How to Start Studying at Universiti Sains Malaysia with Minimal Tuition Fees
Discover how Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) offers excellent academic programs at affordable tuition rates. Learn about its campuses, programs, and international rankings.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has been a beacon of excellence, shaping minds and futures for over five decades and counting.
Located amidst the lush green landscapes of Penang Island, the university is more than just a place of learning; it’s a journey through knowledge that transforms students into leaders, thinkers, and innovators.
About Universiti Sains Malaysia:
Established on June 10, 1969, Universiti Sains Malaysia is a renowned public research university located in Penang, Malaysia.
Initially named Universiti Pulau Pinang, its establishment was a response to the need for enhancing scientific and technical education in the country.
USM is known for its specialized focus on science and technology, aiming to foster innovation and produce competent graduates.
The university adopts a modular system for courses and emphasizes intensive research-based learning, setting it apart from other universities in Malaysia that follow the semester system.
Location of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM):
Situated in Penang, along the northeast coast of the Malaysian peninsula, USM’s main campus, also known as the Minden campus, is approximately 9.7 kilometers from the center of George Town, the capital of Penang. T
his location provides easy access to and from other areas.
The campus is well-connected to the rest of Penang and neighboring regions, with frequent public bus services to major city points. Additionally, the university can be accessed via main roads, making it convenient for students commuting by car or bike.
For students relying on public transportation, there are bus services and taxis that facilitate direct access to the campus.
Moreover, Penang International Airport is relatively close to the university, allowing convenient travel for international students and faculty members.
Campuses of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM):
- Main Campus (Minden) – Penang:
– The largest campus, located in the northeast part of Penang Island, known as Minden.
– Houses the majority of faculties and research centers.
– Notable schools include the School of Biological Sciences, School of Computer Sciences, and School of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
– Features diverse amenities such as campus grounds, libraries, museums, and sports facilities.
- Health Campus (Kubang Kerian) – Kelantan:
– Situated in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, focusing on medical and health sciences education.
– Home to the School of Medical Sciences, School of Dental Sciences, and School of Health Sciences.
– Equipped with teaching hospitals like Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM), along with other healthcare training facilities.
- Engineering Campus (Seri Ampangan) – Nibong Tebal, Penang:
– Specialized in engineering and technology.
– Located in Seri Ampangan, approximately 50 kilometers from the Minden campus.
– Houses faculties such as the School of Civil Engineering, School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, and School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering.
Each campus is designed to meet specific academic majors and features state-of-the-art facilities for teaching, research, and development.
USM is renowned for its focus on research and innovation in various fields, including pure sciences, engineering, health sciences, and humanities.
Rankings of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM):
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) holds a prominent position within Malaysia and in various international university rankings.
It has been evaluated by different ranking organizations such as QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, among others.
According to the QS World University Rankings for 2024, USM ranks second in Malaysia after Universiti Malaya.
Globally, it occupies the 137th position, sharing the same rank with a university in China. The university has progressed six places from its previous ranking in 2023.
Popular Disciplines at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM):
USM offers a wide range of academic programs across various levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.
The university is divided into several academic schools, each comprising multiple departments and majors.
Academic Programs:
Bachelor’s Programs:
Bachelor’s degrees at USM typically span three to four years, depending on the field of study. Programs in science and technology emphasize strong research and practical learning, while arts and humanities degrees focus on critical thinking and creativity.
These programs integrate industrial training and internships to provide practical experience.
Master’s Programs:
USM offers master’s programs in various formats, including coursework, mixed mode (a combination of coursework and research), and full research.
Coursework-based programs are structured similarly to undergraduate studies with a mix of core and elective courses, usually completed in 1-2 years. Mixed mode and research programs include a thesis that may extend beyond two years, requiring deeper specialization in the chosen field.
Doctoral Programs at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM): A Comprehensive Guide
Doctoral Degrees:
Doctoral degrees focus on research and require candidates to submit a thesis contributing to the current knowledge in the field.
