Frequently Asked Questions

UNICE Education is an international education consultancy with its head office in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. We help students choose a programme, apply to Malaysian universities and colleges, get the student visa through EMGS and settle in after arrival.

UNICE has been helping international students since 2009.

Our head office is at KL Traders Square, Block A, 99 Jalan Gombak, 53000 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The fastest way is WhatsApp: +60 16 825 4003. You can also email admission@uniceeducation.com or use the enquiry form on our website.

Please use WhatsApp messages or WhatsApp calls. It is free for you, works from any country and lets us share documents and links quickly.

For our partner private universities and colleges, UNICE does not charge you a service fee. For some public universities a service fee may apply. We always tell you before you start, so there are no hidden charges.

No. UNICE is a consultancy. You study at and receive your certificate from the university or college you choose. We guide and support you from application to arrival.

We work with many recognised Malaysian universities and colleges. You can see all of them, with their programmes and fees, on our Universities page and in Course Search.

No one can honestly guarantee admission or a visa. The university decides admission and the Immigration Department of Malaysia decides the visa. What we promise is a correct, complete application and honest advice at every step.

Our students come from many countries, including Pakistan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Sierra Leone, Bangladesh and others.

Yes. Please message us on WhatsApp first so we can book a time and make sure a counsellor is free for you.

Yes. UNICE works as an authorised recruitment partner for its partner universities and colleges in Malaysia.

No. Registering, getting advice and applying to our partner private universities and colleges through UNICE is free for you.

Yes. Send your results on WhatsApp or upload them in the student portal and we will tell you which levels and programmes fit you, free of charge.

We try to reply on WhatsApp within the same working day (Malaysia time). Messages sent at night or on public holidays are answered on the next working day.

Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Malaysia time (GMT+8). You can send WhatsApp messages at any time.

Yes. Message us on WhatsApp and we will arrange a time for a call with a counsellor.

Only pay tuition fees to the official university account shown on your offer letter or invoice. Never send money to a personal account, and check that any agent is listed as a partner of the university. If in doubt, ask the university or UNICE first.

Yes. Recruitment agencies can register as UNICE partners and get their own agent portal, referral link and marketing tools. Contact us on WhatsApp or email info@uniceeducation.com.

Yes. We support you with airport guidance, accommodation advice, the medical screening and Student Pass steps, and you can message us whenever you need help.

Yes. Parents and guardians are welcome to contact us on WhatsApp to ask questions about fees, safety and the process.

Register on our student portal, complete your application (3 short pages) and upload your documents. Our team checks everything and submits it to the university. You can follow every step in your portal.

Some universities charge an application or registration fee. It is shown in the fee breakdown of each programme on our website, so you know it before you apply.

Foundation, Certificate, Diploma, Bachelor, Postgraduate Diploma, Master and PhD.

Most universities have main intakes in January, May and September, and some offer more. The next intake for each programme is shown on its card in Course Search and on our Intake Calendar page.

Apply 3 to 4 months before the intake if you can. This gives enough time for the offer letter, the EMGS visa process and your travel plans.

It depends on the university. Many send an offer letter within 1 to 3 weeks after receiving a complete application.

Yes. Tell us your choices and we will advise which ones fit your results and budget best.

Usually yes, if you have not started the visa process yet. After the EMGS application has started, a change may need a new application and extra time, so decide carefully before that.

It is an offer that becomes final once you meet a condition, for example showing your final results or an English test score.

Yes. You can apply with your latest results and send the final results when they are ready. Some universities give a conditional offer in this case.

Yes, gaps are normally accepted. Some universities or the visa office may ask for a short letter explaining what you did during the gap.

There is no general age limit for higher education in Malaysia. Each university may have its own rules for some programmes.

Many universities accept credit transfer if the subjects match. Send us your transcripts and we will check with the university.

Some universities offer online (ODL) programmes. Note that international students who come to Malaysia on a student visa must study full time.

