Full requirement list for the MTCP Malaysia international scholarship 2026 by the Malaysian government
The Malaysian government provides funding for the MTCP scholarship program in 2026. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Malaysia supports the program, which is positioned as a strategic capacity-building project, especially in STEM, policy, and economic growth. The MTCP Malaysia International scholarship is a Malaysian government scholarship available to exceptional and talented students from developing countries seeking fully supported master’s degrees.
The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) scholarship is a fantastic way to discover Malaysia’s natural landscapes, stunning scenery, rich culture, and diversity.
International students can apply for a fully financed Master’s scholarship in Malaysia through the MTCP Scholarship 2026. It includes round-trip travel, a monthly allowance, and complete tuition. It is suitable for under-45-year-old graduates with solid academic achievements and fluency in English.
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What are the benefits of getting the MTCP Malaysia International Scholarship?
- The university will cover the whole cost of tuition for the duration of the study program.
- A monthly allowance will be given to each of the chosen students.
- They will provide a single return ticket for economy class.
- Students will receive the chance to attend one of the best universities in Malaysia.
Applicants should be aware that medical examinations and visa fees are not covered. It is a vital financial factor that is frequently disregarded.
Click to know about the 2027-28 Fulbright scholarship to the UK for US Citizens.
What are ideal subjects to study in MTCP?
- Trade and the economy
- ICT (information and communication technology)
- Agriculture Technology and Food Security
- STEM fields include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
- Law
- Islamic Finance
- Environmental and Sustainable Science
- Policy Studies and Public Administration
Note: Courses in clinical pharmacy, medicine, and nursing are not accepted.
What are the Eligible Universities?
The Malaysian Government MTCP Scholarship is available to students who enroll in any of the universities listed below:
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
- Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIAM/IIUM)
- Universiti Malaya (UM)
- Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)
- Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK)
- Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA)
- Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS)
- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT)
- Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UNIMAP)
- Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI)
- Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM)
- Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM)
- Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
- Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UNISZA)
- Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
- Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTEM)
- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
- Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM)
- Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
- Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)
- Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)
- Multimedia University (MMU)
- Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP)
- Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL)
What are the Eligibility Criteria for the MTCP Malaysia International Scholarship?
To be eligible for the Malaysian Government MTCP Scholarship, candidates must fulfill the following requirements:
- The applicant must be no older than 45.
- To be eligible for the Master’s program, candidates must have a minimum CGPA of 3.5 at the undergraduate level or a minimum Second Class Upper (Honors).
- Evidence of Proficiency in English:
A scanned copy of the original proof of English language proficiency, such as the IELTS (minimum total score of 6.0), the TOEFL (paper-based test with a score of 500 or an online test with a score of 60), or degrees earned with English as the medium of instruction, may also be accepted (evidence is a mandatory requirement). - Has a medical professional certified that they are in perfect health.
- To enroll in postgraduate programs at the chosen Higher Learning Institutions, scholars must study full-time (see above for Universities list).
- Only candidates who have obtained offer letters from Malaysian universities but have not yet begun their studies or who have enrolled for no more than one semester of a Master’s degree are eligible to apply.
What is the list of documents for the MTCP Malaysia International Scholarship?
The following documents must be submitted online by applicants in PDF format:
- Application form.
- Letter of acceptance.
- Previous transcripts and degrees.
- A complete resume.
- If necessary, a statement of purpose
- Two recommendations.
- A formal letter from the prior university attesting to the fact that English was the medium of instruction during the previous degree, or a certified copy of the English Language Proficiency Test.
- Certified passport copy with a minimum 12-month validity period.
- Medical report (valid for six months after certification).
How to apply?
The applicant follows these steps to apply:
Step 1:Students must use the MTCP online application portal to register.
Step 2:Open your account, log in, and review the application.
Step 3:Make sure you include the necessary details.
Step 4:Make sure you submit the supporting documentation that the application form requests.
Step 5:Fill out your application thoroughly and send it in.
The entire application and selection process will be conducted through the same technology that is used for registration. In order to receive updates on the status of their application or to submit additional documents, applicants may need to check in to the system at various points during the process.
Top tip – Make sure the documents you are uploading are up to date and clearly scanned. because only applications that have been entered into the system clearly and accurately will be taken into account.
Why Study in Malaysia is a good option?
- Low-cost living expenses.
- The global environment.
- High-quality learning.
- A secure student lifestyle.
Application deadline
The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship 2026 deadline for international candidates is June 12, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, IELTS is not always required to study in Malaysia. Most universities in Malaysia focus more on students’ academic records and the medium of instruction. Moreover, many Malaysian universities accept alternative proof of English proficiency, such as TOEFL and PTE.
No. The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship 2026 is only open to international students applying for full-time Master’s degree programs at Malaysian universities. Undergraduate and PhD applicants are not eligible for this scholarship.
The MTCP Scholarship 2026 offers a monthly allowance of RM 3,500 to help international students cover living expenses in Malaysia.
Yes, Malaysia is one of the most affordable study destinations for international students in Asia. The country offers quality education at reasonable tuition fees along with low living costs. Students can manage accommodation, transportation, and food expenses on a moderate budget while studying at top Malaysian universities.
The University of Malaya (UM) and Asia Pacific University (APU) are the most popular universities for international students in Malaysia. These are recognized for their strong academic reputation, research excellence, and multicultural campus environment. Other universities with large international student communities include UKM, USM, IIUM, and Monash University Malaysia.