Apply online at MBBS in Malaysia is an MCI and WHO approved 5-year program which is equivalent to an Indian degree in MBBS. Malaysia is currently home to over 130,110 international students from 136 countries looking for a medical degree from one of the top universities in Malaysia. MBBS in Malaysia is thus, one of the coveted and affordable options for such aspirants and costs around 55,000 to 136,000 MYR per annum (~9 to 25 lakhs for Indian students).
A list of mandatory points to be taken a note of when seeking to study in Malaysia are as mentioned below.
- It is a combination program (theoretical and practical training) that requires a decent score with PCM or PCB at high school level (12th standard).
- NEET is a mandatory requirement for Indian students but does not require a specific minimum score.
- Work experience of 2 years and Interview are some of the highly recommended requirements for the program.
- Students can apply for PhD and Residency (up to 4 years) post their MBBS degree.
- The starting salary of graduates with MBBS in Malaysia is nearly 68,200 to 186,000 MYR per annum at freshers level.
Top Universities for MBBS in Malaysia
Tabulated below is the list of top universities offering MBBS in Malaysia along with corresponding program details:
Institute | Total Fees (in MYR, per annum) |
---|---|
University of Malaya | 135,750 |
AIMST University | 73,800 |
Taylors University | 86,100 |
SEGI University | 69,000 |
International Medical University, Malaysia | 108,7000 |
Mahsa University | 87,000 |
Perdana University | 110,000 |
Lincoln University College, Malaysia | 55,000 |
Management and Science University | 58,973 |
Asia Metropolitan University | 66,146 |
Why Study MBBS in Malaysia?
- Growing demand of healthcare professionals in Malaysia: As per the 2020 survey reports of International Medical University in Malaysia, the country required some 85,000 doctors against the total Malaysian population in order to meet the WHO standard target of 1:400 doctors to people. This indicates a spike in demand of medical workers.
- Malaysia is a popular medical tourist destination: With a total revenue valued at 1.5 billion MYR per annum, Malaysia is a popular choice for people seeking medical treatment abroad which ensures impressive post-study work opportunities for MBBS graduates.
- MCI approved globally ranking universities: As per the QS World Universities Ranking, several top Malaysian universities and courses rank in the top 500 and provide MBBS degrees that are MCI approved which secures careers of the aspirants across the globe.
- Low unemployment rate in Malaysia: The country recorded an employment rate of merely 3.38% in 2020 (Statista) which has remained more or less constant through the last decade. This ensures a stable work environment for international students in Malaysia.
MBBS in Malaysia: Course Highlights
Duration | 5 years |
Degree awarded | Doctor of Medicine/MBBS (equivalent to India) |
Season of intake | September/October (Apply by June/July) |
Exams Required | IELTS, TOEFL, NEET, MCAT |
Work Experience | 2 or more years is recommended (at least 6 months) |
Tuition Fees | 55,000 to 136,000 MYR per annum |
Job Role Available | Doctor; Nurse; Medical research and development; Paramedics; Emergency medical; Medical teacher |
Prospective fields post degree | Public Services; Entrepreneurship; Research; Medical Journalism; |
Top Recruiters | Antah Healthcare Group; Hovid Berhad; SG Global Biotech Sdn Bhd |
Salaries at Fresher level | 68,200 to 186,000 MYR per annum |
MBBS in Malaysia: Course Details
MBBS in Malaysia is a 5 year program in the country (equivalent to Indian MBBS) and is usually pursued after completion of high school (12th standard). This 5-year program includes both pre-clinical (Year 1 & 2) and clinical courses (Year 3, 4 & 5).
The medium of instruction for the program is entirely English at all the universities in the country. The span of the course may increase for students also applying to master’s degree post MBBS (PhD or residency; 3-4 years)
While phase 1 of the program includes theoretical courses in the stream of Anatomy, Microbiology, Clinical Medicine, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, among others, the phase 2 is completely practical and requires practices across hospitals in Malaysia.
MBBS in Malaysia Admissions
The detailed admission requirements for international students looking to study MBBS in Malaysia comprising details like application deadlines, list of mandatory documents, exams to study in Malaysia and their respective test scores are as mentioned below.
