Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS) | Asia Pacific University (APU)

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Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)

The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is an initiative by the Malaysian Government to attract the best brain from around the world to pursue advanced academic studies in Malaysia. This scholarship aims to support Malaysian Government's effort to attract, motivate and retain talented human capital from abroad.

Talented international students with excellent academic records and outstanding co-curricular backgrounds are welcomed to apply for this scholarship and further their studies in any selected and well-established Malaysian public and private universities.

MIS Scholarships cover only Masters and PhD programmes.

What is the eligiblity criteria for MIS application?

To be eligible for Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS), applicants must fit the following criteria:-

  • Not be more than 45 years of age during application.
  • Obtained a minimum of Second Class Upper (Honours) or a CGPA of 3.5/4.0 at Bachelor Degree Level for Master’s Degree applicants and for PhD candidates must possess CGPA 3.5/4.0 or very good result at Master’s degree level in a similar field of intended PhD study. In addition, for post-doctoral programme, the selection will be evaluated based on the number of books produced, refereed/non refereed journals, portfolio and patent copyright. The Post-Doctoral candidate must have excellent reputation in research and possesses knowledge related to the research to be carried out.
  • Took one of the following English Language Proficiency Test not more than two years before the date of application. The list of tests and minimum scores required:
    • IELTS Academic Test with a score of at least 6.5; or
    • TOEFL paper-based test with a score of at least 580 or computer-based test with a score of at least 230 or internet-based test with a score of at least 92.
  • In excellent health condition and certified by a Certified Doctor/Medical Professional. The cost of medical examination is to be borne by the applicants.
  • Wrote a proposal that is relevant to the needs and interests of Malaysia (research-based programme only).
  • Has applied for and gained admission to postgraduate and post-doctoral studies in Malaysia (conditional letters of offer will be accepted at the time of application or has a confirmation of acceptance or affiliation with the universities in Malaysia).

What is covered under the MIS?

Each scholarship consists of:

  • Air tickets from recipient’s capital city to Malaysia.
  • An approved tuition fees.
  • Monthly maintenance allowance.
  • Annual grant for books and internal travel.
  • Medical / Health Insurance.
  • Installation and Termination grant.
  • Thesis allowance (will be paid at the beginning of research (after proposal defense) and the balance will be paid only upon submission of the thesis) – For PhD and Post-Doctoral only
  • A conference travel grant and journal publication grant (PhD and Post-Doctoral only).

* The Government of Malaysia reserves the rights to review the value of awards at any time (and if such changes are made, the value of scholarship will be changed and the effective date will be informed to the successful candidates).

Priority Study Areas

Field of studies is in the following priority areas:

  • Science and Engineering.
  • Agriculture and Fisheries.
  • Economics and Islamic Finance.
  • Information and Communication Technology.
  • Biotechnology.
  • Biosecurity and Food Safety.
  • Infrastructure and Utility.
  • Environmental Studies.
  • Health not including nursing, medicine, clinical pharmacy.

* Applicants may choose any related course within the field/areas mentioned above.

Selection Criteria


Applications will be considered according to the following selection criteria:-
  • High-level academic achievement.
  • The quality of the research proposal and its potential contribution towards advancement of technology and human well-being.
  • Excellent communication, writing and reading skills in English Language.

General Conditions of Award

  • Scholarship holder must undertake full-time studies for postgraduate and post-doctoral studies at a campus of Malaysian Universities.
  • It is the responsibility of the scholarship holders to confirm admission to the university.
  • Scholarship holders must not change their programme during tenure of the scholarship except with written permission from their university and the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia.
  • Scholarship holders must follow the approved programmes and abide by the university’s rules, regulations and codes of conduct. Any suspension from the university will result in immediate suspension of award. Monthly allowances are not payable during suspension, including suspension due to illness.
  • It is the responsibility of successful candidates to apply for and meet the requirements for the issuing of an appropriate entry visa including medical examination. The offer of the scholarship does not guarantee the granting of a visa.
  • Scholarship holders must maintain satisfactory progress and good standing as stipulated by their host university and degree programme, or the scholarship will be withdrawn.
  • The scholarships are tenable in Malaysian universities and research must be carried out in Malaysia.
  • Scholarship holders are not allowed to take any paid employment during their tenure unless with written approval from the host university.

How do I apply for MIS?

Application is simple and straightforward. Here's the application process.

STEP 1:

Apply at Asia Pacific University (APU) for the programme of your choice by sending copies of your educational certificates and other supporting documents including the following:

  • APU Postgraduate Application Form (download the form here).
  • Details page of passport showing evidence of citizenship.
  • Copy of Academic certificates and transcripts.
  • Updated CV.
  • Testimonials and/or references relating to the relevant study, co-curriculum activities and achievements (if available).
  • Any membership certification from Professional Bodies (if available).
  • Reference Letters from current/past employers (if available).

You can email the documents at mis_apply@apu.edu.my or send via WhatsApp/Viber at +60123048084 (Mr. Babak Rahimi) for your application to be processed immediately. You can expect to receive our response within 24 hours on your application. If your application is accepted, we will email you the Letter of Offer together.



All applications should be made ONLINE through Ministry of Higher Education’s portal.

  • REGISTER your Passport Number or National Identication Number, password and email address.
  • LOGIN to online application form and fill in all section completely.
  • Please ensure all information is correct before you print the application and logout.

STEP 2:

Please attach the printed application form together with the following documents:

  • Recent passport size photograph.
  • Completed Medical Report.
  • A certified copy of current passport showing evidence of citizenship.
  • A certified copy of academic transcript, testimonials and/or references relating to the relevant study, co-curriculum activities, achievements.
  • A clear and precise study or research plan.
  • A certified copy of English Language proficiency certificate (Test of English as a Foreign Language/TOEFL or International English Language Testing Service/IELTS)
  • Curriculum Vitae.
  • Admission letter from Malaysian University.
  • Two letters of recommendation from two (2) people who can act as referees to support your application.
  • Endorsement Form.

You are required to complete the two Letters of Recommendation from two referees, Endorsement Form and Medical Report. Please bring the printed ONLINE application form and required documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the relevant agency responsible for the MIS scholarship in your country to get the endorsement.

STEP 3:

  • Scan all documents stated above in PDF format and LOGIN to MIS Online Application.
  • You are required to attach the documents and click SUBMIT button to submit the application. You will see the notification message when the process is done. All the application is fully online. No hard copy is required. Bring the hard copy of application form and original certificate during the interview session.

When is the application deadline?

Applications for the MIS Scholarships are now CLOSED however you may still apply with APU should you wish to proceed with self-funding or sponsorship by other external organisations.

Where can I find more info on this?

You can visit Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia website for more information.

Good luck and all the best with your MIS application and we look forward to assist you with the application.