MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26: Malaysia is becoming an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking to pursue an MBBS degree due to its high-quality education, affordable fees, and globally recognized universities. Compared to many Western countries, Malaysia offers significantly lower tuition fees and an affordable cost of living
Malaysian medical universities are recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO), Medical Council of India (MCI)/National Medical Commission (NMC), FAIMER, and other international bodies, allowing graduates to practice medicine worldwide.
Most MBBS programs in Malaysia are taught entirely in English, eliminating language barriers for international students. Malaysia offers a welcoming and diverse environment to international candidates.
Quick Facts for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
Particular | Description |
Course Offered | Doctor of Medicine Degree (equivalent to MBBS, India) |
Course Duration | 6 Years |
Recognition | NMC, WHO, FAIMER, Ministry of Education, India |
Intake | September |
Entrance Exams required | No |
English proficiency required | IELTS, TOEFL required for some institutes (can be exempted with 12 years of English medium education) |
Tuition Fees | 60,000 to 1,70,000 MYR per annum |
Entry-Level Salaries | 3,000 to 25,000 MYR/month |
Top Medical Universities of Malaysia | University of MalaysiaMonash University MalaysiaInternational Medical UniversityQuest International UniversityTaylors UniversityMAHSA University |
Career opportunities | Residency Training, Hospital Practice, Private Practice, Teaching and Research, Public Health Contribution, Medical Administration, Occupational Health, Forensic Medicine, Medical Journalism and Writing, Telemedicine, Global Health and Humanitarian, Medical Consulting |
Medical Courses in Malaysia: MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
S.No. | Courses | Duration (in years) |
1. | MBBS/ MD | 6 |
2. | Dentistry | 5 |
3. | Pharmacy | 4 |
4. | Nursing | 4 |
Top MBBS Universities / Colleges in Malaysia
Universities Name | Tuition Fees (in MYR per year) | Tuition Fees (in USD per year) |
University of Malaya (UM) | 1,34,640 MYR | 29,301 USD |
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) | 1,26,362 MYR | 27,500 USD |
Monash University Malaysia | 1,28,640 MYR | 27,995 USD |
International Medical University (IMU) | 1,08,000 MYR | 23,503 USD |
Taylor’s University | 92,699 MYR | 20,174 USD |
AIMST University | 73,800 MYR | 17,712 USD |
Quest International University | 60,000 MYR | 13,057 USD |
Lincoln University College | 69,200 MYR | 15,060 USD |
Mahsa University | 89,060 MYR | 19,381 USD |
Eligible criteria for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
Eligible Criteria | |
Minimum Mark | Assure a maximum of 50% total marks in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC categories). |
Academic Qualification | 10+2 with PCB ( Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects). |
Mandatory Requirement | Accreditation of the NEET-UG exam is compulsory for all Indian candidates who wish to study MBBS abroad, such as in Russia. This is an NMC regulation. |
Age Limit | At least 17 years |
NEET Cut-off | General Category: Around 164 marks (50th percentile)Reserved Categories (SC/ST/OBC): Around 129 marks (40th percentile) |
Step by Step admission process MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
The admission process for pursuing an MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) in Malaysia for the 2025-26 academic session involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Check Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
Before applying, ensure you meet the minimum requirements:
- Academic Qualifications:
- For STPM/A-Levels: Minimum BBB/ABC in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics/Mathematics.
- For UEC (Malaysian Chinese Students): Minimum B4 in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics.
- For International Baccalaureate (IB): Minimum 30 points with 6,6,5 in Biology, Chemistry, and another science subject.
- For Indian Students (12th Standard): Minimum 70% aggregate in PCB (Physics, Chemistry, Biology).
- English Proficiency: IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL (550+) if English is not your first language.
- Entrance Exams (if required): Some universities may require UCAT/BMAT or their entrance tests.
Step 2: Choose a Medical University for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
Malaysia has public and private medical colleges recognized by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Some top choices:
- Top Public Universities in Malaysia:
- Universiti Malaya (UM), Malaysia
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
- Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Malaysia
- Top Private Universities in Malaysia:
- IMU (International Medical University)
- MAHSA University, Malaysia
- Monash University Malaysia
- AIMST University, Malaysia
- Taylor’s University, Malaysia
Step 3: Submit Application for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
- Public Universities: Apply through UPU Online (for local students) or directly for international students.
- Private Universities: Apply directly via the university’s website.
