What Indian Students Ought Not to Do When Applying to Malaysian Universities

 21 July 2025

Malaysia has become one of the most sought-after destinations for Indian students to seek higher education. With lower tuition fees, high-quality education, cultural affinity, and internationally accepted degrees, no surprise. But many students unconsciously damage themselves when applying to Malaysian universities that will hinder or destroy their interest in seeking studies in Malaysia.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we’ve helped hundreds of Indian students secure admission to top Malaysian universities. Based on real student cases and recent trends, here are the top 5 mistakes Indian students must avoid to ensure a smooth and successful application journey.

1. Applying Without Meeting the English Language Requirements

Amongst the most prevalent errors that are committed by Indian students is that they believe their 12th standard English marks would suffice to seek admission. Although some institutions may consider it, most good Malaysian institutions now insist on evidence of English proficiency through sitting exams like IELTS or PTE, particularly for undergraduate and master’s courses. Failure to provide the same in time can cause delays or disqualification.

Tip: Take your English proficiency test prior and make sure your score is at the current university minimum (typically IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for most programs).

2. Choosing a Course Without Study

Most students select popular courses like Business or IT without investigating course content, career opportunities in the future, or university ranking. This usually results in future disappointment or poor performance.

Tip: Select your course on interest, academic foundation, and future career prospects. Look at university websites, course catalogs, or consult BCES counsellors’ professional advice.

3. Failure to Meet Application Deadlines

Unlike Indian universities, Malaysian universities offer several intakes in a year—typically in January, May, and September. However, students submit the applications late and fail to meet the desired intakes or scholarship offer deadlines.

Tip: Plan at least 6 to 8 months in advance. It fits for documentation, university response, visa process, and travel arrangements.

4. Incomplete or Wrong Documents

Document error can lead to application or visa rejection or delay. Unavailable transcripts, not attested certificates, or misstated information in application forms are a few examples that fall in this category.

Tip: Double-check all your documents before submitting. Use a checklist or have documents checked by BCES Admissions Abroad to ensure accuracy.

5. Not Familiar with Malaysia’s Student Visa Regulations

The majority of students believe the visa procedure is straightforward and that the same regulations apply in universities across the globe. The EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services) system in Malaysia is highly regulated, however, and involves medical screening, payment approval, and immigration clearance.

Tip: Pay attention to EMGS policies. The visa application is 4–6 weeks from receiving the offer letter, so plan in advance. Remember, part-time work is permitted up to 20 hours a week, but just during holidays and semester breaks.

It can be a turn-around experience for Indian students to study in Malaysia. But overcoming these stumbling blocks is the first step towards making that dream come true. Right from choosing the correct course to getting your visa done on time, everything counts. That’s where expert assistance comes in.

Tough with your Malaysian university admission? Call BCES Admissions Abroad today at +91 9319996328 and start a successful journey of global education.