Nursing in Malaysia, Requirements, Fees, Salary & Study Paths
Nursing in Malaysia provides diploma and bachelor programmes with clinical training, recognized by the Nursing Board Malaysia. Nursing in Malaysia covers fees, entry requirements, international student options, career paths, and salary, helping candidates plan their nursing education and future.
Shruti Kumari16 Oct, 2025
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Nursing in Malaysia is a growing and vital profession in the country’s healthcare system, offering promising opportunities for both local and international students. With structured pathways such as diploma and bachelor programmes, students gain practical and theoretical knowledge recognised by the Nursing Board Malaysia.
In 2025, the country provides multiple accredited institutions, flexible entry requirements, and diverse career options, including staff nurse, specialized nurse, and managerial roles. Understanding Nursing in Malaysia fees, requirements, salary, and programme differences is essential for planning a successful career. This guide covers key details for informed decision-making and career planning.
Nursing in Malaysia Overview
Nursing in Malaysia plays a central role in the country’s healthcare system. With growing demand for qualified professionals, Malaysia offers well-structured diploma and degree pathways recognised by the Nursing Board Malaysia. Both local and international students can pursue nursing studies at accredited universities, combining classroom learning with clinical experience in hospitals across the nation.
| Nursing in Malaysia Overview | |
| Aspect | Details (2025) |
| Regulatory Body | Nursing Board Malaysia (Lembaga Jururawat Malaysia) under the Ministry of Health |
| Programme Levels Offered | Diploma in Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing, Post-Basic and Specialist Nursing courses |
| Duration of Study | Diploma – 3 years; Bachelor – 4 years |
| Minimum Academic Requirement | SPM with 3–5 credits (for Diploma); STPM/‘A’-Levels with science subjects (for Bachelor) |
| Medium of Instruction | English and Bahasa Melayu |
| Clinical Training | Conducted in approved hospitals and healthcare institutions |
| Entry Intakes | Typically January, May, and September (varies by university) |
| Approximate Tuition Fees | Diploma: RM 36,000 – RM 70,000; Bachelor: RM 80,000 – RM 105,000 |
| Average Starting Salary | RM 1,800 – RM 2,500 per month (entry-level) |
| Eligibility for International Students | Valid student visa, English proficiency (IELTS ≥ 5.5 or equivalent) |
| Career Pathways | Registered Nurse, Staff Nurse, Clinical Instructor, Nurse Educator, Specialist Nurse |
| Accredited Institutions | MAHSA University, UCSI University, MSU, KPJUC, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Monash University Malaysia |
Nursing in Malaysia Requirements
Covered here are the Nursing in Malaysia Requirements that candidates must check through before applying for the course. One must make sure to fulfill these requirements to get through the admission procedure haslee freely.
| Nursing in Malaysia Requirements | ||||
| Programme | Academic Qualification | Subject Requirements | English Proficiency | Health Requirement |
| Diploma in Nursing | SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) or equivalent | Previous Requirement: 5 credits including Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics (or Additional Mathematics), a Science subject, English, and one other subject.Updated (2025–2026): 3 credits in Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics, and a Science subject, plus passes in two additional subjects including English. | Basic pass in English (SPM level) | Must be medically fit and able to perform clinical duties. |
| Bachelor of Nursing | STPM, ‘A’-Levels, or equivalent qualification | Credits in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Applied Science as required by most universities. | IELTS 5.5 or equivalent English qualification. | Must be medically fit; good physical health required for clinical work. |
Nursing in Malaysia Fee Structure
Candidates aspiring to get admission in any nursing school in Malaysia, must have a comparative analysis of the fee structure. Provided here is the table that carries the fee structure for pursuing Nursing in Malaysia.
