Universiti Malaya (UM)
Universiti Malaya (UM) is Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious university, consistently serving as the nation's flagship institution for higher learning. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, UM achieved its highest-ever position at #56 globally, making it the only Malaysian university in the world's top 60.
Located on a lush 922-acre campus in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, UM is a hub for the country’s top academic talent and high-impact research. Highlights include:
- National Leader: Ranked #1 in Malaysia for Academic Reputation, Employer Reputation, and Employment Outcomes.
- Research Powerhouse: Home to over 60 research centers and a major teaching hospital (UMMC), leading the region in medical and scientific breakthroughs.
- Global Network: A member of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU), providing students with unmatched global
connectivity and exchange opportunities.
As a self-accrediting university with an Excellent (6-Star) SETARA rating, UM’s programs are globally benchmarked. Its core academic strengths include:
- Medicine & Health Sciences
- Law
- Engineering
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What Bachelor programs can international students study at UM?
International students can apply for almost all undergraduate programs through the Open Channel (SATU). Popular courses include Medicine (MBBS), Software Engineering, Accounting, Economics, and International & Strategic Studies. Specialized tracks in Actuarial Science and Architecture are also highly competitive.
When are the academic intakes at Universiti Malaya?
The main intake for the academic year 2026 is in October (Semester I). A secondary intake for selected programs is available in March (Semester II). International students are advised to apply via the UM borderless portal between February and June for the October session.
How much does it cost to study at UM?
For international students in 2026, tuition varies significantly by field. Arts and Social Science programs cost between MYR 50,000 and MYR 80,000 for the full degree. Engineering programs range from MYR 110,000 to MYR 135,000. The Bachelor of Medicine (MBBS) is the most expensive, totaling approximately MYR 673,200 for the 5-year program.
Where is Universiti Malaya located?
The campus is situated in Southwest Kuala Lumpur, strategically located between the city center and Petaling Jaya. It is highly accessible via public transport, with the Universiti and Kerinchi LRT stations nearby. The campus itself is a "green city," featuring its own lake, botanical gardens, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.
Is Universiti Malaya recognized internationally?
Yes, UM is the most internationally recognized university in Malaysia. It is ranked #58 in the world (QS 2026) and its degrees are recognized by professional bodies such as the General Medical Council (UK), Washington Accord (for Engineering), and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA).
How is Universiti Malaya (UM) ranked by QS?
Universiti Malaya (UM) is ranked #56 in the QS World University Rankings 2027. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, its strongest results are 34th for Petroleum Engineering, 40th for Theology, Divinity & Religious Studies, 42nd for Library & Information Management and the 51–100 band for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence; across the broad subject areas it ranks 72nd in Social Sciences & Management, 82nd in Engineering & Technology, 91st in Arts & Humanities, 121st in Life Sciences & Medicine and 142nd in Natural Sciences.
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