Study MBBS in Malaysia

Overview

Studying MBBS in Malaysia has emerged as one of the most preferred options for Indian and international students who are looking for globally recognized medical education, modern infrastructure, English-medium instruction, and high academic standards. With increasing competition and high fees in private medical colleges in India, Malaysia offers an excellent balance between quality education and international exposure.

Malaysia follows international medical education  standards, and its universities are recognised by leading medical global bodies. The Medical Council of Malaysia oversees all medical schools in the country, guaranteeing excellent clinical training, moral medical practice, and high academic standards. This strong regulatory framework gives international students confidence in the credibility and global acceptance of their MBBS degree. The biggest advantage is that the entire medical curriculum is taught in English. Moreover, the availability of state of the  art facilities, cutting edge technologies and hands-on clinical exposure in well-equipped government and private teaching hospitals make is the preferred destination among the international students ,aspiring to pursue MBBS

Why Choose MBBS in Malaysia in 2026?

Choosing MBBS abroad is a life-changing decision, and Malaysia stands out as a reliable and future-proof destination.
 

• Globally recognized medical education system
• QS world ranked Medical Universities
• The mode of teaching is entirely in English.
• Universities recognized by the Medical Council of Malaysia
• High-quality clinical training in modern teaching hospitals
• Safe, student-friendly, and multicultural environment
• Strong academic collaborations with UK, Australia, and other countries
• Affordable MBBS fees in compare to UK & USA
• Strong USMLE & PLAB alignment
• No donation or capitation fees

Malaysia follows international medical education standards, making it easier for students to pursue postgraduate studies or medical licensing exams like NEXT/FMGE, PLAB, USMLE, or AMC.

Overview of the Medical Education System in Malaysia

The medical education system in Malaysia is well-structured and globally accepted.The MBBS program in Malaysia is generally divided into:

• Pre-Clinical Phase (Basic Medical Sciences)
• Clinical Phase (Hospital-based training)

Duration

• 5 years MBBS program, 
• Internships are not allowed for International students and a proper work visa is required to work there.

Teaching Structure

• Problem-Based Learning (PBL)
• Case-based discussions
• Simulation labs facilitating all cutting edge technologies and research methodologies.
• Clinical exposure at both public and private medical facilities.

Medical Council of Malaysia (MCM)

The Medical Council of Malaysia (MCM) is the statutory authority responsible for regulating medical education and medical practitioners in Malaysia.

• Accredits medical colleges in Malaysia
• Approves MBBS curriculum and teaching hospitals
• Regulates internship and licensing
• Maintains professional standards of doctors
• Regulates ethical and professional conduct

It is mandatory for both local and international students to study MBBS in an MCM recognised medical college who wish to practice medicine.

Why MCM Recognition is Crucial

Students must ensure that the university is recognized by the Medical Council of Malaysia, because:

• Only MCM-recognized degrees are valid for internship in Malaysia
• Recognition ensures international credibility and exposure
• It affects eligibility for medical practice and postgraduate education abroad
• It safeguards students from unapproved or low-quality institutions

Malaysia has both government and private medical universities offering world-class MBBS programs recognized by Medical Council of Malaysia

Public Medical Colleges in Malaysia

Government universities are highly reputed and academically competitive and their details are as follows

1. University of Malaya (UM)

• The oldest and most prestigious university
• Strong clinical exposure
• Excellent research facilities
• QS Ranking-58th
• Duration-84 months
• Medium-English
• Fees - The  annual tuition fee for MBBS, around MYR 134,60 (approx. USD 29,301) per year for international students, making it one of the pricier options in Malaysia, with total costs potentially reaching into the INR 70 Lakhs to 1.25 Crores range for the entire 5-year program.
• Total Course Range: Expect total fees for the MBBS degree in Malaysia to be roughly INR 25 Lakhs to INR 70+ Lakhs, with UM being at the higher end.

 Factors Affecting Fees:

Nationality: Fees differ for local Malaysian students and international students.
University Ranking: UM is a leading public university, reflected in its higher fees.
Exchange Rates: USD and INR conversions fluctuations.
Course Intake
Main Intake : February/March (Applications usually Oct-Dec the year before).
Second Intake : September/October (Applications usually May-July). 

2. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

• Focus on community medicine
• Advanced hospital infrastructure
• QS Ranking-126
• Duration- 5 years
• Medium- English
• Fees- Tuition Fees (International): Around MYR 302,000 for the 5-year MD program.
• Living Expenses: Estimate MYR 700-1,200 monthly for food, personal items, and books (MYR 500/semester).
• Visa & Insurance: Initial costs for e-VAL & insurance (MYR 500-1,200) and Medical Check-up/Visa Stamping (MYR 250+).
• Course Intake-  Applications open around April for an October/November start, but specific programs like Medicine might align with other university patterns.
• Second Intake: Often around October for admission in the following March, but this can vary. 

3. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

• Strong biomedical sciences foundation
• QS Ranking- 134
• Duration- 5 years
• Medium-English
• Fees-Tuition: Fees for international undergrads might range from RM 10,000 to RM 40,000 per year, but Medicine will be at the higher end.
• Living: Around RM 1,000 - 1,500 (approx. $210 - $320 USD) per month for basic expenses.
• Accommodation: On-campus can be $100-$500/month; off-campus $150-$650/month.
•  Course Intake- Expect major intakes around February/March and September/October.

Private Medical Colleges in Malaysia

 Private universities offer modern infrastructure, international faculty, and global collaborations.

1. International Medical University (IMU)

• One of the best private medical colleges in Malaysia
• Strong global twinning programs
• QS Ranking- 151-200
• Duration- 5 years
• Medium-English
• Fees-Annual Tuition (International): Around RM 134,500 (approx. USD 28,500) for the first 2.5 years in Malaysia.
• Total Program (Malaysia only): Roughly RM 550,000+ for the entire MBBS.
• Total Program (Indian Rupees): Estimates suggest a total cost of ₹60 Lakhs to ₹1.25 Crores (INR) for Indian students.
• Course Intake- February and September

2. Monash University Malaysia

• Australian curriculum
• International degree recognition
• QS Ranking- 36
• Duration- 5 years
• Medium- English
• Fees- For Malaysian Students (IMU Part): RM 59,750 per semester (RM 119,500/year).
• For International Students (IMU Part): RM 67,250 per semester (RM 134,500/year).
• Total Estimated Course (Indian Students): Around INR 60 Lakhs to 1.25 Crore for the full program, depending on the partner university. 
• Course Intake- February and September

3. Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia

• UK-based medical education model
• QS Ranking-95
• Duration- 5 years
• Medium- English
• Fees- Tuition Fees: Around RM 121,000 per year.
• Visa Fees: Approximately RM 6,000 for the entire 5-year program.
• Accommodation: Ranges from RM 10,000 - RM 18,000 per year.
• Living Expenses: Estimated at RM 1,600 per month (books, food, etc.).
• Course Intake- starts in September

MBBS in Malaysia Fees Structure 2026

The cost of MBBS in Malaysia is substantially less in comparison to western countries. The charges estimated 
USD 60,000–90,000 for public universities and
USD $100,000 to $150,000 for private universities

Additional Expenses

• Hostel & accommodation
• Food & living expenses
• Health insurance
• Study material
• The approximate charges of living expenses vary from USD 4000 to USD 6000 annually.

Eligibility Criteria for MBBS in Malaysia- Admission Procedure (2026)

General Requirements: 

• Age: Minimum 17 years by year-end.
• 12th Qualification: Recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English as main subjects.
• Academic Scores: Typically 50-70%+ aggregate in PCB
• English Proficiency: IELTS/TOEFL/MUET, or Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate.
• Passport: Valid passport required. 

For Indian Students (Mandatory):

• NEET: Must qualify with passing marks.
• NMC Eligibility: Need an eligibility certificate from the National Medical Commission (NMC).

Course Intake

1. The MBBS course intake generally commences twice a year, primarily in February/March and September/October. 
2. Though a few private universities might take additional intakes in May and January. So it is recommended to check specific universities' calendars in order to get the exact date.
3. Students are advised to apply several months prior to the intake( April-July for September/ October intake) in order to complete all admission formalities.
4. Deadlines and application requirements vary from university to university, so early application ( 3-4 months before) is recommended.

Application Process: A stepwise guide on how to apply for admission

1. Research & Apply:  Firstly, Choose a university (e.g., International Medical University in Malaysia), apply online with documents. NEET score submission is mandatory.
2. Required documents are Academic transcripts, passport copies, medical fitness certificate and entrance test scores.
3. Students can fill the application form by Universities online portals or apply through  authorized educational consultants.
4. University Entrance: Some might have interviews or tests.
5. Offer Letter & Fees: Pay fees after receiving an offer. Fees may vary depending on certain criteria like Public and private universities and their ranking status.
6. Visa: Apply for a student visa via Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS).
7. Pay tuition fees and be ready to fly to Malaysia and begin your MBBS journey.
8. Admissions are transparent, merit based and regulated.

