Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship 2026
Scholarship Description
The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship is a prestigious award sponsored by the Malaysian Government and dedicated to international students from developing countries. The scholarship aims to support outstanding students pursuing their postgraduate studies in Malaysia while acquiring the necessary knowledge and skills that could contribute to the development of their home countries.
Established to strengthen South-South cooperation, the MTCP Scholarship reflects Malaysia's commitment to sharing its development experience and expertise with other developing nations. The programme enables scholars to benefit from Malaysia's high-quality education system, multicultural environment, and strategic position as a hub for innovation and growth in Southeast Asia.
The scholarship is fully funded and covers Master's degree programmes across various fields of study. The duration of the award is between 24 to 36 months, accommodating all modes of study: Coursework, Mixed Mode, and Research.
Scholarship Location
The scholarship is tenable at selected Malaysian public and private universities. Scholars will study at host universities across Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Bahru, and other major educational hubs.
Scholarship Deadline
The official application deadline for the MTCP Scholarship 2026 is to be announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. Prospective applicants are advised to regularly check the official MTCP website for updates.
Application Period: Typically opens annually around March to May. For 2026, dates are pending official announcement.
Official Website: https://mtcp.kln.gov.my/scholarship
Recommendation: Prepare your documents in advance and monitor the MTCP portal regularly for the announcement of the application opening date.
Host Institution
The MTCP Scholarship is administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia. Scholars will study at selected Malaysian public and private universities recognized by the Malaysian Government. Host universities include top institutions such as University of Malaya (UM), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), and others.
Level and Fields of Study
Level: Master's Degree only.
Modes of Study: Coursework, Mixed Mode (coursework and research), and Full Research.
Fields: The scholarship is open to various fields of study that contribute to the development of the scholar's home country. Priority is typically given to fields related to science and technology, economics and finance, social sciences, education, agriculture, health, and environmental studies. Applicants should check the official MTCP website for the complete list of eligible programmes and host universities for the 2026 intake.
Target Group
International students from developing countries that have diplomatic relations with Malaysia. The MTCP Scholarship is designed to support students who will return to their home countries after graduation and apply their acquired knowledge and skills for national development.
Scholarship Duration & Amount
Duration: 24 to 36 months (2 to 3 years), depending on the mode of study and programme requirements.
Coverage (Fully Funded):
- Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the Master's programme
- Monthly living allowance
- Book allowance
- Medical/health insurance
- Travel allowance (flight tickets) – typically for initial arrival and final departure
- Visa fee coverage
- Other allowances as specified by the MTCP guidelines
📌 Note: The exact amount of monthly stipend and specific allowances are determined by the Malaysian Government and may vary by year. Scholars are advised to refer to the official offer letter for precise details.
Scholarship Eligibility
Citizenship: Applicants must be citizens of developing countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia.
Academic requirements: Hold a Bachelor's degree with a minimum of Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent from a recognized university.
Age limit: Typically under 45 years of age at the time of application.
Language proficiency: English proficiency is required as all programmes are conducted in English. Accepted tests include IELTS (minimum band 6.0) or TOEFL (minimum 550 paper-based / 79 internet-based). Some universities may waive this requirement for applicants whose previous degree was conducted entirely in English.
Work experience: Preference may be given to applicants with relevant work experience in their home country.
Return commitment: Scholars must agree to return to their home country upon completion of their studies and contribute to national development.
✅ Eligible Candidates
- Citizens of developing countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia.
- Hold a Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or CGPA ≥ 3.0/4.0.
- Proficient in English (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550/79).
- Under 45 years of age.
- Not currently holding any other scholarship or award.
- In good physical and mental health.
❌ Ineligible Candidates
- Citizens of developed countries (as defined by the UN or World Bank).
- Applicants without a Bachelor's degree or with below-minimum academic standing.
- Those who do not meet English language proficiency requirements.
- Applicants over the age of 45.
- Current scholarship holders in Malaysia.
