Study in Malaysia 2026: What Pakistani Students Need to Know

Are you considering studying abroad in 2026? Malaysia is emerging as a top destination for Pakistani students seeking affordable, high-quality education. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about studying in Malaysia, from top universities to living costs, and everything in between.

Top Reasons Pakistani Students Should Choose Malaysia for Higher Education in 2026

Malaysia offers a unique combination of affordable education, high-quality programmes, and cultural integration. Here are the top reasons why it should be on your radar:

Affordable Education

Compared to Western countries, Malaysian universities offer competitive tuition fees, making it easier for Pakistani students to afford a world-class education without breaking the bank. Malaysian institutions are known for their high educational standards, with many ranked among the world's top universities.

Lower Living Costs

Malaysia is an affordable study destination with much lower living costs compared to countries like the US, UK, or Australia. Students can comfortably live on a budget while experiencing life in a multicultural country.

English-Taught Programmes

English is the primary medium of instruction in most Malaysian universities, so you won’t need to learn a new language to excel academically.

UK Degree Pathways

Many Malaysian universities offer pathways to obtain UK degrees. Partnered with top UK institutions, students can pursue degrees from renowned universities at a lower cost than studying in the UK.

Muslim-Friendly Country & Halal Food Access

Malaysia is a predominantly Muslim country, making it a comfortable place for Pakistani students. Halal food is easily accessible, and Islamic practices are well-respected.

Simple Visa Process

The student visa process for Pakistanis is straightforward. The Malaysian government offers a clear, simple visa application process, allowing you to focus on your studies rather than bureaucratic hurdles.

International Exposure

Studying in Malaysia provides you with international exposure to meet students from all over the world. It’s a great way to enhance your global perspective and network with diverse cultures.

Industry-Focused Learning

Malaysian universities place strong emphasis on practical, industry-based learning. Students have opportunities for internships, which help them build real-world skills that benefit their careers.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Malaysian student visas allow students to work part-time during their studies. This is a great way to gain work experience and earn extra income while studying.

Global Career Pathways

Malaysia’s strong education system, coupled with its growing industries, provides ample career opportunities for graduates in sectors like engineering, IT, healthcare, and business.

Strong Universities

Malaysian universities are continuously improving their global rankings. The country is home to institutions like the University of Malaya (UM), Monash University Malaysia, and Taylor’s University.

Easy Travel Access

Malaysia’s location in Southeast Asia makes it an excellent hub for travel. You can easily explore other countries like Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia during breaks.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Malaysia as a Pakistani Student?

The cost of living in Malaysia varies by lifestyle and location. On average, students can expect the following costs:

Monthly Living Costs

Expense	Estimated Cost (MYR)	Estimated Cost (PKR)
Accommodation	MYR 800 - MYR 1,500	PKR 55,200 - PKR 103,600
Food & Groceries	MYR 400 - MYR 800	PKR 27,600 - PKR 55,200
Transport	MYR 100 - MYR 200	PKR 6,900 - PKR 13,800
Personal Spending	MYR 200 - MYR 400	PKR 13,800 - PKR 27,600
Study Materials	MYR 100 - MYR 200	PKR 6,900 - PKR 13,800

Accommodation and Utilities

Accommodation is generally affordable, with dormitory rooms starting around MYR 800 (PKR 55,200) per month. Renting private apartments may cost more but provides additional privacy.

Food and Groceries

Malaysia offers a variety of affordable food options. Local street food and meals in food courts are inexpensive, typically costing around MYR 10 to MYR 20 (PKR 700 to PKR 1400) per meal.

Transport Costs

Public transportation is affordable, with bus and train fares typically ranging from MYR 1 to MYR 5 (PKR 43 to PKR 200). Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are also available.

