mbbs-in-malaysia

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Medical Education in Malaysia

Malaysia boasts a rich history in medical education, with Singapore's establishment as the first medical school serving the region in 1905. Following Malaysia's independence, Kuala Lumpur saw the founding of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Malaya in 1963. Presently, there are 32 public and private medical schools in Malaysia as per WDOMS, all featuring a 5-year undergraduate program. Some private institutions have expanded globally through twinning or credit-transfer programs.

The National Accreditation Board and Malaysian Medical Council accreditation are mandatory for all medical schools. The cost of MBBS in Malaysia aligns with that of Indian medical colleges, ranging from 55,000 to 110,000 MYR (10–20 lacs in INR) annually. Malaysia is considered the 3rd safest country in Asia and the 4th most affordable country for international students.

Quick Facts about MBBS in Malaysia

No. of Medical Colleges 32
College Type Govt and Private both
Degree Awarded MBBS
Duration 5 Year + 1 Year of Internship
Eligibility Criteria GPA more than 3.5
Admission Process Thru Interview
Indian Students 3300 ( 100-150 in Medicine)
Total Budget for MBBS 75-90 Lacs
Meeting NMC Criteria No ( Internship is not Allowed for Indians)
Medical college Recognition NMC/ECFMG/WHO/ AMC/GMC UK
Study Pattern 1st Year -Pre Clinical
2 Year -Para Clinical
3-5 Year -Clinical
6th Year - Internship
Session Starts Sept

Why Choose Studying MBBS in Malaysia?

Why Choose Studying MBBS in Malaysia?

Top QS Ranking Universities: According to the QS World Universities Ranking, many Malaysian universities rank in the top 500.

Global Recognition: The MBBS degree in Malaysia is recognised by the Medical Council of Malaysia in various countries, including the Middle East, US, UK, Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, ensuring global career opportunities for medical aspirants.

Credit Transfer Opportunities: Some Malaysian universities allow credit transfers to US, UK, Australian, and Irish universities during the 3rd year of medical education, enabling students to continue their MBBS course in those countries. Some countries also recognise medical licenses from these Malaysian universities.

Streamlined Admission Process: Admission to MBBS courses in Malaysian universities is straightforward, typically without requiring entrance exams or additional language tests, with only a few exceptions.

Safety and Security: Malaysia is recognised as a safe country for international students, with a solid commitment to ensuring their safety and security.

English Medium of Instruction: The language of instruction for MBBS in Malaysia is English, eliminating the need to learn any local language as part of the medical curriculum.

Early Clinical Exposure: Medical Study in Malaysian Universities enhances clinical and research-based training from the 3rd year of MBBS, providing students with early clinical and hospital exposure, similar to the approach in India.

Affordable Living Costs: Malaysia offers a low cost of living, and students can enjoy a variety of cheap international cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, Italian, and more.

Studying Medicine in Malaysia as an international student

Studying Medicine in Malaysia as an international student

Medicine in Malaysia for international students is very popular; most students are from India and other Islamic countries due to religious reasons. Malaysia attracts over 140,100 international students from 100+ countries seeking medical degrees. Studying MBBS in Malaysia for Indian students can be exciting in Tamil Nadu, AP, and Kerala. With over 20 lakh Indians in Malaysia (7% of the population) and 38% of healthcare workers being Indian, there is a strong Indian community and a significant presence in the healthcare sector, fostering a sense of familiarity and support for Indian students.

Does the degree of MBBS from Mauritius get recognised by the NMC?

Following the NMC gazette notification on November 18, 2021, Indian students aspiring to pursue MBBS in Malaysia are eager to understand the acceptability of the Malaysian MBBS degree by the National Medical Commission (NMC). According to NMC guidelines, the MBBS program should extend beyond 4.5 years, including an additional year dedicated to clinical rotation or internship within the same college. However, a notable challenge associated with the MBBS in Malaysia is the lack of internship opportunities for international students.

