Why Chinese Students Are Choosing Malaysia for Higher Education

With over 20 years of experience in Malaysia, the Study in Malaysia platform has identified a combination of key factors behind the increasing presence of Chinese students in this country. Based on our surveys and official data analysis, the decision to study in Malaysia is not purely economic—it also includes cultural, academic, and forward-looking motivations.

In-Depth Analysis and Real Data

1. Affordability (Economic Factors) According to The PIE News, the cost of living in Malaysia is significantly lower compared to English-speaking countries.

Based on ICEF Monitor, the average undergraduate tuition fee is only USD 6,080 per year, and living costs are about two-thirds of the U.S. and half of Canada.

1. Accessible Academic Opportunities Without Overwhelming Competition In China, postgraduate admission requires passing the highly competitive Kao Yan examination. Many users on Reddit note:

“It’s essentially about earning a credential, not real learning.”

As a result, tens of thousands of well-off Chinese students choose to pursue less pressure-intensive programs in Malaysia and earn an internationally recognized degree.

1. Cultural Similarity and Shared Language The sizable ethnic Chinese community in Malaysia (~23% of the population) contributes to a sense of cultural and linguistic comfort.

According to QS, 56% of Chinese students prioritize affordability, while 54% cite the absence of language barriers as a reason for choosing Malaysia.

1. Academic Quality and International Branch Campuses Campuses like Xiamen University Malaysia – the first Chinese university branch in Malaysia – hold significant academic credibility.

Joint campuses with UK and Australian universities, such as Monash University Malaysia and University of Nottingham Malaysia, offer world-class education at lower tuition fees.

1. Post-Graduation Opportunities Malaysia grants international graduates, including Chinese students, a 12-month Graduate Pass, which has been extended through the end of 2026.

As Financial Times reports, the Chinese population in Malaysia – including students – has doubled in recent years, now reaching 150,000–200,000.

1. Wider Economic and Social Factors The slowing Chinese economy and property market crisis are pushing students to seek more affordable yet high-quality study options abroad.

“They don’t feel welcome in the West; Malaysia has no Sinophobia.”

Malaysia thus emerges as a culturally friendly and economically viable destination.

Final Conclusion
Based on our extensive experience, Chinese students choose Malaysia not just for cheap tuition or easy admissions—but as a strategic, comprehensive choice for academic and professional growth. This includes strong education infrastructure, affordable costs, cultural familiarity, and realistic career pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do Chinese university branches in Malaysia play a role?
   Yes. Institutions like Xiamen University Malaysia enhance cultural trust and academic comfort for Chinese students.

2. What are the post-study stay conditions in Malaysia?
   Malaysia offers a 12-month post-graduation stay (Graduate Pass) for international students, recently extended until 2026.

3. Have Chinese applications increased?
   Yes. Applications from China more than doubled between 2019 and 2023, and grew another 24% in 2024 compared to 2023.

We hope this detailed analysis clarifies why Malaysia is increasingly a preferred destination for Chinese students. If you’d like us to dive deeper into specific university programs or compare Malaysia with other study destinations, feel free to get in touch.