Economics and Finance Course in Malaysia : Complete Guide for International Students

accounting finance in Malaysia

Introduction to Economics and Finance

Economics and Finance are two of the most dynamic fields that shape global markets, business decisions, and government policies. Studying Economics and Finance courses provides students with strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial systems, and the ability to understand market behavior. In Malaysia, these programs have become increasingly popular among international students due to affordable tuition fees, globally recognized universities, and excellent career opportunities.

Whether you are planning to pursue a BSc Economics and Finance, an MSc Financial Economics, or even a master’s degree in financial economics, Malaysia offers a wide range of courses designed to meet global industry demands. The country has developed a strong reputation for delivering quality higher education, with degrees that are recognized internationally.

In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about studying Economics and Finance in Malaysia, from top universities and admission requirements to career scope and living costs.

Why Study Economics and Finance in Malaysia?

Malaysia has become a leading destination for higher education in Asia, attracting thousands of students from around the world. Here are some reasons why pursuing an economics and finance degree in Malaysia makes sense:

  • Affordable Education – Compared to countries like the UK, USA, or Australia, Malaysia offers high-quality education at a fraction of the cost.
  • Globally Recognized Degrees – Universities like Universiti Malaya and Monash University Malaysia are internationally ranked and accredited.
  • Diverse Student Community – Students from over 100 countries study in Malaysia, making it a multicultural learning environment.
  • Strong Career Opportunities – Graduates with a financial economics degree are in demand in banking, consulting, and corporate finance.
  • English-Medium Programs – Most Economics and Finance courses in Malaysia are taught in English, making it easier for international students.

 Quick Fact: Malaysia is ranked among the top 15 most popular study destinations in the world for international students.

Economics and Finance

List of Economics and Finance Universities in Malaysia with courses

University of Nottingham Malaysia UNM Logo
University of Nottingham Malaysia UNM
Selangor Foreign University
Courses:
87
World Rank:
108
Scholarship: Yes
87
Sunway University Logo
Sunway University
Selangor Private Institution
Courses:
65
World Rank:
410
Scholarship: Yes
65
Lincoln University College Logo
Lincoln University College
Kelantan Private Institution
Courses:
80
World Rank:
638
Scholarship: Yes
80
Management and Science University Logo
Management and Science University
Private Institution
Courses:
157
World Rank:
597
Scholarship: Yes
157
Courses:
19
World Rank:
134
Scholarship: Yes
19

Top Universities for Economics and Finance in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to both public and private universities that offer world-class Economics and Finance degrees. Below is a list of some of the top universities with ranking information.

University QS World Ranking Programs Offered Notable Highlights
Universiti Malaya (UM) 65 BSc, MSc in Economics & Finance Oldest and highest-ranked university in Malaysia
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) 138 MSc Financial Economics, PhD Known for research-driven learning
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) 158 BSc Economics, MSc Economics & Finance Strong business faculty
Taylor’s University Top 300 Asia BSc & MSc Economics and Finance Popular among international students
Sunway University Top 200 Asia BSc Financial Economics Industry-linked programs
Monash University Malaysia Top 60 (Parent Campus) BSc, MSc Economics and Finance Australian degree in Malaysia

Why these universities?

  • Accredited by global education bodies
  • Access to strong alumni networks
  • Internship and industry partnerships with banks and consulting firms

Career Prospects of Economics and Finance in Malaysia

Graduates with an Economics and Finance degree enjoy diverse career opportunities in Malaysia and abroad. Employers value the ability to analyze financial data, predict market trends, and develop economic policies.

Career Options:

  • Banking and Financial Services – Investment banking, corporate finance, retail banking
  • Government Roles – Policy-making, economic advisory positions
  • Research and Academia – Universities, think tanks, research institutions
  • Consulting Firms – Strategy consulting, financial analysis, risk management
  • International Organizations – UN, World Bank, Asian Development Bank

Salary Expectations:

Job Role Average Starting Salary (MYR/year) Mid-Career Salary (MYR/year)
Financial Analyst 42,000 90,000
Economist 48,000 95,000
Investment Banker 60,000 120,000+
Policy Advisor 50,000 100,000

 Note: Salaries may vary based on university reputation, specialization (e.g., MSc Financial Economics), and work experience

 

Education Levels of Economics and Finance in Malaysia

Students can choose between different levels of study based on their academic goals.

