduction | Main Requirement |
Merit Scholarship | Taylor's University | Partial tuition fee waiver according to the academic performance | High academic results and meeting scholarship criteria |
High Achievers Scholarship | UCSI University | Partial tuition fee reduction | Strong academic achievements and admission eligibility |
International Merit Scholarship | Asia Pacific University (APU) | Up to 30% tuition fee discount | Excellent A-Level, IB, or equivalent qualifications |
International Scholarship | INTI International University | Tuition fee discounts based on academic results | Meeting the university's scholarship requirements |
Academic Excellence Scholarship | Sunway University | Tuition fee deduction with different scholarship tiers | High academic scores in pre-university qualifications |
Master’s Scholarships in Malaysia
Master’s studies in Malaysia offer better funding opportunities compared to undergraduate programs, as most financial support is directed toward postgraduate education. Government bodies and universities focus more on attracting international students at this level.
This is why searches for Scholarships for International Students in Malaysia are common among master’s applicants, especially since available funding may cover full or partial tuition fees depending on the program and university.
Scholarship | Provider | Coverage | Eligibility |
Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) | Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia | Full tuition fees with monthly allowance and additional benefits | International students applying for Master’s with strong academic background |
MTCP Scholarship | Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia | Full tuition fees with monthly stipend and return airfare | Students from eligible developing countries pursuing Master’s degree. |
Yayasan Khazanah Scholarship | Yayasan Khazanah (Khazanah Nasional) | Full funding including tuition and living expenses | High-achieving international students with leadership potential. |
Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) | Malaysian Public Universities | Monthly stipend and research funding | Master’s by research students under approved supervisors (university-based funding model). |
Commonwealth Scholarship (Malaysia-linked programs) | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission | Tuition fees and living allowance (varies by country scheme) | Students from Commonwealth countries meeting eligibility criteria. |
PhD Scholarships in Malaysia
PhD funding in Malaysia is generally the strongest among all study levels. Many programs are fully funded and include monthly stipends, especially for research-based degrees. This is because doctoral students are often involved in university research projects, publications, and academic work that is directly supported by government and institutional funding.
Scholarship | Provider | Coverage | Eligibility |
Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) | Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE) | Full tuition fees with a monthly allowance and research support | International PhD applicants with strong academic backgrounds and university admission offers. |
MTCP Scholarship | Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia | Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, airfare, and insurance | Students from eligible developing countries applying for PhD programs |
Graduate Research Assistantship (GRA) | Malaysian Public Universities | Monthly stipend and full research funding (varies by project) | PhD candidates accepted under research supervisors |
University Postgraduate Scholarships (UM / UPM / UTM / UKM) | Malaysian Public Universities | Full or partial tuition fee waiver and possible stipend | High-achieving international PhD applicants (varies by faculty) |
MyBrain 2.0 (Postgraduate Scheme_ limited intake) | Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia | Tuition support and living allowance (based on selection) | Selected research students (availability varies by intake) |
International Scholarships and Non-Governmental Organizations
In addition to Malaysian government and university funding, several international organizations offer prestigious scholarships for students wishing to study in Malaysia or at its partner universities. These programs are fully funded and cover major expenses such as tuition fees, living costs, travel, and health insurance.
Many students seeking scholarships for international students in Malaysia also look to these overseas options because they are not limited to a single country's system and often offer broader academic and professional opportunities.
Scholarship | Funding Body | Coverage | Conditions |
Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship | Islamic Development Bank | Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, travel, and insurance | Applicants from IsDB member countries and eligible Muslim communities with a strong academic record and admission required. |
Chevening Scholarship | UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office | Full funding (tuition fees, living allowance, travel, visa costs). | Leadership potential, work experience, and admission to a UK master’s program. |
Fulbright Foreign Student Program | U.S. Department of State | Full or partial funding (tuition, living stipend, travel support). | Strong academic background, English proficiency, and commitment to return after study. |
Commonwealth Scholarship (CSFP) | Commonwealth Scholarship Commission | Tuition fees, living allowance, and travel support. | Citizens of eligible Commonwealth countries with strong academic records. |
Islamic Development Bank Merit / MSc Program | Islamic Development Bank | Full funding for postgraduate study. | Focus on STEM and development-related fields, with eligibility based on a country list. |
Flexible Installment Plans (No Interest)
Most Malaysian universities offer flexible tuition fee payment plans to make it easier for international students to manage their payments. In many cases, the total tuition fee can be divided into monthly or quarterly installments without interest, with a small administrative fee that may apply depending on the university.
University | Installment Plan Available | Conditions | Administrative Fees |
Taylor’s University | 2–3 installments per semester (long semester up to 3 payments) | Open to full-time international and local students | An RM200 admin fee is applied with the second installment. |
Monash University Malaysia | 3 installments per semester (tuition fee only) | Applicable to enrolled students only | RM100 admin fee per installment with late payment penalties |
Curtin University Malaysia | Up to 3 installments per semester | Available for international students (non-scholarship holders) | Around 4% premium and late fees. |
Swinburne University | Flexible installment plan (varies by program) | Available for foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate students. | Administrative charges may apply. |
Taylor’s College | 2–3 installments per semester | Full-time students only | Fees are split into structured bill cycles. |
Important tip:
Installment plans can be a practical option for students with a stable monthly income, as they make tuition payments easier to manage without paying the full amount at once.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Malaysia
Applying for scholarships for international students in Malaysia requires careful planning and attention to application requirements. Most scholarship providers assess academic qualifications, supporting documents, and personal statements before making a selection decision.
Step 1: Search for Available Scholarships
Explore official university websites and government scholarship portals.
Use trusted scholarship databases to find opportunities that match your study level and field.
