Photo: *angys*, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Universiti Malaya (UM)
Universiti Malaya (UM) is a public university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, founded in 1949, with about 21,100 students. Tuition is around MYR 15,000–35,000 a year (2025-26).
- Type
- Public university
- Location
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Founded
- 1949
- Students
- 21,055
- International students
- 15%
- Tuition
- MYR 15,000–35,000 / year (2025-26)
- Acceptance rate
- 34%
- Teaching language
- English; Malay
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Ranking
- QS World: #58
Data from the official website and Wikidata · last checked 18 Oct 2026 · How we collect data · Report an error · Is this your university? Claim it to update
Universiti Malaya (UM) is Malaysia's oldest public university, located in Kuala Lumpur. It traces its origins to King Edward VII College of Medicine in Singapore (1905) and was established in its present form in Kuala Lumpur in 1962.
UM's faculties and academies cover medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering, computer science and IT, science, built environment, business and economics, law, education, arts and social sciences, languages and linguistics, and Islamic studies. The main campus in the south-west of the city includes the University of Malaya Medical Centre.
Teaching is in English and Malay. Malaysian students enter through the national UPU system, while international students apply directly. Residential colleges provide on-campus housing.
Admissions, rankings and scholarships
Rankings
- #58QS World
- #250–300THE World
Requirements and dates change every year. Confirm them on Universiti Malaya (UM)'s official website before applying.
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Frequently asked questions
How much is tuition at Universiti Malaya (UM)?
Tuition at Universiti Malaya (UM) is around MYR 15,000–35,000 a year for 2025-26. Fees vary by program and can differ for international students, so check the university's official fees page before applying.
What is the acceptance rate at Universiti Malaya (UM)?
Universiti Malaya (UM) has an acceptance rate of about 34%.
What language are courses taught in at Universiti Malaya (UM)?
Courses at Universiti Malaya (UM) are taught in English; Malay.
When is the application deadline for Universiti Malaya (UM)?
Feb and Aug intakes; deadlines vary by program
Does Universiti Malaya (UM) offer scholarships?
Merit-based scholarships; Need-based financial aid; International student scholarships.
Does Universiti Malaya (UM) have student accommodation?
Accommodation options include: On-campus residential colleges, Graduate housing, Off-campus accommodation.
How many international students are at Universiti Malaya (UM)?
About 15% of students at Universiti Malaya (UM) are international.
When was Universiti Malaya (UM) founded?
Universiti Malaya (UM) was founded in 1949.
How is Universiti Malaya (UM) ranked?
Universiti Malaya (UM) is ranked QS World: #58; THE World: #250–300.
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