Doctoral candidates work closely with faculty advisors, and it’s expected that they publish their research results.
Typically, doctoral programs can be completed within three to five years, depending on the research scope and time required.
Popular majors:
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is renowned for various majors such as:
Engineering: Offering accredited programs focusing on innovation and sustainable design.
Biological Sciences: Keeping pace with the latest research in biological diversity, biotechnology, and environmental sciences.
Pharmacy: Integrating pharmaceutical sciences with clinical practice and emphasizing research.
Materials Science: Concentrating on material development for technological applications.
Education: Balancing theory and practice to produce effective educators.
Computer Science: Emphasizing software development and computational theory.
Architecture: Integrating design, culture, and technology for sustainable environments.
Would you like to explore more majors and study programs at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)? Contact our team at Alemni Shokran now!
Student Enrollment at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM):
The total student enrollment at USM reaches up to 30,000 students, distributed across 66 different specialized universities.
Among this total number, approximately 5,000 students are international.
Application and Admission Deadlines at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM):
Application and admission deadlines at USM vary depending on the chosen academic program. Typically, for undergraduate programs, there are specific and strict deadlines, while deadlines for postgraduate programs may be more flexible.
Generally, the application deadlines for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs are in early July and January.
For more accurate and up-to-date information, feel free to contact our team at Alemni Shokran.
Admission Requirements at Universiti Sains Malaysia:
There are some common admission requirements you can expect:
For Undergraduate Programs:
Academic Qualifications: Completion of secondary education and meeting specific program admission requirements, such as achieving certain grades in relevant subjects.
English Language Proficiency Test: May be required for local students, while international students may need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
Passport Information: International students need a valid passport and may need to apply for a student visa.
Health and Insurance: Students may need to undergo a medical examination and obtain health insurance.
Financial Proof: For international students, there may be a need to demonstrate sufficient funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses.
For Postgraduate Programs:
Academic Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs) or master’s degree (for doctoral programs) in a related field, with a minimum cumulative GPA or class ranking as specified by the university.
English Proficiency: Proof of English proficiency for non-native speakers through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, with specified scores required by the program.
Recommendation Letters: Typically, for postgraduate studies, applicants may need academic references or recommendation letters.
Research Proposal: For research-based programs, there is often a requirement for a detailed research proposal.
Interview/Test: Some programs may require applicants to undergo an interview or performance test.
Updated CV: Especially for postgraduate candidates, a detailed CV outlining academic, professional, and research experience is required.
If you still need more information about admission requirements at Universiti Sains Malaysia, contact our team of consultants through Alemni Shokran platform.
Cost of Study at Universiti Sains Malaysia:
The cost of study at USM depends on several factors, including the level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate) and the field of study, as well as whether you are a local or international student.
For local students, undergraduate program tuition fees are relatively lower due to subsidies provided by the Malaysian government.
However, international students usually pay higher fees. Here are general estimates for tuition fees at this university:
Undergraduate programs for international students range from approximately 14,000 to 20,000 Malaysian Ringgit per year.
Postgraduate programs for international students can range from 20,000 to 30,000 Malaysian Ringgit or higher per year, depending on the course and research requirements.
Generally, courses in fields such as medicine or engineering tend to have higher fees.
Student Accommodation Cost at Universiti Sains Malaysia:
The cost of student accommodation at USM varies based on the type of residence and amenities provided.
Usually, on-campus accommodation is more affordable compared to off-campus housing, often supported by subsidies.
The university offers various college housing options with different levels of comfort and associated costs. Prices may range as follows:
Shared rooms in older college residences can be very economical, ranging from about 200 to 500 Malaysian Ringgit per semester.
Newer or more luxurious accommodations with additional facilities may charge higher fees, ranging from about 600 to 1,200 Malaysian Ringgit per semester.
We have provided you with a comprehensive guide to Universiti Sains Malaysia for those considering enrollment.
We are here to help you take your first steps towards studying in Malaysia. Register now with Alemni Shokran and be on your way to success.
