North Sumatra University
North Sumatra University: Empowering Indonesia, Engaging the World.
📍 Medan, Indonesia 🇮🇩
🏆 #15 in Indonesia · QS World #1001 · THE World #1491
Quick Facts about North Sumatra University
- Type: Public
- Students: 42,996
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $1,500 – $3,500/year
- Language: Indonesian, English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 1:21
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About North Sumatra University
Academics
USU offers a comprehensive range of over one hundred study programs across 15 faculties and one graduate school, including 47 undergraduate, 64 postgraduate, 28 specialist, and 15 vocational programs. The university emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, encouraging interdisciplinary studies and providing extensive research opportunities for students. Notable programs include Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy, which are particularly popular among international students.
International Students
USU provides a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students, with support services designed to help them adjust academically and socially. The International Affairs Office (IAO) offers guidance and counseling, support with immigration documents like study permits and student visas, and facilitates cultural integration. While the primary language of instruction is Indonesian, some programs, such as the Master's Program in English Language, are taught in English.
Campus & Location
The main USU campus spans 120 hectares in the Padang Bulan subdistrict of Medan, close to the city center, with a new 300-hectare campus under construction in Kwala Bekala. Medan, as a multicultural city, offers a vibrant urban experience with diverse ethnic groups and a rich culinary scene. The campus itself features solid infrastructure, including a highly-rated library, over 200 laboratories, student housing, sports facilities, and a university hospital.
Career Outcomes
USU is dedicated to preparing graduates for the workforce by continuously updating its curriculum to meet evolving job market demands. The university fosters strong industry connections and offers career services, including internship programs with partner companies. USU also actively promotes an entrepreneurial spirit through its Business Incubation and Development Program, aiming to cultivate new student entrepreneurs based on science and technology.
Information for International Students at North Sumatra University
North Sumatra University in Medan, Indonesia welcomes international students.
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$200000/month)
- Teaching languages: Indonesian, English
Admissions Requirements for North Sumatra University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to North Sumatra University:
- IELTS minimum: 5.5
- TOEFL minimum: 61
- Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%)
- Application deadline: July 11, 2025
Programs at North Sumatra University (39 programs)
North Sumatra University offers 39 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (16)
- Bachelor of Law (BA) — 48 months · Indonesian
Provides a comprehensive understanding of legal principles, judicial processes, and legal systems, preparing students for careers in law, government, and business.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Advisor - Bachelor of Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
Students learn to design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings, with a strong emphasis on structural analysis and project management.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Construction Manager, Urban Planner - Bachelor of Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program covers fundamental concepts of computing, programming languages, data structures, and algorithms, preparing students for careers in software development and IT.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, IT Consultant - Bachelor of Psychology (BA) — 48 months · Indonesian
This program explores human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional development, providing a foundation for careers in counseling, human resources, or further psychological studies.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher - Bachelor of Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
Develops strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of pure and applied mathematics, preparing students for careers in research, education, and various industries.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Statistician, Actuary, Data Analyst - Bachelor of Economics (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian
Students learn economic theories, principles, and analytical tools to understand market behavior, policy implications, and global economic trends.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economic Analyst, Market Researcher, Financial Planner - Bachelor of Architecture (BSc) — 60 months · Indonesian · STEM
Students learn architectural design principles, building technology, urban planning, and sustainable design practices to create functional and aesthetically pleasing structures.
Field: Architecture
Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Designer, Interior Designer - Bachelor of Communication Science (BA) — 48 months · Indonesian
Students explore various aspects of communication, including media studies, public relations, and journalism, developing skills for effective communication in diverse contexts.
Field: Communication
Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Marketing Communications Manager - Bachelor of Dentistry (BSc) — 60 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides comprehensive training in oral health, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental diseases, preparing students to become skilled dental practitioners.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dentist, Oral Surgeon, Dental Researcher - Bachelor of Pharmacy (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
Students gain knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences, drug discovery, development, and clinical pharmacy, preparing them to become competent pharmacists.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Bachelor of Animal Science (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program focuses on animal husbandry, nutrition, breeding, and health management, preparing students for careers in livestock production, animal welfare, and related industries.
