Higher education promises substantial economic returns. Hence, more countries are interested in exporting this commodity to the international market, including Malaysia. Various plans have been drawn up and steps have been taken in realising this dream. In measuring the achievement, monitoring is a must. Analysis on international demand for Malaysian higher education is one of compulsory monitoring measures. Hence, this paper analyses selected literatures in producing a solid empirical basis. Proposed also are two macro variables that are capable in replacing the initial base in this field of study. It is hoped that this paper provides an idea on empirical macro-researches in exploring the international demand for Malaysian higher education.