Lori Meadows
Being a university student in Myanmar comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. While the country's higher education system has expanded significantly since 1988, with an increase in the number of universities and disciplines offered, it still ranks low globally. University students in Myanmar face issues such as rote learning, poorly trained teachers, bribery, and outdated resources. However, they also have the chance to tailor their student experience through various social and cultural clubs, sports teams, and travel opportunities. The Ministry of Education is working to improve the quality of higher education by implementing development plans that encourage creativity and analytical thinking. Despite the challenges, universities in Myanmar offer a diverse range of academic programs and the opportunity to develop life skills that can set students up for a brighter future.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of university types | 33 |
| University disciplines | medical, technical, agricultural, educational, economic, liberal arts, science, computer science, Myanmar studies, public policy, English, creative writing |
| Matriculation exam participants | 300,000 |
| Student population | Varies, some universities have offered more flexible schedules with morning, evening, and night courses |
| Education development plans | Short and long-term plans to improve quality, access, and diversity |
| Education reform | National Education Law passed in 2015, leading to student protests demanding university autonomy |
| International recognition | Some universities in Myanmar have partnerships with international institutions, such as Asia e University in Malaysia |
| Entry requirements | For postgraduate programmes, a recognised Bachelor's degree of at least 5 years is typically required; relevant work experience may also be considered |
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What You'll Learn
University entry requirements
Myanmar has experienced a large expansion of higher education institutions since 1988, growing from 9 types of universities to 33 in 2011-2012. The universities are highly centralized and state-run, with each corresponding ministry in charge of running them. For example, medical schools are overseen by the Ministry of Health and Sports, while agricultural schools are managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation.
The Ministry of Education (MoE) plays a pivotal role in the country's education system. It administers most higher education institutions and conducts annual matriculation exams, which are taken by about 300,000 students. Some universities set minimum exam scores for student acceptance, with medical and senior engineering schools typically requiring the highest scores.
The University of Distance Education in Yangon (lower Myanmar) and Mandalay (upper Myanmar) offers 19 disciplines, including recently added subjects like Myanmar studies, public policy, English, and creative writing. These universities employ modern technology, such as the Satellite Data Broadcasting System, to facilitate distance learning.
Myanmar also has independent colleges like the Myanmar Institute of Higher Education (MIE), established in 2014, which aims to empower students to achieve professional and personal success. Additionally, the country has partnered with international universities like Asia e University in Malaysia, which offers online learning and attracts a diverse student population.
For students aspiring to pursue postgraduate studies, a recognized Bachelor's degree of at least five years is typically required. Relevant work experience is often advantageous, and some courses may require specific subjects to be studied beforehand. For PhD programs, a good Master's degree and a research proposal are usually expected.
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Student protests and education reform
Myanmar's higher education system is entirely state-run, with liberal arts and science universities run by the Ministry of Education and medical schools run by the Ministry of Health. The Burmese government has a firm grip on education, from determining the specific curriculum to eliminating educational opportunities for ethnic minority groups.
In response to this, Burmese students have a history of mobilizing against the regime. Most notably, in 1988, students in Rangoon organized a series of pro-democracy protests known as the 8888 Uprising. The State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC)’s military coup shut down the movement, and the government closed all universities for two years as punishment.
In 2014, students once again protested against the National Education Law, which they believed would curb academic freedom and allow the government to intervene in civil society. The earliest protests occurred in May 2014, with students at colleges and universities in the Mandalay Region holding ongoing demonstrations. On November 14, about 350 students from Myanmar University gathered in downtown Yangon to begin the Four-Day March, organized by the Action Committee for Democratic Education (ACDE). Students, teachers, and supporters of reform marched through the streets, waving flags and holding signs that read, "we need academic freedom" and "we are students, not customers."
The protests were met with violence from the police, with officers using physical force against the demonstrators and arresting 65 protesters on charges of "insulting civil servants" and "refusal to disperse." Despite this, the students continued their resistance, with over 100 initiating an illegal 404-mile march from Mandalay to Yangon. The government refused to engage in peaceful discourse and failed to consider the proposed policy reforms.
The National League for Democracy, the main opposition party, distanced itself from the student protests, stating that they did not follow the National Network for Education Reform and did not endorse its criticism of the law. However, the Myanmar Teachers Federation cooperated with the student unions, pushing for education reform that would benefit the country.
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Higher education expansion
Higher education in Myanmar has witnessed significant expansion since 1988, despite ranking among the lowest globally for universities. This expansion has been marked by a series of closures due to student protests, notably during the 8888 uprising in 1988, which led to a two-year shutdown of all universities. Subsequent protests in 1996 and 1998 resulted in an additional three-year closure.
The Ministry of Education, through its Departments of Higher Education for Lower and Upper Myanmar, administers and coordinates higher education in the country. The Ministry's short and long-term education development plans aim to enhance quality, access, and diversity in higher education. These plans include initiatives such as the establishment of the National Center for Human Resource Development, which provides flexible options for students pursuing higher education. The Ministry also conducts annual matriculation exams, with approximately 300,000 students taking these exams each year.
Myanmar currently has 163 state-funded higher education universities. The Ministry of Education directly controls 66 universities, while the remaining 97 fall under the purview of 12 other ministries, including Health, Science and Technology, Defense, Culture, and Agriculture. Each university is specialised in different disciplines, such as medicine, agriculture, and engineering. The expansion of higher education in Myanmar is driven by the government's vision to empower individuals to make informed decisions and seize economic opportunities. This is reflected in the increasing investment in education, with a 107% increase in funding from fiscal year 2012 to 2013.
