University of Malaya (UM): Complete Guide for International Students

Introduction

The University of Malaya (UM) is Malaysia’s oldest and most prestigious university, consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in the world. Located in Kuala Lumpur, UM attracts thousands of international students each year with its academic excellence, research opportunities, and diverse campus culture.

Whether you’re planning to pursue an undergraduate, postgraduate, or exchange program, this guide provides everything you need to know about studying at UM — including admission requirements, courses, tuition fees, scholarships, campus life, and more.

Overview of the University of Malaya

Founded in 1949, the University of Malaya was established to serve the growing need for higher education in Southeast Asia. Today, it stands as a globally recognized institution for research, innovation, and teaching excellence.

Key Facts

• Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

• Established: 1949

• Type: Public Research University

• World Ranking: Top 100 globally (QS World University Rankings 2025)

• Student Population: Over 21,000 (including 4,000+ international students)

• Campus Size: 922 acres

• Language of Instruction: English and Malay

UM’s motto, “Ilmu Punca Kemajuan” (Knowledge is the Source of Progress), reflects its deep commitment to knowledge, progress, and global impact.

Why Choose the University of Malaya?

1. World-Class Reputation

UM’s reputation extends across Asia and globally. It is the No. 1 university in Malaysia and is known for producing highly employable graduates.

2. Affordable Education

Compared to Western universities, UM offers world-class education at a fraction of the cost. Tuition and living expenses are significantly lower, making it an attractive choice for students from developing countries.

3. Multicultural Campus

Students from over 80 countries study at UM, creating an environment rich in cultural diversity and international exchange.

4. Research Excellence

UM is recognized as a top research university, with advanced facilities in science, technology, engineering, and social sciences. It has active partnerships with global institutions such as Cambridge, Tokyo University, and the National University of Singapore.

5. Location Advantage

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, UM students have easy access to public transportation, shopping malls, entertainment hubs, and international companies for internships and networking.

Programs and Faculties

UM offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional programs across multiple disciplines.

Major Faculties and Institutes

• Faculty of Medicine

• Faculty of Engineering

• Faculty of Science

• Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences

• Faculty of Business and Accountancy

• Faculty of Law

• Faculty of Education

• Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology

• Faculty of Language and Linguistics

• Faculty of Built Environment

UM also has renowned research institutes such as:

• Institute of Graduate Studies (IPS)

• Institute of Research Management & Services (IPPP)

• Asia-Europe Institute (AEI)

Popular Courses for International Students

• Bachelor of Computer Science

• Bachelor of Business Administration

• Bachelor of Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Electrical)

• Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)

• Master of Public Health

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Linguistics

• PhD in Education or Environmental Studies

Admission Requirements

Undergraduate Programs

General Requirements:

• Completed 12 years of education (high school or equivalent)

• Minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.0

• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS 5.5+ / TOEFL iBT 70+)

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Personal statement

Additional Documents:

• Passport copy

• Recommendation letters

• Financial proof

Postgraduate Programs

Master’s Degree:

• Bachelor’s degree with at least 3.0 CGPA or equivalent

• Research proposal (for research-based programs)

• IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 80 or equivalent

PhD:

• Master’s degree in a relevant field

• Strong research proposal

• Supervisor acceptance (for research programs)

Tuition Fees (Estimated 2025)

Undergraduate Programs

• Arts and Social Sciences: USD 2,000 – 3,000 per year

• Engineering and Science: USD 3,000 – 4,000 per year

• Medicine and Dentistry: USD 10,000 – 20,000 per year

Postgraduate Programs

• Master’s (Coursework): USD 3,000 – 5,000 per year

• Master’s (Research): USD 2,500 – 4,000 per year

• PhD: USD 2,500 – 4,500 per year

Tuition varies by program, and additional fees (library, lab, and visa) may apply.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

UM offers a variety of scholarships for international students based on academic merit and financial need.

Popular Scholarships

• UM International Student Scholarship (UMISS) – Covers tuition fees and living allowance for outstanding international students.

• Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS) – Government-funded scholarship for high-achieving international students.

• ASEAN Scholarships – Available for students from ASEAN member countries.

