If you dream of studying abroad on a budget, Malaysia is a great immigration option. With world-class universities and educational institutions spread across the country and affordable living costs, you can agree that the Malaysia study visa is an excellent choice for students.
Since Malaysia is fast becoming a top destination for international students, you need to familiarize yourself with the rudiments of its international student pass application process. We'll walk you through everything you need to know about getting a Malaysia study visa — from who qualifies to how to apply, and everything in between.
Who Can Study in Malaysia?Â
Before applying to study in a Malaysian institution, you must be sure that you meet the entry requirements for a Malaysia student pass. Here are some eligibility requirements you should note:
- Must have a letter of admission offer from any Malaysian education institution approved by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) and the Immigration Department.
- Meet the educational requirements set out by your chosen school. These could vary, but they typically involve high school certificates or previous degrees.
- Must have passed an English language proficiency test with IELTS, TOEFL, or other recognized equivalent.
- Good health report
- Must have a clean criminal record indicating good character.
- You must be able to take care of your finances, including your tuition and living costs,
Some Exemptions With Malaysian Study Visa Application
There are exemptions when it comes to studying as an international student in Malaysia. A good example is the English language proficiency requirement waiver, as students who studied in institutions or countries where English is the major means of communication don't have to take the test. Another exemption is Visa-free entry or visa on arrival. Students from countries with this opportunity can leverage it when applying for a Malaysia study visa.
Some students can skip the whole visa application process altogether, including international students who are permanent residents of Malaysia. These students must possess the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) visa to prove residency status. If you've applied for permanent residency in Malaysia, you don't have to worry much about the student visa application when applying for a study program in Malaysia.
Another group of people who can skip this process or enjoy a more streamlined process are international students whose education is sponsored by embassies or other international bodies.
Benefits of Studying in Malaysia
Choosing to study abroad is a big decision, and selecting a study destination is a bigger decision. While Malaysia is one of the most desired destinations for international students, here are more reasons to consider getting a Malaysian student visa:
1. Affordable Tuition Fees and Living Costs
Depending on your study program, Malaysia's tuition fees are affordable when compared to other countries like the UK, Australia, and the US. The tuition ranges between MYR 25,000 and MYR 60,000. Also, accommodation can cost between MYR 1,500 and MYR 2,500, which is a fair price. With this, you can get an excellent education without drowning in debt.
2. Globally Recognized Degrees
Of course, studying abroad is one way to get international exposure, but that's not enough. It's important to get a degree that is globally recognized. Studying in Malaysia can help you achieve that. Malaysian universities partner with top institutions in the UK, Australia, and the United States.
It's also very much possible to explore international programs outside of Malaysia, with the twinning programs and branch campuses set up for students. Students can even transfer abroad midway through their program.
3. English as the Medium of Instruction
Most Malaysian universities conduct classes in English, making it an excellent option for international students. It's also an opportunity for international student from non-English-speaking countries to brush up on their English language skills. Plus, the widespread use of English in daily life helps with easier integration both on and off campus.
4. Safe and Student-Friendly Environment
Malaysia is one of Asia's safest countries, with a low crime rate and strong political stability. It also prioritizes student welfare, so international students can focus on their studies without panic. Cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru also offer modern infrastructure, reliable public transport, and a vibrant social life.
5. Opportunities for Industry Exposure
Some of the things foreign students benefit from studying in Malaysia are its stable economy and innovative environment. International students can explore internships and work opportunities within industries like tech, healthcare, finance, and engineering. Likewise, some universities have strong industry ties, offering hands-on experience before graduation.
Required Documents to Apply for a Malaysia Study Visa
Here are the documents needed to start your visa journey:
- Completed student visa application form
- Letter of Acceptance from a Malaysian institution
- Original passport with at least 12 months' validity and with blank pages
- Recent passport-size photos, which must have a white background and meet the required size specification.
- Academic certificates and transcripts for students pursuing higher degrees
- English proficiency proof, if required in your case
- Medical certificate showing you're in great shape
- A personal bond form provided by your institution to guarantee your compliance with immigration laws.
- Proof of financial capability, such as bank statements or a sponsor letter
- Visa processing fee receipt
How to Apply for a Student Pass In Malaysia
The student pass application isn't complicated, but you need to pay attention to details and follow the required steps carefully. However, if you think you can't handle the process on your own, you might go for the expertise of an immigration adviser to simplify the process.
