Yes, you can plan for Malaysia’s government scholarship from Pakistan, but the 2026/27 round is closed and the next dates had not been announced as of November 2026. Commonwealth countries are on the latest recipient list and Pakistan is a Commonwealth member, yet Pakistan is not named on that list, so confirm with Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education before you apply.
What is the Malaysia International Scholarship?
The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is run by Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). It funds full-time master’s and PhD study in Malaysia. It covers tuition fees, paid directly to the university, and a monthly living allowance, released every four months against a progress report.
The MIS 2026 guidelines list 24 supported universities and institutions, public and private. Any accredited course is welcome, with priority for these areas:
- Education, arts and humanities, and social sciences, journalism and information
- Business, administration and law
- Natural sciences, mathematics and statistics, and information and communication technologies
- Engineering, manufacturing and construction, and agriculture, forestry, fisheries and veterinary
- Health and welfare, not including medicine, nursing and pharmacy
Who it suits
MIS suits graduates with strong results who want a full-time postgraduate degree and are ready to prepare early. Selection looks at three things: outstanding academic and co-curricular achievement, the quality of the research proposal, and strong English. Malaysia-related research topics are preferred. Students already on a full-time postgraduate course at a supported Malaysian institution can also apply if at least two semesters remain.
Step by step: the 4 questions to ask first
- Is Pakistan on the list? The 2026 list includes “Commonwealth countries” by Commonwealth Parliamentary Association region, including Asia. Pakistan is a Commonwealth member, and the CPA Asia Region constitution names its Pakistan branch. The 2024 guidelines named Pakistan, but the 2026 guidelines do not. Email international@mohe.gov.my and keep the reply.
- Are your grades enough? Master’s applicants need a CGPA of 3.00 or 2nd Class Upper at bachelor’s level. PhD applicants need a CGPA of 3.00 or excellent results at master’s level in a related course.
- Can you prove your English? You need IELTS 6.0 or higher, TOEFL paper-based 550 or an equivalent score, or a previous degree taught in English with an official declaration from your university.
- Do your age and course fit? You must be no more than 40 at application for a master’s, or no more than 45 for a PhD. Study must be full-time. Master’s by Research and PhD applicants also need a research proposal of at least 1,000 words.
If your answers are yes, start building your file now:
- Certified copies of your passport, transcripts and English result
- Two letters of recommendation
- Your CV
- A research proposal, if your programme needs one
- A Malaysian admission letter, if you already have one
Documents must be in English, or come with certified translations. Applications go through MOHE’s own online application system.
Myths and red flags
- Myth: “A scholarship offer means a visa.” The guidelines say the offer does not guarantee a visa. Getting the visa and medical check is the scholar’s responsibility.
- Myth: “I can arrange part-time work on the side.” Paid work needs written approval from the host university.
- Myth: “The dates are always the same.” The last round closed on 3 April 2026, while the 2022 round closed on 15 June. Check the official page yourself.
- Red flag: anyone who promises selection, or says they can get you in through a side door. The guidelines describe one route: the ministry’s online system.
What it means for Pakistani students and parents
Students: treat the next round as a deadline you can’t see yet. Book your English test, speak to your referees and prepare your documents early. Applicants from the 2026/27 round can check their status on the MOHE site until 31 December 2026.
Parents: this is a real government scholarship with clear written rules, but it is competitive and nothing about it is automatic. Keep a family plan B, and check passport validity early. MIS asks for at least 6 months, while Education Malaysia’s student visa guidelines ask for 18 months or more.
Asal Baat: “Don’t wait for a deadline to get ready. Check the official rule, get your documents in order, and ask the ministry directly when something isn’t clear. A prepared student is never in a rush.” Mustafa Mogri, CEO, DenCo
FAQ
Is MIS open now?
No. The 2026/27 application round is closed, and no dates for the next round had been announced as of November 2026.
Can Pakistani students apply for MIS?
Commonwealth countries are listed and Pakistan is a Commonwealth member, but the 2026 guidelines do not name Pakistan. Confirm with MOHE at international@mohe.gov.my.
Does MIS cover MBBS?
No. MIS is for master’s and PhD study, and its priority health fields exclude medicine, nursing and pharmacy.
Do I need an admission letter before applying?
The guidelines ask for it if you are already studying or have already secured admission. Confirming admission remains the scholar’s responsibility.
As of November 2026. Based on the MIS 2026 guidelines; the next round’s rules may change.
Exploring Malaysia more widely? Read our Study in Malaysia page or watch DenCo TV. For a plan built around your grades and budget, talk to us about a free family session.