🌏 Malaysia’s International Student Shifts
The QS Global Student Flows Malaysia report explores shifting student flows, emerging source markets, and reputation challenges, outlining strategies to sustain institutional growth and competitiveness.
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Malaysia is strengthening its position as a global study destination, driven by affordability, cultural diversity, and a robust transnational education ecosystem. International enrolments are forecast to grow 8.5% by 2030, placing Malaysia among the fastest-growing major destinations. While current demand reflects appetite for affordable Western education, future student flows will be shaped by Malaysia's institutional reputation, with employer and academic recognition still concentrated among the ‘Big Four’, as outlined in the Global Student Flows Malaysia report.
This Week's Highlights
🔎 Malaysia. Access our latest global student flows report
🎓 Global Student Flows Insight Series. In-depth regional reports and webinars throughout 2026
🌏 In the News. The UK shifts to education exports, Finland enforces stricter student permits, and the US expands travel ban list
🔎 Malaysia set for rapid international student growth
Malaysia is emerging as one of the fastest-growing global study destinations, with international enrolments forecast to increase 8.5% by 2030 as student flows shift away from Western markets. Growth is concentrated in South, East, and Southeast Asia, with rising demand from the Middle East and Africa. As new education hubs emerge, Malaysian institutions must protect their differentiators. Our report outlines expert forecasts and the strategic actions institutions should take now to sustain long-term market share.
Global Student Flows maps 4,000 mobility routes across 80+ countries – combining simulation, policy expertise, and indications of shifting demand.
🎓 Global Student Flows Insight Series
Forecasting thousands of student flows from 2,500 cities, 15 core drivers, 3 scenarios, 1 million simulations – analysed by global experts in policy, economics, and higher education. Throughout 2025, we will release 12 incisive reports and expert-led webinars, featuring forecasts through 2030, market intelligence to inform your TNE strategy, rankings analysis, and much more.
🌏 Europe and Central Asia
🇬🇧 UK shifts international education strategy from student number targets to boosting education exports through TNE and global partnerships
🇫🇮 Finland proposes strict new checks on foreign student residence permits
🌎 North America
🇺🇸 The United States has expanded its travel ban list, affecting nationals from up to 39 countries
🌏 East Asia and Pacific
🇦🇺 Australia tightens regulations on agent payments for onshore student transfers
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