Universiti Malaya
Malaysia's oldest and highest-ranked public research university.
About
Universiti Malaya (UM) is Malaysia's premier public research university, established in 1905 in Kuala Lumpur. It consistently ranks as the nation's top institution and is a member of the ASEAN University Network and APRU.
UM offers comprehensive programs across medicine, engineering, law, business, arts, and sciences. Its campus in Lembah Pantai combines historic architecture with modern research facilities.
International students are drawn to UM for globally recognized degrees, strong industry links, and vibrant student life in the heart of Malaysia's capital.
Academics
Study levels
Faculties & schools
Popular programs
| Program | Level |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) | Bachelor's |
| Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) | Bachelor's |
| Bachelor of Business Administration | Bachelor's |
| Bachelor of Laws (LLB) | Bachelor's |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | Master's |
Research centres
UM Centre for Research in Biotechnology
Leading biotechnology and life sciences research with industry partnerships.
Institute of Ocean and Earth Sciences
Marine science, climate research, and environmental sustainability studies.
Centre for Civilisational Dialogue
Intercultural studies and humanities research across ASEAN.
UM Big Data Centre
Data science, AI, and analytics research for public and private sectors.
Campuses
Main Campus (Lembah Pantai)
50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
UM Medical Centre
Lembah Pantai, Kuala Lumpur
Admissions
Intakes
General requirements
- Completed secondary education equivalent to STPM, A-Levels, or IB Diploma
- Minimum academic grades vary by program (typically CGPA 3.0+ or equivalent)
- Foundation or matriculation pathway accepted for direct entry to degree programs
- Interview or aptitude test required for medicine, dentistry, and selected competitive programs
English requirements
- IELTS: 5.5–6.5 overall (varies by faculty)
- TOEFL iBT: 60–80 (varies by faculty)
- MUET: Band 3–4 for undergraduate programs
- Exemptions available for students from English-medium education backgrounds
Requirements vary by program — confirm with ARNE counselors.
Required documents
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts and certificates (notarized)
- Passport copy
- English proficiency test results
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Reference letters (for postgraduate)
- Medical check-up report (for selected programs)
Tuition fees (estimate)
Estimated international tuition: RM 25,000–45,000/year for undergraduate programs; medicine and dentistry are higher. Fees are approximate and subject to change — confirm with UM or ARNE counselors.
International students
UM hosts thousands of international students from over 80 countries. The International Student Centre provides orientation, cultural integration programs, and ongoing welfare support.
Support services
- International Student Centre (visa and welfare support)
- On-campus accommodation (limited; early application advised)
- Buddy program and cultural societies
- Career counselling and internship placement
- Health services at UM Medical Centre
Visa & EMGS
International students require an EMGS-approved student pass. UM issues the offer letter required to begin the EMGS application process.
Apply with ARNE
Ready to apply to Universiti Malaya? Our counselors will guide you through program selection, document preparation, and your EMGS student pass application.