Admission Applications to MBBS in Malaysia
Application deadlines to study in Malaysia when applying for an MBBS degree are tabulated as follows:
Institute | Intake Season | Application Fee |
---|---|---|
AIMST University | October 3 | Not mentioned |
SEGI University | Starts March/September | - |
University of Malaya | Varies | 300 |
International Medical University, Malaysia | Starts February and August | 950 |
Perdana University | September | - |
Lincoln University College, Malaysia | May and September | Not Required |
Management and Science University | Starts January | Not Required |
Asia Metropolitan University | Starts September | - |
Taylors University | Starts February and September (multiple intakes) | 250 |
MBBS in Malaysia Admission Requirements
The detailed eligibility requirements for MBBS in Malaysia are highly university specific. However, some common eligibility requirements required when applying to study in Malaysia are as listed below.
- A min score of 70% or more in physics, chemistry, mathematics/biology for Indian applicants or a 3-4 year bachelor's degree in related fields with CGPA of 2.5-3.0
- Scanned copies of official transcripts translated in English of 10th, 12th and bachelor’s level (if applicable)
- English proficiency scores like IELTS or TOEFL
- Other standardized test scores like NEET, MCAT, BMAT etc. (NEET mandatory for Indian students; no min. score is specified)
- Work Experience of 2 years is highly recommended (at least 6 months) but is not a mandatory requirement.
- Updated CV/Resume
- Selected candidates will have to appear for a personal interview.
- Medical Health Certificate
- Consent letter from parents
- Statement of Purpose
- Letters of Recommendation (max 3)
Eligibility for MBBS in Malaysia
Some popular universities and their corresponding eligibility requirements for MBBS in Malaysia are as follows:
Institute | Eligibility |
---|---|
AIMST University | 70% in PCB or PCM at 12th level or CGPA of 2.75 or above (69 to 75%) for research and mixed structure |
SEGI University | 70-75% for Indian applicants or GPA of 3.0 to 3.3 Work experience of 2 to 5 years |
University of Malaya | GPA of 3.8 (75%) with distinction in PCM and PCB BMAT/MCAT or SAT scores Interview (scheduled in May) |
International Medical University, Malaysia | 70% in PCM at high school level for Indian applicants |
Mahsa University | Average of 70% or GPA of 3.0 in any 3 subjects like PCM or PCB |
Perdana University | 3.3 GPA (above 70%) with relevant degree/certificate in related field Selected candidates shall be scheduled for interview |
Lincoln University College, Malaysia | 70% in PCB/PCm or an average CGPA of 3.0 to 3.3 or more; TOEFL scores |
Management and Science University | A diploma with GPA of 3.5 (72 or above%) or degree with GPA of 3.0 or above; Interview |
Asia Metropolitan University | 70% in PCM or PCB for Indian applicants or 3.0 GPA at bachelor's level |
Taylors University | 70% or above at high school level or equivalent of 119 GCE O - Grade B; Pre-U/ Diploma in English |
Language Requirements for MBBS in Malaysia
International candidates from a non-native English background must provide language proficiency proof in the form of test scores. The detailed scores for the same when looking for MBBS in Malaysia are as compiled below.
Institute | IELTS | TOEFL |
---|---|---|
AIMST University | 6 | 79-80 |
SEGI University | 5.5 to 6.5 | 80 to 100 |
University of Malaya | 5.5 to 6.0 | 80 to 100 |
International Medical University, Malaysia | 6.5 to 7 | - |
Mahsa University | 6 | 80 |
Perdana University | 5.5 | 80 to 90 |
Lincoln University College, Malaysia | 5.5 to 6.0 | 80-85 |
Management and Science University | 6 | 78 to 85 |
Asia Metropolitan University | 6 | 73 to 80 |
Taylors University | 6.0 | 79 |
Visa to Study in Malaysia Requirements
International candidates applying to MBBS in Malaysia require a relevant visa to study in Malaysia. The details for the same are as mentioned below.
How to apply: Apply online at Education Malaysia Website and fill an online application.
Standard Application Fee: 193 MYR (varies)
Time Required to obtain a visa: up to 14 working days
Documents Required:
- Completed application form
- Letter of acceptance
- Standardized test scores like IELTS (6.0 or equivalent), TOEFL (80 or above) etc
- Health insurance is a mandatory requirement for international students
- Passport photos
- Valid passport
- Personal Bond: The immigration department requires all educational institutions in Malaysia to sign a personal bond on behalf of the candidate for a specified sum. Students then have to lodge a specified amount for this purpose.