- Medical doctors with clinical specializations (unless the programme is public health or research-based).
Application Procedure
- Prepare required documents – Gather all necessary documents including:
- Completed MTCP Scholarship application form
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor's degree)
- English proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
- Recommendation letters (typically 2–3 from academic referees)
- A study plan or research proposal (for research mode applicants)
- Copy of passport (valid for at least 18 months)
- Medical examination report
- Any other documents specified by the MTCP or host university - Identify host university and programme – Research eligible Malaysian universities and Master's programmes that align with your academic background and career goals.
- Apply online – When the application period opens, submit your application through the official MTCP online application system at https://mtcp.kln.gov.my/scholarship. Complete all sections of the application form and upload required documents.
- Application review – The MTCP Secretariat reviews all applications for eligibility and completeness. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews.
- Nomination and placement – Successful candidates are nominated to host universities. The university will issue an offer letter for admission.
- Acceptance and visa application – Accept the scholarship and university offer, then apply for a Malaysian student visa (Student Pass).
- Departure to Malaysia – Upon visa approval, arrange travel to Malaysia and register at the host university.
NOTE: Applications must be submitted through the official MTCP portal only. No application fee is required. Beware of fraudulent websites or individuals claiming to assist with applications for a fee.
Official Website & Application Link
MTCP Scholarship Official Website – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia
Contact Email: For MTCP-specific inquiries, use the contact information available on the official MTCP website.
Important: All application announcements, deadlines, and updates are published exclusively on the official MTCP portal. Check the website regularly for the 2026 application opening date.
💡 Final Thoughts and Key Requirements
The Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) Scholarship is a remarkable opportunity for students from developing countries to pursue fully funded Master's degrees in Malaysia. With coverage including tuition, living allowance, health insurance, and travel costs, the scholarship removes financial barriers and allows scholars to focus entirely on their academic and professional development.
Key strategies for a successful application:
- Ensure you meet the academic requirement of Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or CGPA 3.0/4.0.
- Take the IELTS or TOEFL exam early to have your English proficiency certificate ready.
- Prepare a strong study plan that demonstrates how your proposed studies will benefit your home country.
- Obtain strong academic recommendation letters from professors who know your work well.
- Research host universities and programmes before the application opens.
- Monitor the official MTCP website regularly for the announcement of the 2026 application opening date.
- Submit your application as early as possible once the portal opens to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- Remember that you must return to your home country after graduation – this is a core condition of the scholarship.
Important reminder: The MTCP Scholarship is highly competitive, with applicants from numerous developing countries. Apply only through the official MTCP portal. There are no application fees. Be cautious of any third parties offering guaranteed placement or charging for application assistance.
MTCP Scholarship Malaysia 2026 – Frequently Asked Questions
What does the MTCP Scholarship cover?
The MTCP Scholarship is fully funded and covers: full tuition fees, monthly living allowance, book allowance, medical/health insurance, travel allowance (flight tickets), and visa fees.
What is the duration of the scholarship?
The scholarship duration is between 24 to 36 months (2 to 3 years) for a Master's degree programme, depending on the mode of study (coursework, mixed mode, or research).
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Citizens of developing countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia who hold a Bachelor's degree with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) or CGPA ≥ 3.0/4.0, are proficient in English (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 550/79), and are under 45 years of age.
When is the application deadline for 2026?
The official application deadline has not yet been announced. The application period typically opens annually around March to May. Check the official MTCP website regularly for updates.
How do I apply for the MTCP Scholarship?
Applications must be submitted online through the official MTCP portal at https://mtcp.kln.gov.my/scholarship when the application period opens. No application fee is required.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, applicants must typically be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
Do I need to return to my home country after completing my studies?
Yes. One of the core conditions of the MTCP Scholarship is that scholars must return to their home country upon completion of their studies and contribute to national development.
Can I apply if I already hold another scholarship?
No. Applicants must not be currently holding any other scholarship or award at the time of application.