Before 2021, Indian students studying MBBS in Malaysia used to do their internships in India, which the NMC restricted in their November 18 notification. Do remember that there are no NMC-approved medical colleges in Malaysia that meet all the NMC guidelines.

You can’t get the license to practice in India after doing MBBS in Malaysia, so you need to be aware of that before considering it as an option. However, a medical degree recognised in Malaysia is accepted by the USA, UK, Canada, etc. to pursue your medical PG there. The Malaysian Medical Council (MMC), the regulator of medical education in Malaysia, recognised all medical universities in the country.

MBBS in Egypt is an alternative to Malaysia's MBBS course

Medical studies for international students in Malaysia

For international students, Malaysia is a great option. Studying for a medical degree from a medical university in Malaysia is valid for most parameters. Remember that until the Malaysian medical universities provide 1-year mandatory internship training, MBBS students in Malaysia will remain disqualified from attempting NEXT & eventually practicing in India.

Duration for MBBS in Malaysia

How long does it take to be a doctor in Malaysia? As mentioned above, the MBBS duration in Malaysia is 5 years, and there is no provision for doing the internship. The NMC requires that MBBS abroad students have at least 5.5 years of training with a year of internship.

Phase Duration
Pre- Clinical 1st and 2nd Years in College
Clinical 3rd to 5th Year College & Hospitals
Horsemanship or Internship 6th year in attached Hospitals

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Top Universities for MBBS in Malaysia for Indian Students

We are always searching for the best medical colleges in Malaysia for Indian students. There are 32 medical universities listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS) in Malaysia. Out of that, nine are in Kuala Lumpur. You can consider MHASA University as Malaysia's best medical university in Kula Lumpur.

By studying MBBS at Malaysian Universities, Indian and international students get quality education at affordable fees. Below is the list of Top Medical Universities in Malaysia:

Medical School Name City
Asia Metropolitan University Faculty of Medicine Johor Bahru
AIMST Bedong
International Islamic University Malaysia Kulliyyah of Medicine Kuantan
International Medical School, Management and Science University Shah Alam
International Medical University Faculty of Medicine and Health Kuala Lumpur
Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences Bandar Sunway
Kulliyah of Medicine & Health Sciences, Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Kuala Ketil
Lincoln University College, Faculty of Medicine Petaling Jaya
MAHSA University Faculty of Medicine Kuala Lumpur
Manipal University College Malaysia Melaka
Newcastle University Medicine Malaysia Nusajaya
Perdana University Graduate School of Medicine Kuala Lumpur
Perdana University Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine Kuala Lumpur
Quest International University Perak Faculty of Medicine Ipoh
RCSI & UCD Malaysia Campus George Town
SEGi University Petaling Jaya
Taylor's University School of Medicine Subang Jaya
UCSI University Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Kuala Lumpur
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Fakulti Perubatan Kuala Lumpur
Universiti Kuala Lumpur Royal College of Medicine Perak Ipoh
Universiti Malaya Fakulti Perubatan Kuala Lumpur
Universiti Malaysia Sabah Fakulti Perubatan dan Sains Kesihatan Sabah
Universiti Malaysia Sarawak Fakulti Perubatan dan Sains Kesihatan Sarawak
Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia Fakulti Perubatan dan Kesihatan Pertahanan Kuala Lumpur
Universiti Putra Malaysia Fakulti Perubatan dan Sains Kesihatan Selangor Darul Ehsan
Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia Fakulti Perubatan dan Sains Kesihatan Kuala Lumpur
Universiti Sains Malaysia School of Medical Sciences Kelantan
Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin Faculty of Medicine Kuala Terengganu
Universiti Teknologi Mara Faculty of Medicine Shah Alam
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences Kajang
University of Cyberjaya Faculty of Medicine Cyberjaya
Widad University College Faculty of Medicine Kuantan

