Eligible countries: All countries (Citizens and Non-citizens).
Fields of study: Nuclear Energy, Food Sustainability, Semiconductors, AI, Space Science, Medical Health, Rare Earths, Defence Security, Social Sciences.
The Universiti Malaya (UM) Bright Scholarship is a full scholarship program created to identify and recruit outstanding candidates (citizens and non-citizens) from leading educational institutions around the world to pursue a Doctoral Degree (PhD) in research mode at UM. The program aims to produce PhD graduates capable of bringing positive impact, increase research output, and strengthen academic collaborative research networks.
Benefits
Monthly Stipend of RM3,500 for 42 months
Fee Waiver throughout 7 semesters
(Note: Does not cover visa, flight, insurance, medical, or accommodation)
Eligibility
Must be no more than 30 years old at the time of application
Must hold a Bachelor's Degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.70/4.00 (or equivalent)
Must hold a Master's Degree (research or mixed-mode) with a minimum CGPA of 3.70/4.00
Must demonstrate English proficiency (IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 73, or CEFR B2) valid within 2 years
Must not be receiving any other sponsorship
Requirements
Complete the application form and attach passport size photo
Submit proof of publication (first page only)
Submit copy of Applicant's Identity Card
Submit copies of certificates and academic transcripts (Bachelor's and Master's)
Submit valid English language certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/CEFR)
Required Documents
Completed Application Form
Passport Size Photo
Proof of Publication
Copy of Identity Card
Bachelor's and Master's Transcripts and Certificates
English Language Certificate
Programs of Study
PhD in Nuclear Energy & New Energy Transition
PhD in Food Sustainability & Security
PhD in Semiconductor & Chips
PhD in Artificial Intelligence & Digital Robotic Realms
PhD in Space Science & New Engineering Spectrum
PhD in Comprehensive Medical & Health Spectrum Excellence
PhD in Rare Earths & Critical Minerals
PhD in Defence & Security Assets
PhD in Social Science Advancement (Economic, Smart Finance, Societal, Law)
Application Process
Complete the application form and required attachments.
Save the completed form and attachments in PDF format.
Label the file as '<<your name>>_UMBrightS_<<Date (dd-mm-yy)>>'.
Submit the softcopy of documents via email to brightscholar@um.edu.my.
How to Apply
Download the application form from the provided link.
Compile all documents into a single PDF if possible, or attach them clearly.
Ensure your file naming convention matches the strict format: '<<your name>>_UMBrightS_<<Date (dd-mm-yy)>>'.
Email the application to brightscholar@um.edu.my before the end of April for the October intake.
Selection Process
Review of academic merit (CGPA 3.70+) and publication record.
Assessment of research proposal alignment with UM Thrust Areas.