Looking to study in Malaysia in 2026? Good news—many top Malaysian universities offer IELTS alternatives for Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs. In addition, the Malaysian government, universities, and international organizations provide funded and fully funded scholarships for international students.
Malaysia is a popular destination due to its English-taught programs, affordable tuition, lower living costs, and globally recognized universities.
Why Study in Malaysia?
Malaysia offers a high-quality education system with strong international recognition. Many universities have academic partnerships with institutions in the UK, Australia, and the USA, allowing credit transfer and exchange programs.
Students enjoy:
Affordable tuition and living costs
English-medium instruction
Multicultural environment
Safe, modern campuses
Strong international student support services
Study in Malaysia Without IELTS (2026)
You can study in Malaysia without IELTS through the following alternatives:
1. English Medium Certificate (EMI)
Many universities accept an official letter from your previous institution confirming that your last degree was taught in English.
2. Native English Speakers
Applicants from countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are usually exempt from IELTS.
3. Duolingo English Test
Some Malaysian universities accept the Duolingo English Test, which is more affordable and can be taken online.
4. Online Interview
Universities may assess English proficiency via Zoom or Skype interviews instead of requiring IELTS.
Malaysian Universities That Accept Students Without IELTS
The following universities may offer admission without IELTS (subject to program requirements):
Asia Pacific University (APU)
City University Malaysia
Manipal International University
Swinburne University (Malaysia Campus)
Curtin University (Malaysia Campus)
INTI International University
SEGi University
HELP University
Best Scholarships in Malaysia 2026–2027
Malaysia offers numerous funded and fully funded scholarships for international students:
Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarship & Fellowship Plan (CSFP)
Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)
University of Nottingham Malaysia Scholarships
International Medical University (IMU) Bursaries
Taylor’s University International Scholarships
Graduate Research Scholarships
APU Merit Scholarship Program
University Trust Graduate Scholarship
Malaysia Foundation High Achievers Scholarship
UKM Vice-Chancellor Scholarship Program
These scholarships may cover:
Tuition fees
Monthly living allowance
Accommodation support
Medical insurance
Documents Required to Study in Malaysia
To apply, you generally need:
Completed university application form
Academic transcripts and certificates
English translations (if required)
Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
2–3 academic recommendation letters
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Proof of financial support or scholarship
Medical fitness report
Passport-size photographs
Application fee payment receipt
How to Check IELTS Requirements
Visit the official university website and check international admission criteria
Contact the admissions office directly via email
Read student experiences on forums such as Quora or Reddit
Always verify requirements, as policies may vary by program.
Top Universities in Malaysia
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Taylor’s University
UCSI University
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)
Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)
Final Words
Studying in Malaysia without IELTS in 2026 is possible and practical with the right guidance. With world-class universities, affordable education, and generous scholarships, Malaysia remains one of the best destinations for international students.
Always confirm admission and scholarship requirements directly with the university before applying.
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