MQA (Malaysian Qualifications Agency) checks and accredits programmes in Malaysia. An MQA-accredited programme meets the national quality standard. You can see the MQA status on each programme card.

Postgraduate students (Master and PhD) can usually apply for a Dependant Pass for a spouse and children. Dependants are not allowed to work. Ask us for the current rules for your case.

Your application goes through 6 stages: Application Under Review, Admission Letter, Processed to EMGS, EMGS Approval Letter, Visa Approval Letter, and University Registration Completed. You can see each stage in your student portal.

Malaysia normally expects at least 12 years of school education, plus a recognised national or international examination, for diploma and degree admission.

No. International students may enrol in only one full-time programme at a time.

No. Except for short mobility programmes, international students on a Student Pass must study full time.

Both can award recognised diplomas and degrees. A university usually offers a wider range of programmes and research, while a university college is often smaller. Both must have MQA-accredited programmes.

Public universities are funded by the government. Private universities and colleges are privately owned but are regulated by the Ministry of Higher Education and MQA. Fees, intakes and admission rules can differ.

A one-year pre-university programme that prepares you for a Bachelor degree in a related field. It is a common route after O-Level / SSC / Class 10 or when your higher secondary results are not enough for direct entry.

Usually about 2 to 3 years, depending on the programme.

Usually 3 to 4 years. Some professional degrees, such as engineering, can take 4 years or more.

Usually 1 to 2 years for coursework Master programmes. Research Master programmes may take longer.

Usually about 3 years full time, and it can take longer depending on your research.

A short postgraduate qualification, usually about 1 year, taken after a Bachelor degree. It can be a step towards a Master degree.

A coursework Master is taught through classes and exams with a small project. A research Master is mainly based on a thesis under a supervisor.

Many MBA programmes prefer some work experience, but some accept fresh graduates. Requirements are shown in the programme details.

Often yes, if you ask the university before the visa process starts. If your visa is already approved, a deferment may need a new application.

Tell UNICE immediately. Some universities allow late registration for a short time; otherwise your intake may move to the next one.

Yes. Certificates from most countries are accepted. Send us your transcripts and we will confirm.

ODL (Open and Distance Learning) programmes approved by MQA are recognised in Malaysia, but they are studied online and do not give you a student visa to live in Malaysia.

A programme run with a foreign partner university, where you may receive a degree from both universities or transfer abroad for part of the course.

Most programmes do not need an interview. Some programmes, such as PhD or some professional courses, may include an online interview.

Follow the instructions in your offer letter, which usually means signing an acceptance form and sometimes paying a small fee. UNICE will guide you step by step.

After you accept, the university submits your student visa application to EMGS. Make sure your passport and documents are ready.

Yes, if the university has more than one campus offering your programme. The campus is shown on each programme card.

Yes, many universities offer these professional programmes. They usually have higher entry requirements and fees.

Student Passes are mainly for full programmes at approved institutions. Short courses may follow different visa rules. Ask us about your case.

Yes. Many universities accept postgraduate students in several intakes a year, and some PhD programmes accept students at any time.

They depend on the study level, the programme and the certificate from your country. Choose your nationality on our website and each programme will show the requirements for your own certificate.

Usually completion of secondary school (for example O-Level / SSC / Class 10 equivalent) with passes in the required subjects.

Usually completion of secondary school with the minimum number of credits set by the university. Some technical diplomas ask for Mathematics or Science.

Usually A-Level, higher secondary (for example HSSC / FSc / Class 12) or a recognised Foundation or Diploma with the minimum grades or CGPA set by the university.

Usually a recognised Bachelor degree, often with a minimum CGPA of around 2.50 to 2.75. Some programmes accept lower CGPA with work experience.

Usually a recognised Master degree and a short research proposal in your area of interest. Admission also depends on finding a suitable supervisor.

Yes. A recognised Diploma often lets you enter a Bachelor degree, and sometimes start directly in Year 2 with credit transfer.

Often yes. A Foundation or Diploma programme can be a good first step. Send us your results for a free eligibility check and we will suggest realistic options.

