Studying in Malaysia: admission and student pass steps through EMGS

The five steps

• Choose the university and programme, and confirm the programme is accredited.
• Apply to the university and obtain the offer.
• Submit the student file through EMGS, the body that processes international student applications in higher education.
• Enter Malaysia and complete the endorsement after approval.
• Settle in during the first week: housing, bank account and SIM card.

Typical documents

• A valid passport.
• Photographs in the required specification.
• Certificates and transcripts.
• The offer letter or university application.
• A language test result where the institution asks for it.
• Guardian documents or proof of relationship for minors.

The institution and the authority control the final list of documents and dates, and requirements can differ by nationality.

How to check programme accreditation

Before paying any fees, check that the programme is listed in the Malaysian Qualifications Register (MQR) maintained by MQA, and that the institution is licensed to enrol international students.

Advice for parents

• Ask for the full annual cost: tuition, housing, insurance and living expenses.
• Make sure the passport is valid for long enough before applying.
• Arrange any translation and attestation early.
• Agree the arrival and housing plan before the travel date.