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Malaysia is considered to have a world-class medical program that has been attracting interest among international students, especially those who want to study MBBS. Malaysian medical programs are known for their high academic levels, advanced facilities, and syllabus incorporating international medical practice. The differing cultures add to the unique flavor as students are exposed to various cases that provide a broader perspective of treating patients and making diagnoses from different parts of the world.
The commitment of Malaysia to using cutting-edge research and development in the health sector improves learning conditions, therefore keeping students abreast with ever-changing healthcare trends. Furthermore, for international students, the relatively low cost of medical education in Malaysia compared to many Western countries makes it a friendly destination for quality education un-compromised on standards. With a blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and affordability, Malaysia comes out in the spotlight for students who want to start their successful medical career.
International students choose Malaysia as a hub for MBBS studies for several compelling reasons:
University | Location | QS World Ranking (2025) | Local Ranking Approx. |
---|---|---|---|
University of Malaya (UM) | Kuala Lumpur | #60 | 1 |
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) | Bangi, Selangor | #138 | 2 |
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) | Kubang Kerian, Kelantan | #146 | 3 |
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | Serdang, Selangor | #148 | 4 |
International Medical University (IMU) | Kuala Lumpur | 201-250 | 21 |
Taylor's University | Subang Jaya, Selangor | #251 | Private |
AIMST University | Bedong, Kedah | Not ranked | 36 |
Melaka-Manipal Medical College (MMMC) | Melaka | 701-750 | Private |
Quest International University | Ipoh, Perak | Not ranked | Private |
University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) | Kota Kinabalu, Sabah | #1000 | N/A |
Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences (CUCMS) | Cyberjaya, Selangor | Not ranked | Private |
Source: QS Ranking 2025
University | Intakes | Duration | Mode |
---|---|---|---|
University of Malaya (UM) | May / September | 5 years | Full Time |
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) | September | 5 years | Full Time |
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) | September | 5 years | Full Time |
International Medical University (IMU) | Multiple intakes | 5 years | Full Time |
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | September | 5 years | Full Time |
AIMST University | Feb, May, Sep | 5 years | Full Time |
Taylor's University | Mar, Aug, Nov | 5 years | Full Time |
Melaka-Manipal Medical College (MMMC) | September | 5 years | Full Time |
Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences (CUCMS) | Multiple intakes | 5 years | Full Time |
Quest International University (QUI) | Multiple intakes | 5 years | Full Time |
University Malaysia Sabah (UMS) | September | 5 years | Full Time |
Situated in Kuala Lumpur, the University of Malaya is Malaysia's oldest and most prestigious university. It is known for its high academic standing, especially in medicine, engineering, and social sciences. The research-oriented institution chases innovation and sustainability. The diversity of students, who include many international students, greatly benefits from the excellent world-class facilities and state-of-the-art academic resources provided by UM. UM ranks 60th globally in the QS World University Ranking for 2025, thus reinforcing its position as a premier institution for higher education in Asia. UM is envisioned as a major hub of research and development that globally contributes to undertaking the challenges and the advancement of knowledge. Collaborations with global leaders continue to enhance its reputation in the academic community.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, or UKM, is one of the leading public universities in Malaysia. UKM is located in Bangi, Selangor. The mission of UKM is the promotion of national unity and the enhancement of the welfare of the Malaysian people through education. It offers a wide range of programs in various fields. UKM has academic strength in engineering, science, and health. Standing at 138th in the QS World University Rankings for 2025, UKM emphasizes very much on research. UKM contributes much to the building and development of this nation. UKM is committed to excellence in education, with a rigorous curriculum that blends academic theory and practical experience. Its campus is full of modern facilities, providing a conducive learning environment for students from anywhere in the world.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is one of the premier public research universities located in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan. It scores 146th in the QS World University Rankings for 2025, very renowned for its research output and innovative educational programs. The USM focuses on subjects of science and technology, for instance, biotechnology, health sciences, and engineering, and therefore attracts students into those fields. USM offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs and is known for its strong industry and research ties. The research efforts of USM are regarded on an international scale, and USM keeps growing worldwide with collaborations and partnerships from top universities across the globe. USM, through its emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, aims to contribute positively to society through knowledge.