Many business and IT programmes ask for a pass in Mathematics at secondary level. The exact rule depends on the university and is shown in the programme details.

Most national secondary and university certificates are accepted. When you select your nationality, the requirements for your own certificate are shown with each programme.

No. A-Level is one route, but higher secondary certificates such as HSSC/FSc, Class 12 and others are accepted, as well as Foundation and Diploma qualifications.

Many universities ask for a Bachelor CGPA of about 2.50 to 2.75 out of 4.00. Some accept lower CGPA with relevant work experience or a qualifying programme.

Yes, most Malaysian universities accept recognised 3-year Bachelor degrees for Master admission.

Usually a Master degree is required. A few universities may consider an outstanding Bachelor degree for direct PhD admission.

A short document (often 5 to 10 pages) explaining your research topic, questions, methods and why it matters. It helps the university find a suitable supervisor.

Yes. Most Diploma programmes accept students after completing secondary school with the required credits.

Yes, with a relevant recognised Diploma and credit transfer approved by the university.

Yes. Engineering programmes usually require Mathematics and Physics (and sometimes Chemistry) at the required level.

Usually yes, especially Biology and Chemistry. Health programmes often have stricter requirements.

Universities assess your certificate themselves. Some programmes may need an equivalence letter, and we will tell you if so.

Not always. Many universities accept their own English placement test, other tests, or proof that your previous study was in English. Some programmes, especially postgraduate ones, ask for IELTS or an equivalent score.

As a guide: Foundation and Diploma about 5.0, Bachelor about 5.5 to 6.0, Master and PhD about 6.0 to 6.5. Each university sets its own score.

Commonly IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic, MUET and some others. The accepted tests depend on the university.

Many universities let you take their own English placement test or join an English course before your programme starts.

Some universities accept a letter showing that your previous study was in English. Others still ask for a test score. We will check this for your chosen programme.

Yes. Programmes for international students in Malaysia are taught in English.

Yes, most universities offer an intensive English course for students who need to improve before starting their main programme.

For new and variation applications, an English certificate should be uploaded with the visa application. Without it, processing may be delayed and the Student Pass may not cover your full course.

Accepted tests include MUET, IELTS, TOEFL iBT, TOEFL Essentials, PTE Academic, several Cambridge English exams and CIEP. The university may have its own minimum score.

Yes. Many universities run intensive English programmes, and the UNICE student portal also has an English practice section.

Some universities accept it for admission, but it is not on the EMGS list of English certificates. Ask us before you book a test.

With UNICE partner universities, tuition fees are usually paid only after your visa is approved. You pay directly to the university.

No. You pay the university directly into its own official account. UNICE never asks you to send tuition fees to a personal account.

It adds up the fees the university charges in the first year, such as registration, EMGS visa fee, security bond and the first year tuition fee. Open "View fee breakdown" on any programme to see each item.

It is the total university fee for the whole programme, from the first year to the end of the course.

Some universities have special fees for certain nationalities. That is why our website asks for your nationality and then shows the correct fees for you.

It is the fee for processing your student visa through EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services). It usually includes the visa processing and your first year medical insurance, and it is shown in the fee breakdown.

It is a deposit held for immigration purposes. In most cases it is refunded when you finish your studies and leave Malaysia correctly.

Yes, all fees are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). After you choose your nationality we also show an approximate amount in your own currency, for guidance only.

Usually not. Tuition and university fees are separate from accommodation and living costs, unless the university says otherwise.

Many universities allow payment per semester or in instalments. Ask us and we will confirm the payment plan for your programme.

Usually by international bank transfer to the university account. Some universities also accept card or other online payments. Always use the official payment details from the university.

No. The fee breakdown on our website shows the university fees. Living costs, accommodation and flights are separate and we explain them before you decide.

Universities can update their fees, usually once a year. Our website shows the latest fees we have from each university.

