The Outbound Mobility Program is a program that allows all Universiti Malaya students to spend one or two semesters at our partner universities abroad. Students will be able to take courses during the regular semester with credit transfer opportunity. This program is offered to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. However, priority is given to undergraduate students.
WHERE CAN I GO FOR MY EXCHANGE PROGRAM?
Please conduct research by referring to our current outbound opportunities or the host university's website. Once you’ve narrowed down your host university choices, take a look at what previous students have said about their experiences.
Please pay attention to the following factors during consideration and note that each host university has their own requirements. Some factors are:
a) Minimum CGPA requirement
b) Restrictions on major and year of study
c) Courses offered and a possibility to transfer credits
d) English language requirement
e) Medium of instruction at the host institution
f) Academic Calendar
WHICH HOST UNIVERSITY IS RIGHT FOR ME?
Choosing a host university is a personal decision that will depend on what you study, and what you wish to get out of the experience. You may find the following resources such as going through the Host University's website helpful as you research your host institution and country:
a) Academic advisers or staff from your faculty
b) Host university websites
c) Past students sharing study abroad experiences
d) Current Outbound Opportunities
WHEN CAN I GO FOR MY EXCHANGE PROGRAM?
Students can go on exchange in Semester 1 (Fall Semester) or Semester 2 (Spring Semester). Kindly ensure which study period works best for you and put in your application before the deadline.
All applications will be assessed in the weeks after the application deadline. You will receive the application outcome from the Global Mobility Centre (GMC) once your application is successful and GMC will guide you through your application.
The application must be made during the duration stated as below:
| Semester 1 (August – Dec) Fall Intake Applications Open: 1st January until 31st March Applications Close: 1st April | Semester 2 (Feb - July) Spring Intake Applications Open: 1st August until 31st October Applications Close: 1st November |
Below are the requirements and eligibility criteria for a full-semester exchange programme. Please read them carefully and ensure you meet all the requirements before applying. If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, please contact us at studyabroad@um.edu.my.
Please note: Each host university may impose additional eligibility criteria and application requirements. Students are responsible for ensuring they meet both Universiti Malaya's requirements and those of the host institution.
BUDGETING FOR YOUR PROGRAM
The cost of living and travel varies from country to country, it makes sense to start saving as early as possible to ensure you get the most out of your outbound experience. Some countries are also more expensive than others. It's a good idea to plan a budget appropriate to the country and city where you plan to study. If you are on a tight budget, choose your destination wisely.
Many host institution websites provide information regarding basic costs for students studying on exchange. Remember to keep an eye on the exchange rate, as costs will vary depending on the strength of the Malaysian Ringgit. Make use of an online currency converter to help with your budget.
Financial assistance from Universiti Malaya is available for undergraduate students up to RM3,000.00 as one off payment based on eligibility, terms and conditions applied and is subject to change based on the availability of funds and current policies.
ACCOMMODATION
Not every host institution offers on-campus accommodation. Be prepared to live off-campus or even work on your own housing arrangements. Nevertheless, most host institutions will provide assistance for you to find proper accommodation. You may check the Host University's website to get the information on accommodation matters.
HEALTH
For some exchange programs, the host university will require you to provide proof of good health. In this case, you will need to do a medical check-up. If you have received instructions from your host university to do a medical check-up, please make an appointment at the nearest hospital or clinic.
In order to protect yourself from infectious diseases endemic in the countries, you will study or visit, you may have to get inoculations and vaccinations before going abroad. If you need vaccination, let the doctor know if you have any allergies before receiving it. The other way to protect yourself is to investigate the public hygiene of your host country, make sure the drinking water is safe to drink and the food is clean and cooked before you have your meals while abroad. If you are currently under a strict medical observation, please go through the host university's website to know whether they have facilities to accommodate your needs.
FINANCIAL ARRANGEMENTS
Extra costs will arise in the first month of your stay such as rental charges and various setup fees. It is important to have a realistic idea of the amount of money you need to plan accordingly.
VISA REQUIREMENTS
Most countries require international students to apply for a valid student visa if they are planning to stay there for more than 180 days. Please check the requirements in detail with your host university or with the relevant consulates in Kuala Lumpur. Please bear in mind that failure to comply with the entry visa requirements may result in delays or even deportation.
Last Update: 30/07/2026