Here are the steps for applying for a Malaysian student pass:
1. Apply and get accepted to your desired recognized Malaysian school.
The very first thing that precedes applying for a Malaysia student visa is securing admission in your desired Malaysian school. Not just that, you must ensure that the school you're going to is registered and recognized by the Malaysian government, so you must do your diligence before picking a school.
2. Gather All Necessary Documents
Your documents are important to your application journey; you need them at every step. Ensure you have all the required documents for a smooth application process. Check the Malaysian Immigration Department for complete document requirements. Also, ensure that all your records do not contradict each other, as you may be setting yourself up for extra scrutiny or sometimes visa denial.
3. Wait for Your School to Apply For Your Student Pass
Your school has a role in your visa application, as they need to apply for your Visa Approval Letter (VAL) on your behalf through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) portal. Ensure you follow up on that. You must also sign the application form once your school has completed it. Wait for the processing timeframe for your VAL approval, after which you'll receive an eVAL via email.
4. Apply and Pay for Visa Processing
Once you've gotten the eVAL, use it for your single-entry visa at the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country. Note that the single-entry visa type is country-specific. You should check if your country falls into that category. If not, you can apply for a double or multiple-entry visa.
5. Wait For Approval
If your visa application is successful, you can pack your bags and fly to Malaysia. Upon arrival, you will be given a special pass while your student visa sticker is processed. Before leaving your home country, you must notify your school of your travel plans. They might have someone delegated to come pick you up at the airport.
6. Complete Your Medical Screening in a Registered Clinic in Malaysia
Once you've settled in, you should go for your medical screening at an EMGS-approved clinic within 7 days of your arrival. The medical screening costs about MYR 250.
7. Collect Your Student Pass
To get your student pass, you need to submit your passport to EMGS through your school and receive your student visa sticker in your passport.
Note: Your institution might request additional documents, so always check their checklist.
Malaysia Entry Visa Processing Time
Since it's a student visa, the processing timeframe is relatively short, so far, you meet the visa requirements. While the VAL processing takes 14 days, the entry visa can vary between 4 and 6 weeks, depending on your home country. Knowing this, it is important to plan your application process and apply on time in case of unplanned circumstances.
Malaysia Study Visa Processing Fee
The student visa fee depends on your country of origin or application; you might want to check with your country's embassy. However, it usually starts from MYR 1,000. The eVAL processing fee, however, has a flat rate of MYR 150 as well as the international student card (iKad) which costs MYR 50. You also have to pay for the sticker pass fee and health insurance fee which cost MYR 60 and MYR 468 repectively.
Can I Work as a Foreign Student in Malaysia?
As an international student far from home, it is normal to think of ways to get things going while you study. While you can't rely on part-time work to fund your studies, it's a good way to gain experience and earn extra cash. So, yes, you can work as an international student in Malaysia, but there are conditions attached, and these include:
- Work part-time roles only during semester breaks and holidays; no full-time is allowed.
- Can only work for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays of more than 7 days.
- You can't work as a cashier, singer, or masseur.
- You can work in sectors limited to restaurants, hotels, and gas stations.
- You must get approval from the Immigration Department through your institution.
Can I Stay Back in Malaysia After Studying?
Yes, you can stay in Malaysia after studying, but you have to get the Graduate pass, which is like a renewal of your student pass. This program, offered by the Malaysian immigration authorities and government, allows you to legally stay in Malaysia for 12 months after graduation. The best part is that the graduation pass enables you to travel and work with no work sponsorship needed while staying in Malaysia. Also, during your Stay in Malaysia on your graduate pass, you can bring in a dependent to stay with you.
You should know that to be eligible for this renewal process, you must finish the program you are enrolled in, as you will need to provide a letter of completion from your institution. Also, you must have a valid student pass at the time of application. In addition, you must also have a valid passport for at least 18 months. If yours is less than that, you might have to check in with your country's embassy in Malaysia.
Conclusion
Malaysia has a rich academic history, and it offers a great blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and affordability. However, you must secure your student visa to enter the educational system. When making your student pass application, ensure you meet all requirements and stay updated with information to guide you through the process.