- Visa Interview is not required for a Malaysian student visa.
Cost of Studying MBBS in Malaysia
Malaysia is one of the affordable options for studying abroad in comparison to its european and american competitors. For international students looking for a budget-friendly study abroad destination, Malaysia is an affordable and impressive alternative. To ease the decision-making for you, the detailed list of expenses for studying MBBS in Malaysia are as compiled below.
Pre-arrival costs
International applicants need to pay the following one-time expenses at the time of applying to MBBS in Malaysia:
Type of Expense | Cost (MYR) |
---|---|
Student Visa Application Fee | Varies (193-1930) |
Health Insurance | 321 to 800 per year |
IELTS Fee | 166-170 |
TOEFL Fee | 136-224 |
NEET Fee | 83 |
BMAT Fee* | 250 |
MCAT Fee* | 1417 |
*Note that Indian applicants do not have to appear for MCAT/BMAT or any other Malaysian entrance exam for applying to MBBS in Malaysia. NEET, however, is mandatory for Indian students.
MBBS in Malaysia: Tuition Fee for Indian Students
Tuition fee for MBBS in Malaysia for Indian students is as tabulated below.
Institute | Fees (in INR) |
---|---|
AIMST University | 1,341,009 |
SEGI University | 1,253,789 |
University of Malaya | 2,466,694 |
International Medical University, Malaysia | 1,9751,722 |
Mahsa University | 1,580,865 |
Perdana University | 1,998,794 |
Lincoln University College, Malaysia | 999,397 |
Management and Science University | 1,071,590 |
Asia Metropolitan University | 1,201,930 |
Taylors University | 1,564,511 |
Cost of Living
While the basic fee in the country varies as per individual’s personal preferences for accommodation, food, city of choice etc., an estimated amount required as cost of living in Malaysia is as follows:
Type of Expenditure | Cost (in MYR, per month) |
---|---|
Accommodation and utilities | 2,475 |
Food and supplies | 400 to 500 |
Health insurance | 400 to 600 (per year) |
Phone and internet | 125 |
Personal Expenses | 125 to 450 |
Travel costs | 100 to 300 |
Books and Supplies | 200 |
In total, an Indian applicant looking for MBBS in Malaysia would require some 15 to 35 lakhs per annum as tuition fee and living expenses for studying in Malaysia. This amount includes all the other trivial expenditures that a candidate might incur in the country.
MBBS in Malaysia with Scholarships
Since Malaysia is an economical study abroad destination, the country does not offer many scholarships awards for international students and most studienships are reserved for domestic candidates. However, some popular scholarships for international students in Malaysia that an overseas candidate can avail are as tabulated below.
Name of the scholarship | Amount | Eligibility |
---|---|---|
Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS) | Air tickets, thesis allowance, books and travel expenses included | International candidates looking to study UG and PG program in Malaysia |
JN Tata Endowment Scholarship | Varies | Meritorious Indian students applying for higher education abroad |
Bhajan Lal Scholarship | Varies | Indian candidates applying to masters or PhD programs in Malaysia |
Malaysian Commonwealth Scholarship | Approved tuition fees, annual grant for books, travel expenses, monthly maintenance allowance | Malaysian Commonwealth Scholarship |
Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program Scholarships (MTCP) | Air tickets, approved tuition fees, annual grant for books, travel expenses, monthly maintenance and allowance | International students applying to PhD (36 months) or master’s program (12-24 months) |
Axol Science Scholarship | 8045 MYR against tuition fee | International students applying to sciences programs abroad |
University Trust Graduate Scholarship | Varies | International candidates enrolled in a graduate program at UCSI University |
The Jeffrey Cheah Foundation-Sunway Group Scholarship | Tuition fees, annual grant for books and additional allowances | Overseas students studying health sciences and business courses in Malaysia |
Jobs after MBBS in Malaysia
As per WHO’s report released in 2013, most low- and middle-income countries will have a deficit of 14.5 million healthcare workers by the end of 2030. This was highly evident in the case of Malaysia in 2020 where the country needed thousands of medical professionals to meet its global WHO standard of 1:400 doctor-to-population ratio (discussed above). This trend indicates a sharp hike in demand in the field of medical in the upcoming years and would open a range of work opportunities for international students in Malaysia.
