Malaysian School - The Differences Between America and Malaysia

A foreign exchange student living in Malaysia will experience diverse schools with exciting opportunities to learn and grow. In this article, we highlight the international nature of schools in Malaysia and feature some top-rated international schools in the country. We'll cover everything from what makes up an international school in malaysia , what are the important differences between Malaysian and American schools, to what are the opportunities like for an international student in Malaysia.

The Importance Of An International School In Malaysia

Countries like Malaysia that practice bilingualism have proven to be a hub for international schools. The government supports multiculturalism, and many parents appreciate the education their children will receive when studying abroad. In 2017, there were 132,500 foreign students from around the world enrolled in Malaysian schools. This makes for a diverse student population that will provide their children with a well-rounded education. Students can opt to study in either English or in their parents' native languages – both of which are widely spoken throughout the country.

This is in contrast to many other countries that have shut down their international school systems. In 2018, there were only 2,600 students enrolled in Czech schools from around the world. This number makes up less than one percent of the total student population in the country.

What Is An International School In Malaysia?

An international school in Malaysia is a school that offers education in English, enabling students to study and gain an education in another language. Students will take international education as a serious commitment and a new way of thinking. Many international schools in Malaysia have a truly international student body with students being able to opt to learn in either English or in their parents' native languages. This reflects the country's multiculturalism and bilingualism.

Additionally, many schools have a global focus with teaching and learning activities spanning more than one continent. Malaysia is located in the Far East with its capital, Kuala Lumpur, being the fifteenth most populated city in the world. Hence, the need for an international education for the children of the city.

Differences Between Malaysian And American Schools

As an international student in Malaysia, you will notice that there are important differences between American and Malaysian schools. First off, the time you'll spend attending lectures will be quite different. While in America, lectures will make up a significant proportion of your day, in Malaysia, they will take up a much smaller portion of your time. The rest of the day will be spent in practical learning where students get the opportunity to apply what they have learned.

Another significant difference between Malaysian and American schools is the amount of homework that goes into the school year. In America, most schools will have you completing around four to five hours of homework per night, and in Malaysia, this figure can increase to seven hours. Homework in Malaysia is not done individually but is instead part of a class project, making it a more collaborative effort. This is one area where American students can benefit from spending a year or more in Malaysia. Students will learn how to work in a team, how to be responsible for their own learning, and how to achieve much more in less time with better results.

The Opportunity Of Studying Abroad For An International Student In Malaysia

There is a variety of opportunities for an international student in Malaysia, with the most prominent ones being language learning, cultural experiences, and academic studies. In 2018, around 132,500 foreign students were enrolled in Malaysian schools, with the greatest number, 40,900, coming from China. There is also a great deal of scope for work experience, with many international schools in Malaysia offering students the opportunity to gain work-related qualifications. The government actively encourages foreign students to opt for a Master's degree, with most universities offering English-taught degrees enabling students to study and gain international experience.

Malaysia is a multicultural country with many opportunities for students to learn about different cultures and new ways of thinking. In the coming years, new research into the advantages of bilingualism will emerge from the global school community in Malaysia, providing even more reasons to consider a study abroad experience in the country.