Universiti Putra Malaysia
Innovate. Inspire. Impact. Globally.
📍 Serdang, Malaysia 🇲🇾
🏆 #2 in Malaysia · QS World #134 · THE World #501 · ARWU #801
Quick Facts about Universiti Putra Malaysia
- Type: Public
- Students: 30,720
- International: 13%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $3,300 – $8,800/year
- Language: Malay, English, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Tamil, Japanese, Spanish
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Universiti Putra Malaysia
Academics
UPM offers a wide array of programs across 15 faculties, 11 institutes, and 2 schools, covering fields such as agriculture, engineering, veterinary medicine, computer science, biotechnology, economics, and humanities. The university is particularly strong in Veterinary Science, Agriculture and Forestry, and Petroleum Engineering, ranking highly in QS World University Rankings by subject. UPM emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to research and teaching, fostering innovation and providing students with exposure to full-scale research projects. The teaching approach incorporates flexible and innovative methods, including gamification, to make learning engaging and interactive.
International Students
UPM welcomes international students from over 60 countries, contributing to a diverse and culturally rich campus environment. The university provides on-campus accommodation in 17 residential colleges, with options for both individual students and married international students. While specific support services are not detailed, UPM offers English language bridging programs for those who need to meet English proficiency requirements. Many programs are taught in English, including various Bachelor of Arts degrees in English Language and Linguistics, and a Bachelor of Education in Teaching English as a Second Language.
Campus & Location
Located in Serdang, Selangor, UPM's main campus spans over 1,200 hectares, offering a lush green environment conducive to learning. The campus features extensive facilities, including a University Agricultural Park, a golf course, jogging tracks, and a sports complex. Transportation within and around the campus is facilitated by a UPM bus service, and the UPM MRT Station provides convenient access to the wider Selangor area and Kuala Lumpur. Nearby attractions include the Putrajaya Botanical Garden, Putrajaya Lake Cruise, IOI City Mall, and the iconic Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur.
Career Outcomes
UPM boasts a high graduate employability rate, reaching 99.4% in both 2022 and 2023. This indicates that a significant majority of graduates are employed, awaiting placement, continuing their studies, or enhancing their skills shortly after graduation. The university actively fosters industry connections through its Centre of Industry Relations and Networks (CiRNeT), facilitating collaborations, internships, and career opportunities for students. UPM's strategic plan focuses on enhancing academic programs to align with industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.
Information for International Students at Universiti Putra Malaysia
Universiti Putra Malaysia in Serdang, Malaysia welcomes international students, with 13% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 13% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$100/month)
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: Malay, English, Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Tamil, Japanese, Spanish
Admissions Requirements for Universiti Putra Malaysia
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Universiti Putra Malaysia:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 79
- GPA minimum: 2.75
- Application fee: $60
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: January 31, August 30
Programs at Universiti Putra Malaysia (7 programs)
Universiti Putra Malaysia offers 7 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (3)
- Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Technology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the scientific principles of food processing, preservation, safety, and quality control, preparing students for roles in the food industry and research.
Field: Food Science and Technology
Career outcomes: Food Technologist, Quality Assurance Manager, Product Development Scientist, Food Inspector - Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program integrates agricultural science with business management principles, covering agricultural marketing, finance, and supply chain management, for careers in the agricultural industry.
Field: Agribusiness
Career outcomes: Agribusiness Manager, Agricultural Economist, Marketing Specialist, Supply Chain Analyst - Bachelor of Computer Science (Multimedia Computing) (BSc) — English · STEM
Focuses on multimedia computing, combining theoretical and technical skills.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: roles in multimedia development, game design, digital content creation
Master Programs (3)
- Master of Science in Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge and research skills in various areas of biotechnology, including molecular biology, genetic engineering, and bioprocess technology, with applications in agriculture, medicine, and industry.
Field: Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Product Development Specialist, Quality Control Manager - Master of Science in Aquaculture (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program provides advanced knowledge in aquaculture systems, fish health management, nutrition, and breeding, focusing on sustainable aquatic food production.
Field: Aquaculture
Career outcomes: Aquaculture Scientist, Fish Farm Manager, Aquatic Biologist, Fisheries Consultant - Master's and PhD Programs (by Research) - Philosophy and Civilisation Studies (MSc) — English · Scholarship available
Focuses on various theories, approaches, and practices within the specific field of study.
Field: Philosophy and Civilisation Studies
PhD Programs (1)
- PhD in Economics (PhD) — 36 months · English
This doctoral program offers advanced research in economic theory, econometrics, and applied economics, preparing students for academic and research careers in economics.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Research Fellow
Scholarships & Tuition at Universiti Putra Malaysia
Annual tuition for international students: $3,300 – $8,800/year
✅ Universiti Putra Malaysia offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Universiti Putra Malaysia
- National Ranking: #2 in Malaysia
- QS World University Ranking: #134
- Times Higher Education (THE): #501
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #801
- Ranking tier: Top 500
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Universiti Putra Malaysia
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Housing cost: ~$100/month
Key Highlights
- Leading agricultural and veterinary research
- Top-ranked Malaysian comprehensive university
- Diverse international student community
- Extensive green campus environment
- Multidisciplinary academic and research excellence
Accreditation
- Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS)
- Association of MBAs (AMBA)
Fields of Study at Universiti Putra Malaysia
- Agriculture
- Engineering
- Science
- Forestry
Notable Alumni
- Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor
- Moktar Dahari
- Rafidah Aziz
- Shahrir Samad
- Ahmad Husni Hanadzlah
Frequently Asked Questions about Universiti Putra Malaysia
What is Universiti Putra Malaysia?
Universiti Putra Malaysia is a public university located in Serdang, Malaysia. It has approximately 30,720 students, with 13% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Universiti Putra Malaysia?
Tuition fees at Universiti Putra Malaysia for international students range from $3,300 – $8,800/year. Student housing costs approximately $100/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Universiti Putra Malaysia?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 79. GPA minimum: 2.75. Application fee: $60. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: January 31, August 30.
What language are courses taught in at Universiti Putra Malaysia?
Courses at Universiti Putra Malaysia are taught in Malay and English and Arabic and Chinese and French and German and Tamil and Japanese and Spanish. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Universiti Putra Malaysia offer?
Universiti Putra Malaysia offers 7 programs: 3 Bachelor's, 3 Master's, and 1 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Universiti Putra Malaysia ranked?
#2 in Malaysia · QS World #134 · THE World #501 · ARWU #801.
Does Universiti Putra Malaysia offer scholarships?
Yes, Universiti Putra Malaysia offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Universiti Putra Malaysia provide visa support?
Yes, Universiti Putra Malaysia provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
Apply to Universiti Putra Malaysia with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to Universiti Putra Malaysia. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.