Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM): Admissions 2025, Fees, Rankings, Scholarships & Courses

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM): Admissions 2025, Fees, Rankings, Scholarships & Courses

George Town, PenangLocation
UniversitySchool type
Estd1969established year
21394enrollment
Public

Latest Updates on USM Penang

  • The application deadline to apply for USM Admissions is July 15, 2025, for the undergraduate and postgraduate programs starting in October 2025. 
  • The MBA program also has the same application deadline. 
  • An application fee of 100 MYR (approx. 2,000 INR) is required for undergraduate applications to USM. 
  • Application fees for postgraduate programs vary from approximately 19,111 to 23,358 INR. 

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a world-class public university, located on scenic Penang Island, off the north-western coast of Peninsular Malaysia. USM was awarded APEX (Accelerated Program for Excellence) status in 2008 for its strong achievements in academics, research, and innovation. Founded in 1969, USM now has three campuses, 26 schools, 13 centers of excellence, 3 national higher education centers, 36 service centers, and 10 hostels - serving around 34,000 students from 80 countries. It offers 60 programs to international students across fields like science, engineering, medicine, arts, business, and literature.

MBA, MS in Aerospace Engineering, Master of Computer Science, MSc Biotechnology, MSc Marine Sciences, MSc/ PhD Dentistry are among the popular USM Penang courses at postgraduate level. Universiti Sains Malaysia fees for these programs range between 5,600 to 63,000 USD* (4.74 to 53.39 lakhs INR). To get into these programs, Indian students need a bachelors degree with at least 2.75 CGPA out of 4.0. Alongside, an IELTS score of 5.0 or TOEFL score of 40 or PTE score of 47 is required.

*Uni Sains Malaysia publishes international tuition fees in USD.


University Sains Malaysia Courses and Fees 2025

Universiti Sains Malaysia offers 60 programs to international students. Students can choose between online and offline courses. The tuition fees for Universiti Sains Malaysia undergraduate courses are within 1,562 and 13,750 USD (1.32 to 11.65 lakhs INR) per semester. Some of the top courses and fees of USM Penang are tabulated below.

Universiti Sains Malaysia Top Postgraduate Courses and Fees

Courses Annual Tuition Fees (in MYR) Annual Tuition Fees (in INR)
Master, Clinical Pharmacy MYR 4,360 ₹ 89075
Master, Dental Public Health MYR 2,640 ₹ 53935
Master, Public Administration MYR 3,630 ₹ 74161
Master of Business Administration [M.B.A] MYR 4,800 ₹ 98064
Master of Education [M.Ed], Education (Curriculum Studies) MYR 7,545 ₹ 154144
Master of Science [M.S], Building Technology MYR 2,640 ₹ 53935
Master of Science [M.S], Medical Statistic MYR 3,200 ₹ 65376
Master of Science [M.S], Project Management MYR 2,640 ₹ 53935
Master of Science [M.S], Data Science and Analytics MYR 3,240 ₹ 66193
Master of Science [M.S], Mechanical Engineering MYR 9,255 ₹ 189080

Universiti Sains Malaysia Top Undergraduate Courses and Fees

Courses Annual Tuition Fees (in MYR) Annual Tuition Fees (in INR)
Bachelor, Architecture MYR 18,750 ₹ 383063
Bachelor of Science [B.S], Building Surveying MYR 13,500 ₹ 275805
Bachelor of Accounting [B.Acc] MYR 18,000 ₹ 367740
Bachelor of Science [B.S], Environmental and Occupational Health MYR 17,000 ₹ 347310
Bachelor of Health Science [B.S], Exercise and Sport Science MYR 14,875 ₹ 303896
Bachelor of Science [B.S], Forensic Science MYR 4,250 ₹ 86828
Bachelor of Science [B.S], Medical Radiation MYR 17,000 ₹ 347310
Bachelor of Science [B.S], Nutrition MYR 17,000 ₹ 347310
Bachelor of Arts [B.A], Music MYR 3,125 ₹ 63844
Bachelor of Arts [B.A], Fine Arts MYR 12,500 ₹ 255375


Universiti Sains Malaysia MBA

The Universiti Sains Malaysia MBA is full-time, 2-5 years long postgraduate program, offered by the Graduate School of Business. Students can choose from any of the following specializations:

  1. International Business
  2. Service Science Management and Engineering
  3. Sustainable Development
  4. Governance and Control
  5. Business Analytic
  6. Digital Leadership

USM requirements for the MBA program are as follows:

  • A Bachelor’s degree from a university recognized by the USM’s Senate or an equivalent qualification with:
    • A minimum CGPA of 2.75/4.00 or equivalent and a minimum of 1 year working experience; or
    • A minimum CGPA of 3.50/4.00 or equivalent (without working experience); or
    • Pass the interview and/or test to determine the ability of prospective students to undergo the MBA program.
  • English Language requirements:
    • IELTS: 6.0
    • TOEFL iBT: 60
    • PTE: 59
  • GMAT score is not required
  • USM Direct Intake: April and October
  • Application Deadline: July 15, 2025
  • MBA fees structure:
    • Registration Fees: 225 USD
    • Personal Bond: 1000 USD
    • Tuition Fees: 200 X 48 Units= 9,600 USD
    • Convocation Fee: 50 USD

Universiti Sains Malaysia Admissions 2025

Universiti Sans Malaysia offers April and October intakes for international students. Currently, the university is not accepting undergraduate applications until further notice. However, students can apply to postgraduate programs until July 15, 2025, for the courses starting in October 2025. Explore the Universiti Sains Malaysia requirements in the table below.