- Documents Required:
- Academic transcripts & certificates (SPM/STPM/A-Levels/IB/12th Grade)
- Passport copy (for international students)
- English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Personal statement & recommendation letters (if required)
- Passport-sized photographs
Step 4: Attend Interview (If Shortlisted)
- Some universities conduct MMI (Multiple Mini Interviews) or traditional interviews.
- Prepare for questions on ethics, motivation for a career in medicine, and general knowledge.
Step 5: Receive Offer Letter
- If selected, you’ll get a conditional/unconditional offer letter.
- Pay the registration fee to secure your seat.
Step 6: Apply for Student Visa (International Students)
- Submit documents to EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services) for visa processing.
- Required documents:
- Offer letter
- Passport copy
- Medical check-up report
- Financial proof (bank statement)
- Visa approval takes 4-8 weeks.
Step 7: Enroll & Begin Classes
- Complete registration, attend orientation, and start your MBBS program.
- The course duration is 5 years (including clinical rotations).
Additional Notes:
- Scholarships: Check for JPA, MARA, or university-specific scholarships.
- Intake Periods: Most universities have intakes in February/March and September/October.
- Licensing: After graduation, register with MMC and complete housemanship (internship) in Malaysia.
Timeline for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
Step | Estimated Time |
Research & Shortlist Universities | Jan-Mar 2025 |
Submit Applications | Apr-Jul 2025 |
Interviews (if any) | Aug-Sep 2025 |
Offer Letter & Visa Process | Oct-Dec 2025 |
Enrollment & Classes Begin | Feb/Mar 2026 |
Scholarship for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
Securing a scholarship for MBBS in Malaysia (2025-26) can significantly reduce financial burdens. Here’s a detailed guide on available scholarships, eligibility, and application processes:
1. Government Scholarships (for Malaysians & International Students)
a) Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship
- For: International students from developing countries
- Inclusion: Tuition fee, living charges, airfare, and health insurance
- Eligible criteria: Strong academic score, leadership qualities, under 45 years old
- Deadline: June 2025 (tentative)
- Apply: MTCP Official Website
b) MARA Scholarship (Majlis Amanah Rakyat)
- For: Bumiputera (Malay) students
- Coverage: Full/partial tuition fees + monthly stipend
- Eligible criteria: Excellent SPM/STPM score, family income below RM10,000/month
- Deadline: Varies (check MARA’s portal)
- For: Top Malaysian students in STPM/Matriculation) JPA (Public Service Department) Scholarship
- ion
- Coverage: Full tuition + living allowance
- Eligibility: Minimum CGPA 3.5, leadership experience
- Deadline: April-May 2025
2. University-Specific Scholarships
a) IMU (International Medical University) Scholarships
- Merit Scholarship: Up to RM 25,000 for top STPM/A-Level/IB students
- Need-Based Aid: For students with financial difficulties
- Apply: Through the IMU’s office of financial assistance
b) MAHSA University MBBS Scholarship
- For: High-achieving students (local & international)
- Discount: Up to 50% tuition fee waiver
- Requirement: Minimum 3As in A-Level/STPM or 90% in 12th Grade (PCB)
c) Monash University Malaysia Scholarships
- Monash Merit Scholarship: RM 5,000 – RM 20,000 per year
- ASEAN Scholarship: For students from ASEAN countries
d) Taylor’s University Excellence Scholarship
- Accolade: Up to 100% tuition allowance for top achievers
- Eligible criteria: AAB in A-Levels or 38+ in IB
3. Private & External Scholarships
a) Khazanah Global Scholarship
- For: Outstanding Malaysian & international students
- Coverage: Full tuition + living expenses + internship opportunities
- Deadline: March 2025
b) Shell Malaysia Scholarship
- For Malaysian students pursuing medicine
- Accolade: RM 20,000 – RM 30,000 per year
- Apply: Shell Malaysia Website
c) Yayasan PETRONAS Scholarship
- For Malaysian students with financial need
- Coverage: Tuition + accommodation + allowance
4. Country-Specific Scholarships
- India: Maeer’s MIT Pune Scholarship for students going to MAHSA/IMU
- Bangladesh: Bangladesh’s Upper Commission in KL suggested limited aid
- Indonesia: LPDP Studentship for studies inside (including Malaysia)
5. How to Apply for Scholarships?
- Check Capability: Ensure you meet the academic and nationality criteria.
- Prepare Documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- Personal statement (explaining why you deserve the scholarship)
- Proof of financial need (if applicable)
- Submit Your Application Before the Deadline: Some scholarships require separate applications.