Field: Animal Science
Career outcomes: Animal Scientist, Farm Manager, Veterinary Assistant - Bachelor of Medicine (BSc) — 72 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides comprehensive medical education, covering basic medical sciences, clinical skills, and ethical practices to prepare students for a career as a general practitioner.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: General Practitioner, Medical Researcher, Public Health Officer - Bachelor of Dentistry (BSc) — 60 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides comprehensive training in oral health, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of dental diseases, preparing students to become skilled dental practitioners.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Dentist, Oral Surgeon, Dental Researcher - Bachelor of Pharmacy (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
Students gain knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences, drug discovery, development, and clinical pharmacy, preparing them to become competent pharmacists.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Bachelor of Animal Science (BSc) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program focuses on animal husbandry, nutrition, breeding, and health management, preparing students for careers in livestock production, animal welfare, and related industries.
Field: Animal Science
Career outcomes: Animal Scientist, Farm Manager, Veterinary Assistant - Bachelor of Medicine (BSc) — 72 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides comprehensive medical education, covering basic medical sciences, clinical skills, and ethical practices to prepare students for a career as a general practitioner.
Field: Medicine
Career outcomes: General Practitioner, Medical Researcher, Public Health Officer
Master Programs (13)
- Master of Pharmacy (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program offers advanced studies in pharmaceutical sciences, drug discovery, clinical pharmacy, and pharmaceutical technology, preparing graduates for specialized roles in the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare.
Field: Pharmacy
Career outcomes: Clinical Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Researcher, Drug Regulatory Affairs Specialist - Master of Chemical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian · STEM
Advanced studies in chemical processes, reactor design, separation technologies, and process control, preparing graduates for leadership roles in chemical and related industries.
Field: Chemical Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Scientist - Master of Linguistics (MA) — 24 months · Indonesian
Provides advanced study in the structure, meaning, and use of language, including theoretical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and applied linguistics.
Field: Linguistics
Career outcomes: Linguist, Language Researcher, Translator - Master of Management (MBA) — 24 months · Indonesian
This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in business management, leadership, and strategic decision-making, preparing graduates for executive roles in various industries.
Field: Business and Management
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager - Master of Public Health (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program focuses on public health principles, epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy, equipping graduates to address public health challenges and promote community well-being.
Field: Public Health
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Program Manager - Master of Dentistry (MSc) — 36 months · Indonesian · STEM
Advanced clinical and research training in various dental specialties, enhancing diagnostic and treatment skills for complex oral health issues.
Field: Dentistry
Career outcomes: Specialist Dentist, Dental Researcher, University Lecturer - Master of Urban and Regional Planning (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian · STEM
Focuses on the planning and development of sustainable urban and regional areas, addressing issues such as land use, infrastructure, and environmental management.
Field: Urban and Regional Planning
Career outcomes: Urban Planner, Regional Planner, Development Consultant - Master of Law (MA) — 24 months · Indonesian
This program offers advanced study in various legal fields, including criminal law, civil law, and international law, preparing graduates for specialized legal careers or further academic pursuits.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Judge, Lecturer in Law - Master of Accounting (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian
This program offers advanced knowledge in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the accounting profession.
Field: Accounting
Career outcomes: Auditor, Financial Controller, Tax Consultant - Master of Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program offers advanced studies in power systems, electronics, control systems, and telecommunications, preparing graduates for specialized engineering roles and research.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Research and Development Engineer, Consultant - Master of Law (MA) — 24 months · Indonesian
This program offers advanced study in various legal fields, including criminal law, civil law, and international law, preparing graduates for specialized legal careers or further academic pursuits.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Counsel, Judge, Lecturer in Law - Master of Accounting (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian
This program offers advanced knowledge in financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the accounting profession.
Field: Accounting
Career outcomes: Auditor, Financial Controller, Tax Consultant - Master of Electrical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program offers advanced studies in power systems, electronics, control systems, and telecommunications, preparing graduates for specialized engineering roles and research.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Research and Development Engineer, Consultant
PhD Programs (10)
- PhD in Law (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian
This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various fields of law, enabling students to contribute original scholarship to legal theory and practice.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Legal Scholar, University Professor, High-level Legal Advisor - PhD in Agricultural Sciences (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in agricultural sciences, including crop production, soil science, and agricultural economics, contributing to sustainable agricultural development.
Field: Agriculture
Career outcomes: Agricultural Researcher, University Professor, Policy Advisor - PhD in Economics (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian
This program offers rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics, and research methodologies, enabling students to conduct original research and contribute to economic policy.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Policy Analyst, Academic Researcher - PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in areas such as power systems, electronics, telecommunications, and control systems, fostering innovation and expertise.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Senior Electrical Engineer - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in various branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, contributing to scientific innovation.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, University Professor - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, and astrophysics.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Scientist, University Professor - PhD in Linguistics (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian
This program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of linguistics, including theoretical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and applied linguistics, contributing to the understanding of language.