Particulars USM Requirements for UG USM Requirements for PG
Application Portal Universiti Sains Malaysia Portal Universiti Sains Malaysia Portal
Universiti Sains Malaysia Application Fee 100 MYR (approx. 2,000 INR) 225 to 275 USD (approx 19,111 to 23,358 INR)
Academic Requirements Must have completed at least 12 years of schooling A bachelor’s degree
GPA or Aggregate
  • National High School Certificate, Grade 12, A-Level, IB, or equivalent
  • Diploma, A-Level, IB, AUSMAT, SAM, or others (recognized by the Malaysian government and approved by USM)
CGPA of at least 2.75/4.00
English Language Requirement IELTS: 5.0 | TOEFL iBT: 40 | PTE: 47 IELTS: 5.0 | TOEFL iBT: 40 | PTE: 47

Universiti Sains Malaysia Application Deadline 2025

The Universiti Sains Malaysia application deadline of different levels of programs are tabulated below.

USM Intake Dates USM Application Deadline for UG and PG
Semester I (October Intake) July 15, 2025
Semester II (March Intake) January 15, 2026

Also Read: Application Deadline to Study in Malaysia


Universiti Sains Malaysia Cost of Attendance

Students at USM can choose between on-campus and off-campus accommodation based on their budget and preferences. On-campus housing is affordable and well-equipped with essential facilities, while off-campus options offer more space and privacy, usually within a short distance from campus.

On-Campus Accommodation:

  • Single or twin-sharing rooms
  • Shared bathrooms
  • Facilities: Cafeteria, laundry, sports centre, study room, pantry, grocery stores
  • Rent: USD 30–75/month (excluding meals)

Off-Campus Accommodation:

  • Private condos/apartments within 3 km of campus
  • Typically 3-bedroom, air-conditioned units
  • Facilities: Grocery stores, gym, swimming pool, tennis/badminton courts, laundry
  • Rent: USD 75–125/month per room (excluding utilities)

The estimated annual cost of studying at USM varies based on each student's lifestyle and needs. This includes tuition, accommodation, food, books, travel, entertainment, and other miscellaneous expenses.

  • Universiti Sains Malaysia tuition fees for international students: From USD 3,125/ year
  • On-Campus Accommodation: From USD 340/ year
  • Other Expenses (food, books, travel, etc.): From USD 2,500/ year

Must Read: Cost of Living in Malaysia for International Students


Universiti Sains Malaysia Scholarships

Universiti Sains Malaysia offers very limited scholarships to international masters students. There are no scholarships for international undergraduate students. More details on the Universiti Sains Malaysia scholarships for masters programs are available below.

Scholarship Eligibility Award Details
USM Graduate Student Financial Assistance (GRA-ASSIST) International graduate students applying to study at USM Penang Varies
Islamic Development Bank Scholarship (IsDB) Master’s and PhD candidates from the bank’s member countries and the Muslim communities in non-member countries. Tuition support, monthly living allowance, medical coverage, travel expenses and research allowances
Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) Bright minds from around the world to pursue postgraduate academic studies in Malaysia Varies

Also Read: Scholarships for International Students in Malaysia


Universiti Sains Malaysia Postgraduate Research Attachment (PGRA)

The Postgraduate Research Attachment (PGRA) fund supports USM Master's (research mode) and PhD students with strong research progress for short-term attachments at partner institutions. The program aims to boost research output through international collaboration.

Eligibility & Details:

  • Must be a registered USM Master’s (research mode) or PhD student with good research progress
  • Attachment must be at a university or research institution with an active MOU/MOA with USM
  • Application must include an official invitation letter from the host institution
  • Duration: 1 to 3 months
  • Maximum funding: RM 4,000 (79,910 INR)
  • Students must publish in indexed journals within a year, co-authored by the host scientist

Universiti Sains Malaysia Rankings 2025

The Universiti Sains Malaysia QS ranking places it in #146 position in 2025. In the same QS rankings, USM Penang is ranked #8 in Asian University Rankings (Southeast Asia). Some notable trends of University Sains Malaysia rankings are tabulated below.

Ranked By 2025 Rank 2024 Rank 2023 Rank
QS #146 #137 #143
THE #401-500 #401-500 #601-800
US News and World Report - #401 #504

USM By the Numbers

  • 6 Campuses
  • 26 Schools
  • 14 Centers
  • 39,663 Student Enrollment
  • 8,960 Students Graduated in 2024
  • 1,773 Academic Staff
  • 2,410 Active Grants

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a globally ranked, budget-friendly option for international students. With QS rank #146 in 2025, tuition starting at USD 3,125/year, and living costs from USD 340/year, USM offers quality education across 60+ programs.