• Research Assistantships – For postgraduate students involved in faculty research projects.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as scholarships are competitive and limited.

Campus Life at UM

Accommodation

UM provides on-campus and off-campus housing:

• Residential Colleges (on-campus): Affordable dormitories with Wi-Fi, cafeterias, and sports facilities.

  • Average cost: USD 50–150 per month

• Private Apartments (off-campus): Nearby condos and apartments offer more privacy.

  • Average cost: USD 200–400 per month

Food and Dining

The campus has numerous cafeterias serving Malaysian, Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisines. Meals typically cost between USD 1–3.

Student Organizations

UM offers over 80 student clubs and societies, covering:

• Cultural activities

• Sports and fitness

• Academic and professional groups

• Volunteer and community engagement

Facilities

• Libraries with 1 million+ volumes

• Research laboratories

• Sports complex and swimming pool

• Health clinic and counseling services

Living in Kuala Lumpur

Studying at UM means living in one of Asia’s most modern and dynamic cities.

Cost of Living

• Accommodation: USD 150–400/month

• Food: USD 100–200/month

• Transportation: USD 30–50/month

• Miscellaneous: USD 100–200/month
  Estimated total: USD 400–800 per month

Transportation

UM is conveniently located near public transportation lines such as MRT and LRT. Grab and buses are also widely used.

Safety

Kuala Lumpur is generally safe for students, but normal precautions (avoiding late-night walks, securing valuables) are advised.

Application Process

1. Choose a Program
   Visit UM’s website and select your desired course.

2. Prepare Documents
   Collect academic transcripts, English test results, passport copy, and recommendation letters.

3. Apply Online
   Submit your application via the UM Online Application System.

4. Receive Offer Letter
   If accepted, you’ll receive an official offer from the university.

5. Apply for Student Visa
   The university assists with your EMGS (Education Malaysia Global Services) visa application.

6. Arrange Accommodation & Travel
   Plan your arrival and orientation schedule.

Career Opportunities

UM graduates are highly employable in Malaysia and abroad. The university’s strong connections with industry partners open opportunities for internships and job placements.

Top Career Fields

• Engineering and Technology

• Business and Finance

• IT and Data Science

• Education and Research

• Medicine and Healthcare

Career Support

UM’s Career Centre provides job fairs, resume workshops, and career counseling services to help students prepare for the job market.

Alumni Network

The University of Malaya has a powerful alumni network across Asia and beyond. Many alumni hold leadership positions in government, academia, and international organizations. Notable alumni include:

• Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, former Prime Minister of Malaysia

• Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz, former Minister of Trade and Industry

• Dato’ Sri Anwar Ibrahim, current Prime Minister of Malaysia

Conclusion

The University of Malaya stands as a beacon of higher education in Southeast Asia — offering world-class academics, affordable tuition, and a vibrant multicultural environment. For international students seeking quality education with global recognition, UM provides an exceptional balance between academic excellence and life experience.

Whether you aim to build a career in business, engineering, or public service, the University of Malaya offers the foundation to succeed both locally and internationally.

Is the University of Malaya (UM) good for international students?

Yes. UM is Malaysia’s oldest and highest-ranked public university, known for research, industry links, and a highly diverse campus. International students benefit from English-medium instruction in most programs, affordable tuition and living costs, and strong career services.

Which programs are most popular with international students?

High-demand options include Computer Science, Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical), Business and Accountancy, Medicine and Health-related fields, Education, Linguistics, and selected Social Sciences. UM also offers research-intensive Master’s and PhD programs through its graduate institutes.

What are the general admission requirements (undergraduate)?

Applicants typically need completion of 12 years of schooling (or equivalent), competitive grades, proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent), a passport copy, academic transcripts, and a brief personal statement. Some programs may require subject prerequisites, portfolios, or interviews.

What are the admission requirements for postgraduate programs?

Master’s programs usually require a recognized Bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA set by the faculty, plus English proficiency and, for research tracks, a proposal aligned to a potential supervisor’s expertise. PhD applicants typically need a relevant Master’s degree, a strong research proposal, and confirmation of supervisory availability.

How much are tuition fees?