Universiti Putra Malaysia, located in Serdang, Selangor, is a public university and has been prominent in terms of academic pursuit in agriculture, engineering, and medicine. In the QS World University Rankings for 2025, UPM stands at the 148th spot and is solidifying its position as one of the top universities in Malaysia. The university emphasizes research and development, with particular strengths being put into agricultural sciences, sustainability, and environmental studies. UPM offers a wide scope of programs and provides active preparation for students to be successful in both local and international job markets. UPM has modern facilities and devoted faculty making it offer a proper and practical learning approach towards students. All these help enrich the research and partnership with overseas institutions, making UPM a respected institute in Asia.
The International Medical University in Kuala Lumpur is among Malaysia's premier institutions in medical and health sciences education. The QS World University Rankings 2025 places IMU at global level 201-250. IMU offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, and health sciences, among others. The university is known for strict academic standards and international cooperation, providing its students with globally recognized education. It has close ties with hospitals and health care institutions, which enables its students to obtain practical experience in clinics. Diverse students and state-of-the-art facilities are hallmarks of the Universiti Malaysia Sabah campus, thereby ensuring that students have a rich experience in their education. A pioneer in medical education, Universiti Malaysia continued to increase research capabilities, thereby contributing significantly to healthcare and medicine advancements.
Based in Bedong, Kedah, AIMST University is a privately owned institution of higher education with strong focuses on specializations in medicine. It has undergraduate degrees that it offers to students who enroll in its courses- MBBS, nursing, and dentistry. Despite not making a QS World Rankings 2025 list, AIMST has been known for offering innovative education regarding the practice side of teaching medical professionals.
This excellent medical university is famous for its modern campus and great features that back its success in its medical courses - equipping students with the skills and knowledge to excel in the healthcare field. The faculty here is highly qualified, and the institution has set aside time to develop its students well before they proceed into professional careers.
Located in Subang Jaya, Taylor's University is one of Malaysia's most respected private universities, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across business, engineering, hospitality, and law among many others. Ranked 251 in QS World University Rankings for 2025. Taylor's is an institution known for its innovative teaching methods, very close ties with industry, and a global view on education. In addition, employability remains at the heart of everything the university does-to ensure that students graduate with skills that will really make a difference in their workforce careers. State-of-the-art facilities complement the culturally diverse student body. It also has an excellent research component, with many research centers that are actively engaging in different varieties of studies.
Melaka-Manipal Medical College (MMMC) is a collaboration between Manipal Education Group and the state government of Melaka. It is known for its medical education. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, the college ranked between 701-750. Its MBBS program is worldwide recognized and offered according to international standards.
The institution offers a systematic approach towards their curriculum combined with clinical training to produce the best results for students. The faculty members of the institution are highly experienced professionals, contributing significantly towards the academic and clinical education of students.
Cyberjaya University College of Medical Sciences is a private medical university located at Cyberjaya, Selangor, that specializes in medical and health sciences education. Though not ranked at the moment for the QS World University Rankings for 2025, CUMS is well regarded in terms of its medical programs.
The university offers medicine courses, pharmacy courses, and dentistry courses offering varying fields that make students fit for the healthcare sector. CUMS has excellent facilities and a strong clinical training program that will prepare the students for all the demands of the medical profession.
Quest International University (QUI) is a private institution located in Ipoh, Perak. Undergraduate programs are offered in engineering, business, and healthcare. Although not featured in the QS World University Rankings for 2025, QUI is known to adopt the most contemporary approach to learning and emphasis on excellence in student success.
The various programs established at the university are set to equip students with hands-on skills and knowledge and ready them for work in very competitive industries. QUI avers a supportive environment for learning with experienced, dedicated faculty.
University Malaysia Sabah (UMS), located in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, is a public university offering a wide range of programs, including science, engineering, and humanities. UMS is ranked 1000th in the QS World University Rankings for 2025. The university is particularly well-known for its research in environmental sciences and marine studies, thanks to its strategic location in Borneo.
UMS is dedicated to sustainability and the alleviation of global issues while offering learning opportunities for direct practical experience through research undertaken by the institution. The university remains engaged in continued international partnerships that improve its ranking within the world academic community.
