Study in Malaysia: A Guide for Nepalese Students
Malaysia is a beautiful and diverse country located in Southeast Asia. The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia, and its capital city is Kuala Lumpur. The country has a population of around 32 million people. It shares borders with Thailand to the north, Indonesia to the south, and Brunei to the east. Malaysia is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and bustling urban centers.
The country boasts a relatively high standard of living, with a per capita income of approximately $11,000 USD. This makes it an attractive destination for students from all over the world, including Nepal, who seek quality education at affordable costs.
Popular Universities in Malaysia
Malaysia is home to several prestigious universities that attract international students. Here are five of the top-ranked universities in Malaysia:
1. University of Malaya (UM): Ranked as the top university in Malaysia, UM is located in Kuala Lumpur and is known for its strong research programs and academic excellence.
2. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM): Located in Serdang, UPM is renowned for its agricultural and environmental studies, as well as its engineering programs.
3. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM): Also known as the National University of Malaysia, UKM is located in Bangi and offers a wide range of programs, including sciences, arts, and humanities.
4. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM): With campuses in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur, UTM is a leading university in engineering and technology education.
5. Taylor’s University: A private university located in Subang Jaya, Taylor’s University is known for its business, hospitality, and culinary arts programs.
Visa Application Process
To study in Malaysia, Nepalese students need to apply for a Student Pass (student visa). The process involves several steps:
1. Application to a Malaysian Institution: First, students must apply and receive an offer letter from a recognized Malaysian educational institution.
2. Application for Student Pass: The institution will assist students in applying for a Student Pass through the Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) portal.
3. Submission of Documents: Students need to submit various documents, including passport copies, academic transcripts, medical reports, and proof of financial capability.
4. Visa Approval: Upon approval, a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) will be issued. Students must then apply for a Single Entry Visa (SEV) at the Malaysian embassy or consulate in Nepal.
5. Arrival in Malaysia: Upon arrival in Malaysia, students must undergo a post-arrival medical screening and collect their Student Pass.
Student Visa Application Fee
The cost of obtaining a Student Pass can vary depending on the institution and the type of course. Generally, the total cost, including processing fees and visa issuance, ranges from MYR 1,000 to MYR 2,000 (approximately NPR 28,000 to NPR 56,000).
Why Malaysia is Popular Among Nepalese Students
Malaysia has become a popular destination for Nepalese students for several reasons:
1. Quality Education: Malaysian universities offer high-quality education with internationally recognized degrees.
2. Affordable Tuition and Living Costs: Compared to Western countries, Malaysia offers more affordable tuition fees and living costs, making it an economical choice for many students.
3. Cultural Diversity: The multicultural environment in Malaysia provides a welcoming atmosphere for international students.
4. Proximity: The geographical closeness to Nepal makes it easier for students to travel home during holidays.
5. English Language Instruction: Many courses are offered in English, which is an advantage for Nepalese students who are proficient in the language.
Post-Study Work Visa Opportunities
Malaysia offers post-study work opportunities for international students. After completing their studies, students can apply for a Professional Visit Pass (PVP) or an Employment Pass if they secure a job offer from a Malaysian employer. These passes allow graduates to gain valuable work experience in Malaysia.
Popular Fields of Study in Malaysia
Several fields of study are particularly popular among international students in Malaysia, including:
1. Engineering: Malaysia is known for its strong engineering programs, particularly in fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
2. Business and Management: Many students opt for courses in business administration, finance, and management.
3. Information Technology (IT): With the growing tech industry, IT and computer science programs are in high demand.
4. Hospitality and Tourism: Given Malaysia’s thriving tourism sector, programs in hospitality and tourism management are very popular.
5. Medicine and Healthcare: Malaysian universities offer excellent programs in medicine, nursing, and other healthcare-related fields.
Average Living Cost in Major Cities of Malaysia
The cost of living in Malaysia is relatively affordable. Here is an overview of the average monthly living expenses in five major cities:
1. Kuala Lumpur: MYR 2,000 MYR 3,000 (NPR 56,000 NPR 84,000)
2. Penang: MYR 1,500 MYR 2,500 (NPR 42,000 NPR 70,000)
3. Johor Bahru: MYR 1,200 MYR 2,000 (NPR 34,000 NPR 56,000)
4. Kuching: MYR 1,000 MYR 1,800 (NPR 28,000 NPR 50,000)
5. Malacca: MYR 1,200 MYR 2,000 (NPR 34,000 NPR 56,000)
These costs include accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Dependent Policy for International Students
International students in Malaysia are generally not allowed to bring dependents with them on a Student Pass. However, there are exceptions for students enrolled in postgraduate studies, who may be able to bring their spouses and children. The dependents can apply for Dependent Passes, subject to certain conditions.
PR and Citizenship for Foreign Students
Malaysia does not have a straightforward pathway to permanent residency (PR) or citizenship for international students. However, students who have secured employment and contributed significantly to the country may apply for long-term residence or PR, subject to government approval. Citizenship is generally not offered to foreign nationals.
GAP Acceptance for Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees
Malaysian universities are generally flexible in accepting students with educational gaps. For bachelor’s degree programs, a gap of up to 2-3 years is usually acceptable, provided the student has a valid reason and supporting documents. For master’s degrees, work experience during the gap can be beneficial.
Benefits of Studying in Malaysia for Nepalese Students
1. High-Quality Education: Malaysia offers world-class education with many universities ranked among the top in Asia.
2. Affordable Costs: Tuition fees and living costs are relatively lower compared to Western countries, making it an economical choice.
3. Multicultural Environment: Malaysia’s diverse culture and society provide a unique learning experience.
4. English Language Instruction: The wide use of English in education and daily life makes it easier for Nepalese students to adapt.
5. Proximity to Home: The geographical proximity allows students to visit their families more frequently.
6. Safe and Stable Environment: Malaysia is known for its political stability and safety, providing a secure environment for international students.
Embassies and Diplomatic Relations
Malaysia has an embassy in Nepal located in Kathmandu. Similarly, Nepal has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. These embassies provide consular services to their respective citizens, including visa applications, passport renewals, and other services.
Malaysia’s Affiliations: Malaysia is a member of various international organizations, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Commonwealth of Nations. It is not a member of NATO, the European Union (EU), or the Schengen Area. Malaysia maintains good diplomatic relations with many countries, including Nepal.
Conclusion
Studying in Malaysia offers Nepalese students a unique opportunity to receive quality education at an affordable cost. With its diverse culture, safe environment, and proximity to Nepal, Malaysia is an excellent choice for those seeking higher education abroad. Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, IT, or healthcare, Malaysia has something to offer every student. With its welcoming atmosphere and comprehensive support services, Malaysia ensures a fulfilling and enriching experience for international students.