National University of Malaysia (UKM)
One of Malaysia’s top research universities, UKM combines academic excellence, innovation, and strong graduate employability. Recognized globally for research and professional education, the university offers internationally respected programs, modern facilities, and a vibrant multicultural campus near Kuala Lumpur.
Top 150 globally in QS Rankings
Research University (RU) status
Partnerships with institutions like Oxford University Innovation
4,914 international students from 66 countries
Leading medical and engineering programs
Top in Malaysia’s Top University Under 50 Years Old
About National University of Malaysia (UKM)
Established in 1970, the National University of Malaysia (Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia – UKM) is one of Malaysia’s leading public research universities. Located in Bangi, Selangor, with additional medical and specialist campuses in Kuala Lumpur and Cheras, UKM is recognized by the Malaysian government as a Research University (RU). The university consistently ranks among the top universities in Malaysia and Asia, particularly in research, innovation, and sustainability.
UKM enrolls more than 30,000 students, including thousands of international students from over 70 countries. The university is known for its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, entrepreneurship, healthcare sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
Students benefit from modern teaching facilities, advanced laboratories, digital learning technologies, and strong industry collaboration. UKM promotes practical learning, innovation, and global academic partnerships, preparing graduates for professional and research careers across international industries and institutions.
Academic Strength
UKM is highly respected for Medicine, Engineering, Business, Pharmacy, Education, Environmental Science, and Social Sciences. The university is recognized for impactful research, innovation-driven teaching, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Strong partnerships with hospitals, industries, and government agencies provide students with practical experience and career readiness. UKM graduates are well prepared for leadership positions in healthcare, research, technology, public policy, and multinational industries throughout Asia and globally.
Major Faculties & Schools
- Faculty of Faculty of Engineering & Built Environment
- Faculty of Faculty of Medicine
- Faculty of Faculty of Health Sciences
- Faculty of Faculty of Science & Technology
- Faculty of Faculty of Information Science & Technology
- Faculty of Faculty of Business & Economics
- Faculty of Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities
- Faculty of Faculty of Pharmacy
- Faculty of Faculty of Law
Popular Programs at National University of Malaysia (UKM)
Bachelor of Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Duration
- 4
- Budget
- 7,000 USD /year
Requires strong mathematics and physics results. Career paths include Electrical Engineer, Automation Engineer, and Systems Specialist.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Duration
- 1-2
- Budget
- 11,000 USD /year
Designed for professionals seeking careers in management, consulting, and entrepreneurship across international industries.
PhD in Medical Sciences
- Duration
- 3-5
- Budget
- 8,000 USD /year
Research-intensive program ideal for careers in healthcare research, academia, biotechnology, and advanced clinical development sectors.
Admissions
Undergraduate Requirements
Applicants must complete recognized secondary qualifications such as A-Levels, IB, STPM, Foundation, or equivalent. Competitive programs may require strong academic results in mathematics, biology, chemistry, or physics depending on the selected field of study.
English Language Requirements
IELTS 5.5–6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.0–6.5 for postgraduate programs. English proficiency pathways may be available for applicants not meeting direct entry requirements.
Postgraduate Requirements
Applicants must hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree for Master’s admission or a Master’s degree for PhD studies. Research programs require a research proposal and relevant academic background.
Intake Periods
February, September
Fees & Cost of Living
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate: USD 5,000–9,000 per year Master’s: USD 5,000–10,000 per year PhD: USD 4,000–8,000 per year
Tuition fees vary depending on faculty, laboratory requirements, and program structure. International students should additionally budget for insurance, student pass fees, accommodation, and administrative costs.
Living Costs
Estimated monthly living expenses in Bangi/Kuala Lumpur range from USD 350–700 including accommodation, transportation, meals, and personal expenses. On-campus housing options are available at affordable rates.
Additional Fees
Application Fee: USD 120 Registration Fee: USD 450 Laboratory Fees (if applicable): USD 300 per year
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Scholarship Overview
UKM offers merit-based scholarships, research grants, and financial aid opportunities for qualified international students.
Merit-Based Scholarships
Outstanding academic achievers may receive partial tuition waivers based on academic performance and extracurricular involvement.
International Scholarships
International applicants may qualify for tuition discounts and university-sponsored financial support programs.
Postgraduate Funding
Research assistantships may provide tuition support and monthly stipends for eligible Master’s and PhD research students.
Campus Life
Facilities & Environment
UKM provides residential colleges, libraries, modern laboratories, medical facilities, sports complexes, cafeterias, and student service centers across its campuses. Digital learning systems and research centers support innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Student life is active through cultural clubs, sports activities, entrepreneurship programs, volunteer organizations, and international student societies. Dedicated student support services assist international students with orientation, visa matters, accommodation, and academic adaptation. The green Bangi campus offers a balanced environment combining academic excellence, sustainability, and easy access to Kuala Lumpur’s professional and social opportunities.
Careers & Employability
Career Outcomes
UKM graduates are highly employable across healthcare, engineering, business, education, and technology industries.
Career Support Services
Career workshops, employer networking events, internships, entrepreneurship support, and industry partnerships strengthen students’ professional readiness and employability.
Employment Sectors
Career Roles
FAQ
We answer, frequently asked questions about our agency and the process of applying to universities abroad.
Is English the language of instruction?
Yes, many undergraduate and postgraduate programs are taught in English.
Is on-campus accommodation available?
Yes, UKM offers residential accommodation for local and international students.
Can international students work part-time?
Yes, international students may work part-time according to Malaysian student visa regulations.
When are the intakes?
Main intakes are generally in February and September.
Is UKM internationally recognized?
Yes, UKM is internationally recognized and ranked among Asia’s leading universities.
Are undergraduate research opportunities available?
Yes, selected programs provide faculty-supervised research and innovation projects.
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