With our partner universities you normally pay tuition only after visa approval. If you paid anything before, the refund depends on the university refund policy. Ask us before paying.

It depends on the university and programme. Use our Course Search and Cost Calculator to see real fees and an estimate of living costs for your nationality.

University fees are charged in Malaysian Ringgit (RM). Your bank converts your money to RM when you transfer.

A one-time fee paid when you register at the university. It is shown in the programme fee breakdown.

Some universities charge a yearly fee for international student services. It is shown in the fee breakdown if it applies.

Some universities charge fees for library, IT or facilities. Any such fee is shown in the fee breakdown or offer letter.

Education fees may be subject to government tax rules that can change. Your university invoice shows the final amount to pay.

Usually not. Many universities charge per semester or per year. Check the payment schedule in your offer letter or invoice.

No. The personal bond amount depends on your nationality.

Usually yes. When you complete your studies and leave Malaysia correctly (with a check-out through the university), the refundable deposit can be claimed according to the university procedure.

Add the first year total shown on the programme card, your accommodation and living costs, flight and some emergency money. Our Cost Calculator helps you make this estimate.

Generally yes. Tuition fees and living costs in Malaysia are usually much lower, while many programmes are taught in English and have international partners.

A bank balance is not normally part of the EMGS document list, but some universities or embassies may ask for proof of funds.

The EMGS visa fee is paid through your university or directly to EMGS, as instructed during the visa process.

Keep all official receipts from the university and EMGS. Carry the tuition fee receipt (if paid) in your hand bag when you travel.

Many universities offer scholarships or tuition discounts based on your results, nationality or intake. Some discounts can be up to 70 percent. Ask us which ones you qualify for.

In most cases the university checks your results when you apply and offers the scholarship in the offer letter. Some scholarships need a separate form, and we will tell you if so.

The website shows the standard fees we receive from the university for your nationality. Any personal scholarship is shown later in your offer letter.

Some scholarships require you to keep a minimum CGPA each semester. Check the conditions in your offer letter.

Some government scholarships exist, such as those on the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education scholarship portal, but they are limited and competitive. Most students receive university scholarships or discounts.

Some universities offer early-bird or intake discounts. Ask UNICE about current offers for your programme.

Most university scholarships reduce tuition fees only. Plan your living costs separately.

Some universities offer postgraduate scholarships or research assistant positions. Requirements are usually strong results and, for PhD, a good research proposal.

Usually: passport, passport-size photo with white background, academic certificates and transcripts, and an English test result if you have one. Postgraduate applicants may also need a CV, references or a research proposal.

For a new student visa your passport should be valid for at least 18 months. If possible, keep it valid for your whole study period plus one year.

A recent passport-size colour photo (35mm x 45mm) with a plain white background.

Yes, documents that are not in English or Malay need a certified English translation.

Clear scans of the originals are usually enough for the application. Some universities or the visa office may later ask for certified copies, and we will tell you if they do.

In your UNICE student portal, under Upload Documents, after you complete your application.

It can cause delays. Your application uses the name exactly as in your passport. If your certificates show a different spelling, keep an official document that confirms both names.

It is not always needed for the student visa, but some universities may ask for proof that you can pay your fees and living costs.

It is not normally needed for the Malaysian student visa. If a university asks for it, we will let you know.

The bio-data page, all pages with visas or stamps, and the observation page (if any). Students from some countries must send all pages.

A form where you declare your health condition for the visa application. Fill it in honestly; the medical screening is done after arrival.

A security bond lodged by your institution for immigration. The amount depends on your nationality. It is usually handled by the university.

Yes. For example, Sudanese students need a No-Objection Certificate and Iranian students need a Letter of Eligibility. We will tell you if your nationality needs anything extra.

Renew it before you apply. You need at least 18 months of passport validity for a new student visa.

Yes, but give the details of your old passport too, because EMGS records may be linked to your previous passport number.

Not usually for your own student visa. It is needed if you apply for dependants (children).

Only if you apply for a Dependant Pass for your spouse.

