University of Malaya
Malaysia's Premier University: Shaping Futures Since 1905
📍 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 🇲🇾
🏆 #1 in Malaysia · QS World #58 · THE World #251 · ARWU #601
Quick Facts about University of Malaya
- Type: Public
- Students: 36,444
- International: 18%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $4,000 – $10,000/year
- Language: English, Malay, Mandarin, Japanese, Arabic, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Tamil, Vietnamese, Filipino, Iban, Korean, Russian, Portuguese, Persian, Thai, Sign Language
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About University of Malaya
Academics
UM offers a wide array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 13 faculties, two academies, three centers, and two institutes, covering arts, sciences, engineering, and medicine. The university is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, contributing significantly to national development in various fields. UM consistently ranks highly in subject areas such as Social Sciences & Management, Engineering & Technology, Arts & Humanities, Life Sciences & Medicine, and Natural Sciences, with Dentistry and Marketing making recent debuts in the top 100 globally. The teaching approach fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, with a focus on interdisciplinary research to address real-world issues.
International Students
The International Student Centre (ISC) provides comprehensive support services for international students, including 24-hour assistance upon arrival, help with visa-related queries, and information kits. UM has a diverse student community from over 80 countries, enriching the campus with multicultural and multinational perspectives. The university organizes programs like homestay experiences and cultural exchange clubs to facilitate cultural integration. International students can also join organizations such as the Universiti Malaya International Student Association (UMISA) and UM Global Buddies, which connect international students with local peers for various activities.
Campus & Location
Situated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, UM's 812-acre campus offers a vibrant city life experience alongside its academic environment. The campus features modern infrastructure, including well-stocked libraries, advanced research laboratories, comfortable student hostels, and extensive sports facilities. A fully integrated public transportation network, including campus buses and connections to RapidKL buses and LRT/MRT stations, ensures easy access within and outside the campus. Nearby attractions and the dynamic urban setting provide ample opportunities for exploration and entertainment.
Career Outcomes
UM's Graduate Employability and Career Centre (GECC) provides extensive career development services, including career planning, resume polishing, and connecting students with potential employers. The university fosters strong industry connections through its Industry Liaison Office (UM ILO) and Centre of Industry Relations (UMCIR), facilitating knowledge transfer and technology commercialization. UM also promotes an entrepreneurial spirit and innovation through programs like the UM Deep Tech (UMDT) Accelerator, which supports deep tech startups from research to market-ready phases. These initiatives equip graduates with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive global economy.
Information for International Students at University of Malaya
University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia welcomes international students, with 18% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 18% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$450/month)
- Teaching languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, Japanese, Arabic, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Tamil, Vietnamese, Filipino, Iban, Korean, Russian, Portuguese, Persian, Thai, Sign Language
Admissions Requirements for University of Malaya
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Malaya:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 60
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $300
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: August 30, 2025 (October Intake)
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Malaya
Annual tuition for international students: $4,000 – $10,000/year
✅ University of Malaya offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Malaya
- National Ranking: #1 in Malaysia
- QS World University Ranking: #58
- Times Higher Education (THE): #251
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #601
- Ranking tier: Top 100
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Malaya
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Urban
- Housing cost: ~$450/month
Key Highlights
- Malaysia's oldest and most prestigious university
- Consistently ranked top in Asia
- Comprehensive research-focused institution
- Diverse international student community
- Strong academic and research impact
- Located in Kuala Lumpur
Accreditation
- Kementerian Pendidikan Tinggi (Ministry of Higher Education)
Fields of Study at University of Malaya
- Engineering
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Science
Notable Alumni
- Mahathir Mohamad
- Abdullah Ahmad Badawi
- Ananda Krishnan
- Moktar Dahari
- Ismail Sabri Yaakob
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Malaya
What is University of Malaya?
University of Malaya is a public university located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It has approximately 36,444 students, with 18% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Malaya?
Tuition fees at University of Malaya for international students range from $4,000 – $10,000/year. Student housing costs approximately $450/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Malaya?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 60. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $300. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: August 30, 2025 (October Intake).
What language are courses taught in at University of Malaya?
Courses at University of Malaya are taught in English and Malay and Mandarin and Japanese and Arabic and French and German and Italian and Spanish and Tamil and Vietnamese and Filipino and Iban and Korean and Russian and Portuguese and Persian and Thai and Sign Language. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
What is University of Malaya ranked?
#1 in Malaysia · QS World #58 · THE World #251 · ARWU #601.
Does University of Malaya offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Malaya offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Malaya provide visa support?
Yes, University of Malaya provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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