Malaysia has rapidly gained recognition as a prime study-abroad destination for international students, particularly from India. With its top-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, and a relatively low cost of living, Malaysia is becoming the go-to choice for many aspiring students. This article explores the key factors that make Malaysia an attractive option for Indian students planning to have higher education abroad.
Top Universities and Affordable Education
Malaysia is home to eight universities ranked among the top 500 in the 2025 QS World University Rankings. These institutions provide high-quality education across various disciplines, making them appealing to students worldwide.
One of the most significant advantages of studying in Malaysia is the affordability of tuition fees. On average, an undergraduate degree costs around US$6,000 annually, according to an ICEF Monitor report. This is substantially lower than tuition fees in Western countries, making it a financially viable option for many Indian families.
Low Cost of Living
In addition to affordable tuition, Malaysia offers a cost of living significantly lower than other leading study-abroad destinations. Living expenses in Malaysia are estimated to be two-thirds less expensive than in the United States and half as expensive as in Canada and Ireland. This affordability extends to accommodation, food, transportation, and leisure activities, allowing students to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Growing Interest Among Indian Students
In recent years, Malaysia has seen a surge in applications from Indian students. In 2023, India emerged as one of Malaysia’s key source markets, ranking fifth among the top contributors to the international student population. Indian students submitted 1,900 applications, marking an impressive 18% increase compared to 2022. This trend highlights the growing appeal of Malaysia as a study-abroad destination for Indian students seeking quality education at a reasonable cost. According to recent data, there are approximately 4,030 Indian students currently studying in Malaysia in 2024, highlighting a growing interest in Malaysia as a study destination for Indian students.
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Post-Study Work Opportunities: The Graduate Pass
One of the standout features of studying in Malaysia is the Graduate Pass program, which allows international students to gain work experience in the country after graduation. The Malaysian government has adopted a selective approach to post-study work policies, offering the Graduate Pass to students from 23 countries, including major nations like Australia, the US, the UK, Germany, and Japan.
In 2024, Indian and Chinese students were also granted access to the Graduate Pass under specific conditions. Initially set to expire at the end of 2024, this policy has now been extended until the end of 2026, further enhancing Malaysia’s attractiveness as a study destination.
The Graduate Pass has garnered significant interest, particularly from target markets. According to Times Higher Education, Malaysia’s share of global page views on the search platform StudyPortals has risen by about 25% this year, with notable increases from the US, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The Graduate Pass opportunity for Chinese students has also contributed to a sharp rise in applications from China in the past year.
Diverse Academic Programs and Growth in Postgraduate Studies
International students in Malaysia primarily pursue undergraduate degrees, but there has been a marked increase in interest at the master’s and postgraduate levels since 2019. By adopting innovative strategies, Malaysian institutions are overcoming traditional obstacles and redistributing academic influence. This shift has profound implications for global talent flows, research funding, and the distribution of academic influence for years to come.
Malaysia is undoubtedly becoming an attractive study-abroad destination for Indian students. With its top-ranked universities, affordable tuition fees, low cost of living, and promising post-study work opportunities, it offers a comprehensive package for those seeking quality education abroad. As the trend continues to grow, more Indian students are likely to consider Malaysia as their preferred choice for higher education, paving the way for a brighter future.