Scan in colour, in good light, with all four corners visible. Use clear PDF or JPG files and name them clearly.

Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) is the official agency that processes student visa applications for international students in Malaysia.

No. After you accept your offer, the university submits your student visa application to EMGS. UNICE prepares and checks your documents and follows the process for you.

EMGS aims to process a complete application in about 14 working days (its service charter). In practice it often takes longer, sometimes several weeks, depending on your nationality, document checks and how busy the season is. Missing or unclear documents are the most common cause of delay.

You can track it on the EMGS website with your passport number. You can also see your progress in your UNICE student portal.

The percentage shows how far your application has moved, from document checks to immigration approval. When the Visa Approval Letter (VAL) is issued, you can prepare to travel.

The Visa Approval Letter (VAL or eVAL) is the approval from the Immigration Department of Malaysia. You need it to enter Malaysia as a student.

Some nationalities need a single entry visa (SEV) in addition to the VAL. We will tell you whether you need one and how to get it.

No. You must wait for your VAL and enter Malaysia with it. Converting a tourist visa to a student pass inside Malaysia is not allowed.

The Student Pass is the sticker the Immigration Department puts in your passport after you arrive and pass the medical screening. It lets you study and live in Malaysia.

It is usually issued for 12 months at a time and must be renewed every year until you finish your programme.

Common reasons are missing or unclear documents, name mismatches, a short passport validity or extra checks for some nationalities. Our team checks your documents carefully to avoid these problems.

It is possible but needs a new visa process (variation) and can take time and cost extra. It is best to choose carefully before you apply.

Yes, during semester breaks, as long as your Student Pass and passport are valid. Check with your university before you travel.

15%: EMGS approval letter issued after screening. 35%: application with Immigration. 70%: Visa Approval Letter (eVAL) issued. 80%: you have arrived and completed the medical screening steps. 100%: Student Pass endorsed in your passport.

At 35% your application is with the Immigration Department, and this stage can take some time. Make sure no documents are requested from you, and ask UNICE to follow up with the university and EMGS.

Often EMGS is waiting for a document, the personal bond or the next submission step from the university. Check for requests in your application and let UNICE follow up.

From the EMGS application tracker (visa.educationmalaysia.gov.my) with your nationality and passport number, or through the EMGS Hub app. Your university can also send it to you.

Yes. Print it in colour and carry it with you, together with a digital copy on your phone.

Six months from the date it is issued. You must enter Malaysia within this period.

Citizens of some countries need an SEV in addition to the eVAL. The list is on the EMGS website. UNICE will tell you if your nationality needs one.

After you receive your eVAL, apply online through the Malaysian eVISA system or at the Malaysian embassy, as instructed for your country.

No. You may enter only after your eVAL is issued.

When you enter with your eVAL you may receive a temporary pass. It is replaced by your Student Pass after the medical screening and passport endorsement.

The iKad is the student identity card issued by EMGS after your Student Pass is approved. Carry it with you as your ID in Malaysia.

Your passport is sent to the Immigration Department to place the Student Pass sticker. Keep a copy and the university receipt with you during this time.

No, you cannot leave Malaysia without your passport. Plan travel only after your Student Pass is endorsed and your passport is returned.

A visa application for changing your programme or institution while you are in Malaysia. It needs at least one completed semester and is usually allowed once, within 18 months of your first semester.

A visa application for moving to a higher level, for example from Bachelor to Master. Apply within 3 months after completing your current programme, with an offer for the new programme.

Yes. A progression application gives you a new eVAL and Student Pass for the new programme.

A document issued when your Student Pass is cancelled at the end of your studies or when you leave the programme. It allows you to leave Malaysia correctly.

You must leave Malaysia within the time given, usually with a check-out memo. Staying without a valid pass is an offence.

Tell your university. Your Student Pass must be transferred to the new passport, and EMGS records linked to it.

You can email enquiry@emgs.com.my with your full name and passport number, or call +603 2782 5888. UNICE can also follow up for you.