Best Medicine Universities in Malaysia

Private
SEGi University & Colleges, Malaysia

SEGi University & Colleges, Malaysia

  • Country : Malaysia
  • Degree : Bachelor
  • Course : Medicine
University Type
Private
Univ Grade
B+
Estd. Year
1977
World Rank
3617
ECFMG
Approved
Intake
Sep-24
Duration
5 Yrs of MBBS, Internship is not allowed
Fee
₹63.88 Lacs
Medium
English
Specialization
MBBS
VIEW DETAIL
Private
Manipal University College

Manipal University College

  • Country : Malaysia
  • Degree : Bachelor
  • Course : Medicine
University Type
Private
Univ Grade
B
Estd. Year
1997
World Rank
10753
ECFMG
Approved
Intake
Sep-24
Duration
5 Yrs of MBBS, Internship is not allowed
Fee
₹87.22 Lacs
Medium
English
Specialization
MBBS
VIEW DETAIL

Fee Structure for Studying MBBS in Malaysia

Fee Structure for Studying MBBS in Malaysia

The MBBS fee in Malaysian universities is at par with the cost of obtaining the same degrees in India with global recognition. There are no hidden or additional fees to be paid. Malaysia is the nearest and slightly cheaper country for Indians. As an Indian student, you can efficiently study and live safely.

The MBBS cost in Malaysia for international students is around USD 50,000 to USD 1,50,000 for the complete course. MBBS fees in Malaysia for Indian students in INR would be 50 lacs–1 crore overall, including tuition fees, food, accommodation, etc., for 5 years. Even the low-cost MBBS in Malaysia is 50 lacs, which is twice the MBBS in Russia's cost, at par with the American program in Georgia.

MBBS in Russia MBBS in Poland American Program in Georgia

The Malaysian MBBS fee structure for popular universities is given below:

Name of University Fee in RM The fee in Indian Rs
QUEST International University 2.82 49.32
NEWCASTLE 5.5 96.25
Cyberjaya 3.97 69.42
MAHSA University 4.35 76.17
UCSI University 3.51 61.36
SEGI University 3.62 63.4
AIMST University 3.69 64.57
Management Science University 4.91 85.87
International Medical University 5.44 95.11
Asia Metropolitan University 3.12 54.53
Lincoln University 2.8 48.94
TAYLORS University 4.27 74.68

International applicants are required to make a one-time payment to cover various application fees associated with the MBBS in Medicine Program in Malaysia. Below are the expenses to account for:

Type of Expense Cost (MYR)
An admin fee of the University 5000RM to 8000RM
Health Insurance 250RM to 500RM per year
Application and Visa Fee Varies (3000 to 6000)
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Living Costs in Malaysia for Medical Students

Living Costs in Malaysia for Medical Students

Malaysia's expenses are slightly higher than India's. Explore the costs of common daily necessities. Unlike American and European countries, Malaysia is counted among the most affordable, budget-friendly Study MBBS Abroad destinations if we compare it with European countries like Georgia and Poland.

Refer to the table below to gain an understanding of the approximate costs you'll incur as an international student while studying in Malaysia.

Type of Expenditure Monthly Costs (in MYR)
Accommodation and utilities RM 500 to RM 800
Travel costs RM 100 to RM 300
Food Cost RM 500 to RM 700
Phone and internet RM 35 to RM 60
Books and Supplies 200 RM
Personal Expenses Depends

Hostel in Malaysia

Malaysian medical universities provide hostel facilities for all the students. The hostels are safe, clean and comfortable but slightly expensive compared to the other MBBS abroad Asian destinations. For the above 3 universities, the yearly hostel charges are given in the below table.

If we speak about the average hostel fee, you need to pay 1200-1500 USD yearly. The rent of an apartment will cost you around 100–150 USD per month. As mentioned above, the costs are very high when you stay in the city.

Entry requirements for Medicine in Malaysia

MBBS in Malaysia Eligibility- Academic

The academic requirement to study MBBS in Malaysia for international students is highly university-specific; below are the Criteria for various education boards popular in India.

