Looking for a top public university in Malaysia that combines strong academics, research opportunities, and a wide range of programs? Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) could be the right choice. Established in 1970, UKM is based in Bangi, Selangor, and offers programs across fields such as medicine, engineering, science, technology, and social sciences, attracting students from Malaysia and around the world.
Key Information | Details |
Tuition Fees | 70,000 - 550,000 RM according to the program |
Language of Study | English and Malay, depending on the program. |
Academic Accreditation | Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) |
Top Programs | Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, Information Technology, Health Sciences, Economics and Management, Law, Education, and Social Sciences & Humanities. |
Main Admission Requirement | Applicants must complete the required secondary education or equivalent qualification and meet the specific academic and English-language requirements of their chosen program. |
Overview of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is a Malaysian public university and the third public university established in the country, having been founded on May 18, 1970. It began with three faculties and subsequently expanded into a comprehensive university offering academic programs across a wide range of fields.
In 2010, the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) granted UKM "self-accrediting institution" status, meaning its academic programs are subject to the quality assurance requirements for studying in Malaysia.
Where Is Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Located?
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is located in Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia, about 35 km from Kuala Lumpur. The main campus is surrounded by greenery and hills, with a spacious setting for study and student life. UKM is also close to Putrajaya and Cyberjaya, while Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) provides convenient access for international students.
Campus and Facilities at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
The main campus of UKM in Bangi houses academic buildings, research facilities, and spaces dedicated to student life. The university also has specialized campuses in Kuala Lumpur and Cheras dedicated to fields such as dentistry, pharmacy, health sciences, and medicine.
Student accommodation: Residential facilities are available for students on campus.
Library: UKM provides library facilities to support study, teaching, and research.
Laboratories: Students have access to specialized laboratories linked to their fields, including science, engineering, and health-related programs.
Academic facilities: UKM has faculties and learning facilities covering medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, engineering, information technology, science, business, law, education, and social sciences.
Student activities: The campus offers opportunities for student life in Malaysia in different academic, cultural, and recreational activities.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Rankings: Global and National
Ranking | Position | Year | Key Achievement |
QS World University Rankings | #130 globally | 2027 | Overall global university ranking |
THE Impact Rankings | #7 globally | 2026 | Recognition for advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) |
QS Sustainability Rankings | #208 globally | Latest ranking | #25 in Asia for sustainability |
CWUR | #800 globally | Latest ranking | Among the top 3.8% of universities worldwide |
Advantages of Studying at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
UKM gives students a strong academic experience in a diverse and supportive environment. It also offers a wide choice of programs and good opportunities for international students.
Key advantages include the following:
Strong global ranking: UKM is ranked #130 in the QS World University Rankings 2027, placing it among the leading universities in Malaysia.
English-taught programs: Many programs are offered in English, making UKM a suitable option for international students.
International partnerships: UKM works with universities and institutions around the world, giving students opportunities for academic collaboration, exchange programs, and international exposure, and post-study opportunities in Malaysia.
Wide range of programs: Students can choose from fields such as medicine, engineering, business, science, education, and social sciences.
Sustainability leader: UKM ranked 7th globally in the THE Impact Rankings 2026, recognizing its strong commitment to advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Strategic location: The main campus in Bangi, Selangor, provides a peaceful study environment while being within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur.
Most Popular Study Fields at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
UKM offers many study majors across health, engineering, business, and technology. Some of the fields that may appeal most to international and Arab students include:
Medicine: Doctor of Medicine (MD).
Dentistry: Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS).
Pharmacy: Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honors.
Engineering: Civil, Electrical & Electronic, Mechanical, and Chemical Engineering.
Business & Economics: Business Administration, Economics, and Entrepreneurship & Innovation.
Computer Science & IT: Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, and Multimedia Systems.
Health Sciences: Biomedical Science, Nutrition, Optometry, Audiology, Forensic Science, and Diagnostic Imaging and Radiotherapy.
Faculties and Programs Offered at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
Faculty | Programs | Language of study |
Economics and Management |
| English |
Health Science |
| English |
Education |
| English / Malay |
Islamic Studies |
| English / Malay / Arabic |
Science & Technology |
| English |
Law |
| English / Malay |
Engineering & Built Environment |
| English |
Information Science & Technology |
| English |
Social Sciences & Humanities |
| English / Malay |
Pharmacy |
| English |
Medicine |
| English / Malay |
Dentistry |
| English / Malay |
Costs of Study at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
Tuition fees at UKM vary depending on the faculty, program, and study duration.
Faculty | App. Tuition Fees (RM) |
Economics and Management | 60,000-76,000 |
Health Science | 97,500 |
Education | 70,000 |
Islamic Studies | 55,000-70,000 |
Science & Technology | 80,000 |
Law | 70,000 |
Engineering & Built Environment | 83,000-102,000 |
Information Science & Technology | 70,000 |
Social Sciences & Humanities | 70,000 |
Pharmacy | 144,220 |
Medicine | 552,520 |
Dentistry | 520,520 |
Note: A 6% sales and service tax applies to tuition fees for international students.
Contact StudyFans on WhatsApp to check the latest fees for your chosen program and get guidance on the application process.
Student Exchange at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
UKM offers student exchange and mobility opportunities through UKM Global, allowing students to study at partner universities abroad for a semester or two semesters, with eligible courses potentially transferred toward their UKM degree. Students can also join international mobility programs such as AIMS (Asian International Mobility for Students).
UKM has international partnerships across Asia, Europe, Australia, North America, and the Middle East.
Examples of partner institutions include:
University of Oxford (UK)
University of Otago (New Zealand)
University of Zagreb (Croatia)
Chulalongkorn University (Thailand)
Ritsumeikan University (Japan)
Taipei Medical University (Taiwan)
University of Sharjah (UAE)
Students interested in exchange opportunities must meet UKM Global's eligibility requirements, which generally include:
Full-time enrollment at UKM. Completion of at least one semester.
A minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0.
Good English proficiency.
Documents Required to Apply to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
For admission to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), international students should prepare the required academic and personal documents and upload them through the university’s online application system. UKM requires certified academic documents, while specific requirements may vary by program.
Required documents include the following:
A copy of the passport.
A recent passport-size photograph.
High school certificate (Baccalaureate/Tawjihi or equivalent), translated into English and properly certified. If the student hasn’t completed high school yet, the latest available academic certificate or transcript may be submitted according to the program requirements.
High school graduation certificate.
English language certificate.
Additional academic certificates or supporting documents that may strengthen the application or qualify the student for available fee reductions or scholarships, if applicable.
How Can StudyFans Help You Apply to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia?
Applying to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is easier when you have the right guidance from the beginning. StudyFans can support you through the application process and help you prepare your documents correctly through the following:
University and program selection based on your academic qualifications and goals.
Application support and guidance through the UKM admission process.
Document preparation and review to ensure your application is complete.
Application submission and follow-up with the university.
Admission assistance and guidance after receiving your offer.
Visa guidance and support with the required procedures for studying in Malaysia.
Ready to study at UKM? Contact StudyFans for application support or complete the application form to get started.
Conclusion
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) offers international students a strong academic environment, diverse programs, and valuable opportunities to study in Malaysia. If UKM matches your academic goals, StudyFans can help you choose your program, prepare your documents, and complete your application with confidence.
Ready to start your journey at UKM? Apply with StudyFans today.
If you wanted to know more or have any questions, we are here to help you and you can always contact us:
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