Author: Michael | Last Updated: July 30, 2026
Quick Overview: Universiti Malaya Graduate Research Scholarship
- Host Organization: Universiti Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Funding Type: Monthly living stipend plus tuition fee waivers
- Stipend Value: RM 1,000 – RM 3,500 per month (depending on project grant allocation)
- Eligible Programs: Master’s by Research, Mixed-Mode, and PhD degrees
- Contract Duration: Initial 4-month appointment, renewable up to 3 years
What the Universiti Malaya Scholarship Is Actually About
Universiti Malaya (UM), Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious university, offers a Graduate Research Scholarship that supports both local and international postgraduate students. This program is designed for master’s and doctoral candidates who contribute to active research projects while pursuing their degrees. Instead of relying on personal loans, students are funded through university research grants, making advanced study more accessible.
Universiti Malaya Scholarship Benefits and Expectations
The scholarship provides financial and academic support tailored to research-based programs:
- Monthly Stipend: Between RM 1,000 and RM 3,500, depending on project funding.
- Tuition Fee Waiver: Full or partial exemptions for candidates appointed as research assistants for at least four months per semester.
- Campus Access: Use of laboratories, specialized equipment, and online databases.
- Leave Provisions: Up to 12 days of paid sick leave annually.
Responsibilities of Research Assistants
Recipients are expected to balance academic progress with research duties:
- Conduct experiments, surveys, or data analysis under supervision.
- Commit up to 40 hours per week to project tasks.
- Prepare progress reports, draft technical papers, and contribute to publications.
- Maintain good academic standing and fee compliance.
Who Can Apply for the Universiti Malaya Scholarship
Review these basic conditions before reaching out to faculty members.
- Hold an admission offer or be actively enrolled in a master’s or PhD program at UM.
- Maintain “Ready for Enrolment” or “Active” status in the university system.
- Be within the semester limits (Master’s: ≤8 for stipends, ≤5 for fee waivers; PhD: ≤12 for stipends, ≤7 for fee waivers).
- Not hold another full scholarship from external sponsors.
Documents Required for Application
Prepare digital copies of:
- Admission offer letter from UM
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Passport (international students) or MyKad (Malaysian citizens)
- English proficiency test results (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
- Updated CV highlighting research experience and publications
Application Process
The scholarship operates on a rolling basis, tied to research project funding.
Deadlines for fee waiver cycles:
- October Intake: Applications close end of April.
- February Intake: Applications close end of September.
The Application Steps
- Apply for postgraduate admission via the Study@UM portal.
- Search for active research assistant positions on the UM Recruitment System.
- Contact principal investigators directly with a tailored cover letter and CV.
- Upload required documents once nominated.
- Sign the appointment contract to activate stipend payments.
Important Tips for Applicants
- Personalize your outreach: Read recent publications by faculty members and explain how your skills align with their projects.
- Confirm funding codes: Ask supervisors if their grant includes Vot 11000 funds, which are required for tuition waivers.
- Plan contract renewals early: Submit extension requests at least two months before expiry to avoid payment delays.
- Focus on fit: Highlight specific lab techniques or research methods you can contribute to ongoing projects.
How You Can Start Your Application
Visit Universiti Malaya RA Recruitment System to See Open Research Vacancy.
Visit the Official Admission Website to Apply for Postgraduate Programs.
For other Funded opportunities you may find helpful, You can also see Rutherford Foundation PhD Fellowship in New Zealand, IRC Postdoctoral Fellowship and British Academic Postdoctoral Fellowships detailed guides.
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