Fees vary by faculty and program intensity. Generally, Arts and Social Sciences are lower cost than Engineering/Science, while professional programs like Medicine are more expensive. Postgraduate research programs may be comparatively economical and can sometimes be offset by assistantships or grants.

Are scholarships available for international students?

Yes. Competitive awards may include UM’s internal merit scholarships, Malaysian government scholarships, ASEAN-focused aid, and faculty-funded research assistantships. Deadlines and eligibility vary, so apply early and prepare supporting documents (CV, research proposal, references).

What level of English do I need?

Most programs taught in English require a recognized test score (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL). Minimums differ by faculty; competitive applications often exceed the minimum. Some applicants may receive conditional offers requiring language improvement before or during enrollment.

How do I apply?

Choose a program, review faculty-specific requirements, prepare documents (transcripts, certificates, English scores, passport), and submit an online application through UM’s portal. After an offer, you’ll proceed with fee payment, visa processing via Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), and pre-arrival arrangements.

What is the student visa process like?

Once you receive an offer and pay initial fees, UM coordinates with EMGS to process your Student Pass. You will upload required documents (medical screening, passport pages, photo, financial evidence). After approval, obtain a Single-Entry Visa (if required), enter Malaysia, and finalize your Student Pass in-country.

How much does it cost to live in Kuala Lumpur as a student?

Budget ranges depend on lifestyle, but many students estimate monthly costs covering accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses to be moderate compared with other Asian capitals. On-campus residential colleges are usually the most economical; private apartments near campus offer more privacy and amenities.

Does UM provide on-campus housing?

Yes. Residential colleges (hostels) offer furnished rooms, internet access, cafeterias, study spaces, sports facilities, and pastoral support. Availability is limited and priority rules may apply. Many students also rent nearby apartments or condominiums with convenient access to campus and public transport.

What is campus life like?

Vibrant and multicultural. Students can join academic societies, cultural clubs, sports teams, volunteer groups, and entrepreneurship communities. Facilities include libraries, labs, maker spaces, sports complexes, health services, and counseling. Orientation activities help new international students settle in quickly.

Is Kuala Lumpur safe for students?

Kuala Lumpur is generally safe, with standard urban precautions recommended. UM’s campus security, lighting, and transport options support student well-being. Keep valuables secure, use registered ride-hailing or public transit, and follow university safety advisories.

Can international students work part-time?

Malaysian regulations may allow limited, permission-based part-time work for international students during semester breaks or under specific conditions. Always check the latest EMGS and immigration rules, and confirm with UM’s international office before accepting employment.

What support does UM offer for careers and internships?

UM’s career center runs workshops, CV clinics, employer talks, and job fairs. Many faculties have industry partnerships for internships and projects. Research students can gain experience via lab roles, publications, and conference participation, enhancing academic and non-academic career paths.

How strong is UM’s research environment?

UM is a leading research university with internationally recognized centers across engineering, medical and health sciences, computer science, environmental studies, social sciences, and the humanities. Postgraduates benefit from supervisor mentorship, access to modern facilities, and opportunities for grants and publications.

Are there exchange or short-term study options?

Yes. UM partners with universities worldwide for student exchanges, visiting research, and short programs. Credits may transfer subject to home institution approval. Application windows and eligibility vary by agreement and faculty guidelines.

What documents should I prepare before arrival?

Typical items include your offer letter, visa approval letter, passport (with validity buffer), academic records, English test results, medical screening documents, proof of finances or scholarship, accommodation confirmation, and copies of important documents stored separately.

How can I estimate my total first-year budget?

Create a line-item plan: tuition and mandatory fees; visa, medical, and insurance costs; housing deposit and monthly rent; utilities and internet; meals and groceries; transport; books and supplies; and a contingency for emergencies. Track spending monthly and adjust if needed.

Any tips to strengthen my application?

Meet or exceed English requirements, present clear academic goals, show relevant achievements (projects, internships, competitions), secure strong recommendations, and—if applying to research tracks—submit a focused, feasible proposal that aligns with a UM supervisor’s expertise.

Malaysia University Guide 2025: Best Universities, Programs, and Scholarships for International Students