If you’re looking for a fully funded opportunity to pursue higher education in one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant countries, Malaysia, then you’re in the right place. The Malaysian Government has officially announced its Fully Funded Scholarship for the academic year 2025-2026, inviting international students from all over the world to apply for Master’s and PhD programs at top Malaysian universities. This scholarship, known as the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS), is not only free to apply but also does not require IELTS for many applicants. It is an excellent chance for students from developing nations to gain world-class education in a multicultural, progressive environment.
In this blog, we will go through every detail of the scholarship, eligibility criteria, benefits, application process, deadlines, and pro tips to ensure you make a successful application.
Overview of the Malaysian Government Scholarship 2025
The Government of Malaysia, through its Ministry of Education, is offering this scholarship to attract brilliant minds from around the globe. The aim is to build international collaboration in education and support capable students who can contribute to the global knowledge economy.
Host Country: Malaysia
Scholarship Name: Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
Offered by: Government of Malaysia
Academic Level: Master’s and PhD
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Deadline: 30th June 2025
Malaysia is a modern, multicultural, and Muslim-friendly country known for its affordable living, excellent education system, and safe cities. With lush greenery, historical landmarks, and tech-savvy campuses, Malaysia offers a high quality of life for international students.
Important Dates to Remember
- Application Opens: Already open for 2025 cycle
- Deadline to Apply: 30th June 2025
- Academic Year Starts: Semester One, 2025-2026 session
Eligible Degrees & Fields
Applicants can apply for the following degree levels:
- Master’s
- PhD (Doctoral)
Most academic fields are available under this scholarship, including but not limited to:
- Engineering & Technology
- Computer Science & IT
- Social Sciences
- Business & Economics
- Environmental Studies
- Agriculture
- Natural Sciences
- Islamic Studies
Note: Medicine, Pharmacy, and Nursing are generally not eligible under this scholarship.
Scholarship Benefits: What Does Fully Funded Mean?
The Malaysian Government Scholarship 2025 offers extensive financial support that covers nearly all expenses:
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: No tuition costs for selected candidates.
- Monthly Stipend: RM 1,500 per month to cover living expenses.
- No IELTS Required: Many universities accept an English Proficiency Certificate instead of IELTS/TOEFL.
- No Application Fee: Apply 100% free of cost.
This financial support ensures that students can fully focus on their studies without any financial stress.
List of Participating Universities in Malaysia
Students can apply to any of the following top Malaysian universities. Some examples include:
- Universiti Malaya (UM)
- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
- Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
- Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
- Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP)
You are allowed to choose up to three universities while applying. Admission or acceptance in one of these is necessary before or during the application process.
Eligibility Criteria for Malaysian Government Scholarship
To be eligible for this fully funded opportunity, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Age Limit:
- For Master’s: Not older than 40 years
- For PhD: Not older than 45 years
- Academic Background:
- Bachelor’s degree for Master’s applicants
- Master’s degree for PhD applicants
- Minimum CGPA: 3.0 out of 4.0 or equivalent
- English Proficiency:
- IELTS (minimum band 6.0) or TOEFL
- OR English Proficiency Certificate from last institution
- Recommendation Letters: Two letters from professors or supervisors
- Research Proposal: Especially required for PhD applicants
Who Cannot Apply?
Applicants in fields such as Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, or Nursing are usually not accepted under this scholarship. Also, those who do not meet the age or academic requirements should not apply.
Required Documents
You will need to prepare and upload scanned copies of the following documents:
- Application Form (download from portal)
- Passport Copy
- Academic Transcripts (Bachelor’s and/or Master’s)
- English Proficiency Certificate / IELTS / TOEFL
- CV / Resume
- Two Recommendation Letters
- Letter of Admission (if already obtained from a Malaysian university)
- Research Proposal (for PhD)
How to Apply for Malaysian Government Scholarship?
Follow these steps to successfully apply for the MIS 2025:
- Visit the Official Portal: https://biasiswa.mohe.gov.my/INTER/index.php
- Sign Up & Create an Account:
- Choose your program (Master’s or PhD)
- Enter passport number, email, and password
- Provide your personal details such as name, date of birth, nationality, etc.
- Fill Out the Application Form:
- Add academic history in chronological order
- Include academic and financial awards (if any)
- Fill in extracurricular activities and foreign residence (if applicable)
- Choose Preferred Universities and Programs:
- Select up to three universities and relevant programs
- Provide course name and major field of study
- English Language & Motivation Letter:
- Submit IELTS/TOEFL score or proficiency certificate
- Write a 200-word motivation letter about your study goals
- Submit References:
- Add two academic referees with contact info
- Upload Documents:
- Upload each required document in the appropriate section
- Submit the Application:
- Double-check all information
- Agree to the declarations
- Click on “Submit”
Can Current Malaysian Students Apply?
Yes, even if you are already enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in Malaysia, you can still apply for this scholarship.
What Makes MIS Stand Out Compared to Other Scholarships?
The Malaysian Government Scholarship stands apart from other fully funded opportunities because of its simplicity and flexibility. While most international scholarships require extensive paperwork, strict English test scores, and high application fees, MIS does not. It removes those financial and bureaucratic barriers, allowing students from developing countries a real chance at quality education.
Another highlight is the turnaround time—many applicants receive decisions within weeks of submission. This quick and transparent process makes it an ideal choice for students who are on tight academic timelines or are unsure about their chances in other competitive regions like Europe or North America.
Living in Malaysia as an International Student
International students in Malaysia enjoy a balanced lifestyle. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other countries offering similar quality of education. Whether you live in major cities like Kuala Lumpur or smaller university towns, you can expect affordability, safety, and access to a thriving student community
FAQs and Common Issues
- Can I apply without IELTS?
- Yes, many universities accept an English Proficiency Letter from your previous institution.
- What if I don’t have an admission letter yet?
- You can still apply, but your chances improve if you get admission beforehand.
- Can I apply for more than one course?
- Yes, up to three course/university combinations are allowed.
If you’re planning to apply for the Malaysia Government Scholarship 2025-2026 (MIS), you should also explore other fully funded opportunities. For example, you can check the DAAD Scholarship Germany Guide for those who want to study and settle in Europe.
Another great option for budget-friendly study in Europe is the Portugal Government Scholarship 2026, which offers fully funded Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD opportunities.
If you are more interested in research-based degrees like Master’s by Research or PhD, don’t miss our detailed post on the University of Otago Fully Funded Scholarships in New Zealand and the Macquarie University Graduate Research Scholarships 2026 in Australia.
For students who want to study in Asia, our Japan MAKD / MEXT-style Scholarship Guide explains a powerful alternative pathway with low competition and high acceptance chances.
For official information and to submit your application, always use the official Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) Portal and refer to the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE) website.
Final Thoughts & Tips
The Malaysian Government Scholarship 2025 is one of the easiest and most valuable fully funded scholarships currently available. With no application fee, no strict IELTS requirement, and a straightforward application process, it is ideal for students from Commonwealth countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, and many others. Don’t wait for the last date—prepare your documents, draft your research proposal, and start applying now!
For official guidelines and application submission, please visit the Malaysia Scholarship Portal Here.
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