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Home / Study in Malaysia / Intakes in Malaysia
Malaysia is a top choice for students worldwide due to its high-quality education and affordable living costs. The country offers multiple intake periods for international students, giving them flexibility in their application process. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about intakes in Malaysia, from upcoming intake calendars to documents required and the best universities.
Malaysia, a vibrant and diverse study destination, offers multiple intakes throughout the year, providing international students with flexible entry points to its prestigious universities. Whether you’re aiming to enroll in undergraduate or postgraduate programs, understanding Malaysia’s intake system is crucial for a smooth application process. With intakes typically spread across major months such as January, May, and September, students can plan their applications based on academic readiness, visa processing times, and personal preferences. This flexibility, combined with Malaysia’s high-quality education and affordable tuition fees, makes it an attractive destination for aspiring students from all over the world.
Intake period | Application deadline | Program availability |
February | November-December | Limited programs, fewer seats |
September | June-July | Most programs, high competition |
The February intake often sees fewer applicants compared to the more popular September intake. This reduced competition increases students’ chances of securing a spot at their preferred university and program, especially in highly sought-after courses.
Students who enroll in the February intake have the advantage of starting their studies earlier in the year, which can lead to an accelerated path towards graduation. This is ideal for fast-track students aiming to enter the workforce or pursue further studies without delay.
For students who are completing their previous qualifications later in the academic year or those facing delays with their application or visa processes, the February intake offers a flexible starting point. It allows them to begin their studies without having to wait until September, minimizing the gap between education levels.
September is the primary intake for most Malaysian universities, and as such, students have access to a wider variety of programs and institutions during this period. This intake provides students with more choices in terms of courses, locations, and specializations.
Since the September intake attracts a larger pool of applicants, universities and scholarship providers typically offer more financial aid options during this period. Students enrolling in the September intake have a higher likelihood of securing scholarships, grants, or other forms of financial assistance.
As the main academic intake, September usually comes with an increased number of available seats at top universities. This intake gives students a greater chance of being accepted into prestigious institutions that may have limited capacity during other intakes.
If you’re prepared with all the necessary documents by November, February might be a good choice.
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Intake | Ideal for |
February | Students completing previous studies in late fall |
September | Students looking for more course options and scholarships |
 |
Criteria | February intake | September intake |
Program Availability | Limited | Extensive |
Scholarship Options | Limited | Abundant |
Competition | Less competitive | Highly competitive |
Application Deadline | November-December | June-July |
Document | Required for |
Application Form | All universities |
Academic Transcripts | All universities |
IELTS/TOEFL Scores | Programs taught in English |
 |
Intake | Application deadline | Recommended start time |
February | November-December | Start by September |
September | June-July | Start by March |
 |
Several top universities in Malaysia offer admission during both the February and September intakes:
University | February intake | September intake |
University of Malaya | Yes | Yes |
Monash University Malaysia | Yes | Yes |
 |
Whether you choose the February or September intake, Malaysia offers flexible and accessible options for international students. With multiple intake periods, a wide range of programs, and prestigious universities, it remains a prime destination for higher education.
MSM Unify can help guide you through the application process, ensuring you select the best intake and program based on your academic goals and timeline. Start your application today and let MSM Unify make your study abroad dream a reality!
Malaysia Intakes: Your Guide to Study Opportunities
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Malaysia typically offers two major intakes: February and September.
Yes, the February intake usually has fewer applicants, making it less competitive.
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