Malaysia Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowships Plan (CSFP) for Developing Countries

This is Malaysia CSFP Scholarships and Fellowships available to students from Developing countries.

Course Level are at Postgraduate level (Masters, PhD) and this scholarship is provided by the Government of Malaysia for students from international countries to study in Malaysia

Scholarship Description
The Malaysian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP) are awarded by the Malaysian Government to the nominated students from the Commonwealth countries to study at the post-graduate level in Malaysia. This is a Government to Government scheme without any bond imposed by Malaysia.

The awards for Masters degree are between 12 to 24 months depending on the courses. Awards for pursuing PhD degree are for 3 years. The Awards are only applicable for candidates pursuing full-time degree programme in Malaysia.

Eligibility
To be eligible for Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), applicants must fit the following criteria:
Not be more than 45 years of age during application.
Obtained a minimum of Second Class Upper (Honours) or a CGPA of 3.5/4.0 at Bachelor Degree Level for Masters Degree applicants and for PhD candidates must possess CGPA 3.5/4.0 or very good result at Masters degree level in a similar field of intended PhD study. In addition, for post-doctoral programme, the selection will be evaluated based on the number of books produced, refereed/non refereed journals, portfolio and patent copyright. The Post-Doctoral candidate must have excellent reputation in research and possesses knowledge related to the research to be carried out.

Took one of the following English Language Proficiency Test not more than two years before the date of application. The list of tests and minimum scores required:
IELTS Academic Test with a score of at least 6.5; or
TOEFL paper-based test with a score of at least 580 or computer-based test with a score of at least 230 or internet-based test with a score at least 92.
In excellent health condition and certified by a Certified Doctor/Medical Professional. The cost of medical examination is to be borne by the applicants
Wrote a proposal that is relevant to the needs and interests of Malaysia (research-based programme only)
Has applied for and gained admission to postgraduate and post-doctoral studies in Malaysia (conditional letters of offer will be accepted at the time of application or has a confirmation of acceptance or affiliation with the universities in Malaysia).

Selection criteria:
Applications will be considered according to the following selection criteria:-
» High-level academic achievement
» The quality of the research proposal and its potential contribution towards advancement of technology and human well-being.
» Excellent communication, writing and reading skills in English Language
» Eligible groups
» Citizens of all Commonwealth developing countries

Participating Institutions
All approved institutions of higher learning in Malaysia

Fields of study
Field of studies is in the following priority areas:
• Science and Engineering
• Agriculture and Fisheries
• Economics and Islamic Finance
• Information and Communication Technology
• Biotechnology
• Biosecurity and Food Safety
• Infrastructure and Utility
• Environmental Studies
• Health not including nursing, medicine, clinical pharmacy.

* Applicants may choose any related course within the field/areas mentioned above

Number of awards
Not specified, however several will be given

Sponsorship Duration
Masters degree is between 12 to 24 months depending on the course. PhD degree is for 3 years.

Scholarship Benefits
Each scholarship consists of:-
• Air tickets from recipient’s capital city to Malaysia
• An approved tuition fees
• Monthly maintenance allowance
• Annual grant for books and internal travel
• Medical / Health Insurance
• Installation and Termination grant
• Thesis allowance
• Visa

* The Government of Malaysia reserves the rights to review the value of awards at any time (and if such changes are made, the value of scholarship will be changed and the effective date will be informed to the successful candidates).

Method of Application
All applications should be made ONLINE through the official Ministry of Higher Education’s website: starting from 15th January 2013 until 31st March 2013.

1. Please note that application is in 3 broad steps:
REGISTER your Passport Number or National Identication Number, password and email address. LOGIN to online application form and fill in all sections completely.

2. Attach printed application form together with all requested documents, which include Recent passport size photograph; Completed Medical Report; A certified copy of current passport showing evidence of citizenship; A certified copy of academic transcript, testimonials and/or references relating to the relevant study, co-curriculum activities, achievements; A clear and precise study or research plan; A certified copy of English Language proficiency certificate (Test of English as a Foreign Language/TOEFL or International English Language Testing Service/IELTS); Curriculum Vitae; Admission letter from Malaysian University; Two letters of recommendation from two (2) people who can act as referees to support your application; AND Endorsement Form.

3. Scan all documents stated above in PDF format and LOGIN to MIS Online Application. You are required to attach the documents and click SUBMIT button to submit the application.
For complete information on application procedures and detailed requirements, visit the official web ssite (link to it is below).

DEADLINE:
The period for receipt of applications is from 15th January 2013 until 31st March 2013.

Also note:
You are required to complete the two Letters of Recommendation from two referees, Endorsement Form and Medical Report. Please bring printed ONLINE application form and required documents to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the relevant agency responsible for the MIS scholarship in your country to get the endorsement.

All the application is fully online. No hard copy is required. Bring the hard copy of application form and original certificate during the interview session.