Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development (MOHE) has announced that it will cover the newly introduced six percent tax on tuition fees for Maldivian students studying in Malaysia under government scholarships and loan schemes.

The tax, imposed by the Malaysian government starting this month, applies to college tuition fees paid by foreign students enrolled in private schools, colleges, and universities. Educational institutions charging RM60,000 or more annually must now register to pay this tax.

In a statement, MOHE said it will ensure that Maldivian students are not financially burdened by the policy change. For scholarship recipients, the tax will be included in the tuition invoices sent to the ministry by their respective universities or training centres.

"For students studying under the Higher Education Loan Assistance Scheme, the tax amount will be added to their existing loans upon request," the ministry added. Students must complete the application form available at https://forms.gle/LHwgjTf2V5ZBRAuv5 to receive the additional loan disbursement.

The ministry emphasised its commitment to supporting Maldivian students abroad and ensuring continued access to quality higher education despite changes in foreign policies.