Examinations REQUIREMENTS / GRADES
12th A score of 70% in any 3 subjects (Biology & Chemistry & & Physics/Mathematics)
UEC Minimum B4 each in 5 subjects (Biology, Chemistry, Physics & Mathematics & Additional Mathematics)
International Baccalaureate (IB) 30 points in 2 Science subjects, Min B Grade or 4 Points in Core Subjects Like Chemistry, Biology and Physics or Maths
A-Levels AAB, BBB in PCB
Matriculation/Foundation in Science/Pre-Medical Course CGPA 3.0 in 3 subjects (Biology, Physics/Mathematics & Chemistry)

Requirements to study Medicine in Malaysia- Non-Academic

Below is the Requirements for MBBS Admission in Malaysia

  • English proficiency scores like IELTS or TOEFL
  • NEET qualification is compulsory. (Is NEET required for MBBS in Malaysia? As per the Malaysia Medical Council, NEET is a mandatory requirement, though a Malaysian degree is not accepted in India due to new NMC rules.
  • Age – 17 to 25 years.
  • Statement of Purpose to support your application
  • Accepted candidates are required to participate in a personal interview.
  • Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
  • If the student is below 18 ages, a consent letter is required from parents. The student has to appear for a Maturity test.

Language Requirements

International students whose native language is not English must demonstrate their English proficiency through standardised test scores. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the required scores for MBBS programs in Malaysia.

Name of University IELTS Bands
QUEST International University 6
University of CYBERJAYA 6
MAHSA University 6
NEWCASTLE 7
International Medical University 7
SEGI University 6.5
Asia Metropolitan University 6
TAYLORS University 6.5
UCSI University 6.5
University Malaya 7
AIMST University 6.5
Management Science University 6
Monash University 7
Lincoln University 6.5

Application deadline for MBBS in Malaysia

Below is the application deadline to apply for study MBBS in Malaysia:

Name of University Intake / Session Application Fee RM
MAHSA University September 3000
Asia Metropolitan University September -
Lincoln University September 1000
International Medical University August / Feb 950
SEGI University April / September 500
NEWCASTLE September 20000
University Malaya March/ October -
AIMST University September -
UCSI University September -
UKM Feb / October 400
QUEST International University May / September 500
Management Science University May / September -
TAYLORS University September -
University of CYBERJAYA September -
Documents required for a student visa in Malaysia:

Documents required for a student visa in Malaysia:

Below is the requirement for a Student Visa to Study MBBS in Malaysia.

  • All pages scanned copy is needed with a passport of a 1-year validity
  • Signed and Completed application form
  • Passport-size photo with background
  • Letter of acceptance by the University
  • Health declaration form for all international students
  • Personal Bond: To obtain a student visa in Malaysia, the student's educational institution must act as a financial guarantor by signing a personal bond for a certain sum. The student must then deposit this amount with the institution.

MBBS Scholarship in Malaysia for International Students

Malaysia is an economical/affordable study-abroad destination in Asia, but medical colleges in Malaysia do not offer scholarships for international students. However, some medical universities in Malaysia, like AMU, Linclon, MAHSA, and SEGi University, offer scholarships for MBBS tuition fees.

Subjects in MBBS in Malaysia

Find the Phase 1 and Phase 2 Subjects in the below table.

Phase1: Pre-Clinical Phase2: Clinical
Anatomy, Biochemistry, Physiology, Forensic Pharmacology, Microbiology, Medicine and Pathology Medicine, Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Orthopedics, Psychiatry, Family Medicine, Community Medicine, ENT, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine and Ophthalmology

Medical License in India after MBBS inMalaysia

During MBBS study, a student realises the importance of being a specialist. They also understand the competitiveness of securing an MD / MS Seat in a Govt. College. Let's look at the success ratio to get a PG Seat in Govt Medical Colleges in India, which is 11% broadly; we can say that only 1 out of 10 will get a PG Seat, whereas the chances of getting Clinical speciality is 1 out of 20 applicants. The PG journey will be challenging, or students should have enough money to get a paid seat in Pvt Medical College in Crores!