| Nursing in Malaysia Fee Structure | |||||
|
University / Institution |
Programme Name |
Duration |
Estimated Fees (Local Students) |
Estimated Fees (International Students) |
Remarks / Highlights |
|
MAHSA University |
Diploma in Nursing |
3 Years |
~ RM 12,067 per year (≈ RM 36,200 total) |
Similar range; confirm during intake |
One of the most affordable private institutions; accredited by Nursing Board Malaysia |
|
UCSI University |
Diploma in Nursing |
3 Years |
Year 1 – RM 20,450Year 2 – RM 21,380Year 3 – Lower |
Higher fee structure, varies yearly |
Offers strong clinical exposure; Nursing Board accredited |
|
KPJ Healthcare University College (Nilai) |
Diploma in Nursing |
3 Years |
RM 52,850 total |
RM 80,400 total |
Includes clinical training in KPJ hospitals; strong employment linkage |
|
Management and Science University (MSU) |
Diploma in Nursing |
3 Years |
RM 65,000 – RM 70,000 total |
Higher for international students |
Recognised by Nursing Board Malaysia; includes industry attachment |
|
UCSI University |
Bachelor of Nursing (Hons) |
4 Years |
RM 89,445 total |
RM 104,875 total |
Offers advanced curriculum and leadership training |
|
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) |
Bachelor of Nursing |
4 Years |
Not publicly listed (for Malaysians) |
~ RM 80,000 total (~RM 20,000 per year) |
Public university; lower fees for Malaysian citizens |
Cheapest Nursing School Options in Malaysia
Provided here is the list of the Cheapest Nursing School Options in Malaysia:
| Cheapest Nursing School Options in Malaysia | |||
| Category | Institution | Estimated Yearly Fees | Notes / Key Points |
| Most Affordable Diploma Programme | MAHSA University | ~ RM 12,067 / year | Recognised by Nursing Board Malaysia; strong focus on practical training |
| Low-Cost Public Option (Bachelor) | Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) | ~ RM 20,000 / year (international) | Public institution with affordable fee structure; strong academic reputation |
| Private with Mid-Range Fees | MSU, KPJUC | RM 18,000–25,000 per year range | Balanced cost and clinical exposure |
Study Nursing in Malaysia for International Students
International students planning to pursue nursing in Malaysia need to keep certain things in mind. Listed here are some of the important aspects that one can consider while planning for their study abroad journey.
-
You need a student visa and meet immigration and visa fee requirements. Universities often have separate fees for international students.
-
English test scores are required (IELTS, TOEFL etc.). Some universities accept equivalent tests.
-
Living costs differ by city. Kuala Lumpur, for example, is more expensive than smaller towns. Factor in accommodation, food, transport.
-
Scholarships or bursaries may be available. International students may also explore financial aid or university-based support.
Diploma vs Bachelor of Nursing
Provided here is the key comparison between Diploma vs Bachelor of Nursing. Referring to the table will allow candidates to make an informed decision:
| Diploma vs Bachelor of Nursing | ||
| Aspect | Diploma in Nursing | Bachelor of Nursing |
| Duration | Usually 3 years full time. | Typically 4 years full time. |
| Curriculum | Basic sciences, practical nursing skills, clinical placements. | More in-depth theory, advanced nursing, research, leadership, more clinical exposure. |
| Outcomes | Qualifies you to sit for the national nursing board exam. Work as registered nurse. Further studies possible. | Opens more roles, potentially higher salary, leadership and specialist roles, access to postgraduate studies. |
| Recognition | Accredited by Nursing Board Malaysia. Diploma is valid for many hospital roles. | Also accredited. Bachelor degree is preferred for many health care employers especially public hospitals abroad. |
Nursing in Malaysia salary
Provided here is the complete Nursing in Malaysia salary details based on the experience that one holds. Refer to the table below to gain a complete comprehensive insight into the same:
| Nursing in Malaysia salary | ||||
| Level / Experience | Job Role & Description | Average Monthly Salary (RM) | Annual Salary Estimate (RM) | Remarks / Benefits |
| Entry-Level Nurse (Fresh Graduate) | Diploma-qualified nurse (Grade U29) working in government hospitals or clinics | RM 1,797 – RM 2,000 | ~ RM 21,000 – RM 24,000 | Starting salary set by public service scale; includes basic allowances |
| Staff Nurse (1–3 years experience) | Registered nurse in public or private hospital handling daily patient care | RM 2,500 – RM 3,200 | ~ RM 30,000 – RM 38,000 | Eligible for shift and night duty allowance; may receive overtime pay |
| Mid-Level / Senior Nurse (5–10 years) | Team leader or department nurse responsible for supervision and specialized care | RM 3,500 – RM 4,800 | ~ RM 42,000 – RM 58,000 | Salary increases with specialization and managerial duties |
| Specialized / Critical Care Nurse | Works in ICU, OT, pediatrics, or emergency care | RM 4,500 – RM 6,500 | ~ RM 54,000 – RM 78,000 | Receives specialist and critical care allowance; higher night duty compensation |
| Nurse Manager / Matron (10+ years) | Administrative or leadership role overseeing nursing teams and hospital operations | RM 6,000 – RM 8,500 | ~ RM 72,000 – RM 102,000 | Includes management allowance, housing, and performance incentives |
Nursing in Malaysia FAQs
What are the entry requirements for Nursing in Malaysia?
How much does it cost to study Nursing in Malaysia?
Can international students study Nursing in Malaysia?
What is the starting salary for nurses in Malaysia?
What is the difference between a Diploma and a Bachelor of Nursing in Malaysia?
