Training and Higher Education
in Malaysia in 2026
Boost your career in the heart of Southeast Asia. Discover a world-class education system, combining academic excellence, technological innovation, and intercultural immersion.
Why choose Malaysia for training?
In 2026, Malaysia stands out as the essential educational hub of ASEAN, attracting over 200,000 international students every year.
Academic Excellence & Dual Degrees
Take advantage of exclusive partnerships with British, Australian, and American universities. Obtain a globally recognized degree while living in the tropics. Branch campuses like Monash or Nottingham offer the same quality as their main campuses.
See options for children →Competitive Cost
Tuition fees and the cost of living in Malaysia are up to 60% lower than in Europe or the USA, without compromising on quality.
Average annual budget (including living expenses)
Tech & AI Focus
New specialized courses in Artificial Intelligence and Green Economy, developed in collaboration with Tech giants present in Cyberjaya.
Continuing Education for Professionals
Already working? Discover professional opportunities coupled with flexible Executive MBAs, designed for expatriate executives in Kuala Lumpur.
A system modeled on the Anglo-Saxon system
The Malaysian higher education system is structured to facilitate international mobility. Divided between the public sector (IPTA) and the private sector (IPTS), it offers rare flexibility. Public universities, like the University of Malaya (UM), are renowned for their intensive research, while private universities stand out for their modern infrastructure and close links with industry.
- Bachelor's Degree: Generally 3 to 4 years.
- Master's Degree: 1 to 2 years (by coursework or research).
- PhD: 3 to 5 years, focused on innovation.
In 2026, the academic year mostly follows two main semesters (February and September), with short intensive sessions during the summer. This organization allows students to prepare their expatriation with precise timing windows.
2026 Study Budget Simulator
Estimate your tuition and monthly living costs.
The 5-step admission process
1. Program Choice
Identify your course on the EMGS portal. Check that the program is accredited by the MQA (Malaysian Qualifications Agency).
2. Language Tests
English is the medium of instruction. Prepare your IELTS (min score 6.0) or TOEFL. Some centers offer intensive refresher courses.
3. Application & Acceptance
Submit your translated and certified degrees. Receive your Offer Letter, which is essential for the visa.
4. Student Pass (Visa)
Consult our complete visa guide. The application is done online through the university.
Global recognition of your degrees
In Malaysia, quality is closely monitored by the Ministry of Higher Education via the MQA agency. This accreditation ensures that your degree will be recognized not only for working in Malaysia but also for pursuing studies or a career in Europe, North America, or Australia.
MQA Accredited
Strict government quality standard.
Washington Accord
Mutual recognition for engineers.
Good to know for French citizens
"Many double degree programs exist with French schools (notably in engineering and business). This allows you to obtain a Malaysian and French degree simultaneously."
Join the French-speaking networkWhere to study in Malaysia?
Kuala Lumpur & Klang Valley
The beating heart. Access to major global companies and vibrant nightlife.
Discover the neighborhoods →
Penang (George Town)
The "Silicon Valley of the East". Ideal for technical studies and gastronomy.
Living in Penang →
Johor Bahru (EduCity)
On the border of Singapore. An ultra-modern educational hub with state-of-the-art infrastructure.
Focus on Johor →Continuing Education
For Professionals
Expatriation is the perfect time to upgrade your skills. In Malaysia, Executive MBAs and professional certifications (PMP, Digital Marketing, AI) are highly popular within the international community.
Evening & Weekend Classes
Suited to a full-time work schedule.
Micro-certifications
Short, ultra-specialized courses of 3 to 6 months.
Check our section on French-speaking jobs to see the skills in demand for 2026.
Frequently asked questions about training
Ready to transform your future?
Join thousands of French speakers who have chosen Malaysia to excel. Free resources and a close-knit community await you.