Malaysia Ranks 3rd for International Student Growth
News related to:Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) · 2 min read
BERLIN, Nov. 6, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- Malaysia has cemented its position as a top international education destination, according to the latest findings from ICEF Insights 2027. The report, which was highlighted during ICEF Berlin 2026, placed Malaysia among the "Big 14" study destinations, reflecting a significant growth in international student numbers.
Over the past five years, Malaysia has seen a remarkable 70% increase in international students, with a further 16% growth in the latest reporting period. As of December 2025, the country hosted 159,100 international students, a figure that has since risen to more than 170,000. This growth surpasses the rates of traditional study destinations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia.
Malaysia's appeal as a study destination is multifaceted. The country offers a combination of quality education, affordable tuition and living costs, and a safe, multicultural environment. English is widely used in higher education, providing students with access to a broad range of programs. The Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) CEO, Novie Tajuddin, highlighted the collective effort of Malaysia's higher education sector in driving this growth.
The growth in international students is evident across Malaysia's leading source markets. China remains the largest source, with 62,200 students, a 11% increase from the previous year. Indonesia follows with 13,000 students, a 13% rise, and Bangladesh has seen a significant 29% increase to 11,400 students. India and Pakistan each host 6,200 and 6,000 students, respectively, with growth rates of 15% and 20%.
Malaysia's progress in student recruitment is further complemented by international recognition for its student support services. In September, the International Student Arrival Centre (ISAC), a dedicated arrival facility established by EMGS, won the Student Support Award at The PIEoneer Awards 2026. ISAC, which operates around the clock at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 and 2, provides assistance before immigration clearance, guiding international students through arrival procedures, and offering a welcoming start to their education journey in Malaysia.
Malaysia's continued growth in the international education market underscores its commitment to becoming a preferred study destination for students from around the world.