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English Requirements for Malaysian Universities (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, MUET)
By Zawqari Education team · Last updated 23 Sep 2026
The English test scores Malaysian universities typically ask for at each level of study, which tests are accepted, and what to do if your score is not high enough yet.
Most programmes at Malaysian private universities are taught in English, so universities ask for proof of your English level. This guide explains which tests are accepted, the typical minimum scores and your options if you are not there yet.
Which tests are accepted
The tests most widely accepted by the universities we list are:
- IELTS Academic.
- TOEFL iBT.
- Pearson PTE Academic.
- MUET (Malaysian University English Test).
- Cambridge English qualifications and Linguaskill, at some universities.
Always check which tests your chosen course accepts. The course pages on Zawqari Education list the accepted tests and minimum scores for each programme.
Typical minimum scores
These are the most common minimums across the courses on Zawqari Education. Your course may be higher or lower.
- Foundation and diploma: IELTS 4.0 to 5.0, or MUET Band 2 to 3.
- Bachelor's degree: IELTS 5.0 to 5.5 (some courses ask for 6.0), MUET Band 3 to 4, or PTE around 47 to 51.
- Master's degree: IELTS 5.5 to 6.0, or MUET Band 3.5 to 4.
- PhD: IELTS 6.0 to 6.5.
Programmes in medicine, health sciences, law and education often ask for higher scores.
Include your English result with your visa application
Education Malaysia Global Services says that if you do not attach your English certificate when your visa application is created, processing may be delayed. Take your test early so your result is ready.
If your score is not high enough
You still have options:
- Take an English course first. Many universities run their own intensive English programme, and passing it can replace an external test.
- Retake the test after focused preparation.
- Start with a foundation or diploma programme, which usually needs a lower score and leads into a degree.
What is a foundation programme?
A foundation programme is a one-year pre-university course that prepares you for a specific degree area, such as computing, business, engineering or science. It is a common route for students whose secondary school qualification is not accepted for direct degree entry. On completion, you usually progress into year one of a related bachelor's degree at the same university, subject to meeting its grade requirements.
Need advice?
A Zawqari advisor can look at your results and suggest the courses you qualify for now, and the fastest route to the course you really want.
Official source
- Education Malaysia Global Services: required documents