Malaysian University English Test

Malaysian University English Test (MUET) is a test of English language proficiency, largely used for university admissions in Malaysia. The test is set and run by the Malaysian Examinations Council and was established in 1999. MUET is largely recognised in Malaysia and Singapore, with other countries such as United Kingdom (UK), United States of America (USA) and Hong Kong.

MUET is a prerequisite for admissions into all public universities and colleges in Malaysia. Besides that, public servants also take MUET as an English qualification and for promotion opportunities.

From 2012 onwards, MUET is administered three times a year, in March, July and November. Candidate can choose whether to take the test at the beginning, middle or end of the year. Registration for the mid-year test opens in mid-January and closes in early February, while registration for the end-of-year test opens in early May and closes in early July. Refer to the MUET schedule for closing dates.

Besides that, an alternative test, MUET on Demand (computer based test), is also held in nearly every month for candidates who are urgent to get the MUET results. On average, 85,000 candidates sit for the MUET each time.

Candidates for this test must register at their respective schools/institutions. For private candidates and other candidates, they can register at any State Education Department (JPN) office. Registration forms can be obtained at JPN at a price of RM2.00 a set. The test fee is RM100.00 where previously it was RM50.00. There is also a book containing the test rules and scheme, syllabus and sample questions published and can be purchased by candidates.

From 2021, MUET has undergone a major change in format.

The four components of the MUET test
There are four components in MUET are as follows: The duration and weighting of each component are as follows:
 * Listening
 * Speaking
 * Reading
 * Writing

Scoring & Band Scale
Starting from MUET 2021, the maximum scores for each component are 90, makes an aggregated score of 360. The scores are graded in nine bands, including half bands, with Band 5+ being the highest while Band 1.0 the lowest.

Prior to MUET 2020, the maximum scores for each component is 45 for Listening and Speaking, 120 for Reading Comprehension and 90 for Writing, with an aggregated score of 300. The scores are then graded in six bands, with Band 6 being the highest while Band 1 the lowest.

Results
School/institution candidates can collect their MUET test result slip from their respective schools/institutions, while individual private candidates from the State Education Department (JPN).

MUET results are presented in a results slip that shows:


 * The test taker's name, index number (candidate number) and national identity number.


 * Obtained score for each components of the test (Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing)
 * Obtained aggregated score of all the components of the test.


 * Band Achieved (from Band 1 to Band 6 or Band 1 to Band 5+)

The validity period for MUET results are as follows:


 * Prior year 2009, the validity period is until 18 July 2013.
 * From year 2009, the validity period is five years from the date of issue of results.

Locations and test dates
The MUET test centres are largely in public secondary schools that offer Form Six, matriculation colleges, certain universities, as well as certain private and semi-private colleges.

Listening, Reading and Writing components are usually tested on the same day, normally the second or the fourth Saturday of the month. The Speaking component is held on separate day, usually before the written test.

University Entry English Requirement
STPM, Matriculation or Diploma students applying for admission to pursue a first degree at a local higher education institution must show evidence that they have taken the MUET test.