The Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia has approved significant changes to medical program admission in Malaysia, effective October 29, 2024.

Key Change: International Qualification Equivalency

International students without SPM/O-Level credentials can now demonstrate their foundation or pre-medical program equals GCE A-Level standard through:

• ENIC NARIC

• Scholaro

Institutions must keep equivalency documentation for accreditation exercises.

Understanding Scholaro's Role

Scholaro serves two purposes:

For Admission: Demonstrates your foundation program equals A-Level standard. Reports delivered in 3-6 business days. Instant self-reports are also available.

For US Opportunities: Evaluates Malaysian degrees for US university admissions and immigration.

Important: Scholaro handles admission equivalency. For Malaysian practice registration, use ECFMG (via EPIC) or DataFlow through MeRITS.

Updated Entry Requirements

Foundation/Pre-Medical Programs

• CGPA 3.0 in Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics

• Minimum grade C (GP 2.0) per subject

• Minimum 1 year at same institution

A-Level or STPM

• Grades BBB, ABC, or AAC in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics

International Baccalaureate (January 2024)

• Minimum 33 points overall

• Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics at Higher Level

• Minimum score of 5 in each

Australian/Canadian/New Zealand Programs

• 80% ATAR or aggregate equivalent of B in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics

Indian Students

• Pass NEET exam

• Average 70% in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics

• Non-India practitioners must provide signed letter of undertaking

Degree Holders

Entrance Examinations

• ISAT: Required by Monash Malaysia. Register at ISAT.

• MSAT: Required by University Malaya. Applications December 2-January 17.

Professional Standards

Applicants must declare criminal offences, serious illness, or communicable diseases. Disqualification applies for offences affecting the human body, serious dishonesty, or serious illness.

International Student Essentials

Visa: Apply through EMGS. Fee RM3,000, annual renewal required.

Post-Graduation: International students cannot complete housemanship in Malaysia. Arrange internships in your home country.

Transfer Restrictions: Australia, New Zealand, UK, Ireland, EU citizens face restrictions to partner schools within the same Medical Council bloc.

Action Steps

1. Obtain equivalency through Scholaro or ENIC NARIC if lacking SPM/O-Level

2. Verify MMC and MQA accreditation

3. Register for entrance exams

4. Apply for visa through EMGS

Summary

The October 2024 updates establish Scholaro and ENIC NARIC as official pathways for international qualification equivalency. This provides clearer routes for students without SPM/O-Level credentials.

Remember:

• Scholaro/ENIC NARIC = Admission equivalency

• ECFMG/DataFlow = Malaysian practice registration

Contact admissions offices early. For clarification, visit MMC.