Best Master's Programmes in Malaysia for 2026 Guide
Looking to study a masters abroad in 2026? Why not make Malaysia your top destination? As Asia’s fastest-growing study destination, now is the perfect time to enrol in one of the many master’s and PhD programmes in Malaysia.
Why Study Postgraduate Courses in Malaysia (2026)
Affordable education
Compared to countries like the UK, the US or Australia, Malaysia offers much lower tuition and living costs, with an average monthly cost of around MYR 1500 to MYR 2000.
Rising International Appeal
With over 170,000 international students in Malaysia as of 2025, Malaysia has rapidly evolved into a global regional educational hub.
English-medium Programmes
Many master’s and PhD courses are fully taught in English, making them accessible options for international students.
Globally Recognised Universities
Many Malaysian universities are QS-ranked, making them ideal for international students looking for quality education and global recognition.
Dual-degree & Research Options
Many private universities like APU (De Montfort University) and Sunway University (Lancaster University) offer dual degree programmes and strong research pathways for international students to pursue.
Strategic Location in Asia
Located near countries such as Singapore and Thailand, Malaysia is a strategic education hub with robust educational and career opportunities.
Post-study Work and Career Pathways
Malaysia has the Graduate Pass, which allows international students to work in Malaysia for a year after graduation. Many universities also have industry-linked programmes, particularly in business, data science and engineering, allowing students to gain practical experience.
Student-friendly Environment
Ranked among the top 10 most peaceful countries in the world, Malaysia is an ideal study destination for international students seeking a multicultural environment and an affordable lifestyle.
Flexible Admission and Intakes
Most universities have multiple intakes in a year, giving students the flexibility and convenience when enrolling.
Types of Master's Degrees in Malaysia
There are several types of Master’s degrees you can pursue, these include:
Master’s (Coursework/Mixed)
- Takes 1 - 2 years to complete (full-time)
- Suitable for working professionals looking to advance their career
Master’s (Research)
- Takes around 1.5 - 3 years to complete
- Suitable for researchers and future PhD students
Overview of Master’s Degrees in Malaysia
Whether you’re looking to advance your career or pursue research, choosing the right master’s degree is essential.
Duration
Master’s programmes take around 1 - 3 years to complete, depending on the course structure and mode of study.
Types of Degree
After completing their Bachelor’s degree, students will usually continue their postgraduate studies in their chosen field.
The type of master’s they will earn depends on their area of study.
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Engineering (MEng)
- Master of Arts (MA)
- Master by Research (MPhil)
In-Demand Master's Fields in Malaysia for 2026
Malaysia offers a wide variety of master’s programmes tailored to modern industry demands. Here are some of the best courses worth considering in 2026.
Business & Management (MBA, Finance, Entrepreneurship)
Popular with working professionals and international students.
Universities : Management and Science University (MSU), University of Nottingham Malaysia, SEGi University
Data Science, AI & Cybersecurity
Malaysia’s fastest-growing tech industry field.
Universities : Sunway University, Monash University, Asia Pacific University (APU)
Engineering & Technology
Industry projects keep this field in constant demand for professionals.
Universities : University of Southampton Malaysia, Asia Pacific University (APU), UOW Malaysia, University Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)
Health Sciences, Biomedical & Public Health
Ideal for healthcare professionals and students interested in research.
Universities : International Medical University (IMU), MAHSA University, Sunway University
Education & Leadership
For educators, administrators and policymakers looking to lead in their fields.
Universities : Taylor’s University, Sunway University, Management and Science University (MSU)
Top Universities in Malaysia for Postgraduate Studies (2026)
Entry Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Malaysia
Many universities in Malaysia have similar entry requirements for a master’s degree. Here is the list of requirements you’ll need:
Academic Requirements
- A recognised bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.5 (varies by university or programme)
- Some programmes like MBA
English Requirements
For non-native English speakers, you will need to meet the following English requirements:
- IELTS : Minimum score of 6.0
- TOEFL : Minimum score of 550 (paper) or 80 (internet)
- MUET : Minimum Band 3 or 4
University Application Process
Applying for a master’s in Malaysia will mostly be similar across universities. You will need to:
- Meet the entry requirements (academic, language, etc.)
- Prepare any necessary documents (academic transcripts, statement, recommendation letters)
- Apply online through the university’s website
- Pay the application fee
- Attend an interview (if needed)
- Receive your offer letter and apply for a student visa
Student Visa & Work Opportunities
Applying for a student visa may seem like a daunting task. Here’s what you need to do to ensure a smooth process towards your visa application:
- Receive your offer letter from a Malaysian university
- Submit your visa application at Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)
- Provide the required documents (passport, academic transcripts, health declaration form)
- Pay the processing fee (average cost of around MYR 2600 to MYR 3800)
- Receive your Visa Approval Letter (VAL) and get ready to travel to Malaysia
While international students can work in Malaysia, there are several conditions imposed by the Malaysian immigration authorities to take note of:
- Students need to have a valid student visa
- Students can only work part-time, no more than 20 hours per week
- Students can only work during the semester and holiday breaks
- Breaks have to be longer than 7 days
- Students can only work in the hospitality sector
Cost of Living in Malaysia for International Students
Studying in Malaysia doesn’t have to be expensive. Here is a breakdown of the monthly expenses you can expect when studying:
Accommodation
Renting an apartment can cost around MYR 1,500. The cost can go down to MYR 600 if you decide to rent a single room instead.
Food
Malaysia is home to many affordable places to eat, offering a wide variety of cuisines. You can expect to spend around MYR 550 if you eat out every day. You can also try cooking for yourself, reducing your costs to around MYR 350 per month while also enjoying healthier meals.
Transportation
Using public transportation will be part of your daily spending in Malaysia. E-hailing services like Grab can cost you around MYR 150 per month, while using the subway, like the LRT or MRT, are much cheaper alternatives at around MYR 25 per month.
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Master's Programmes in Malaysia
Pursuing a master’s in Malaysia doesn’t need to be costly. The Malaysian government and many universities offer various scholarships and financial aid for international students.
Government-funded options such as the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) and the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) provide financial assistance to students pursuing postgraduate studies in Malaysia.
Institutions like UCSI University and Sunway University also offer scholarships for international students, though the options vary by faculty.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking to study at a renowned university, affordable tuition or looking for career opportunities after graduating, Malaysia is the ideal destination that fits both your educational goals and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the requirements to study a postgraduate course in Malaysia?
To apply for a postgraduate programme in Malaysia, you will need a recognised bachelor’s degree, your academic transcripts, proof of English language proficiency (IELTS), and a research proposal for PhD programmes.
2. How much does it cost to study a master’s degree in Malaysia?
The average cost of studying a master’s programme in Malaysia ranges from MYR 20,000 to MYR 60,000 per year. This also depends on the university and whether the programme is coursework or research-based.
3. Are there scholarships for international postgraduate students in Malaysia?
Yes, options for international students include the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS), the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) and various university scholarships, including UCSI, Sunway, SEGi and more.
4. Which are the best postgraduate courses to study in Malaysia in 2026?
Courses like Data Science, Engineering, MBA and Biomedical Science are the best fields to study in Malaysia due to their high demand.
5. What is the duration of a master’s or PhD programme in Malaysia?
A master’s programme usually takes around 1-2 years to complete, while a PhD takes around 3-4 years. It also depends if the programme is coursework- or research-based.
6. Can I work in Malaysia after completing my postgraduate degree?
Yes, you can work in Malaysia as soon as you graduate.