Field: Linguistics
Career outcomes: Linguist, University Professor, Language Consultant - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in various branches of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, contributing to scientific innovation.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Scientist, University Professor - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian · STEM
This program provides advanced research opportunities in theoretical and experimental physics, covering areas such as condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, and astrophysics.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Scientist, University Professor - PhD in Linguistics (PhD) — 48 months · Indonesian
This program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of linguistics, including theoretical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and applied linguistics, contributing to the understanding of language.
Field: Linguistics
Career outcomes: Linguist, University Professor, Language Consultant
Scholarships & Tuition at North Sumatra University
Annual tuition for international students: $1,500 – $3,500/year
✅ North Sumatra University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of North Sumatra University
- National Ranking: #15 in Indonesia
- QS World University Ranking: #1001
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1491
- Ranking tier: Unranked
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at North Sumatra University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$200000/month
Key Highlights
- Seventh state university in Indonesia
- Leading university in Southeast Asia
- Comprehensive academic programs
- Welcoming international student environment
- Vibrant campus in Medan
- Strong career preparation
Accreditation
- National Accreditation Agency for Higher Education (BAN-PT)
Fields of Study at North Sumatra University
- Medicine
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Law
- Economics
Notable Alumni
- Babe Cabita
- H. S. Dillon
- Musa Rajekshah
- Surya Paloh
- Yasonna Laoly
Frequently Asked Questions about North Sumatra University
What is North Sumatra University?
North Sumatra University is a public university located in Medan, Indonesia. It has approximately 42,996 students.
How much does it cost to study at North Sumatra University?
Tuition fees at North Sumatra University for international students range from $1,500 – $3,500/year. Student housing costs approximately $200000/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for North Sumatra University?
IELTS minimum: 5.5. TOEFL minimum: 61. Selectivity: Very Selective (<20%). Application deadline: July 11, 2025.
What language are courses taught in at North Sumatra University?
Courses at North Sumatra University are taught in Indonesian and English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 5.5.
How many programs does North Sumatra University offer?
North Sumatra University offers 39 programs: 16 Bachelor's, 13 Master's, and 10 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is North Sumatra University ranked?
#15 in Indonesia · QS World #1001 · THE World #1491.
Does North Sumatra University offer scholarships?
Yes, North Sumatra University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does North Sumatra University provide visa support?
Yes, North Sumatra University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
How Abroadly Helps You Study at North Sumatra University
Abroadly is an AI-powered platform that manages your entire study abroad journey — not just university search. Here's how we help students applying to North Sumatra University in Indonesia:
🎯 Phase 1: Exploration & University Matching
Our AI matches you to North Sumatra University based on your GPA, budget, test scores, and career goals. Compare programs, tuition, scholarships, and admission requirements side-by-side.
📝 Phase 2: Application & SOP Generation
AI generates personalized Statements of Purpose (SOPs), cover letters, and motivation essays tailored to North Sumatra University's requirements. Get per-university document checklists and deadline tracking.
✅ Phase 3: Post-Acceptance & Enrollment
Once accepted to North Sumatra University, Abroadly helps you review offer letters, pay tuition deposits, arrange student housing (available at this university), activate health insurance, and complete enrollment steps.
🛂 Phase 4: Visa Processing & Embassy Prep
Get AI-guided visa document preparation for Indonesia: embassy appointment booking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly (proof of funds), and country-specific document checklists.
✈️ Phase 5: Pre-Departure & Travel
After your visa is approved: banking setup in Indonesia, orientation registration at North Sumatra University, emergency contact registration, health insurance activation, accommodation confirmation, and travel booking guidance — all tracked in your dashboard.
Apply to North Sumatra University with Abroadly — University Search to Visa to Landing
Use Abroadly's AI to manage your complete journey to North Sumatra University: university matching, SOP & cover letter generation, application tracking, visa processing, embassy interview prep, and pre-departure planning — all in one platform.
What you get: AI-generated SOPs, per-university document checklists, embassy appointment tracking, visa interview preparation, financial proof assembly, pre-departure checklists, and 24/7 AI advisor support.
Explore All Features | For Students | For Agencies | Pricing