English language schools in Malaysia: language courses for adults

English Language Courses in Malaysia

Malaysia is one of those options that people do not think of first when it comes to learning English. And yet this destination deserves special attention. Thanks to its multinational population, British colonial past, and modern educational approach, Malaysia is becoming ever more popular among students from all over the world who strive to improve their level of English in an interesting, affordable, and culturally rich environment.

English in Malaysia is not just a school subject. It has become an integral part of the everyday urban rhythm. Here you do not need to specifically look for opportunities to practise: the language simply surrounds you. It is used at work, in universities, in transport, and even in everyday life, so, having entered such an environment, a student gradually begins to think and speak English effortlessly.

Dozens of language schools and training centres operate in Malaysia, many of which cooperate with British or Australian universities. You can study here both in the capital Kuala Lumpur and on islands such as Penang—in an atmosphere of colonial architecture, jungle, and sea. And the affordable prices for tuition and accommodation make the country especially attractive for students on a limited budget.

Advantages of Studying English in Malaysia

• English is the language of everyday life. Although Malay is the official language, English is widely used in education, business, tourism, and urban communication. Thanks to this, students easily immerse themselves in the language environment and practise English not only in the classroom but also beyond it.
• International level of teaching. Language schools in Malaysia have international accreditation, qualified teachers, and programmes oriented toward international standards. In all language schools in Malaysia you can prepare for the TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge exams.
• Exotic cultural environment. Studying in Malaysia is an opportunity to combine mastering the language with travelling around the country: from the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the beaches of Langkawi, the Cameron Highlands, and ancient temples.
• Safety. Malaysia is considered one of the most stable and safe countries in Southeast Asia. You can travel, study, and live here calmly and without fear, which is especially important for international students.
• Affordable cost. English courses and accommodation in Malaysia will cost significantly less than in the United Kingdom, Canada, or Australia. At the same time, the quality of education remains high.
• Multicultural atmosphere. Malaysia is home to Malays, Chinese, Indians, and expats from all over the world. This creates a vibrant, tolerant, and truly international environment in which it is easy to adapt and make friends from different countries.

Structure of Language Courses in Malaysia

Well-known language schools operate in Malaysia, such as Stratford International Language Centre, Manchester Language Centre, and EMS – English Made Simple Language Centre. These schools offer a wide range of programmes for students of all levels—from beginners to advanced—as well as preparation for international exams and specialised courses.

Below are the main course formats and their cost available in most language centres in Malaysia:

Standard English Course

• lessons per week: 20;
• duration: from 1 week;
• cost: from €225 or 1 104 MYR per week.

Intensive English Course

• lessons per week: 30;
• duration: from 2 weeks;
• cost: from 570 USD per month.

IELTS and TOEFL Preparation

• lessons per week: 25;
• duration: 4–12 weeks;
• cost: from €225 or 1 104 MYR per week.

Business English

• lessons per week: 10–20;
• duration: from 2 weeks;
• cost: from €192 or 942 MYR per week.

Academic English

• lessons per week: 20–25;
• duration: from 8 weeks;
• cost: from €250 or 1 226 MYR per week.

Summer Programmes

• lessons per week: 10–15;
• duration: 2–6 weeks;
• cost: from €635 or 3 115 MYR for the course.

Language courses in Malaysia are flexible and diverse—you can choose a programme of any intensity and duration. Regardless of your level of English and goals, you will definitely find a course that suits you.

If you are just beginning your studies, the optimal choice will be the standard General English course. It is suitable for students of all levels and provides a solid foundation for further development of language skills.

Current prices, schedules, and programme descriptions can always be found on our website.

Student Visa to Malaysia

Obtaining a student visa is mandatory for everyone planning to study on English courses in the country. Studying on a tourist visa is prohibited. What is important to remember:

1. Obtaining a student visa (specifically, a Visa Approval Letter) takes 4–6 weeks, but in peak periods can take 8 weeks.
2. Immediately after receiving the Visa Approval Letter you can fly to Malaysia, but take into account two points discussed below.
3. If citizens of your country require a visa to enter Malaysia, you need to apply for a Single Entry Visa. If citizens of your country do not require a visa to Malaysia, this requirement can be ignored.
4. According to Malaysian law, a representative of the language school must meet you at the airport. For this reason, you must notify the school of your arrival in advance (1–2 weeks). If you do not do this, the immigration authorities will not let you into the country.
5. After entering Malaysia you must visit a doctor who will issue a medical certificate and soon you will receive the student visa in your passport. The school administration will accompany you at all stages of obtaining the visa.