Aspect | Malaysia | United Kingdom (UK) | United States (USA) |
---|---|---|---|
Duration of MBBS | 5 years | 5–6 years | 4 years (MD after Pre-med) |
Average Annual Tuition Fees | $9,000–$30,000 | $40,000–$65,000 | $60,000–$90,000 |
Top Universities (Examples) | University of Malaya (UM): $12,000–$25,000 Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM): $11,000–$23,000 Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM): $11,000–$22,000 IMU (Private): $20,000–$28,000 AIMST University (Private): $18,000–$24,000 |
University of Oxford: $55,000 University of Cambridge: $60,000 Imperial College London: $58,000 King's College London: $52,000 |
Harvard University: $65,000–$90,000 Johns Hopkins University: $70,000–$85,000 Stanford University: $60,000–$80,000 University of California, San Francisco: $65,000–$75,000 |
Average Cost of Living | $3,600–$4,500 per year | $12,000–$15,000 per year | $15,000–$20,000 per year |
Application Fees | $50–$300 | $75–$200 | $100–$500 |
Program Structure | Integrated MBBS program | Integrated MBBS program | MD (requires 4-year pre-med) |
Eligibility Requirements | 70%+ in PCB + IELTS/TOEFL | A-levels + UCAT/BMAT + IELTS/TOEFL | Pre-med + MCAT + IELTS/TOEFL |
Clinical Training | Conducted in affiliated hospitals | Strong emphasis on clinical practice | Highly advanced and competitive |
Global Recognition | WHO, MCI, GMC | WHO, GMC | WHO, USMLE |
University | Programs Offered | Average Annual Tuition Fees | Reputation | Facilities | Clinical Training |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
University of Malaya (UM) | MBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Biomedical Science | $12,000–$25,000 | Top-ranked in Malaysia, strong global reputation | Advanced teaching hospitals, simulation labs | Conducted in UM's own teaching hospitals and affiliated hospitals |
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) | MBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Biomedical Science | $11,000–$23,000 | Known for research and community service focus | Comprehensive medical and research centers | Strong emphasis on clinical rotations and community health programs |
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) | MBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Biomedical Science | $11,000–$22,000 | Recognized for health sciences and research excellence | State-of-the-art medical labs, research facilities | Clinical training in USM’s teaching hospitals and affiliated centers |
International Medical University (IMU) | MBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Biomedical Science | $20,000–$28,000 | Prominent private university, strong international collaborations | Advanced medical simulation labs, partnerships with teaching hospitals | Clinical training conducted in IMU’s partner hospitals and clinics |
AIMST University | MBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Biomedical Science | $18,000–$24,000 | Well-known private institution with a focus on medical education | Modern facilities, well-equipped labs | Collaborations with nearby hospitals for clinical exposure |
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | Pharmacy, Nursing, Biomedical Science | $10,000–$18,000 | Strong in biomedical and pharmaceutical studies | Modern research facilities, skilled faculty | Partnerships with hospitals for practical training |
Monash University Malaysia | MBBS, Nursing, Pharmaceutical Science | $15,000–$25,000 | Part of a global network, strong emphasis on research and clinical practice | High-tech simulation centers, modern campus | Extensive clinical practice opportunities through hospital affiliations |
Taylor's University | Medicine (collaboration for MBBS), Nursing, Biomedical Science | $15,000–$22,000 | Recognized for academic excellence and strong student support | Cutting-edge simulation labs, modern campus | Clinical attachments through private hospital networks |
Timeline Stage | Details |
---|---|
August - October (Year Prior) | Research universities, programs, and admission requirements. |
November - January | Prepare application documents (transcripts, English test scores, personal statement, etc.). |
January - March | Submit applications via university portals or EMGS. |
March - May | Attend entrance exams or interviews (if applicable). |
May - June | Receive offer letters from universities (conditional or full offers). |
June - July | Accept admission offers and pay required deposit fees. |
July - August | Apply for a student visa through EMGS. |
August - September | Receive VAL, apply for SEV, and plan travel to Malaysia. |
September - October | Arrive, complete medical screening, and finalize student pass endorsement. |
October - November | Start of the academic year for most medical universities. |
Malaysia has a wide range of international student scholarships who are pursuing Medical courses, helping to lower financial hurdles and access world-class training. These are some of the most prestigious scholarships:
How to Apply
1. What makes Malaysia a popular destination for international students pursuing MBBS?
2. How long does an MBBS course in Malaysia last?
3. Do the MBBS degrees acquired through Malaysian universities receive international recognition?
4. What's in it for me? What are eligibility criteria for MBBS programs in Malaysia?
5. How much will it cost me to pursue MBBS in Malaysia?
6. Is it possible to work while studying in MBBS in Malaysia?
7. Best Universities to pursue MBBS in Malaysia:
8. Is there anything else to pay for, other than the tuition?
9. How does the cost of studying MBBS in Malaysia compare to other countries like Australia and the UK?
10. How much would living cost international students in Malaysia?
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