Malaysian Universities are gaining popularity as study-abroad choices for international students due to their top-ranked statuses, affordable tuition costs, and lower living expenses.

Malaysia has eight universities featured in the top 500 of the 2025 QS World University Rankings. In addition, the nation provides a cost-effective way of living when compared to other top study-abroad locations. For instance, it is estimated that living in Malaysia costs two-thirds less than in the US and is half the cost of living in Canada and Ireland.

In 2023, every Malaysian Top market was located in Asia and Africa. India positioned itself as a major source market for international students in Malaysia, securing the fifth spot among the leading contributors for that year. Indian students sent in 1,900 applications, reflecting an 18% rise from 2022. This underscored the increasing attractiveness of Malaysia as a study-abroad option for Indian students.

The phrase “Premier Universities” suggests that Malaysian government is investing in world-class institutions that can compete with the best globally. Additionally, the mention of “Affordable Tuition” is a significant draw, especially for students who may find it challenging to afford similar programs in Western countries. The country’s premier universities, along with its affordable tuition fees, have made it an attractive option for students from around the world. Malaysia’s ambition to transform itself into a knowledge-based economy has driven the growth of its higher education sector, making it a hub for international students seeking quality education at an affordable price.

The Graduate Pass seems to be garnering interest in its target markets. According to Times Higher Education, “This year, Malaysia’s proportion of global page views on the search platform Studyportals has increased by roughly 25%, with notable rises from the USA, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.” It’s also possible to think that the Graduate Pass option for Chinese students has contributed to the significant increase in applications from China over the last year.

According to the ICEF report, the Malaysian government has taken a targeted approach to post-study work regulations for international students. Last year, students from 23 nations, such as Australia, the US, the UK, Germany, Japan, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Switzerland, and Finland, qualified for the 12-month Graduate Pass. These nations do not significantly contribute to the number of international students in Malaysia but were selected to foster bilateral internationalisation with these countries. Foreign students often arrive in Malaysia to acquire degrees. Undergraduate degrees continue to be the most sought after, but since 2019, there has been significantly more expansion at the master’s and postgraduate levels.

According to a Forbes report, “By implementing progressive strategies, Malaysian institutions are successfully ‘leapfrogging’ conventional constraints and redefining the dynamics of academic influence. The consequences of this change are significant, potentially affecting worldwide talent movement and research.

Below Are Some of the Affordable Premier Malaysian Malaysian Universities

Malaysia is home to a diverse range of top-ranked universities that cater to the needs of international students. The country’s public universities, such as the University of Malaya, University of Malaysia, and Universiti Teknologi MARA, are among the top 200 universities globally, according to the QS World University Rankings. Malaysian Private universities, like Monash University Malaysia and Heriot-Watt Universities, also offer a range of programs, from engineering and business to medicine and the arts.

University of Sains Malaysia: Universiti Sains Malaysia

Universiti Sains Malaysia is situated in Malaysia. It was founded in 1969. It relies on a publicly funded system. This university features three primary campuses located in Malaysia. One campus is located on Penang island, the second campus is situated on Kelantan island, and the third campus is on Nibong Tebal island. It ranks third among the leading universities in Malaysia. The standard of education in this place is quite high.

University Sains Malaysia is composed of various departments:

• Engineering department
• Department of liberal arts
• Department of every branch of science
• Department of healthcare

2. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia:Universiti-Teknologi-Malaysia

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia is among the oldest universities operating within the public sector system. The university is considered one of the leading amongst all Malaysian universities. Approximately 21,471 students are enrolled here in a variety of programs. It is also referred to as the University of Technology Malaysia. This is recognized as a hub for research and top-notch education. Based on the ranking status, University of Technology Malaysia has achieved the top position.

Departments:

Here are the various departments at the University of Technology Malaysia.

• Division of all sciences
• Department of Education
• Faculty of computing
• Biomedical engineering department
• Engineering department
• Faculty of Islamic Studies

3. University of Malaya: University of Malaya

The University of Malaya can be found in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It was founded in 1949. It is among the largest and oldest Malaysian universities. The university has established a public sector system. Approximately 2500 instructors are teaching in this institution. The university has been noted for its high-quality education and excellence. It ranks second among the best universities in Malaysia.

The University of Malaya includes the subsequent departments.

• Division of social sciences
• Engineering department
• Medical department

4. University of Putra Malaysia: Universiti Putra Malaysia

University Putra is based in Serdang, Malaysia. It was founded in 1971. It is among the largest research facilities in Malaysia. As per the 2013 rankings, this university holds the fourth position among Malaysian top universities. Approximately 25,628 students are enrolled here. It is a state university.

The various departments available at University Putra Malaysia are listed below.

• Engineering Department
• Department of Science
• Economics Department
• Biotechnology Department

5. Multimedia University: Multimedia University

Multimedia University is situated in Melaka, Malaysia. It was founded in 1996. It is a university that is privately funded. Approximately 19,869 students are currently registered at Multimedia University. Multimedia University consists of two separate campuses. One campus is located in Cyberjaya and the other is situated in Melaka. It ranks among the leading universities in Malaysia. It holds the second position in the global rankings.

The faculties at Multimedia University are listed as follows

• Engineering Department
• Division of communications

One of the major attractions for foreign students is the affordable tuition fees in Malaysia. Compared to other popular destinations like the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, Malaysia offers significantly lower tuition fees. For instance, a bachelor’s degree in a public university in Malaysia can cost between RM 4,000 to RM 10,000 (approximately USD 1,000 to USD 2,500) per year, while a similar program in a top-ranked university in the UK can cost upwards of GBP 20,000 (approximately USD 26,000) per year.

Malaysia’s government has been actively promoting the country as a destination for higher education, simplifying the process of applying for student visas and streamlining the registration process. The country’s International Education Division, which falls under the Ministry of Higher Education, has been working closely with universities to ensure that they meet international standards and are equipped to cater to the needs of international students.

In addition to its premier universities and affordable tuition fees, Malaysian government also offers a unique cultural experience for international students. The country’s rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and vibrant cities make it an attractive option for students seeking an international educational experience that is still affordable.

In conclusion, Malaysia’s emergence as a leading destination for foreign students is a testament to its commitment to providing quality higher education at an affordable price. With its premier universities, low tuition fees, and unique cultural experience, Malaysian Education is poised to become a dominant player in the global higher education market, making it an attractive option for students seeking a world-class education without breaking the bank.