Are you a Nepalese student looking to study abroad? Look no further than Malaysia! Malaysia is a popular destination for international students, offering a high quality education system with affordable tuition fees and living costs.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on studying in Malaysia as a Nepalese student, including information on the education system, admission requirements, scholarships, and more.
Education System in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a diverse range of education options for international students, from primary to tertiary education. The education system is divided into three levels: primary education, secondary education, and tertiary education.
Primary education is for children aged 7-12 and lasts for six years. Secondary education is for children aged 13-17 and lasts for five years. Tertiary education is for students aged 18 and above and offers a range of courses from certificate to PhD level.
There are many universities in Malaysia that offer high quality education, with some top-ranked universities including Universiti Malaya, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Universiti Putra Malaysia. These universities offer a wide range of courses and are recognized globally for their high academic standards.
Admission Requirements for Nepalese Students
To study in Malaysia as a Nepalese student, you will need to meet the admission requirements of the university or college you are applying to.To be eligible for admission to diploma or degree programs in Malaysia, international students must have completed at least twelve (12) years of education and taken a national or international examination recognized by the Ministry of Education. This requirement ensures that students have a strong educational foundation and are prepared to succeed in higher education programs. Requirements may vary depending on the course and level of study.
Generally, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- English language proficiency test results (such as IELTS or TOEFL)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Copy of passport
- Financial statements or proof of sponsorship
- Some universities may also require you to attend an interview or submit a personal statement.
Language of Instruction
English is widely used as the medium of instruction in Malaysian universities and colleges. Most courses are taught in English, which makes it easier for international students to study and communicate with their peers and professors. This also helps students improve their language skills and prepares them for a globalized workforce where English is often the language of business and communication.
Scholarships in Malaysia for Nepalese Students
Malaysia offers a range of scholarships for international students, including Nepalese students. These scholarships are offered by the Malaysian government, universities, and private organizations.
Some top scholarships for Nepalese students include:
- Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship
- Malaysian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan
- Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)
- Khazanah Global Scholarship Programme
These scholarships offer full or partial tuition fee waivers, living allowances, and other benefits.
Cost of Living in Malaysia
Malaysia is an affordable destination for international students, with a low cost of living compared to other study abroad destinations. The cost of living will depend on your lifestyle and location, but in general, you can expect to spend around RM1,500-2,500 per month on accommodation, food, transport, and other expenses.
Accommodation
There are various options for accommodation in Malaysia, including on-campus accommodation and private housing. On-campus accommodation is often the most convenient option for international students, as it is located close to the university and offers a range of facilities and services.
Off-campus housing options include apartments, houses, and shared accommodation. These options may be cheaper than on-campus accommodation but may require more effort in terms of finding and managing the accommodation.
Part-Time Work During Study
International students studying at public or private higher education institutions in Malaysia are permitted to work part-time for a maximum of 20 hours per week, but only during semester breaks or holidays of more than 7 days. This is subject to the condition that their student passes remain valid, and they have obtained prior approval from the Department of Immigration.
However, there are certain restrictions on the types of jobs that international students are allowed to take. They are not permitted to work as cashiers and in the hotel sector, they cannot work as singers, masseurs, musicians, or Guest Relation Officers (GROs). Additionally, international students are not allowed to engage in any job or activity deemed to be immoral.
Applications to work part-time must be made through the educational institution at which the international student is enrolled. The student needs to be present with a representative from their institution at the Immigration Department of Malaysia to submit an application for part-time work.
Part-time work can help students cover their living expenses and gain work experience. However, working in Malaysia during studying is not a good option to cover tuition fees and living costs due to the above-mentioned restrictions and limitations.
Post-study Work Permit in Malaysia for Nepalese Students
If you are an international student looking to work in Malaysia after graduation, it is important to understand the process and requirements. Currently, it is not easy for foreign graduates to find employment in Malaysia, as the government prioritizes hiring Malaysians before considering foreign workers.
Finding job opportunities can be challenging, and even after securing a job offer, there are additional steps that need to be taken. It is essential to have a well-written CV and letter of reference to increase your chances of landing a job.
Once you have accepted a job offer, your employer will need to apply for a suitable work permit on your behalf. It is not possible for individuals to do this on their own, so your employer must apply through one of the six government agencies based on the company’s primary activity.
The work permit, also known as an Employment Pass, is valid for a minimum of two years and a maximum of five years. It is crucial to ensure that your passport has at least 18 months validity from the date of your job offer to allow sufficient time for processing and any necessary appeals.
The application process for the work permit can take several weeks or even months, so it is important to plan accordingly and start the process as early as possible. Your employer will need to provide all the necessary documents and information, and you may also be required to undergo a medical examination.
In addition to the work permit, you may also need to obtain a visa or other immigration documents to legally work in Malaysia. It is essential to check with the relevant authorities to ensure that you have all the necessary documents and permits.
Can I pursue two degrees at the same time?
In Malaysia, it is not possible for a student to pursue two full-time degrees at the same time. This means that students can only enroll in one full-time degree program at any given time. This is to ensure that students are able to fully commit to their studies and are not overwhelmed with a heavy workload.
However, it is possible for students to pursue additional courses or certifications alongside their full-time degree, as long as it does not interfere with their primary studies. Many universities and colleges offer additional short-term courses, language classes, or certifications that students can take alongside their degree program to enhance their skills and knowledge.
How long will it take me to get a Visa Approval Letter (VAL)?
If you are an international student planning to study in Malaysia, you may be wondering how long it will take to get a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) for your visa application. According to the official website of Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), it should take 14 working days upon receipt of a complete application and payment.
However, it is important to note that the processing time for the VAL is at the discretion of the Immigration Department, which is responsible for issuing the VAL. This means that the processing time may vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications received and the complexity of the application.
To ensure a smooth and timely application process, it is recommended that you submit a complete and accurate application along with all the required documents and payment. This will help to avoid any delays or complications that may arise from incomplete or incorrect information.
Please keep in mind that the VAL is only the first step in the visa application process. Once you receive the VAL, you will still need to apply for your actual visa at the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country or country of residence.
Do I have to undergo medical test?
Yes, you need to perform a medical screening for getting student visa of Malaysia. Medical screening is a process where international students undergo a health checkup that includes a general examination by a doctor, blood and urine tests, and a chest x-ray. This is required for all international students before arriving in Malaysia, except for those enrolling in public universities. Additionally, a post-arrival medical examination is mandatory for all international students within 7 days of entering Malaysia, and must be completed at one of EMGS’s approved panel of clinics/hospitals. Public university students can attend the medical screening at clinics within their universities.
Can I take my dependent to Malaysia?
Yes, postgraduate students from all countries are eligible to apply for a dependent pass to bring their dependents with them. However, for undergraduate students, Nepalese citizens cannot take their dependent. If you intend to bring your dependents, you should notify your university, as the application for a dependent pass will be made through your institution.
What is a student pass?
A student pass is a visa that allows an individual to enter and stay in Malaysia for the purpose of studying at an approved institution on an approved course. It is a multiple-entry visa that allows students to enter and exit Malaysia as needed during the duration of their studies.
Conclusion
Studying in Malaysia is a great option for Nepalese students who are looking for a high quality education at an affordable cost. With a range of courses and scholarships available, Malaysia offers a welcoming and diverse environment for international students. However, due to some unwelcoming working policies of the Malaysian government, it might not be suitable for students who want to earn for their tuition fees during studying and look for future opportunities in Malaysia. We hope that this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about studying in Malaysia.
