A Storied Past, A Vision for the Future

Founded as Malaysia’s first university, Universiti Malaya has long been a pillar of the nation’s educational and social progress. Situated on a sprawling 750-acre (309-hectare) campus in the southwest of Kuala Lumpur, UM offers a serene yet strategic location, combining tranquil academic surroundings with access to one of Southeast Asia’s most vibrant capital cities.

From its inception, UM has embraced a mission of serving society through education, research, and innovation. This mission continues to drive the university’s initiatives today, shaping its commitment to preparing students for leadership in a fast-changing world.

Globally Ranked, Regionally Respected

Universiti Malaya’s pursuit of excellence is reflected in its QS World University Rankings 2025, where it proudly holds the #60 position globally. This prestigious ranking highlights UM’s growing influence and competitiveness on the international stage.

Notably, UM also ranks:

• #29 in the QS WUR Ranking by Subject

• #=115 in the QS Sustainability Ranking

• #3 in the Asian University Rankings – South Eastern Asia

These accomplishments underscore UM’s commitment to academic leadership, sustainability, and regional impact.

Breakdown of UM’s QS Ranking Indicators:

• Academic Reputation: 82.9

• Employer Reputation: 95.1

• Faculty-to-Student Ratio: 75.7

• Citations per Faculty: 29.1

• International Faculty Ratio: 60.2

• International Student Ratio: 64.2

• International Research Network: 91.8

• Sustainability Score: 83.6

These scores highlight UM’s strengths in teaching quality, employability, international outlook, and sustainable development.

A Vibrant, Inclusive Learning Community

UM is home to a thriving academic community, with 17,222 students, including 4,349 international students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds. Its student body consists of approximately 70% undergraduates and 30% postgraduates, creating a balanced and enriching learning environment.

With 2,524 academic staff members, 24% of whom are international faculty, UM cultivates a dynamic, globally informed academic culture. This diversity fosters an inclusive atmosphere where innovative ideas and cross-cultural understanding thrive.

Financial Aid and Scholarships: Opening Doors to Opportunity

Understanding that financial barriers can hinder access to higher education, Universiti Malaya offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options. These include merit-based, need-based, and program-specific awards aimed at easing the financial burden on students.

Prospective students are encouraged to:

• Explore scholarship opportunities early via the UM official website

• Check faculty-specific awards and eligibility criteria

• Consider applying for fully-funded scholarships, particularly for postgraduate and international study tracks

Useful resources include guidance articles like “Scholarships to Study Abroad,” “Scholarship Applications: FAQs,” and “How to Get a Full Scholarship,” which help students make informed decisions during their application process.

Your Journey at UM Awaits

Whether you’re a Malaysian student seeking an exceptional academic foundation or an international learner aiming to study in one of Asia’s top universities, Universiti Malaya offers an ideal launchpad for your future.

With its outstanding global rankings, a robust network of international faculty and research collaborations, a culturally rich and diverse campus, and substantial scholarship support, UM stands as a beacon of academic excellence and opportunity in Southeast Asia.

Take the first step. Discover your future at Universiti Malaya.

Relevant Links:

• Universiti Malaya Official Website

• QS World University Rankings

• QS 2025 Rankings Page

• Universiti Malaya Scholarships