Education System in Malaysia

The responsibility of the Federal Government is to provide the best education for all citizens. The Malaysian education system comprises education from kindergarten to university. Pre-university education is under the direction of the Ministry of Education (MOE). The university and higher education ecosystem are in charge of the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).

Primary and secondary education

Primary education in Malaysia begins at age seven and lasts for six years. It is open to all students aged 7-12 years old. Then, Secondary education includes 3 years of Lower Secondary and 2 years of Upper Secondary. Students must take joint exams at the end of elementary, middle, and high school. Throughout 11 years of this stage, the tuition is completely free.

Post-secondary education

At the end of Secondary, it is optional for students to apply for one or two-year programs, also known as a college preparatory program. 12 years of study is required to participate in bachelor's studies at universities.

Tertiary education

At this level, the higher education institutions will offer courses for certificates, associate degrees, university degrees, and other certifications (in the academic and professional fields). The time to complete the basic undergraduate program is 3 years.

Public and private universities attract a great deal of interest from international students by their courses at the higher education level.

Tertiary education is offered by:

• Public schools (government capital): public universities, universities and community colleges, Polytechnic and Pedagogical schools.
• Private schools (private capital) and Private Higher Educational Institutions (PHEIs): Private colleges and universities, branches of foreign private universities and colleges.
• Government-funded education centers: The government spends 95% on primary and secondary education and about 60% on tertiary education, while private funding makes up the rest.
• Private Education Centers. The Private Education Centers in Malaysia divides into 2 groups depending on the level of study, from preschool to university level, including:

       – Private Educational Institutions (PEIs): providing preschool, primary, and secondary education, including private schools.

       – Private Higher Educational Institutions: offering undergraduate courses with college degrees, university degrees, certificates.