The University of Malaya Bright Scholarship 2026 in Malaysia is now accepting applications. Scholarships from UM are available to all international students. Both Malaysian nationals and foreign students studying at UM, the nation’s top university, are eligible to apply for this fully funded PhD program in research mode. Through this program, UM hopes to draw in bright minds from around the globe to support cutting-edge research.
Kuala Lumpur’s University of Malaya is regularly ranked as both the best university in Malaysia and the best university in Asia. The UM Bright Scholarship offers a comprehensive package that includes a monthly stipend and a full tuition price remission, making it an excellent opportunity for ambitious scholars and researchers. Don’t pass up this chance. To find out more about the requirements and advantages of the scholarship, scroll down.
Details of University of Malaya Bright Scholarship
Key Points
| Institute: | University of Malaya |
| Degree Level: | PhD |
| Scholarship coverage: | Fully Funded |
| Eligible nationality: | All Nationalities |
| Award country: | Malaysia |
| Last Date: | Different |
Financial Benefits
The following advantages are offered by the University of Malaya’s UM Bright Scholarship 2026, a sponsored scholarship program:
- Monthly Stipend: A stipend of RM3,500 per month for 42 months is provided to cover living expenses.
- Full Tuition Fee Waiver: The scholarship covers all tuition fees for 7 semesters, which is the standard duration for a full-time PhD program at the university.
Fields of Research:
- Nuclear energy & new energy transition
- Semiconductors & chips
- Nanotechnology & quantum exploration
- Artificial Intelligence & Digital Robotics
- Space science & engineering
- Food sustainability & security
- Medical & health excellence
- Rare earths & critical minerals
- Defense and security innovation
- Social Science Advancement (Economics, Finance, Law, Geopolitics)
Documents Required:
- Passport-sized photo
- Completed UMES application form
- Publication proof (first page)
- Identity Card copy
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts
- Valid English proficiency certificate
Eligibility Criteria
Age: You must be no older than 30 years old at the time of application.
Academic Qualifications:You must hold two specific degrees with high academic standing:
- A Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.70/4.00.
- A Master’s Degree that is research-based or mixed-mode, with a minimum CGPA of 3.70/4.00.
English Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in English by providing one of the following valid test results (valid for two years from the examination date):
- IELTS with a minimum band score of 6.5.
- TOEFL with a minimum score of 73.
- CEFR with a minimum score of B2.
How to Apply for University of Malaya Bright Scholarship?
The Application Procedure
- Fill in the UM Bright Scholarship Application Form:The first step is to download and complete the official application form provided by the university. This form will ask for your personal details, academic history, and a summary of your proposed PhD research, including your preferred supervisors. It is advisable to contact potential supervisors beforehand.
- Prepare all Documents in PDF Format:Gather all the required supporting documents. These typically include:
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
- Copies of your academic certificates
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or CEFR certificate)
- A copy of your passport
- Any research publications you have
- A passport-sized photo
- Label the File Correctly: This is a very important step. You must save all your compiled documents into a single PDF file and label it exactly as specified.
- Email the Form and Documents:Send the single, labeled PDF file to the official scholarship email address:
brightscholar@um.edu.my
Conclusion
An outstanding chance for aspirational students who want to pursue a fully supported PhD at Malaysia’s premier university is the University of Malaya Bright Scholarship 2026. This fellowship provides access to cutting-edge research in important global subjects, a substantial monthly stipend, and a tuition fee waiver, opening avenues for academic advancement and international collaboration. Don’t pass up this opportunity to become a part of UM’s thriving academic community in Kuala Lumpur if you are a driven researcher under 30 with exceptional academic qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the scholarship cover?
The award includes a monthly stipend of RM3,500 for 42 months and a full tuition fee waiver for 7 semesters.
Do I need English proficiency to apply?
Yes. Applicants must submit IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (73+), or CEFR (B2+) scores valid within the last two years.