Other features and the full step-by-step guide on how to obtain a student visa to Malaysia can be found here.

Cost of Living in Malaysia

Category	Details
Monthly rent	• One-bedroom apartment in the city centre: 1 500–2 500 MYR (around 320–530 euros). • One-bedroom apartment outside the centre: 1 000–1 800 MYR (210–380 euros).
Transport	• Single trip on public transport: 2–4 MYR (0.40–0.85 euros). • Monthly pass: 100–150 MYR (21–32 euros).
Groceries	• Monthly expenses for basic categories of products: 400–800 MYR (85–170 euros). • Lunch in an inexpensive restaurant: 10–20 MYR (2–4 euros).
Entertainment	• Gym membership: 100–200 MYR (21–42 euros). • Cinema ticket: about 15–25 MYR (3–5 euros). • Excursions and events: 100–300 MYR (21–64 euros) depending on the programme.
Internet and mobile communication	• Unlimited internet: 80–150 MYR (17–32 euros). • Mobile communication: 30–60 MYR (6–13 euros).
Unexpected expenses	A reserve budget of 300–600 MYR (64–127 euros) per month is recommended for medical services, household needs, and other expenses.

Climate and Nature of Malaysia

Malaysia is a country of eternal summer. It has an equatorial climate: warmth, high humidity, and greenery all year round. The average air temperature is +26…+32 °C, and the sea water almost never cools, remaining pleasant for swimming at any time of the year.

Rains in Malaysia fall regularly, especially during the monsoon season—from October to March on the east coast and from May to September on the west. But even in rainy months the weather often changes quickly: after a short tropical downpour the sun shines again.

The natural wealth and warm weather of Malaysia create ideal conditions for an active lifestyle and leisure after classes—be it walks, diving, or trips to the exotic corners of the country.

Sights of Malaysia

Malaysia is a country where modern megacities coexist with jungles, mountain ranges, and ancient temples. This is a place where Asia reveals itself in all its diversity—cultural, natural, and architectural.

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is a dynamic city combining ultramodern buildings and old mosques. The city’s calling card is the famous Petronas Twin Towers, once the tallest in the world. In the evening, musical fountains turn on at their base, attracting crowds of spectators. Nearby is the Bukit Bintang district—a centre of shopping, street food, and nightlife.

Near the capital is the Batu Cave temple—one of the most revered Hindu shrines outside India. The statue of Murugan, the staircase, and the limestone caves create an unforgettable atmosphere.

The island of Penang is called the cultural capital of Malaysia. Its main city, George Town, is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Here you will find colourful street murals, Chinese clan houses, mosques, and temples. And the local cuisine is a real gastronomic feast combining Malay, Chinese, and Indian flavours.

Langkawi Island is one of the most popular places for a beach holiday. White-sand beaches, mangrove forests, the Sky Bridge suspension bridge, and a cable car rising to the top of Mount Mat Cincang make Langkawi an ideal place for combining study and relaxation.

On Borneo Island, in the state of Sabah, you can go into the jungle and see orangutans in rehabilitation centres, climb Mount Kinabalu—one of the highest in Southeast Asia, or go on a Kinabatangan River safari in search of proboscis monkeys and wild elephants.

Nature lovers will appreciate national parks such as Taman Negara—the oldest tropical forest on the planet—or Gunung Mulu Park with its limestone caves, including one of the largest cave chambers in the world.

Malaysia offers impressive variety—from futuristic skyscrapers and bustling streets to jungles, beaches, and traditional villages. It is a country where every student will find something to their liking—be it culture, nature, or simply an inspiring atmosphere.

Safety in Malaysia

Malaysia is a country with a moderate level of crime and a fairly high level of safety for everyday life and study. According to Numbeo data for 2025, the overall Safety Index is 51.1, and in a number of cities, such as Penang, it is even higher—70.5, which indicates a calm and comfortable atmosphere.

Of course, as in any other state, in large megacities, for example, in Kuala Lumpur, it is worth being attentive in crowded places, following standard precautions, and not leaving personal belongings unattended. But it is important to note that most educational institutions and language schools are located in modern areas with good infrastructure and round-the-clock security.

Malaysia is a hospitable and open country where international students feel at ease. With a sensible approach to safety you will be able to fully enjoy studying and living in this amazing country.

Is It Worth Going?

Malaysia may not be among the most obvious destinations for learning English, but that is precisely its special charm. It is a country where Asian exoticism, a high level of education, and affordable prices converge. It is comfortable to study here, easy to adapt, and the impressions will last a long time—from both the learning process and the country itself.