Exams to Study in Malaysia: Scores and Fees

Q: What English proficiency tests are required for undergraduate programs in Malaysia?

For bachelors programs, Malaysia typically requires IELTS or TOEFL. A score of 6.0 in IELTS or 88 in TOEFL iBT is recommended. SAT or ACT scores are generally not required for admission to undergraduate programs.

Veda Burman

| Updated On - Oct 25, 2024

Malaysia has grown into a preferred destination for Indian students due to its quality education, affordable tuition, and strong regional economy. Indian students aiming to study in Malaysia need to meet specific entry requirements, primarily in English proficiency. Exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, and MUET are commonly required, while standardized tests like GRE, GMAT, SAT, and ACT are generally optional.

An IELTS score of 7.0 or equivalent is recommended for admission to the masters courses. For admission to the bachelor’s courses, 6.0 in IELTS or equivalent is competitive. Here’s a breakdown of the essential exams to study in Malaysia across bachelor’s, master’s, and MBA programs, including language proficiency tests and specific university requirements.

Tests for Masters in Malaysia

For Indian students applying for a master’s program in Malaysia, the focus is on English proficiency. Malaysia does not require GRE or GMAT scores for entry into most master's programs.

English Proficiency:

IELTS: A minimum score of 7.0 is recommended.
TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 97 is recommended.
Some Malaysian universities may waive the English proficiency requirement if you have completed prior education in English.

Tests for MBA in Malaysia

For MBA applicants, certain top universities in Malaysia, like the University of Nottingham, may require GMAT scores, but it is not a universal requirement.

Standardized Tests:

GMAT: Required for selective programs.

English Proficiency:

IELTS: A score of 7.0 is recommended.
TOEFL iBT: A score of 97 is recommended.
Similar to master's programs, many universities may waive the English requirement if the previous degree was completed in English.

Tests for Bachelors in Malaysia

Students from India applying for undergraduate programs are not required to submit SAT or ACT scores in Malaysia. However, English proficiency remains essential.

Standardized Tests:

SAT/ACT: Not required.

English Proficiency Requirements:

IELTS: A score of 6.0 is recommended.
TOEFL iBT: A score of 88 is recommended.
As with master’s and MBA programs, some universities may waive the English requirement based on previous English-medium education.

Malaysian University English Test (MUET)

The Malaysian University English Test (MUET) is an English language proficiency exam managed by the Malaysian Examinations Council. This test was primarily designed for students planning to enter university courses in Malaysia, though it is also accepted by some universities in Singapore.

MUET evaluates students across four sections:

Listening
Reading
Writing, and
Speaking

Each student receives a band score ranging from 1 to 6, with most university programs requiring at least a band 3. However, competitive courses like medicine and engineering often need a higher proficiency level, usually a Band 4. The test fee for MUET is 350 RM (6,780 INR) for international students.

Some of the top universities in Malaysia and their respective English proficiency requirements are as follows:

University	IELTS Score	TOEFL iBT Score	MUET Score
University of Malaya	5.5-6.5	80	3
Universiti Sains Malaysia	5.0	42	3
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia	5.5	46	3
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia	6.0	80	4
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS	5.0-6.0	60	4

Exam Fees to Study in Malaysia

Most exams, including IELTS, TOEFL, and MUET, involve fees and preparation time, so early planning is advisable. Here’s an estimate of costs:

IELTS Fee: 17,000 INR
TOEFL iBT Fee: 16,900 INR
MUET Fee: 350 RM (6,780 INR)

English proficiency tests are mainly required for admission to the universities in Malaysia. For Indian students, this makes Malaysia an accessible destination with fewer testing hurdles compared to other countries. Early preparation for language exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and MUET can significantly enhance your chances of meeting Malaysian university admission requirements.

FAQs

Ques. What English proficiency tests are required for undergraduate programs in Malaysia?

Ans. For bachelor’s programs, Malaysia typically requires IELTS or TOEFL. A score of 6.0 in IELTS or 88 in TOEFL iBT is recommended. SAT or ACT scores are generally not required for admission to undergraduate programs.

Ques. What are the recommended IELTS and TOEFL scores for master’s courses in Malaysia?

Ans. For master's programs in Malaysia, a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 97 is recommended. Some universities may waive the English requirement if previous education was in English.

Ques. Is GMAT required for MBA programs in Malaysia?

Ans. GMAT is generally not required for most MBA programs in Malaysia. However, selective programs, like the MBA at the University of Nottingham, may ask for GMAT scores. IELTS or TOEFL is commonly required with a recommended score of 7.0 or 97, respectively.

Ques. How much does it cost to take the MUET, IELTS, and TOEFL exams for admission in Malaysia?

Ans. MUET costs 350 RM (approx. 6,780 INR) for international students. The IELTS fee is around 17,000 INR, and TOEFL iBT costs around 16,900 INR. Each test has specific fees, so early planning helps manage costs effectively.