Study in Malaysia without IELTS in 2026 is now a realistic and achievable option for international students seeking quality education at an affordable cost. Many top Malaysian universities allow students to apply for Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs without IELTS, while also offering funded and fully funded scholarships supported by the Malaysian government, universities, and partner organizations.
Malaysia has emerged as one of the most preferred study destinations in Asia due to its globally recognized universities, English-taught programs, affordable tuition fees, and diverse international student community. This guide explains how you can study in Malaysia without IELTS, alternative English proficiency options, available Malaysia scholarships 2026, eligible universities, and application requirements.
Summary of This Guide
- Study in Malaysia without IELTS for Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs
- Available Malaysia scholarships 2026–2027 for international students
- List of Malaysian universities that do not require IELTS
- Alternative English proficiency options accepted in Malaysia
- Required documents for studying in Malaysia
- How to confirm IELTS requirements for Malaysian universities
- Top universities in Malaysia for international students
Study in Malaysia Without IELTS 2026 for Undergraduate, Master’s & PhD
Studying in Malaysia provides international students with access to high-quality education delivered in English, at a significantly lower cost compared to the UK, USA, Canada, or Australia. Tuition fees and living expenses in Malaysia are among the most affordable in Asia, making it a strategic choice for students from developing and developed countries alike.
Malaysia is also known for its multicultural environment, where students experience a rich blend of cultures, languages, and traditions. International students benefit from a welcoming society, modern infrastructure, and safe learning environments. Malaysian universities maintain strong academic partnerships with institutions in the UK, Australia, and the USA, enabling credit transfers, dual-degree programs, and international exposure.
Best Malaysia Scholarships 2026–2027 for International Students
For the 2026–2027 academic year, Malaysian universities and institutions are offering a wide range of funded and fully funded scholarships for international students. These scholarships cover short courses, bachelor’s degrees, master’s programs, and PhD studies across various disciplines.
Scholarship benefits may include:
- Full or partial tuition fee waivers
- Monthly living allowances
- Accommodation support
- Medical insurance
- Research grants (for postgraduate students)
Top Scholarships in Malaysia
- Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships
- Malaysian International Scholarship Program
- MMU Scholarship
- University of Nottingham Scholarships for International Students
- Malaysia Foundation High Achievers Scholarship Program
- Malaysia International Bursaries at International Medical University
- Taylor’s College Scholarship Program for International Students.
- Albukhary International University Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Opportunity in Malaysia
- Graduate Research Scholarship Program
- APU Merit Scholarship Program
- University Trust Graduate Scholarship Program
- UKM Vice-Chancellor Scholarship Program
- The Universiti Malaya Bright Scholarship in Malaysia
List of Malaysian Universities Without IELTS
The following Malaysian universities offer admission without IELTS under specific conditions:
- Asia Pacific University (APU)
- City University Malaysia
- Manipal International University
- Swinburne University of Technology (Malaysia Campus)
- Curtin University Malaysia
- INTI International University
- SEGi University Kota Damansara
- HELP University
How to Study in Malaysia Without IELTS
International students can study in Malaysia without IELTS through the following accepted alternatives:
English Proficiency Certificate
Many Malaysian universities accept an official letter from your previous institution confirming that your last qualification was taught entirely in English. The document must be printed on official letterhead, signed, and stamped.
Native English-Speaking Countries
Applicants from English-speaking countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand are usually exempt from IELTS requirements. Some universities may recognize additional countries as well.
Duolingo English Test
Several universities in Malaysia accept the Duolingo English Test, which is more affordable and accessible than IELTS. The test is conducted online and assesses overall English proficiency.
University Interview
In some cases, universities conduct online interviews via Zoom or Skype to assess an applicant’s English communication skills instead of requiring standardized test results.
Documents Required to Apply for Study in Malaysia
To apply for admission to Malaysian universities, international students typically need the following documents:
- Completed application form submitted through the university’s official website
- Academic transcripts and certificates from previous institutions
- Certified English translations of documents where applicable
- Valid passport copy (minimum six months validity beyond entry date)
- Two to three recommendation letters from academic referees
- Statement of purpose outlining academic goals and program choice
- Proof of financial support such as bank statements or scholarship letters
- Medical examination report from a certified medical practitioner
- Passport-sized photographs as specified by the university
- Proof of payment for application fees
How to Check If a University Requires IELTS in Malaysia
The most reliable way to confirm IELTS requirements is to visit the official website of the university. International student sections usually provide detailed admission and language requirements, including accepted alternatives to IELTS.
If the information is unclear, contacting the admissions office directly via email or phone will provide accurate and up-to-date guidance. Additionally, online education forums such as Reddit and Quora often feature firsthand experiences from international students who have applied to Malaysian universities.
Top Universities in Malaysia for International Students
- 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)
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