Since most of the Malaysain universities are MCI approved and economical at the same time, students after obtaining an MBBS in Malaysia can safely return to their homelands and practice medicine securely. India is a contributor of nearly 33-35% MBBS applicants in Malaysia most of which return and continue practicing in their country. All they have to do is clear the NEXT exam which stands mandatory for all medical graduates and can end up earning a starting salary of 6 to 20 lakhs per annum (32,856 to 109,522 in MYR).
Graduates can either opt for private or government hospitals or practice in their own clinic after completion of MBBS from Malaysia. However, national statistics reflect that most MBBS graduates from the country are employed in the private sector because of better work-life balance or leave for US, UK and other developed countries for better salary prospects. An average salary of a doctor or other healthcare professional in the country is nearly 68,200 to 186,000 MYR per annum.
The details of other similar work profiles and their corresponding salaries open for students post their MBBS in Malaysia are as follows:
Designation | Salary (in MYR, per year) |
---|---|
Doctor | 206,000 |
Physical Therapist | 125,000 |
Dermatologist | 238,000 |
Physician - Cardiology | 285,000 |
Physiotherapist | 149,000 |
Counseling Psychologist | 196,000 |
Neurologist | 233,000 |
Psychologist | 204,000 |
Registered Respiratory Therapist | 131,000 |
Forensic Pathologist | 212,000 |
Naturopathic Physician | 240,000 |
Interventionist | 228,000 |
Physician - Generalist | 167,000 |
Genetic Counselor | 127,000 |
Mental Health Therapist | 137,000 |
Occupational Health Safety Specialist | 115,000 |
On the concluding part, Malaysia is a very student-friendly and pocket-friendly alternative for international students seeking to study abroad. It is not only the top 30 most peaceful countries but also provides a world-class curriculum for aspirants of MBBS in Malaysia, a degree that is universal and can help you practice anywhere in the world.
With an increasing demand for medical workers and a constantly decreasing unemployment rate, studying MBBS in Malaysia should definitely make up the list of international aspirants across different corners of the globe.
FAQs
Ques. Which are the top universities for studying MBBS in Malaysia?
Ans. AIMST University, SEGI University, University of Malaya, International Medical University, Malaysia and Mahsa University are some renowned name in the for studying MBBS in Malaysia
Ques. What is the minimum GPA requirement for MBBS in Malaysia?
Ans. Min 70% or more (especially in physics, chemistry and mathematics/biology) or a GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0 along with other eligibility requirements such as Resume, Work Experience, Interview are some of the basic requirements for taking admission to MBBS in Malaysia.
Ques. How much does it cost to study MBBS in Malaysia?
Ans. MBBS in Malaysia usually costs around 55,000 to 136,000 MYR per annum plus the additional living expenses of 3 to 4,000 MYR per month. This amount corresponds to nearly 9 to 25 lakhs per annum for Indian applicants.
Ques. Which is the cheapest course in MBBS in Malaysia?
Ans. While almost all of the Malaysian universities are highly student-friendly in terms of its tuition rates, some of the cheapest and most affordable options include Perdana University, AIMST University, Asia Metropolitan University, SEGI University, among others.
Ques. Is Work Experience a mandatory requirement for MBBS in Malaysia?
Ans. Work experience is not mandatory but a professional experience of 2 or more years is highly recommended for MBBS in Malaysia.
Ques. Are scholarships available for MBBS in Malaysia?
Ans. Malaysia does not offer many scholarships for international students but then it doesn’t have to because of the low tuition rates across its universities. However, deserving students can avail a range of scholarships for MBBS in Malaysia which covers basic tuition, air expenses, living costs and additional allowances for the candidates.
Ques. Is Malaysia good for MBBS?
Ans. Malaysia is one of the safest and most affordable options for pursuing an MBBS degree for international students. With MCI and WHO approved top ranking universities, the country is definitely a worthwhile destination.
Ques. How much salary does a MBBS graduate in Malaysia make?
Ans. The average salary of a candidate with MBBS in Malaysia is approximately 68,200 to 186,000 MYR per annum which can go up to 280,000 MYR depending on the experience and skill set of the candidate.