Facilities for MBBS students in Malaysia

• There are world level academic and clinical facilities like
• Advance Anatomy and Simulation labs
• Hospitals with teaching facilities and modern equipments
• Well-reputed and renowned research centres
• Digital libraries and e-learning platforms
• Early clinical exposure

Apart from the above facilities there are various student facilities available like

1. On-campus and off-campus accommodation
2. International student support offices
3. Proper career guidance and mentorship
4. Sports and recreational facilities
5. Safe campus environments

MBBS in Malaysia for Indian Students

Malaysia is especially suitable for Indian students due to:

• English-medium education
• Cultural similarity and Indian food availability
• Large Indian student community
• Short travel distance from India
• High safety standards

Recognition in India and the rest of the world

• Graduates can appear for NEXT/FMGE
• Degree from Medical Council of Malaysia recognized universities is internationally acceptable
• Students can practice in India after applying the NMC Screening test.
• Eligible for postgraduate exams abroad
• Subject to licensing tests, a Malaysian MBBS degree is recognized worldwide
• USMLE in the USA
• PLAB in the UK
• FMGE and NExT in India
• AMC in Australia
• MCCQE in Canada
• Local exams in the Middle East , Africa and Asia acknowledgement is guaranteed by MMC Certification
• The acceptance and recognition is validated by MMC accreditation, MQA approval and WDOMS listing

Internship, Licensing & Career Opportunities After MBBS in Malaysia

Internship in Malaysia

1. Governed by the Medical Council of Malaysia
2. No, International students cannot do Internship in Malaysia after completion of MBBS. Malaysian law prevents international medical graduates (IMGs) from doing their mandatory housemanship (internship) in Malaysia, which is required to be fully licensed as a doctor

Career Options After MBBS

1. Medical practice in Malaysia (subject to licensing rules like provisional registration, housemanship and full registration)
2. Practice in India after clearing NEXT
3. Higher studies in UK, USA, Australia
4. Research and academic careers, careers in global healthcare organisations, hospital administration
5. USMLE & PLAB Success Rate of Malaysian MBBS Graduates

Graduates from Malaysian Medical Universities  routinely perform  well  on international licensing tests because of various parameters

• The curriculum is entirely based on the English language.
• The education pattern follows exactly the Australian and UK educational models.
• Good clinical exposure
• International Instructors and Professors 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying MBBS in Malaysia

Advantages

• High-quality medical education
• International exposure
• Modern hospitals and labs
• Medical Council of Malaysia recognition
• Multi-cultural, student friendly and economical destination with world-reputed degree

Disadvantages

• Limited seats in government universities
• Competitive admission process
• Slightly higher fees than some other Asian country
• Unsafe and insecure specifically in midnights as a few incidents of robbery have been reported.
•  Weather and temperature is not favorable as it is extremely humid and high temperature in most of the regions in Malaysia.

Comparison: MBBS in Malaysia vs India vs UK vs US

Factor	Malaysia	India	UK	USA
Duration	5 Years	5.5 Years	5–6 Years	7-8 Years
Total Cost	USD 100k–150k	Govt Low / Pvt High	USD 250k+	USD 500k+
Language	English	English	English	English
Donation	❌ No	✅ Yes (Private)	❌ No	❌ No
Global Recognition	High	High	Very High	Very High
Visa Process	Easy	N/A	Complex	Very Complex

Why prefer us as a Consultant

We help in assisting University shortlisting; assistance with admission and visas; verification by the Medical Council of Malaysia; and advice on reasonable fees.

1. Verified Guidance on Medical Council of Malaysia–Recognized Universities

Lack of proper knowledge and experience in choosing the relevant university is one of the biggest risks students are facing. We provide 100% verified information on medical colleges in Malaysia recognized by the Medical Council of Malaysia, ensuring your degree is valid, credible, and globally accepted.

2. Personalized University Shortlisting

Every student’s academic profile, budget, and career goal is different. We offer one-on-one counseling to shortlist the best-fit medical universities in Malaysia based on:
Academic eligibility

• NEET score (for Indian students)
• Budget and scholarship options
• Long-term career plans

3. Transparent Fee Structure with No Hidden Costs

We  believe in complete transparency and provide  a clear information of

• Tuition fees
• Hostel and living expenses
• Visa and medical insurance costs

4. Complete Admission Support from Application to Enrollment

From documentation to university acceptance, we provide all support under one roof, which includes

• Application submission
• Offer letter coordination
• Seat confirmation
• Enrollment formalities

5. Expert Student Visa Assistance

The Malaysian student visa process involves strict documentation and timelines. This consultancy  provide end-to-end visa guidance, ensuring:

• Correct submission of documents
• Timely approval
• Compliance with Malaysian immigration rules

6. Assist in pre-departure and post-arrival support

7. Provide in depth knowledge of MBBS regulations and future licensing

8. Proven track record and parent trust

• Our reputation is built on trust, results and long term student success. It is evident from our long years of service experience.