Universiti Sains Malaysia
Malaysia's Apex university and a leader in research and innovation.
About
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is one of Malaysia's oldest public universities, founded in 1969 on Penang Island. It holds Apex university status — the highest research designation awarded by the Malaysian government.
USM is renowned for engineering, health sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, and sustainable development. Its main campus in Minden, Penang offers a scenic hilltop setting with strong research infrastructure.
The university emphasizes innovation, community engagement, and transdisciplinary research, making it a top choice for science and technology students.
Academics
Study levels
Faculties & schools
Popular programs
| Program | Level |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Pharmacy | Bachelor's |
| Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical & Electronic) | Bachelor's |
| Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery | Bachelor's |
| Bachelor of Computer Science | Bachelor's |
| Master of Science (Research) | Master's |
Research centres
Centre for Global Sustainability Studies
Sustainability, climate change, and environmental policy research.
National Poison Centre
Toxicology research and public health poison information services.
Collaborative Drug Discovery Research (CDDR)
Pharmaceutical and drug development research.
Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine
Biomedical and molecular medicine research.
Campuses
Main Campus (Minden)
11800 Penang, Malaysia
Health Campus
Kubang Kerian, Kelantan
Engineering Campus
Nibong Tebal, Penang
Admissions
Intakes
General requirements
- STPM, A-Levels, IB, or equivalent with satisfactory grades
- Foundation or matriculation certificate for direct degree entry
- Portfolio or audition for design and arts programs
- Medical and dental programs require additional screening
English requirements
- IELTS: 5.0–6.0 overall (program-dependent)
- TOEFL iBT: 46–60
- MUET: Band 3 minimum for most programs
Requirements vary by program — confirm with ARNE counselors.
Required documents
- Application form and academic transcripts
- Passport biodata page
- English test results
- Health declaration form
- Offer acceptance and fee payment receipt
Tuition fees (estimate)
Estimated international tuition: RM 18,000–35,000/year for most undergraduate programs. Health sciences and engineering may be higher. Confirm current fees with USM.
International students
USM welcomes international students to its Penang campuses, offering a multicultural environment in one of Malaysia's most liveable cities.
Support services
- Institute of Postgraduate Studies (international student support)
- On-campus hostels and off-campus housing assistance
- International student societies
- Sports and recreation facilities
- Library and digital learning resources
Visa & EMGS
USM coordinates EMGS student pass applications for admitted international students through its international office.
Apply with ARNE
Ready to apply to Universiti Sains Malaysia? Our counselors will guide you through program selection, document preparation, and your EMGS student pass application.