Do You Really Need an Agent for Studying in Malaysia? Pros, Cons, and Real Experiences

Study Agents for Malaysia Education

When searching for studying in Malaysia on Google, numerous study agent websites appear. They provide various information, such as features of each school, interview reports, detailed procedures for student visas, and assistance services. It seems natural to rely on study agents when pursuing education in Malaysia.

However, this is inevitable because unlike American, Canadian, or Chinese schools targeted by many Japanese students, few Malaysian language schools or universities have websites in Japanese. Therefore, when searching for "Study in Malaysia," Japanese study agent sites tend to dominate the search results.

By the way, "Don't Study in Malaysia" also appears, but...

Generally, when using a study agent, you pay a handling fee or a slightly higher fee compared to researching on your own. They assist with school selection, communication with schools, student visa procedures, flight arrangements, and more.

My Real Experience Without Using a Study Agent

While preparing to study abroad while working, I considered using a study agent as long as the cost was reasonable. I contacted one study agent, but as I mentioned in a previous blog post, they didn't provide information on language schools where I could study both Chinese and English.

Indeed, when searching for language schools that teach Chinese among those recommended by study agents, only one or two schools showed up.

There was a language school that offered one-on-one Chinese courses, which study agents didn't introduce. However, it was considered an irregular course, and schools that specialized in teaching only Chinese didn't appear in my personal research.

Since I wanted to thoroughly investigate schools where I could learn Chinese, I decided to research and apply on my own.

Moreover, since my time in graduate school, I had experience writing emails in English to libraries and research institutions abroad, so I didn't find English email communication particularly challenging.

Although there were some aspects I didn't understand regarding student visas and passport procedures, the staff at language schools, like study agents, were knowledgeable in handling such procedures and patiently explained them if I could explain the situation in English.

Benefits of Using Study Agents and Who Should Use Them?

For those who can't speak or write English at all and want to learn English from scratch in Malaysia, dealing with language school procedures in English can be difficult.

If you go to a language school without Japanese staff or staff who understand Japanese, you may have to email them in English when you have questions, and the writing style of English emails is quite different from Japanese emails that start with "Thank you for your continued support."

The benefit of using study agents is that they allow people who find it difficult to use English to complete procedures in Japanese.

There is also the advantage of knowing what solutions are available when facing difficulties based on their experience.

In my case, there was a desperate situation where the validity of my high school academic certificate had expired, and it couldn't be reissued (or so I thought).

Regarding this issue, I came across a blog by a study agent featuring stories of people who had obtained their certificate through special measures. With some hope left, I contacted my alma mater and managed to resolve the issue. In such situations where I encounter difficulties in my procedures, having someone to rely on feels more reassuring than handling everything alone.

Drawbacks of Using Study Agents

On the other hand, the disadvantages of using study agents include additional costs and the need to choose from the language schools they support (which is often the case).

As a working adult studying abroad, the financial burden is not a significant issue for me. However, for university students planning to study abroad, not only do they already spend a considerable amount on studying abroad, but additional costs might also force them.

to reconsider their budget. Study agents typically charge handling fees or higher fees compared to researching and applying on your own. This can add to the overall cost of studying abroad.

Another drawback is the limited selection of schools. Study agents usually have partnerships or agreements with specific language schools or universities. This means that you might have a restricted choice when it comes to selecting a school. The schools recommended by study agents may not necessarily align with your preferences or specific requirements.

Moreover, relying solely on study agents for information may limit your understanding of the options available. They may focus on promoting certain schools or programs, potentially leaving out other viable choices that could be a better fit for you. Conducting your own research allows you to explore a wider range of options and make an informed decision.

Personal Responsibility and Autonomy

One of the benefits of navigating the study abroad process independently is the development of personal responsibility and autonomy. Taking charge of your own research, application, and communication with schools can enhance your problem-solving skills and self-reliance. It allows you to have a deeper understanding of the process and take ownership of your educational journey.

By personally contacting schools, you can ask specific questions tailored to your needs and preferences. This direct interaction enables you to gather more detailed information and assess whether a particular institution meets your requirements. It also gives you the opportunity to gauge the responsiveness and supportiveness of the school's staff, which can be crucial for a positive study abroad experience.

Recommendations and Conclusion

In conclusion, the decision to use a study agent when studying in Malaysia depends on your individual circumstances, language proficiency, budget, and personal preferences. Study agents can provide valuable assistance, especially for individuals who have limited English proficiency or require additional support throughout the process. They offer convenience, guidance, and expertise in navigating the complexities of studying abroad.

However, if you are proficient in English, comfortable with conducting independent research, and prefer to have more control over your choices, you may consider exploring the option of applying to Malaysian schools directly without a study agent. This allows you to have a broader range of options and potentially save on additional fees.

Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons, consider your specific needs and preferences, and make an informed decision that aligns with your goals for studying in Malaysia.