Study in Malaysia: A complete guide for Pakistani students

Every year, more students from Pakistan pack their bags for Malaysia. Here’s why:

• Tuition fees are much more affordable than in Western countries.

• Degrees are internationally recognised.

• English is the main teaching language, so you won’t face a language barrier.

• The lifestyle, traditions, and even food feel closer to home.

• Malaysia is a hub in Asia that’s easy to travel around and explore.

On top of that, many universities there partner with UK and Australian institutions. Some even offer dual degrees, giving you global exposure without leaving Asia.

Malaysia is home to several internationally ranked public and private universities, including branch campuses of leading institutions worldwide. The QS World University Rankings evaluate the parent/home institution and branch campuses, which usually reflect the performance of their home university. Some of the leading institutions include:

As a Pakistani student, you should explore diverse academic and career pathways that align with both global opportunities and local industry needs. From traditional fields like medicine and engineering to emerging areas such as IT, media, and hospitality & tourism, these courses open doors to rewarding careers and international prospects.

Below are some of the most sought-after study options that attract many students across Pakistan.

• Business & Management

• Computer Science & IT

• Engineering & Built Environment Careers

• Medicine & Health Sciences

• Hospitality & Tourism

• Creative, Design & Media Careers

When planning your studies in Malaysia, you need to look at two major things: tuition fees and living costs. Tuition depends on your study level and the type of university you choose, while living costs depend on the city you’re living in and your lifestyle. Here is a clear breakdown to help you plan better.

Medical and specialised degrees can cost significantly more, especially at private universities.

*Please make sure to check the official universities websites for up-to-date information.

Below is a basic summary of the average monthly living costs in Malaysia, shown in both MYR and PKR.

Source: Expatistan.com Other costs may include:

• Visa processing fees

• Medical screening

• Health insurance

• Flight ticket

You may also be curious about Malaysia’s study visa price in Pakistan. Generally, costs vary depending on the university and visa category; however, when you apply through IDP, you get a clear breakdown, so you know exactly what to expect.

To study in Malaysia, you’ll need a valid Malaysia Student Visa, officially known as a Student Pass. The student visa requirements may include:

• Offer letter from a Malaysian institution (public/private university, school, or language centre)

• Valid passport with 12–18 months validity (depending on institution/EMGS requirements)

• Completed IMM.14 visa application forms (2 sets)

• Two passport‑sized coloured photos

• Personal bond form (filled and stamped by the institution)

• Medical insurance (mandatory under EMGS guidelines)

• Proof of no criminal record (required for some nationalities or checks)

• Academic transcripts/certificates (depending on the programme)

Additional requirements (Specific students)

Transferring students must provide:

• Release letter from previous institution

• Attendance & academic performance reports

• Support letter from MOE (if requested)

Students from China, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh may undergo additional visa vetting processes. The Malaysian student visa process starts after you receive your offer letter. The university applies for a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) on your behalf through the Malaysian immigration authorities and Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

Here’s a step-by-step guide for the application process from Pakistan:

Step 1: Receive your offer letter

• Secure admission into a Malaysian institution recognised by Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).

Step 2: The university applies for a Student Pass (VAL)

• Institution submits documents to EMGS and Malaysian Immigration on your behalf.

• Approval results in a Visa Approval Letter (VAL).

• Immigration requires approval before entering Malaysia (for students abroad).

Step 3: Apply for Single‑Entry Visa (SEV), if required

• After VAL approval, check nationality requirements.

• Some students need SEV from a Malaysian embassy/consulate.

• Others can enter Malaysia with a VAL only.

• Entry must match the approval on VAL.

Step 4: Enter Malaysia & submit passport

• Upon arrival, the university collects passports and submits them to the State Immigration Office.

• Immigration affixes the Student Pass sticker to the passport.

• EMGS may conduct identity verification and medical screening (if not done earlier).

Step 5: Receive your Student Pass + iKad

• Student Pass issued and affixed to the passport.

• EMGS provides an iKad (official student ID card).

• Your legal stay in Malaysia will then be confirmed for the duration of your studies.

Duration & Renewal

• Validity: Up to 1 year (varies by program).

• Renewal: Annually through the institution.

• Fees: RM60 per year for the Student Pass (visa fees vary by nationality)

Most Malaysian universities offer three main intakes:

• February/March

• July

• September/October

Some private universities also offer rolling intakes. However, it is recommended to apply at least 4–6 months before your preferred intake to secure your place and complete all requirements on time.

You can study in Malaysia with scholarship options. Some of the offered scholarships by universities are below:

As a student from Pakistan, you have the option to work part-time; however, this is regulated by the Malaysian Immigration Department.

• You can work up to 20 hours a week, but only during semester breaks, public holidays or university holidays that last more than seven days. Working during academic weeks or exam periods isn’t permitted, and taking up a job without approval can lead to visa cancellation.

• To work legally, you must apply through your university’s international student office, which will submit the request to Immigration Malaysia. To get approval, you should have a valid Student Pass, good attendance, strong grades, and a job offer in an approved sector.

• In addition, you can work in certain roles in restaurants, petrol stations, mini-marts, and hotels. Jobs such as cashier, musician, massage therapist, factory worker or any jobs considered unsafe are not allowed.

These rules are in place to protect students from unsafe or unfair work conditions and to ensure your studies remain a priority.

Your plan starts with one step. Book your free counselling with IDP and start your Malaysia journey now.

How can Pakistani students apply to study in Malaysia?

You can apply directly through universities or through trusted Malaysia study visa consultants in Pakistan, such as IDP.

How long does a Malaysian student visa take for Pakistani students?

After you receive your offer letter, the Visa Approval Letter process usually takes 4–6 weeks, depending on documentation and processing speed.