Universiti Malaya
A world-leading research university known for academic excellence and innovation. Consistently ranked among the top institutions globally, offering cutting-edge programs across multiple disciplines with strong industry connections.
- Acceptance Rate
- 21.5%
- SAT Range
- 1330–1480
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.85
- Size
- Large (30,559 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:12
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 89.0%
- Retention Rate
- 94.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $3,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $8,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Campus life at UM reflects Malaysia's multicultural society, with students from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous backgrounds studying alongside growing numbers of international students. This diversity manifests in student organizations, cultural celebrations, and the everyday interactions that form part of university experience. Religious facilities serve multiple faiths, and the calendar includes celebrations from various traditions that the broader community often joins. The residential college system houses many students, creating communities within the larger university where residents share meals, activities, and mutual support. These colleges compete against each other in sports and cultural events, building identity and belonging. Students living off-campus still participate actively in university life, with student organizations and facilities drawing people to campus outside class hours. Sports facilities include stadiums, swimming pools, courts, and fields where students compete and exercise. The university fields teams in various sports, though Malaysia's university athletics structure differs from American systems. Cultural activities thrive, with music, theater, and arts organizations providing creative outlets. Student government represents undergraduate and graduate interests while organizing events that bring the campus community together.
Location & Surroundings
Kuala Lumpur surrounds the UM campus with all the energy, opportunity, and complexity of a major Asian capital. The city's skyline, dominated by the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, represents Malaysia's economic ambitions and modernity. Students access internships and employment opportunities with multinational corporations, financial institutions, technology companies, and government agencies headquartered in KL. The city serves as gateway to Southeast Asia, with budget airlines connecting to destinations throughout the region for affordable weekend exploration. Campus sits in a green enclave that provides relief from urban intensity while remaining connected to the city through public transportation. The LRT and bus systems make commuting straightforward, and the broader Klang Valley offers diverse neighborhoods to explore. From the historic streets of Chinatown to the modern shopping districts of Bukit Bintang, students discover different facets of Malaysian urban life. Malaysian cuisine represents one of the location's great pleasures, with hawker centers, food courts, and restaurants serving Malay, Chinese, Indian, and fusion dishes at prices students can afford. The climate stays warm year-round, with monsoon seasons bringing heavy rains but rarely cold temperatures. Cultural attractions include museums, galleries, performance venues, and the nearby Batu Caves, a Hindu temple complex within limestone formations.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Universiti Malaya offers exceptional value, particularly for Malaysian citizens who benefit from government-subsidized tuition. Malaysian students pay fees ranging from approximately RM 1,000 to RM 3,000 per semester depending on program, making quality university education accessible across economic backgrounds. International students pay higher fees, typically ranging from RM 15,000 to RM 35,000 per semester, still considerably below costs at comparable institutions in Western countries. Living costs in Kuala Lumpur remain reasonable by global capital standards. On-campus housing costs approximately RM 200-400 monthly, while food expenses can stay quite low given the abundance of affordable dining options. Students on tight budgets can manage total annual costs of RM 15,000-20,000 for Malaysians or RM 40,000-60,000 for international students, depending on lifestyle choices and program fees. Career outcomes for UM graduates reflect the university's strong reputation among Malaysian employers. Major corporations actively recruit on campus, and the alumni network provides connections throughout business and government. International graduates use their degrees to pursue opportunities throughout Asia and beyond. Graduate school pathways lead to advanced programs at UM itself, other Malaysian universities, and institutions worldwide that recognize UM's academic standing.
Campus Location
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