Essential Documents Pakistani Students Need for a Malaysian Student Visa

When applying for a Malaysian student visa, make sure you have the following documents:

Valid Passport (at least 12 months validity)
Offer Letter from a Malaysian university
Completed Visa Application Form
Passport-sized Photos
Financial Proof: No bank statement required.
Medical Certificate: No need for pre-arrival medical check-up
Airline Ticket
Top Malaysian Universities for Pakistani Students: 2026 Ranking

University	QS World Ranking 2026	Key Features
Monash University Malaysia	100	Australian branch offering global pathways
Taylor’s University	284	Known for its hospitality and business programmes
Asia Pacific University	300+	Industry-focused curriculum and global connections

Yearly Study Cost in Malaysia for Pakistani Students

Here’s an estimate of the yearly study costs for a Pakistani student in Malaysia, covering tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and more:

Expense	Estimated Cost (PKR)
Tuition Fees	PKR 18,20,000 - PKR 23,10,000
Accommodation	PKR 588,000 - PKR 840,000
Living Expenses	PKR 840,000 - PKR 12,60,000
Visa and Insurance	PKR 70,000 - PKR 80,000
Study Materials	PKR 25,000 - PKR 50,000

Pakistani students have shared positive experiences about studying in Malaysia. Ali, an engineering student, mentions that studying in Malaysia has been an enriching experience, highlighting the top-notch education and affordable cost of living. He feels it offers the perfect balance between quality education and affordability.

Ayesha, a medical student, enjoys the multicultural environment, where meeting students from various backgrounds is easy. She also praises the excellent facilities at Malaysian universities and the valuable industry experience she has gained.

Tamanyat Faheem came to Malaysia for her Foundation in Science programme at SEGi University, Kota Damansara Campus. After completing her Foundation programme, she has progressed to a Bachelor’s in Biomedical Science for the September 2025 intake. She shares, "The commute from Pakistan to Malaysia was seamless, thanks to ApplyRadar's excellent guidance throughout the process. From helping me select the right university and course to assisting with the entire visa application process, they were with me every step of the way. Their support made the transition to studying in Malaysia incredibly smooth, and I felt confident in every decision I made. I’m grateful for their expertise and highly recommend their services to anyone considering studying abroad."

Tamanyat Faheem, Foundation in Science Graduate of SEGi University, Malaysia.

Zara Malik enrolled in the Master's in Education (Coursework) programme at SEGi University and has completed her program. She says, "I just wanted to share my experience with ApplyRadar. I was applying for a visa, and the process was super smooth, thanks to their awesome team! They guided me through everything, from documents to submission, and I felt so chill throughout. Their support was on point, and I'd highly recommend them to anyone looking for help with their application. Big thanks to ApplyRadar for making it happen!"

Zara Malik, Master’s in Education Graduate of SEGi University

1. Is Malaysia recognised by HEC Pakistan for higher education degrees?

Yes, many Malaysian universities are recognised by Pakistan's Higher Education Commission (HEC).

2. What are the tuition fees for Pakistani students in Malaysian universities?

Tuition fees range from MYR 25,000 to MYR 45,000 per year, depending on the university and programme.

3. What is the minimum academic requirement to study in Malaysia?

Generally, students need at least a 60% score in their previous qualification (higher secondary school or equivalent).

4. Is IELTS mandatory for Pakistani students applying to Malaysia?

IELTS is required for many programs, but some universities may offer alternative qualifications such as TOEFL or their internal English proficiency test. You do not need an IELTS certification if your most recent qualification was taught in English, provided you submit a medium-of-instruction (MOI) letter from your previous institution.

5. How long does the Malaysian student visa process take?

The student visa process typically takes 4 to 6 weeks.

6. Can Pakistani students work part-time while studying in Malaysia?

Yes, international students can work part-time for up to 20 hours a week during semester breaks.

7. Are scholarships available for Pakistani students in Malaysia?

Yes, many Malaysian universities offer scholarships for international students, including Pakistani students.

Ready to Start Your Journey in Malaysia?

With its affordable education, diverse culture, and global career pathways, Malaysia is the perfect destination for Pakistani students in 2026. Explore top universities, apply today, and unlock your future!

Visit our ApplyRadar website to get started on your application and learn more about studying in Malaysia.