Dreaming Big in Asia? Malaysia might be your Perfect Study Destination!
With world-class universities, affordable living costs, and a culturally diverse environment, Malaysia has steadily risen to become a top study destination in Asia. From the ultra-modern skyline of Kuala Lumpur to serene, green university campuses and other well-developed cities, students worldwide are discovering a rare combination of top-tier education and a well-balanced lifestyle in Malaysia. And there’s better news! Malaysia has now introduced a stay-back period of 1 year exclusively for post-graduate international students, which is a fantastic opportunity to gain real-world experience and potentially pave the way for long-term career options.
If you’re planning to study abroad and are exploring vibrant Asian countries, Malaysia deserves to be high on your list.
What is a stay-back period in Malaysia?
This stay-back period of 1 year is essentially a set amount of time given to international students after they finish their studies. It lets them legally stay in Malaysia to look for jobs or explore further studies, or pursue professional training.
Until recently, students were required to leave the country immediately upon completing their studies. With this new policy, Malaysia aligns with countries like the UK and Australia in acknowledging the importance of international graduates by providing them time to transition from studies to the workforce.
How Can International Students Benefit from It?
Here’s how students can take full advantage of it:
- Job Hunting: Graduates can now actively look for jobs relevant to their field of study without the pressure of leaving the country immediately.
- Internships & Skill Building: It allows time to gain hands-on experience through internships or short-term professional courses.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: For those with a business idea, Malaysia’s emerging startup ecosystem can be a fertile ground.
- Networking: Students can build industry connections and explore professional avenues for long-term employment.
What Can Be Done During the Stay-Back Period?
- Apply for Jobs in Sectors like IT, Engineering, Business, and Hospitality
- Enrol in Professional Certifications (e.g., digital marketing, data science, etc.)
- Participate in Career Fairs & Job Portals Like JobStreet and GrabJobs
- Work with Malaysia-based Multinationals or Local Startups
This period also acts as a soft launchpad for transitioning into Malaysia’s professional landscape, helping students to align themselves with long-term career plans.
Are There PR Chances in Malaysia for International Students?
While Malaysia does not offer a direct PR (Permanent Residency) route through education, there are pathways for those who establish a strong employment record in the country. After gaining work experience (usually over 5 years), individuals can apply for PR under the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program or through employment-based applications.
So, while not immediate, the stay back in Malaysia phase can serve as a stepping stone for future residency opportunities.
What About Part-Time Jobs While Studying?
20 hours is the time permitted for international students to do part-time work in Malaysia during semester breaks or holidays.
Typical part-time roles include:
- Retail assistants
- Restaurant staff
- Data entry jobs
- Customer service roles
Why Choose Malaysia—and Why Now?
Malaysia has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for higher education in Asia, known for its internationally accredited degrees, promising post-study employment prospects, rich multicultural environment, and affordability when compared to many other global study hubs. Additionally, the new stay-back period just makes it even more appealing for students looking to boost their careers alongside their education.
Some Popular Universities in Malaysia
- Taylors University
- Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation
- University of Kuala Lumpur
- Manipal University
- Heriot-Watt University, Malaysia
- Monash University
- University of Nottingham
- UCSI University
- University of Wollongong
Did You Know?
- The Malaysian Education Blueprint 2015–2025 is designed to establish Malaysia as a leading global hub for education.
- The average tuition fee ranges between RM 25,000 – RM 50,000 (5lakhs-10lakhs) per year, making it significantly more affordable than Western countries
Your Journey Starts Here – With Guidance Plus
And if you’re thinking of making this your path, Guidance Plus is here to help. As the top Malaysia Education Consultant in Kerala and a trusted Malaysia study abroad agency, we’ve guided so many students in turning their international study dreams into reality. Whether you’re choosing the right university, sorting out your visa, or dealing with anything else, we’re right by your side every single step of the way.
Ready to take your next big leap? Connect with Guidance Plus today, and let’s shape your Malaysian study story—your future awaits!
