Malaysia has emerged as a leading education hub in Southeast Asia, offering world‑class universities, affordable living costs, and generous scholarship programs. From government‑funded awards to corporate and development bank scholarships, international and domestic students can access fully funded opportunities that cover tuition, living expenses, and travel.
Below is a curated list of 5 top scholarships in Malaysia – each name is linked to a detailed guide.
1. Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is a prestigious government award for international students from selected countries to pursue master’s and PhD degrees at Malaysian public universities. It covers full tuition, a monthly living allowance (RM 1,500 for master’s, RM 2,500 for PhD), and travel expenses. Applicants must have a minimum CGPA of 3.5 and meet English language requirements.
2. Islamic Development Bank Scholarship in Malaysia
The Islamic Development Bank Scholarship in Malaysia is funded by the IsDB to support talented students from member countries, including Malaysia. It provides full tuition, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel costs for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs. Priority is given to fields such as engineering, medicine, agriculture, and economics.
3. Gamuda Scholarship for Malaysian Undergraduate Students
The Gamuda Scholarship for Malaysian Undergraduate Students offers fully funded support to high‑potential Malaysian citizens pursuing first degrees in engineering, built environment, technology, business, and sustainability. Benefits include full tuition, living allowance, accommodation, laptop, and airfare. Scholars also receive guaranteed internship and job placement within the Gamuda Group.
4. CIMB ASEAN Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded
The CIMB ASEAN Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded is open to citizens of Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. It covers full tuition, laptop, books, visa, flights, accommodation, and living expenses. Scholars enjoy mentorship, an internship through The Complete Banker™ program, and guaranteed employment with CIMB Group after graduation.
5. ASEAN‑Maybank Scholarship Programme for Undergraduate Studies
The ASEAN‑Maybank Scholarship Programme for Undergraduate Studies supports outstanding ASEAN students (including Malaysians) to pursue undergraduate degrees in fields such as finance, business, data science, and economics. The scholarship covers full tuition, living allowance, and a laptop. Recipients also receive internship opportunities and a career pathway with Maybank, one of the largest banking groups in the region.
Conclusion
Malaysia offers a diverse range of scholarships for both local and international students. From the government‑funded Malaysia International Scholarship to corporate programs like Gamuda, CIMB, and Maybank, there is funding to suit every academic ambition.
Most awards cover full tuition, living expenses, and even job placements. Start your research early, prepare strong applications, and take the first step toward a world‑class education in Malaysia.
