Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Malaysia’s premier science and research-focused university, USM is internationally recognized for innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence. Ranked among Asia’s leading institutions, it offers strong industry collaboration, affordable tuition, diverse programs, and a vibrant multicultural learning environment on Penang Island.
Top 150 globally in QS Rankings
Malaysia’s APEX University
Affordable tuition and living costs
3 campuses around Malaysia
26 schools and 17 research centers
34,000 students from more than 80 nationalities
About Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Established in 1969, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is one of Malaysia’s leading public research universities. Located primarily in Penang, with additional campuses in Kelantan and Kuala Lumpur, USM is recognized by the Malaysian government as a Research University (RU) and an APEX university focused on accelerating academic excellence and global competitiveness.
USM enrolls more than 30,000 students, including a growing international student population from over 80 countries. The university is especially known for its strengths in science, engineering, medicine, pharmacy, environmental studies, and technology innovation.
USM emphasizes interdisciplinary research, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. Students benefit from modern laboratories, digital learning systems, international exchange opportunities, and practical industry-oriented education. Its multicultural campus environment supports both academic excellence and personal development within one of Malaysia’s most livable and culturally vibrant cities.
Academic Strength
USM is internationally respected for Engineering, Medicine, Pharmacy, Computer Science, Environmental Science, Architecture, and Natural Sciences. The university is recognized for impactful research, sustainability initiatives, and innovation-driven teaching. Strong collaboration with industries, hospitals, and international research institutions provides students with practical exposure and career readiness. USM graduates are well prepared for leadership roles in healthcare, technology, engineering, research, and global professional sectors.
Major Faculties & Schools
- Faculty of School of Engineering
- Faculty of School of Medical Sciences
- Faculty of School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Faculty of School of Computer Sciences
- Faculty of School of Biological Sciences
- Faculty of School of Management
- Faculty of School of Housing, Building & Planning
- Faculty of School of Chemical Sciences
- Faculty of School of Educational Studies
- Faculty of School of Humanities
Popular Programs at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
Bachelor of Computer Science
- Duration
- 4
- Budget
- 6,000 USD /year
Requires strong mathematics preparation. Career opportunities include Software Developer, Systems Analyst, and Cybersecurity Specialist.
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Duration
- 1-2
- Budget
- 9,000 USD /year
Suitable for professionals pursuing careers in leadership, consulting, and business management.
PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Duration
- 3-5
- Budget
- 4,999 USD /year
Research-focused program ideal for careers in academia, biotechnology, healthcare research, and pharmaceutical innovation industries.
Admissions
Undergraduate Requirements
Applicants must complete recognized qualifications such as A-Levels, STPM, IB, Foundation, or equivalent. Competitive programs may require strong results in mathematics, chemistry, biology, or physics depending on the selected academic discipline.
English Language Requirements
IELTS 5.5–6.0 for undergraduate programs and 6.0–6.5 for postgraduate studies. English preparatory programs may be available for students not meeting direct entry requirements.
Postgraduate Requirements
Applicants require a recognized Bachelor’s degree for Master’s programs or a Master’s degree for PhD studies. Research programs typically require a research proposal and relevant academic preparation.
Intake Periods
February, September
Fees & Cost of Living
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate: USD 4,500–8,000 per year Master’s: USD 4,500–9,000 per year PhD: USD 3,500–7,000 per year
Tuition fees depend on faculty, laboratory requirements, and program structure. International students should also budget for insurance, visa processing, accommodation, and administrative fees when planning expenses.
Living Costs
Estimated monthly living expenses in Penang range from USD 350–650 including accommodation, transportation, meals, and personal expenses. Penang offers affordable student living compared to many major international cities.
Additional Fees
Application Fee: USD 120 Registration Fee: USD 400 Laboratory Fees (if applicable): USD 300 per year
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Scholarship Overview
USM offers merit scholarships, research grants, and government-supported financial aid for qualified international students.
Merit-Based Scholarships
High-achieving students may receive tuition fee reductions based on academic excellence and extracurricular performance.
International Scholarships
Selected international applicants may qualify for tuition discounts and limited research funding opportunities.
Postgraduate Funding
Research assistantships may provide tuition support and monthly stipends for eligible Master’s and PhD research students.
Campus Life
Facilities & Environment
USM provides residential villages, research laboratories, libraries, sports complexes, healthcare clinics, cafeterias, and modern student support facilities. Advanced digital learning systems and interdisciplinary research centers support innovation and academic excellence.
Student life is active through cultural organizations, entrepreneurship programs, volunteer activities, international student associations, and sports clubs. Dedicated support services assist international students with accommodation, orientation, visas, and academic adaptation. Located in Penang, students enjoy a safe, multicultural environment known for its heritage, technology industry, and high quality of life.
Careers & Employability
Career Outcomes
USM graduates are highly employable across healthcare, technology, engineering, research, and business industries.
Career Support Services
Internships, career fairs, employer networking, entrepreneurship initiatives, and professional development workshops strengthen students’ employability and career readiness.
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, affordable on-campus residential accommodation is available for students.
Can international students work part-time?
Yes, international students may work part-time subject to Malaysian student visa regulations.
When are the intakes?
Main intakes are generally in February and September.
Is USM internationally recognized?
Yes, USM is internationally ranked among leading universities in Asia and globally.
Are undergraduate research opportunities available?
Yes, many programs include research projects and faculty-led innovation initiatives.
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