Download the EMGS Hub app or use the EMGS website, then enter your nationality and passport number to see your current percentage and remarks.

In some cases an appeal or a new application is possible. UNICE will check the reason with the university and advise you.

It can be delayed if your previous Student Pass was not cancelled properly. Make sure any old pass is cancelled before a new application.

Book your flight only after you receive your VAL (and entry visa if needed). Share your flight details with UNICE so we can plan your arrival support.

The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) is a free online form for travellers to Malaysia. New students must fill it in online within 3 days before arrival and show it at the immigration counter.

Most students land at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA). If your university is in another city, we will tell you the best airport.

Keep your passport, VAL, offer letter, EMGS approval letter, tuition fee receipt (if paid), flight ticket and MDAC confirmation in your hand bag, not in your checked luggage.

Go to the immigration counter for international students (EMGS counter) and show your documents. Then connect to the free airport Wi-Fi and message UNICE on WhatsApp before you leave the airport.

Yes. UNICE can arrange airport pickup for RM 200. Send us your flight details in advance so we can confirm the pickup.

It depends on your airline ticket, often 20 to 30 kg checked luggage. Follow the exact weight on your ticket to avoid extra charges.

Do not carry liquids over the airline limit in your hand bag, and do not bring illegal items, large amounts of food or medicines without a prescription. If you take regular medicine, bring the doctor's prescription.

Bring some cash for your first days, such as US dollars to exchange, plus a bank card that works internationally. Do not carry very large amounts of cash.

You complete the medical screening, submit your passport to the university for the Student Pass, attend orientation and register for classes. UNICE guides you through each step.

A one-way ticket is normally enough for students arriving with an eVAL. Check your airline's rules before you book.

Malaysia is GMT+8 all year (no daylight saving time).

Malaysia uses the UK-style three-pin plug (type G) and 240 volts. Bring an adapter if your devices use a different plug.

Options include the KLIA Ekspres train, airport buses, taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Grab. If UNICE arranges your pickup, our team will meet you.

Yes. Use the official Immigration Department MDAC website, keep the confirmation and show it at immigration if asked.

New students entering with an eVAL must complete it. Students who already hold a Student Pass are usually exempt, but check the latest rule before travelling.

Light, breathable clothes for warm weather, a light jacket for air-conditioned rooms, formal clothes for presentations and an umbrella.

Small amounts of sealed, packaged food are usually fine. Meat, fresh food and some other items may be restricted by customs.

Yes, and it is highly recommended for your studies.

Dial 999 for police, ambulance or fire emergencies.

Inform UNICE and your university as soon as possible so your pickup and first-day plans can be updated.

Answer calmly and show your eVAL, offer letter and EMGS approval letter. Tell them you are a new international student.

Many universities have hostels or partner housing. Places can be limited, so it is good to book early.

Yes. We give guidance and support to help you find a safe room near your campus.

Costs depend on the city and room type. A shared room is usually much cheaper than a single room. Our Cost Calculator shows typical monthly costs.

Yes. Many students share apartments near campus. Always check the contract, deposit and travel distance before you pay.

Check the monthly rent, deposit amount, what is included (Wi-Fi, electricity, water), the contract period and how far it is from your campus and public transport.

It is a good idea to arrange at least your first weeks before arrival, through the university hostel or with UNICE guidance.

Often yes, and it is close to classes, but places are limited. Outside rooms can be cheaper when shared with other students.

Most university hostels have separate blocks or floors for male and female students.

Usually yes, if you follow the contract and leave the room in good condition. Always get a receipt for any deposit.

In many hostels and shared apartments it is included. Confirm before you sign.

Many apartments have a shared kitchen. Some hostels do not allow cooking in rooms.

Students often use websites and apps such as Mudah, iBilik and Speedhome. Visit the room or ask UNICE before paying.

It depends on your lifestyle and city. Our Cost Calculator gives an estimate for food, transport, accommodation and other costs.