The modern education system in Myanmar has its roots in British colonial rule, with the first Government High School established in 1874, which later became University College, Rangoon. During this period, access to education, particularly for women, expanded significantly. The independence of Burma in 1948 brought a renewed focus on creating a literate and educated population. Today, Myanmar's literacy rate stands at 89.5%, according to the 2014 Myanmar Census. While the government's annual budget allocation for education is relatively low, at 1.2%, there is a growing presence of privately funded schools, especially those specialising in English instruction.
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Online learning and flexibility
The higher education system in Myanmar has undergone significant expansion and diversification since 1988, evolving from solely offering arts and science disciplines to embracing a broader range of fields, including medical, technical, agricultural, educational, and economic streams. This expansion has been accompanied by a push for greater flexibility in higher education, with the Ministry of Education taking several initiatives to enhance accessibility and convenience for students.
One notable development is the establishment of the University of Distance Education in Yangon and Mandalay, offering courses in 19 diverse disciplines. These universities leverage modern technology, such as the Satellite Data Broadcasting System, to transmit lessons to learning centers conveniently located for students. The Ministry of Education's National Center for Human Resource Development further enriches this landscape by providing vocational, technological, and professional courses that cater to a wide range of student demands and preferences.
The Thirty-Year Long-Term Education Development Plan, crafted by the Ministry of Education, underscores the commitment to enhancing the quality of education in Myanmar. This plan promotes creativity, analytical thinking, and a passion for learning among students. To achieve these goals, new assessment techniques are being introduced, emphasizing critical thinking skills over rote memorization.
Asia e University (AeU), a digital global university in partnership with Myanmar, exemplifies the fusion of flexibility and online learning. AeU's MBA curriculum blends eastern and western perspectives, catering to students who travel frequently or juggle work and study simultaneously. The university's APEL.Q pathway allows students to build upon their prior learning and professional experience, fast-tracking their educational journey and conserving valuable time and resources. The diverse student population at AeU, comprising individuals from various nations and backgrounds, enriches the overall learning experience and fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas.
Additionally, AeU's PhD programme stands out for its flexible mode of learning, complementing its affordability, and enabling students to effectively manage their work, family, and academic commitments. The supportive academic environment, characterized by creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of community, accelerates learning and empowers students to pursue their passions. The university's recognition of prior learning and professional experience translates into tangible benefits for seasoned professionals, enriching their academic and professional contributions.
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Scholarships and funding
As a university student in Myanmar, there are several scholarship and funding opportunities available to support your studies. These include both local and international scholarships offered by universities, governments, and other organisations. Here is some information on scholarships and funding for Myanmar university students:
Local Scholarships:
Myanmar universities often provide scholarships for their students. These scholarships are typically merit-based or need-based and can cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both. Reach out to your university's financial aid office or student services to inquire about specific scholarships and how to apply.
International Scholarships:
There are also international scholarships specifically for Myanmar students who wish to study abroad. These scholarships are often provided by foreign universities seeking to attract international students or by organisations promoting educational exchange. For example, the University of Portsmouth in the UK welcomes students from Myanmar and may offer scholarships for eligible candidates.
Additionally, here are some specific international scholarships to look out for:
- International Priority Scholarship (IPS): Offered by universities like Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), IPS is open to international students pursuing bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees.
- Universitas Negeri Padang International Scholarship: This is an in-house scholarship offered by Universitas Negeri Padang (UNP) for international students.
- Country-Specific Scholarships: Some countries offer scholarships specifically for students from Myanmar. For instance, the Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant Program is one such opportunity for the academic year 2025-2026.
Scholarships for Specific Degrees:
Scholarships are also available for Myanmar students pursuing specific degree types:
- Undergraduate Scholarships: International Undergraduate Scholarships are offered for bachelor's students.
- Postgraduate Scholarships: For master's students, the NEXTSHIP scholarship from UNNES is an option.
- Doctoral Scholarships: PhD Scholarships are available for students pursuing doctoral research.
Other Funding Opportunities:
In addition to scholarships, there may be other funding opportunities such as grants, fellowships, or work-study programs. These can be offered by universities, private organisations, or government agencies. It's worth exploring these options to supplement your scholarship applications and increase your chances of securing financial support for your studies.
Remember to carefully review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each scholarship. Stay informed by regularly checking scholarship websites and staying in touch with your university's international office or local representatives.
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements vary depending on the university and the course. For example, to enter a postgraduate Master's programme, you will need to have completed a Bachelor's degree and some courses will require relevant work experience.
Higher education in Myanmar has experienced a large expansion since 1988, with the number of university types increasing from 9 to 33. Universities are highly centralized and state-run, with different disciplines being split between different universities, such as medical, technical, agricultural, educational, and economic schools.
There are 33 types of universities in Myanmar, including the University of Distance Education, Yangon in lower Myanmar and the University of Distance Education, Mandalay in upper Myanmar. Other universities include the Myanmar Institute of Higher Education and Asia e University.
There have been student protests in Yangon and Mandalay following the passing of the National Education Law in 2015, which created a National Education Commission to control the education system. The students are demanding autonomy for universities.
Yes, if you're from Myanmar and want to study abroad, you may be eligible for scholarships to study at universities in other countries, such as the University of Portsmouth in the UK.