 BSc Economics and Finance

  • Duration: 3–4 years
  • Entry Requirements: High school diploma, IELTS/TOEFL for international students
  • Career Path: Entry-level analyst roles, banking, graduate studies

 MSc Economics and Finance / MSc Financial Economics

  • Duration: 1–2 years
  • Entry Requirements: Undergraduate degree in economics, finance, or related fields
  • Career Path: Mid-level roles, consulting, research, policy-making

Master’s Degree in Financial Economics (Research-based)

  • Duration: 2 years
  • Focus: In-depth study on topics like monetary policy, financial markets, and econometrics
  • Career Path: Researcher, lecturer, senior policy advisor
Education Level Duration Entry Requirements Focus / Career Path
BSc Economics and Finance 3–4 years High school diploma, IELTS/TOEFL (for international students) Entry-level analyst roles, banking, graduate studies
MSc Economics and Finance / MSc Financial Economics 1–2 years Undergraduate degree in economics, finance, or related fields Mid-level roles, consulting, research, policy-making
Master’s Degree in Financial Economics (Research-based) 2 years Undergraduate degree + strong research interest Researcher, lecturer, senior policy advisor

Application Process for Economics and Finance in Malaysia

Applying for an Economics and Finance course in Malaysia is straightforward.

Step-by-Step Process:

  1. Choose a University – Select from top universities offering BSc or MSc in Economics and Finance.
  2. Prepare Documents – Academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, statement of purpose (SOP), recommendation letters.
  3. Submit Application – Most universities accept online applications.
  4. Receive Offer Letter – Successful applicants receive conditional or unconditional offers.
  5. Pay Initial Fees – To confirm admission.

Visa Process for International Students

International students need a student visa to study Economics and Finance in Malaysia.

Visa Requirements:

  • Offer letter from a Malaysian university
  • Valid passport
  • Medical examination report
  • Proof of financial support
  • Visa application form

Processing Time:

  • 4–6 weeks on average

International Students Studying Economics and Finance in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to more than 130,000 international students. Those pursuing Economics and Finance courses enjoy:

  • Multicultural environment with peers from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East
  • Affordable accommodation and living costs
  • Opportunities for part-time work (up to 20 hours per week)
  • Support services like language classes and career counseling

Living Costs to Study Economics and Finance in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of the most affordable study destinations.

Expense Category Average Monthly Cost (MYR)
Accommodation 700 – 1,200
Food 600 – 1,000
Transport 150 – 300
Miscellaneous 200 – 500
Total 1,650 – 3,000

Compared to countries like the UK or USA, this is significantly lower, making Malaysia ideal for international students.

Comparison of Economics and Finance in Malaysia vs. Other Countries

Factor Malaysia UK USA India
Tuition Fees $4,000 – $8,000/year $15,000 – $30,000/year $20,000 – $40,000/year $2,000 – $5,000/year
Living Costs $5,000/year $12,000/year $15,000/year $3,000/year
Language English English English English/Hindi
Global Recognition High (QS ranked) Very High Very High Medium

Application Timeline and Scholarships

Application Timeline:

  • March Intake – Applications open in November
  • July Intake – Applications open in April
  • October Intake – Applications open in July

Scholarships for International Students:

Created By "Roshan yadav"

FAQs : Economics and Finance

Economics studies how resources are produced, distributed, and consumed, while Finance focuses on managing money, investments, and assets.
Yes, degrees from top Malaysian universities are accredited and recognized worldwide.
Fresh graduates earn around MYR 42,000 annually, with higher salaries in investment banking and consulting.
Yes, both government and private universities offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Yes, students can work up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks and holidays.

Featured Universities

Malaysia University of Science and Technology

Selangor Darul Ehsan Petaling, Selangor

Xiamen University Malaysia

Selangor, Malaysia, Selangor

Meritus University

Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lump, Kuala Lumpur

Sultan Zainal Abidin University UniSZA

City Campus Chancellery, Sulta, Terengganu

Heriot-Watt University Malaysia

Putrajaya, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

Kolej Antarabangsa Greencity

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur

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