Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) 2026/2027

The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is a prestigious initiative by the Malaysian Government to bring outstanding international talent to pursue advanced studies in Malaysia. It reflects Malaysia’s goal to become a leading hub for academic excellence by attracting, motivating, and retaining high-calibre human capital from around the world.

This scholarship welcomes talented international graduates with strong academic and co-curricular records. It allows them to study at leading Malaysian public universities and selected private higher education institutions. Recipients enjoy world-class education alongside warm Malaysian hospitality and a vibrant multicultural experience.

In this post, we provide a complete guide: eligibility details, benefits, required documents, application steps, key dates, selection insights, practical tips, and answers to common questions. This helps you assess your fit and prepare confidently for a successful application.

Scholarship Overview

ELIGIBILITY

To be considered for the Malaysia International Scholarship, applicants must meet these requirements:

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen of one of the eligible recipient countries for MIS (specific list in guidelines; includes many developing nations, ASEAN countries, and others – check official PDF for full list).
• Academic qualifications: For Master’s: Obtain a CGPA of 3.00 or Second Class Upper (Honours) or higher at bachelor’s level. For PhD: Obtain a CGPA of 3.00 or excellent results at Master’s level in courses related to the intended PhD programme.
• Age: Not more than 40 years old at the time of application for Master’s degree. Not more than 45 years old for PhD level.
• Language requirements: Good proficiency in English: IELTS band 6.0 or higher, or TOEFL paper-based total score of 550 or higher (or equivalent in other TOEFL tests), or a previous degree taught in English.
• Other requirements: Intend to pursue full-time postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD) in Malaysia at Malaysian universities/higher education institutes (research must be carried out in Malaysia). Or currently pursuing full-time postgraduate studies in Malaysian public universities/selected private institutions with at least two semesters remaining. Good health and no serious medical conditions. Not more than one scholarship from Malaysian Government sources at a time.

ELIGIBLE COUNTRIES

Eligible countries include citizens from recipient countries of MIS (primarily developing nations, ASEAN members like Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and many others worldwide – full list in official guidelines PDF).

• Africa: Many countries (check guidelines for exact list)
• Asia: ASEAN countries and others
• Americas: Selected countries
• Europe: Selected countries
• Middle East: Selected countries
• Other: Various developing nations globally

ELIGIBLE FIELDS OF STUDY

This scholarship is open to all fields of study at postgraduate level (Master’s and PhD). Priority may be given to certain areas like Science, Engineering, Business, and Social Sciences in some cycles, but applications are accepted across disciplines at recognised Malaysian institutions.

BENEFITS

The scholarship covers essential costs to support focused study:

• Tuition fees: Full waiver of all tuition fees paid directly to the university for the duration of the programme.
• Living allowance/stipend: Monthly living allowance of RM 1,500.
• Health insurance: Medical insurance coverage.
• Travel costs: Economy class air tickets (initial arrival and final departure).
• Other benefits: Allowance for books, installation, thesis/dissertation, conference travel (if applicable), visa fees support, and access to Malaysian higher education experience. No specific amounts for all extras listed; core focus on tuition and living support.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Prepare and upload these in PDF format during online application:

1. Certified copy of passport (valid for at least 6 months) as proof of nationality.
2. Certified copies of academic transcripts (undergraduate for Master’s; plus Master’s for PhD) showing all courses and grades.
3. Certified official document from alma mater explaining grading system if transcript lacks CGPA/marks/percentile details.
4. Certified copy of English proficiency test results (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent).
5. Curriculum Vitae (CV).
6. Research proposal (minimum 1,000 words for both Master’s and PhD).
7. Letter of recommendation from two referees.
8. Endorsement form (if required).
9. Admission/offer letter from Malaysian university (if already obtained).
10. Any other documents specified in the online form.

HOW TO APPLY

Follow these steps for a smooth application:

Step 1: Visit the official MIS online application system at https://biasiswa.mohe.gov.my/INTER/index.php.

Step 2: Register an account if you are a new user (sign up early to avoid issues).

Step 3: Download and read the full Guidelines MIS 2026 PDF from the site to understand all rules and requirements.

Step 4: Prepare all required documents in scanned PDF format, ensuring certifications are clear.

Step 5: Log in to the portal and start filling the online application form with accurate personal, academic, and study details.

Step 6: Upload all compulsory documents listed (passport, transcripts, English test, CV, research proposal, etc.).

Step 7: Complete any additional sections, such as referee details or endorsement if prompted.

Step 8: Review the entire application carefully for errors or missing information.

Step 9: Submit the application before the deadline (no late submissions accepted).

Step 10: Monitor your email and the portal for any updates, shortlisting notifications, or requests for more information.

KEY DATES AND TIMELINE

APPLICATION DEADLINE

The application deadline is 03 April 2026. Applications submitted after this time will NOT be accepted.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Beyond meeting basic eligibility, the committee evaluates:

• Academic excellence (strong CGPA, relevant prior results, and overall record).
• Quality of research proposal (clear, feasible, and impactful for Master’s/PhD).
• English proficiency and communication ability.
• Potential contribution to home country and Malaysia through studies.
• Co-curricular achievements and leadership/community involvement.
• Alignment of intended study with priority areas (where applicable).

The process seeks top talents who will thrive in Malaysia and add value globally.

IMPORTANT TIPS

1. Register on the portal as soon as possible after 04 March 2026 to familiarise yourself with the form.
2. Download the Guidelines PDF immediately and read it cover to cover before starting.
3. Ensure your transcripts clearly show CGPA or include an official grading explanation to avoid disqualification.
4. Write a strong, detailed research proposal (at least 1,000 words) that demonstrates originality and relevance.
5. Secure strong recommendation letters from referees who know your academic/work potential well.
6. Prepare English test scores early if you do not have a degree in English medium.
7. Apply for university admission separately if needed (admission letter helps but not always mandatory at application stage).
8. Submit well before 03 April 2026 to handle any technical glitches.
9. Keep copies of all uploaded documents and note your application reference number.
10. Contact international@mohe.gov.my for clarifications but avoid last-minute queries.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

OFFICIAL LINK

Official application portal: https://biasiswa.mohe.gov.my/INTER/index.php

Guidelines PDF: https://biasiswa.mohe.gov.my/INTER/doc/MIS/Guidelines%20MIS%202026.pdf

For enquiries: international@mohe.gov.my or hotline +603-8888 1616 / +603-8870 6368 (Malaysia time, Monday-Friday).

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