Total Applicants NEET PG 2023 Specialty Govt Med College Pvt Med College
Seats Success Ratio Seats
2.06 Lacs
MD (Non Clinical) 15K 8.6% 10K
MS (Clinical) 8K 4.6% 5K
Total 23K 11.4% 15K

Will early preparation and the right mentorship pave your dream of becoming a specialist? NMC has already announced the introduction of the NEXT Exam in India in 2024. This Exam will replace all Medical PG exams in India. The Exam will be conducted in two parts: NEXT-1 and NEXT-2.

The Objective of the NEXT-1 is to assess the Student's Knowledge of Pre, Para, and Clinical Subjects on the National Level. Only after qualifying for NEXT-1 will any medical student be eligible for an internship. After completing the internship, Students must go through NEXT-2, assessing their Clinical skills, Patient Management, and Keeping Medical history. Those who will Clear NEXT-2 will be awarded a license to practice, and Rankers of NEXT-1 will get PG seats of their choice of speciality. You may refer to Page for detailed information on the NExT Exam.

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Medical PG in the USA (USMLE) after MBBS inMalaysia

Most Abroad students also plan to do a Medical PG from the USA because getting PG Seats in India is tough.

With the introduction of NEXT, most students in India are attracted to USMLE prep from 1st year of MBBS since it simulates the new NMC Competency-based curriculum remarkably. The US healthcare system is considered one of the best healthcare systems in the world for numerous reasons, such as high rewards, excellent Infrastructure, merit-based assessment, and open opportunities for super specialities. Most countries try to replicate the US healthcare assessment system for their Medical Graduates. The USMLE exam is divided into 3 Parts. One can appear in USMLE Step 1 after 2nd Year, USMLE Step 2 CK during internship and Step 3 during residency (Medical PG).

Medical PG in USA (USMLE)

MOKSH Coaching focuses on a patient-centered learning approach which helps students score high on both USMLE & NEXT. MOKSH is the leading name in USMLE Coaching. Currently, 1000+ Students from Indian and Abroad medical colleges are preparing for USMLE steps via the MOKSH Platform.

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Medical PG in the UK ( PLAB) after MBBS inMalaysia

The Board Test (PLAB test) is the instrument usedto assess the skills and knowledge of an International Medical Graduate. It also judges whether they can be trained to practice medicine in the UK.
In short, an IMG's performance in PLAB determines her Eligibility to practice in the UK. The PLAB test has two stages. PLAB 1 is an exam that has 180 MCQs that test your recall. On the other hand, PLAB 2 is a practical OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam) that tests your clinical skills.
The GMC ascertains your linguistic skills by assessing your score on specific tests. It may be the IELTS (Band Score 7.0 or higher) or OET (Grade B in reading, writing, listening & speaking).
After you pass PLAB 1 & 2, you apply for the GP registration. There is one constraint. You have a window of 2 years after clearing PLAB 2, which you may use no later.
By 2024, the UK Medical Licensing Assessment will replace the PLAB. Consequently, the GMC UK will change certain things in PLAB and create the UKMLA exam.

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Medical PG in Germany after MBBS inMalaysia

Medical PG in Germany

PG in Germany after MBBS Abroad is another excellent option, though it requires you to learn the German language. Of the six levels starting from A1 to C2, you need to clear A1 and A2, qualifying you to apply for thevisa.
Once the Language formalities are done, you get into the phase where you do an Observer-ship from a German hospital approved by the German Medical Council. Residency follows this.
This may sound simple here, but the process is quite complicated. To know more about PG in Germany,

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Your Chance to get an MBBS Seat in India

The most challenging time for any student is to wait after the NEET counselling process to know whether they are getting a college of their choice. Sometimes, this dilemma continues for a couple of months due to multiple rounds of counselling. It has become more difficult due to parallel counselling of All India Quota and various States due to COVID-19. The counselling process is very complex, where 700+ Govt. and Private colleges offer 1 Lac+ Seats, and fee variation is also huge, ranging from less than 1 Lac to 2.5 Cr for the course.

Download the NEET Predictor