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General Studies - Spi (Spi) (Monash Malaysia)

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Monash University Malaysia

Last checked: 25 Oct 2026 UTC

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Malaysia’s geographic location at the centre of Southeast Asia and along popular maritime routes has produced a country rich in history and culture. Since its birth in 1963, the country has had to contend with its fractured past and diverse people. Explore the rich heritage of Malaysia, develop intercultural competencies, and delve into the contemporary issues facing this rapidly developing nation with the General Studies program.

Enrolment in General Studies is a Malaysian government requirement for all students studying in Malaysia. At Monash University Malaysia, we see this as an opportunity to grow in our knowledge and experience of Malaysia as well as to engage critically with issues relevant to the country. Please explore our site for more information on General Studies, or visit your School's Education Management Office. For a quick rundown on General Studies matters, you may also check out our General Studies briefing (accessible with Monash OKTA only) and Frequently Asked Questions.

General Studies Briefing (accessible with Monash OKTA only)

Frequently Asked Questions

Related questions

What is GPA at Monash?

All campuses

GPA is calculated on a 4.0 scale from your grades rather than your marks: High Distinction 4.0, Distinction 3.0, Credit 2.0, Pass 1.0, Near pass 0.7, Fail and Hurdle fail 0.3, Withdrawn fail 0.0. Some results, such as SFR and NE, are not counted. Your GPA is shown in WES and on your transcript. Malaysia also uses a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) with different values: High Distinction 4.0, Distinction 3.67, Credit 2.85, Pass 2.15, Near pass 1.7, Fail and Hurdle fail 1.15, Withdrawn fail 0.0. It is not on your academic record, so you request a CGPA letter.

How do I withdraw from a unit?

Australia: withdraw through WES while enrolment changes are open. Before the census date there is no fee and no record; after it, you keep the fee liability and the unit shows as a withdrawal. If you are on a student visa you have study load requirements to maintain: Monash's study load page says you can reduce your load only in compassionate or compelling circumstances, unless you are in your final year and will finish within the time on your CoE. Malaysia: after the census date a withdrawn unit shows as WD-LATE or WD-FAIL, and the date you withdraw can affect fee refunds and your academic record. The last day to withdraw without academic penalty is before the WD-LATE date ends; the dates are in Monash Malaysia's Principal Dates. With a Student Pass, going below 24 credit points a semester is an underload: it needs approval, it can never go below 18 credit points, and below 18 you have to apply for intermission.

How many hours can I work on a student visa?

The rules are each country's, not Monash's, and they are different. Australia: work rights for student visa holders are set by the Australian Government, and the cap has changed several times in recent years. Monash's page links to the current Department of Home Affairs conditions - always confirm the number there before relying on it. Malaysia: with a Student Pass you may work only during semester breaks or public holidays of more than seven days, and for no more than 20 hours a week, at restaurants, petrol kiosks, mini markets or hotels; the page lists jobs that are not allowed. Every job has to be approved by the Immigration Department: you apply through the International Student Pass office and must be there in person when the application is submitted.

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