Malaysia is generally a safe and friendly country with students from all over the world. As anywhere, follow normal safety habits and keep your documents safe.

Malaysia is warm and humid all year, usually around 24 to 33 C, with regular rain. Light clothes and an umbrella are useful.

Yes. Halal food is everywhere in Malaysia, and you can also find Indian, Chinese, Arab, Western and many other foods.

Kuala Lumpur has trains (LRT, MRT, Monorail), buses and ride-hailing apps such as Grab. Students can use a Touch 'n Go card for public transport.

You can buy a prepaid SIM at the airport or in shops with your passport. Mobile data plans are affordable.

Yes. Most banks open accounts for international students with a valid Student Pass and a letter from the university.

Malay is the national language, but English is widely spoken, especially in cities and universities.

Yes. Malaysia is a multicultural country with mosques, temples and churches, and people of many religions live together.

Local meals are affordable, especially at food courts and small restaurants. Cooking at home saves more.

The Malaysian Ringgit (RM or MYR).

Most international Visa and Mastercard cards work at ATMs and shops, but your bank may charge fees.

Through bank transfer or licensed money transfer services. Compare fees and exchange rates.

A prepaid card and e-wallet used for public transport, tolls and many shops in Malaysia.

Most universities have prayer rooms (surau), and mosques are easy to find in Malaysia.

Malaysia celebrates Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas and other festivals. Many are public holidays.

Kuala Lumpur costs more than smaller cities, but it is still affordable compared with many international study destinations.

Join university clubs, orientation events and student societies. Malaysia has students from many countries.

You may drive with a valid international driving permit for a limited time. Many students use public transport and ride-hailing apps instead.

Report it to the police, contact your embassy for a new passport and inform your university and UNICE so your Student Pass can be transferred.

Yes, with limits. International students may work up to 20 hours per week, but only during semester breaks or holidays of more than 7 days, and only in permitted job types.

No. Part-time work is only allowed during semester breaks or holidays longer than 7 days.

Part-time work is allowed at restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini markets and hotels, and on campus where approved. Jobs as a cashier, singer, musician, masseur or guest relations officer (GRO), and any immoral work, are not allowed.

You apply through your university, which helps you get approval from the Immigration Department. Working without approval can lead to cancellation of your Student Pass.

No. Because work is limited to breaks and 20 hours a week, it can only help a little with living costs. Plan to have enough money for your fees and living costs before you come.

No. Holders of a Dependant Pass are not allowed to work in Malaysia unless they get their own work permit.

Yes. Internships that are part of your programme are allowed and are a great way to gain experience.

Earnings depend on the job and hours. Because work is only allowed during breaks and up to 20 hours a week, it is extra income, not enough to pay fees.

Student Pass rules limit work in Malaysia. Ask your university before doing any paid work, so your Student Pass is not put at risk.

Campus work may be allowed with approval. Check with your university international office.

Working without approval can lead to fines, cancellation of your Student Pass and removal from Malaysia.

Yes. The Graduate Pass allows work in permitted job sectors.

Yes. Every international student must have approved medical insurance for the whole time on the Student Pass. It is usually included in the EMGS fee for the first year.

All new international students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS panel clinic within 7 working days after arriving in Malaysia. Your Student Pass is issued only after you pass it.

No pre-arrival medical check-up is normally needed. You fill in a health declaration during the application and do the medical screening after arrival.

You may appeal within 3 working days after receiving the result. If the result stays unfit, the Student Pass cannot be issued. Declare any health conditions honestly during the application.

If you are coming from or travelling through a country with yellow fever risk, you need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Visit a panel clinic or your university health centre. Keep your insurance card and student ID with you.

It mainly covers hospital treatment and some outpatient care, up to the limits of your plan. Read your insurance card and policy for details.

For new students, EMGS insurance starts from your date of entry into Malaysia.

No. You need a locally purchased medical insurance plan that meets the Malaysian requirements, usually arranged through EMGS.

