MUET

Overview

The Malaysian University English Test (MUET) is an English proficiency test run by the Malaysian Examinations Council (MEC, or MPM in Malay). It measures whether a candidate is ready for degree-level study in English. MUET results are compulsory for entry into bachelor's degree programmes at Malaysian public universities, subject to each university's own requirements.

The test has four papers: Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing. The results are given as an aggregated score out of 360 and a band from 1.0 to 5+, aligned to the CEFR. The specification in force applies to sessions from 2021 onward, until further notice.

Who can apply

There is no entry requirement. Local and foreign candidates can sit the test. Candidates register either through their school or institution or, as private individuals, online through the MEC portal.

Exam pattern

Listening, Reading and Writing are taken on the same day. The Speaking test is scheduled separately, spread over about two weeks.

Listening. Five parts and 30 questions in total, mostly multiple choice, with one matching task. Each recording is played twice.

Speaking. Part 1 is an individual presentation from a written prompt, with 2 minutes to prepare and 2 minutes to speak. Part 2 is a group discussion based on a question and five prompts shown as a mind map, with 3 minutes to prepare and 8 to 12 minutes to discuss.

Reading. Seven parts and 40 questions. The tasks include matching, multiple choice and a gapped text where removed sentences must be put back.

Writing. Two tasks. Task 1 is a letter or email of at least 100 words in reply to a short message. Task 2 is an essay of at least 250 words (discursive, argumentative or problem-solution) on a short statement.

Marking and results

Each paper is scored out of 90, giving an aggregated score out of 360. The aggregated score maps to a band.

Band 5+ corresponds to CEFR C1+, band 5.0 to C1, bands 4.0 and 4.5 to B2, and bands 3.0 and 3.5 to B1.

A candidate must attempt all four papers to receive a band and certificate. Results are issued as a certificate, and are also available on the MEC portal.

Important dates

MUET is held three times a year, called Session 1, Session 2 and Session 3. MEC also offers MUET on Demand, a separate service with its own fees. The MEC calendar for 2026 (updated 25 February 2026) gives these dates. Each candidate's own dates appear on the registration slip (MUET/D), and dates can be changed by MEC.

Fees

Fees on the MEC portal (page dated 9 July 2026) are RM150.00 for Malaysian candidates and RM350.00 for non-Malaysian candidates. Individual private candidates pay online by internet banking when they register. School and institution candidates register through their coordinator.

How to apply

1. Check the registration period on the MEC portal.

2. Register online (private candidates) or through your school or institution.

3. Pay the fee in full before the test.

4. Download the registration slip (MUET/D) from the portal to see your test centre and dates.

After the exam

MUET results issued from 2009 are valid for five years from the date the results were issued. Results are presented as a certificate issued through the State Education Department; candidates from schools and institutions collect results from their school or institution. Universities set their own requirements, so check the requirement of the course you want.

Preparation tips

• Use the official sample questions on the MEC portal to learn the task types.

• Practise the Speaking Part 2 discussion with other people, not only alone.

• For Writing, rehearse both a formal letter or email and a 250-word essay inside the 75 minutes.