- Interview (if shortlisted): Be prepared for competency-based questions.
6. Tips to Improve Scholarship Chances for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
✅ Maintain High Grades (Minimum 3.5 CGPA or 85% in PCB)
✅ Participate in Leadership Activities (e.g., NGOs, student councils)
✅ Write a Strong Personal Statement (Highlight achievements & career goals)
✅ Apply soon (various scholarships work on a first-come basis)
MBBS In Malaysia 2025-26 Vs MBBS In India 2025-26
Basis | MBBS In Malaysia | MBBS In India |
Course Duration | The course duration for MBBS in Malaysia is 5 Years | The MBBS in India course duration is 5.5 years (4.5 years academics + 1-year Internship) |
Entrance Test | The MCI requires no specific screening, but a valid NEET score is mandated | Require a good score in the 12th class and need to qualify for NEET with a good percentage and cutoff |
Fees Structure | The fees in Malaysian universities are about ₹25 lakh to ₹35 lakh for a complete MBBS degree | MBBS In India FeesGovernment university: INR 11,000 to INR 7.5 lakhs (complete course)Private university: INR 20 lakhs to INR 80 lakhs (complete course) |
Exposure | Candidates get international visibility, and you get more growth scope. | Candidates have no international viability and restricted growth scope. |
FAQ MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26
1. How much does an MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26 cost?
The total fee in a private university has RM 70,000-RM 150,000 (~USD 15k-35k), and the total fee range of a Public university is RM 300,000-RM 500.000 ( ~ USD 65k- 110k)
2. Are scholarships available for international students?
Yes! Options include:
MTCP Scholarship (for developing countries).
University-specific merit scholarships (e.g., IMU, MAHSA, Monash).
Country-specific aid (e.g., LPDP for Indonesians, MIT Pune for Indians).
Private sponsors (e.g., Shell, PETRONAS for Malaysians).
3. Is the Malaysian MBBS degree recognized globally?
Yes, if the university is listed in:
World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS).
Malaysian Medical Council (MMC).
Home country’s medical council (e.g., NMC India, PMDC Pakistan).
Note: Some countries (e.g., USA/UK) require additional exams (USMLE/PLAB) for practice.
4. What is the duration of the MBBS program?
5 years (2 years pre-clinical + 3 years clinical rotations).
Internship (Housemanship): A 2-year internship is necessary in Malaysia for local registration.
5. Can I practice in Malaysia after graduation?
For International Students:
You must complete housemanship in Malaysia to get full registration.
After that, you can work in Malaysia or return home.
For Malaysians: Automatic eligibility for housemanship in government hospitals.
6. What is the medium of instruction for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26?
English (all private universities & most public ones).
Malay may be used in government hospital rotations.
7. Are there entrance exams for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26?
Public Universities (UM, UKM): May need an interview/MMI.
Private Universities (IMU, MAHSA): Usually no entrance exam (based on grades).
International Students: Some may need UCAT/BMAT (check university requirements).
8. What is the intake period for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26?
Public Universities: February/March 2026 (main intake).
Private Universities: February/March + September/October 2026.
Deadlines: Applications open 6–12 months prior (e.g., apply by Dec 2025 for March 2026 intake).
9. How safe is Malaysia for international students?
Very safe! Malaysia ranks #29 in the Global Peace Index (2023).
Multicultural environment with English widely spoken.
Student-friendly policies (part-time work allowed, easy visa renewal).
10. Can I transfer credits to another country?
Possible but difficult. Some universities (e.g., Monash Malaysia) allow transfers to Australia/UK campuses.
NMC India: Malaysian MBBS graduates must pass the NEXT Exam (from 2024 onwards).
11. What are the job prospects after MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26?
Malaysia: Work in government/private hospitals (after MMC registration).
Abroad: Pass licensing exams (USMLE, PLAB, AMC) for the respective country.
Further Studies: Pursue a Master’s/PhD or specialize (e.g., surgery, paediatrics).
12. What is the student visa process for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26?
Get an offer letter from the university.
Submit documents to EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services).
Approval takes 4–8 weeks.
Visa fee: RM 1,000–2,000.
13. Which are the top medical universities in Malaysia?
Public: UM, UKM, USM.
Private: IMU, MAHSA, Monash, Taylor’s, AIMST.
14. Can I get a loan for MBBS in Malaysia 2025-26?
Local Students: PTPTN loans (up to RM 50,000/year).
International Students: Limited options (check home country banks).