There is a fee at the panel clinic. Your university or UNICE will tell you the current amount and which clinic to use.

Usually a general check-up, a chest X-ray and blood tests for certain conditions.

Most universities have counselling services for students. You can also talk to UNICE if you are struggling.

Yes, bring enough for your first weeks with the doctor's prescription in English.

You must keep at least 80 percent attendance. It is required to renew your Student Pass every year.

You need a CGPA of at least 2.0 and at least 80 percent attendance. Below this, renewal may be refused.

Start the renewal with your university about 2 to 3 months before your Student Pass expires.

Overstaying is an offence in Malaysia and can lead to fines or other penalties. Always renew on time or leave Malaysia before the pass expires.

Most universities have 2 or 3 semesters per year, with breaks in between.

Sometimes yes, with university approval and a visa update through EMGS. Talk to your university and to UNICE before you decide.

First contact your university international office. You can also message UNICE on WhatsApp and we will guide you.

Most universities use a CGPA scale of 0.00 to 4.00. A CGPA of 2.00 is the usual minimum to stay in good standing.

You can usually retake it. Too many failures can affect your CGPA and your Student Pass renewal.

Only with university approval. A long break can affect your Student Pass, so talk to your university first.

Yes. Universities hold an orientation week to explain classes, rules, facilities and student life.

Some subjects need books, but many materials are available in the university library or online.

It depends on the programme and university. You receive your timetable after registration.

It may be possible through a variation application within the allowed time. It needs approval from both institutions and EMGS.

Your Student Pass renewal may be refused. If you were sick or had an emergency, keep medical certificates or documents and inform your university.

Generally only postgraduate students can bring dependants. Undergraduates from a small list of countries may also apply. Ask us for the current list.

Graduates with a Bachelor degree or higher may apply for the Graduate Pass, which allows them to stay and work for up to 12 months without an employer sponsor. It is open only to citizens of the countries on the official eligible list (currently 32 countries). Check the latest list before you plan.

It is a 12-month Social Visit Pass for eligible international graduates. It lets you stay in Malaysia to work, look for a job or continue studying. It cannot be extended.

Usually a valid Student Pass when you apply, a passport valid for at least 18 months, proof of graduation and medical insurance for 12 months. Other conditions may apply.

Yes, if an employer offers you a job and gets you an Employment Pass. The Graduate Pass can help you find such a job.

Degrees from recognised Malaysian universities are widely accepted, and many programmes have international partners. Recognition for a specific job or licence depends on the country and profession.

Yes. Many students continue to postgraduate study in Malaysia. We can help you apply for the next level.

Collect your documents, cancel your Student Pass correctly through the university and, where applicable, claim back your security bond.

Currently 32 countries are listed, including Australia, Bahrain, Brunei, Canada, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK, the USA and Vietnam. For China and India the service is extended until 31 December 2026 and approved case by case with a letter of good conduct.

Yes. A Malaysian citizen must sign a personal bond and sponsor declaration, and must earn at least RM1,500 per month.

While your Student Pass is still valid, around the time you complete your studies. You cannot apply after a check-out memo has been issued.

Yes. Dependants can apply for a Dependant Graduate Pass for the same period.

No. It is valid for 12 months and cannot be extended.

Studying does not lead directly to permanent residency. Long-term stay usually depends on employment passes and other immigration rules.

You usually receive a completion letter first. The official certificate is given at or after the convocation, or it can be sent to you.

The graduation ceremony where you receive your degree. You can attend in Malaysia or, at some universities, receive the certificate by post.

It is your personal online account where you complete your application, upload documents and follow every stage of your admission and visa.

Click Apply Now on our website and register with your name, email and password. You will get a Student ID by email.

Use "Forgot password" on the login page. If you still cannot log in, message us on WhatsApp.

Yes. You can install the UNICE Connect app from your student portal using the "Get Our App" menu.

Upload Documents opens after you fully complete your 3-page application and accept the terms.

You receive an email when your admission or visa status changes, and you can always check it in your portal.