Create a list of scholarships according to your eligibility.
Step 2: Check the Eligibility Requirements
Review the minimum academic requirements.
Check language proficiency requirements such as IELTS or TOEFL, if applicable.
Confirm that your nationality and chosen program are eligible for the scholarship.
Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents
Academic transcripts and certificates.
Passport copy.
Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Recommendation letters.
English language test results.
Personal statement or study plan.
Step 4: Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Explain your academic background and achievements.
Highlight your study and career goals.
Show how the scholarship will support your future plans.
Keep the content relevant to the scholarship requirements.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Early
Complete all application sections before submission.
Review your documents for accuracy.
Submit at least two weeks before the deadline whenever possible.
Keep a copy of the completed application.
Step 6: Monitor Your Application
Check your email regularly for updates.
Track your application through the university or scholarship portal.
Respond promptly to requests for additional documents or interviews.
Additional Tips
Apply for multiple scholarships to increase your chances of receiving funding.
Provide accurate and truthful information in every application.
Give referees enough time to prepare recommendation letters.
Keep digital copies of all submitted documents.
Seek guidance from an education consultant if you need support with the application process.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting a Scholarship in Malaysia
To get a scholarship in Malaysia can make studying abroad much more affordable. The good news is that there are several simple steps you can take to improve your profile and increase your chances of receiving financial support.
Follow these tips to improve your scholarship chances:
Keep your grades high: Academic performance is one of the first things scholarship providers look at, so maintaining a strong GPA can give you an advantage.
Improve your English skills: A good IELTS or TOEFL score can strengthen your application and help you meet scholarship requirements.
Get involved in activities outside the classroom: Volunteering, student clubs, sports, and leadership activities can make your application stand out.
Request strong recommendation letters: Ask teachers, lecturers, or supervisors who know your abilities well and can provide meaningful recommendations.
Start looking early: Many scholarships open applications months before the intake period, so early preparation gives you more opportunities to apply.
Take time to prepare your application: Make sure all documents are complete, accurate, and submitted before the deadline.
Get expert support: Professional guidance can help you find scholarships that match your qualifications and avoid common application mistakes.
For scholarships for international students in Malaysia, StudyFans can help you explore available options and guide you through the application process step by step.
Also Read: Scholarship Interview Questions in Malaysia
Scholarship Application Mistakes to Avoid in Malaysia
Competition for scholarships can be high, and many applications are rejected because of simple mistakes and a lack of qualifications. Considering the application requirements and preparing documents carefully can make a difference. Common mistakes include:
Missing the Application Deadline
Scholarship providers adhere to strict deadlines and don’t consider late applications. Therefore, keeping track of application opening and closing dates and preparing documents early helps avoid missing out on opportunities.
Ignoring Scholarship Requirements
Every scholarship has specific eligibility criteria related to academic performance, language proficiency, nationality, or field of study. Applying without meeting these requirements often leads to rejection.
Using a Generic Motivation Letter for Every Scholarship Application
A motivation letter should reflect the goals and requirements of the specific scholarship. Applications that contain generic or copied content may appear less convincing to selection committees.
Submitting Incomplete Documents
Missing academic transcripts, recommendation letters, language test results, or identification documents can result in an incomplete application. Reviewing all requirements before submission is essential.
Applying for Only One Scholarship
Scholarship selection is competitive, and receiving funding is never guaranteed. Applying for multiple scholarships that match your profile can improve the chances of securing financial support.
How to Avoid These Mistakes
Keep a record of scholarship deadlines.
Read all eligibility requirements carefully.
Prepare a customized motivation letter for each application.
Check that all required documents are included.
Apply for 5–10 suitable scholarships instead of relying on a single opportunity.
Alternative Ways to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Malaysia
When exploring scholarships in Malaysia for international students, it is important to remember that scholarships are not the only way to make your education more affordable. Many students successfully reduce their study expenses through smart financial planning and by taking advantage of cost-saving opportunities available in Malaysia. Key alternative ways include the following:
Work Part-Time During Semester Breaks
International students in Malaysia are permitted to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks and approved holidays, subject to immigration regulations. This can help cover personal expenses and reduce the overall cost of studying abroad.
Choose Shared Accommodation
Accommodation is often one of the largest expenses for students. Sharing an apartment or student housing with roommates can reduce housing costs by around 30% to 50%, making it a popular option among international students.
Study in More Affordable Cities
Choosing a university outside the capital can be a practical way to reduce expenses without compromising educational quality. Several Malaysian cities offer competitive academic programs, student-friendly communities, and lower accommodation and daily living costs compared to Kuala Lumpur.
Apply Early for University Discounts
Some universities offer early bird discounts, tuition fee reductions, or special promotions for students who complete their applications before specific deadlines. Applying early can help lower overall study costs and increase savings.
Manage Your Budget Carefully
Even when applying for scholarships in Malaysia for international students, having a clear budget for accommodation, transportation, food, and personal expenses can make a significant difference in managing your finances throughout your studies.
By combining these options with available scholarships, students can make studying in Malaysia more affordable and reduce the financial burden of earning an international degree.
Also Read: Study fees in Malaysia in English
Conclusion
Malaysia offers more than 300 scholarship opportunities every year, ranging from fully funded government scholarships that cover tuition fees and living expenses to partial discounts provided by private universities. This makes it one of the most attractive destinations for international students seeking scholarships.
Do you need help finding the right scholarship for you?
If you are searching for scholarships for international students in Malaysia that match your academic background and budget, contact us now on WhatsApp. Our advisors will explore all available opportunities and assist you with the application process for free.
If you wanted to know more or have any questions, we are here to help you and you can always contact us:
Phone: 00601127766506
Or via WhatsApp through this link.
