Explore fully funded postgraduate scholarships in Malaysia without IELTS. Learn eligibility, benefits, universities, and step-by-step application tips.
Overview of Postgraduate Scholarships in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a wide range of fully funded postgraduate scholarships for international students, including Master’s and PhD programs, even for those who do not have IELTS scores.
These scholarships are provided by the Malaysian Government, top universities, and research institutions to attract high-performing international talent. Scholars enjoy full tuition coverage, living allowances, and additional benefits to support a successful academic journey in Malaysia. Explore other opportunities to study in Malaysia without IELTS.
Benefits of Fully Funded Scholarships Without IELTS
Studying in Malaysia with a fully funded scholarship offers several advantages:
- Tuition Fees Covered: Paid directly to the university
- Monthly Living Allowance: RM 1,500 or more per month
- Accommodation Support: Provided in some universities
- Airfare / Travel Support: For eligible international students
- Research Funding: For Master’s by Research and PhD candidates
- Professional Networking: Access to international seminars and workshops
These benefits make it easier for students to focus on their research and studies without financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria for Scholarships Without IELTS
To apply for fully funded postgraduate scholarships in Malaysia without IELTS, students generally need:
- Previous Degree in English: IELTS not required if a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate is submitted
- Academic Qualification:
- Master’s applicants: Minimum CGPA 3.0 / 2nd Class Upper
- PhD applicants: Excellent Master’s results in relevant fields
- Age Limit:
- Master’s: ≤ 40 years
- PhD: ≤ 45 years
- Research Proposal: Required for Master’s by Research and PhD programs
- Nationality: Students from ASEAN, Commonwealth, and other eligible countries
List of Postgraduate Scholarships in Malaysia Without IELTS
Postgraduate scholarships in Malaysia where IELTS may be waived or is not strictly required (especially if you can provide alternative proof of English proficiency such as a Medium of Instruction certificate), based on recent scholarship sources:
| Scholarship Name | Host Institution / Organization | Degree Level | Funding Coverage | IELTS Requirement | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) | Malaysian Government | Master’s, PhD | Fully Funded | IELTS can be waived with MOI | Tuition fees, RM 1500 monthly stipend, research support |
| Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship | Malaysian Government | Master’s | Fully Funded | IELTS may be waived | Tuition fees, monthly allowance, airfare, accommodation |
| Universiti Malaya (UM) Excellence Scholarship | Universiti Malaya | Master’s, PhD | Partial / Fully Funded | MOI accepted | Tuition fee support, research funding |
| Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Graduate Research Scholarship | Universiti Putra Malaysia | Master’s, PhD | Fully / Partial | MOI accepted | Research grant, tuition waiver |
| Asia Pacific University (APU) Postgraduate Merit Scholarship | Asia Pacific University | Master’s, PhD | Partial | MOI accepted | Tuition fee reduction up to 100% |
| Monash University Malaysia Scholarships | Monash University Malaysia | Master’s, PhD | Partial / Fully Funded | MOI accepted | Tuition fee coverage, academic excellence awards |
| Taylor’s University Postgraduate Scholarships | Taylor’s University | Master’s | Partial | MOI accepted | Tuition fee reduction, merit awards |
| UCSI University Trust Graduate Scholarship | UCSI University | Master’s, PhD | Partial / Fully Funded | MOI accepted | Tuition waiver, academic merit awards |
| Albukhary International University Scholarship | Albukhary International University | Undergraduate & Postgraduate | Fully Funded | IELTS not always required | Tuition fees, accommodation, stipend |
Is a research proposal required for all programs?
Only for Master’s by Research and PhD applicants. A strong, Malaysia-relevant research proposal enhances selection chances.
Top Universities Offering Scholarships Without IELTS
Here are some of the best Malaysian universities offering fully funded postgraduate scholarships:
| Public Universities | Private Universities |
|---|---|
| Universiti Malaya (UM) | Multimedia University (MMU) |
| Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP) |
| Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) | International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) |
| Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) | Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) |
| Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) | INCEIF University |
These universities provide scholarships for various study fields, including Engineering, Business, ICT, Social Sciences, and Natural Sciences. Check top Malaysian universities without IELTS if you are planning to study abroad
What benefits are included in these scholarships?
Tuition fees, monthly living allowance, accommodation, airfare (where applicable), and research funding for Master’s/PhD programs.
Popular Study Fields for Fully Funded Scholarships
- Engineering, Manufacturing & Construction
- Business, Administration & Law
- Information & Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Social Sciences, Journalism & Information
- Arts & Humanities
- Natural Sciences, Mathematics & Statistics
- Agriculture, Forestry, Fisheries & Veterinary
- Health & Welfare (excluding Medicine, Nursing & Pharmacy)
Choosing low-competition fields may increase your chances of securing a scholarship.
How can I maximize my chances of selection?
- Choose low-competition fields
- Maintain high academic performance
- Submit strong recommendation letters and a compelling research proposal
- Apply early and ensure all documents are complete
Step-by-Step Application Process
Prepare Documents:
- Passport copy (6 months validity)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letters of Recommendation (2 referees)
- Research Proposal (for research-based programs)
Submit Online Application:
- Use the MIS Online Application System or the university’s scholarship portal
Admission Confirmation:
- Admission letter from a Malaysian university is mandatory
Selection & Evaluation:
- Based on academic excellence, research potential, and alignment with Malaysia’s development priorities
Visa & Arrival:
- Apply for a student visa after scholarship acceptance
Can I apply for a fully funded postgraduate scholarship without IELTS?
Yes, if your previous degree was conducted in English and you provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
Secure Your Fully Funded Scholarship Today
Fully funded postgraduate scholarships in Malaysia without IELTS are an excellent opportunity for international students to pursue Master’s or PhD programs.
- Start your journey today
- Apply through the MIS Online Application Portal
- Don’t miss this chance to study in Malaysia with full financial support
Learn how to Study in Malaysia Without IELTS