Scholarships to Study in Malaysia for International Students

Everyone in this world deserves the best education and global opportunities. This is the reason why many students aim to study abroad. However, with tuition fees and living expenses being too high, many international students have to drop their dream of Higher Education Abroad. But as you are now looking for studying abroad in Malaysia and need to know about scholarships in Malaysia then here we are, helping you. Today, in this blog, we are going to explore top scholarships to study abroad in Malaysia and how you can avail them. So, without further ado, let’s make your dream of studying abroad a reality without even breaking the bank.

Why Study in Malaysia?

Before we start with the Scholarship to Study in Malaysia, it is important you know why you should plan your higher education there.

The USA, UK, Canada, and Australia have been a synonym for Study Abroad Destinations for a long time and why won’t they be. With premium quality education, globally renowned universities, and a degree opening doors to worldwide job opportunities, studying in these countries always made sense.

However, today, students are becoming more practical with their study abroad dreams and this is the reason why multiple destinations are emerging as hot favourites to study abroad in 2026 and upcoming years. Today, in this blog, we are exploring one such destination- Malaysia. Here are the reasons why you should plan to Study in Malaysia in 2026.

Now, another advantage of studying in Malaysia besides affordable education is the availability of scholarships and grants. Let’s move towards knowing about such scholarships that will help you Study Abroad in Malaysia without worrying about your financials.

Scholarships to Study in Malaysia

Even though the Malaysian education is affordable than the western and European nations, to ensure international students get the opportunity to study abroad without worrying abroad about the cost of education, there are various government approved and university funded scholarships and grants available. Here is a list of scholarships that you can apply for before flying to study abroad in Malaysia.

1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)

Offered by the Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia, this scholarship is granted to international students pursuing a master’s or PhD degree in Malaysian public universities. This scholarship aims to cover full tuition fees, monthly living allowance of RM 1,500, along with limited medical insurance and visa costs.

To avail this scholarship, students must be under 40 years for master’s and 45 for PhD, have a bachelor’s degree with strong academic record, good proficiency in English, and an admission to a successful admission to a Malaysian public university prior to applying for the scholarship.

Eligible students can apply for the scholarship between April to June through the official website and can check the results on the website too.

2. NAC Arts Scholarship

Offered by the National Arts Council (NAC), Singapore (Not Malaysia- but includes studies at Malaysian institutions for arts). This scholarship is only for students who apply for the arts courses. Covering full or partial tuition fees for arts education, this scholarship also provides monthly stipend, along with travel and project grants (depending on award type).

The scholarship is open for Singapore Citizens and PRs, and they can also stud in Malaysian universities. Furthermore, the eligibility requirements contain a strong portfolio in visual arts, music, theatre, film, or dance. To avail this scholarship, the applicant must demonstrate commitment to contributing to Singapore’s arts scene after graduation.

The applications only punch in first quarter of every year and can only be applied through the official website. The results are announced on the website too.

3. Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarship

Offered by the Government of Malaysia in collaboration with commonwealth countries via Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This scholarship is part of Malaysia’s commitment to building talent through global partnerships. This scholarship covers full tuition fees at Malaysian public universities, monthly living and allowance, booking and travel allowance, medical and health insurance, and return airfare.

To be eligible to apply or avail this scholarship, you must be a citizen of the commonwealth countries. This scholarship is only for those planning to pursue a master’s or PhD programmes in Malaysia and is not more than 45 years of age. One of the major criteria for availing this scholarship is strong academic record.

The deadline bracket for this scholarship is between May and June, and students can apply through the MOHE or Malaysian embassies in their respective country.

4. Malaysian Government MTCP Scholarship (Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme)

Offered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia, this scholarship is rewarded to the citizens of developing countries under the MTCP initiative. This scholarship covers full tuition fee, monthly allowance of RM 3,500+, return airfare, and visa and relocation allowance, along with medical insurance.

To be eligible for this scholarship the applicant must not be more than 45 years old, have a great academic record, a strong hold on English language, and a proof of admission into a Malaysian public university.

The application for this scholarship opens around May and closes in June. The application can be submitted online through the website and must be checked consecutively for the result declarations.

5. Graduate Research Scholarship (GRS) Program, Malaysia

Offered by individual Malaysian universities especially in the ones that are research first like University Malaya (UM), University Putra Malaysia (UPM), University Sains Malaysia (USM), etc. This is a university specific scholarship award aimed at supporting full-time research-based postgraduate students for master’s or PhD who are enrolled in Malaysian public universities. Even though the coverage and benefits vary by university, some of them usually provides full or partial tuition fee, monthly living allowance, research grant, and accommodation assistance.

To avail for this scholarship, applicant must be admitted to a full-time research-based master’s or PhD program, excellent academic record, must not be working, strong research proposal aligned with university research thrust areas, and have a good English language score.

The best time to apply for this scholarship is 3 to 6 months prior to the intended intake and best if applied right after receiving the admission confirmation letter.

How to Apply for Scholarships in Malaysia?

Now that you have seen the type of scholarship options available for you, it is time to see how you should start applying for the same. The process can be complicated and competitive; however, here we have simplified the process for you. Just follow the following steps and you are in the waiting list for getting scholarship approved.

Step 1: Research Eligibility Criteria

Each scholarship has its own set of requirements like academic scores, nationality, course level, age limit, etc. Visit the official scholarship or university website for the latest information and updates.

Step 2: Choose your University and Course

Many scholarships are course or university specific; hence, it is advisable to select your programs and check if they are eligible for the scholarship before applying.

Step 3: Gather your Documents

You are required a set of documents to get the scholarship in Malaysia. The list typically includes the following documents:

• Academic transcripts
• English proficiency score
• SOPs and LORs
• Research proposal for postgraduate
• Passport copy
• CV or resume (optional)

Step 4: Apply Online

Most of the scholarships are applied through online websites or portals; hence, you must ensure to meet all the requirements and apply for the scholarship before the deadline.

Step 5: Prepare for Interview

The scholarships are granted based on the application and applicant’s intent. This is why many scholarships require a virtual or in-person interview. Be prepared to discuss your career goals, why you choose to study in Malaysia, and how the scholarship will help you give back to your community.

Find your Funds to Study in Malaysia with MetaApply IE

We understand the value of your study abroad dream and the ruthless expenses that comes attached. However, as we said already, your dream of studying abroad is a reality as long as you have the checked the right boxes. By completing the basic requirements like great academic records and a good English language score, you are good to get a scholarship in Malaysia. However, as the registration process is a lengthy one and one missing document can cost you your dream of studying abroad in Malaysia. This is where MetaApply IE comes into your rescue.

Whether you need help in shortlisting the right universities, help with English language exams, visa guidance, or even accommodation assistance, we have covered you at every step, including the financial part. Our experts not only help you with the documentation process for scholarships but if required then with best education loan options as well.

So, don’t let money be a factor stopping you from studying abroad. Connect with our counsellors today.