FAQs

Ques: Is Universiti Sains Malaysia a good university?

Ans: Yes, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a top-ranked public university. It ranks #146 in QS World University Rankings 2025 and holds APEX status for excellence in academics and research. With affordable fees and diverse programs, it’s a great choice for international students.

Ques: What are the requirements to enter the USM?

Ans: The requirements to enter the USM are

Undergraduate (UG) Requirements:

  • Completion of 12 years of schooling
  • Qualifications like A-Level, IB, AUSMAT, SAM, or equivalent recognized by the Malaysian government
  • English Proficiency: IELTS 5.0, TOEFL iBT 40, or PTE 47

Postgraduate (PG) Requirements:

  • A bachelor’s degree with at least CGPA 2.75/4.00
  • English Proficiency: IELTS 5.0, TOEFL iBT 40, or PTE 47
  • For MBA:
    • CGPA ≥ 2.75 with 1 year of work experience, or
    • CGPA ≥ 3.50 (work experience not needed), or
    • Pass interview/test if below criteria not met
    • GMAT not required

Ques: How many USM campuses are there in Malaysia?

Ans: USM has 6 campuses across Malaysia:

  • Main campus in Penang (Health and Science)
  • Engineering Campus in Nibong Tebal
  • Health campus in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan
  • IPPT Campus
  • USM@KL
  • USM-KLE Belgaum

Universiti Sains Malaysia Program Fees & Deadlines

ProgramImportant DatesFees
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 4,313 /Yr
MYR 18,750 /Yr
B.Acc
4 years
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 4,140 /Yr
MYR 18,000 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 978 /Yr
MYR 4,250 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 3,910 /Yr
MYR 17,000 /Yr
B.A Music
4 years
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 719 /Yr
MYR 3,125 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 3,910 /Yr
MYR 17,000 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 3,105 /Yr
MYR 13,500 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 3,421 /Yr
MYR 14,875 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 3,910 /Yr
MYR 17,000 /Yr
Application Deadline For March Intake (31st Jan 2025)
USD 2,875 /Yr
MYR 12,500 /Yr

Do you think the Dates are wrong ?  Report Here

Top Recommended Courses


18 months
On Campus
English
Full Time
Exam Scores: TOEFL40|IELTS5|PTE47
Entry Requirement: TOELF: 60 | IELTS: 6 | PTE: 59
USD 1,104 /YrMYR 4,800 /Yr

Bachelor Architecture

3 years
On Campus
English
Full Time
Exam Scores: TOEFL40|IELTS5|PTE47
USD 4,313 /YrMYR 18,750 /Yr

Do you think the fees are wrong ?  Report Here

4 years
On Campus
English
Full Time
Ranked #601 out of 1502 by THE Global Ranking 2023
Exam Scores: TOEFL40|IELTS5|PTE47
USD 4,140 /YrMYR 18,000 /Yr

Bachelor of Science [B.S] Forensic Science

4 years
Honours, On Campus
English
Full Time
Exam Scores: TOEFL40|IELTS5|PTE47
USD 978 /YrMYR 4,250 /Yr
1 year
On Campus
English
Full Time
Exam Scores: TOEFL40|IELTS5|PTE47
USD 607 /YrMYR 2,640 /Yr

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Universiti Sains Malaysia Ranking

2026202520242023202220212020201920182017

QS World University logo

Overall 134 out of 1401 in Global Ranking

#2 out of 14 in Malaysia 2026

Nearest Ranked Colleges

Ranked 58
Score 80.1

Ranked 153
Score 61.6

Ranked 251
Score 50.2

Do you think the Rankings are wrong ?  Report Here

Universiti Sains Malaysia Scholarships


NameScholarship Per StudentLevel of StudyType
Malaysian Government ScholarshipsScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based
Bhajan Lal ScholarshipScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyDoctorateTypeMerit-Based
Axol Science ScholarshipScholarship per student$2,000Level Of StudyBachelorTypeCompany-Sponsored
ASID Foundation Legacy ScholarshipsScholarship per student$4,000Level Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based
UKM Vice-Chancellor’s ScholarshipsScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyDoctorateTypeMerit-Based

Do you think the Scholarship is wrong ?  Report Here

Attendance Cost

$607

attendance cost

The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees

Tuition fees
Undergraduate Programs
$3,910 / Year
Post Graduate Program
$607 / Year

Universiti Sains Malaysia Campus Location


+60-46-53-3888
Telephone
Level 1, Building E42, Chancellory II Universiti Sains Malaysia 11800 USM Penang
Address

Nearby This Campus

  • Bus Station
  • Book Store
  • Shopping Mall
  • Hospital
  • Airport

Bus Station

Desasiswa Fajar Harapan, Lengkongan Teknologi0.14 km
Dewan Budaya,Jalan Universiti0.19 km
Pusat Pengetahuan Kominikasi Dan Teknologi,Jalan Universiti0.21 km
Desasiswa Bakti Permai,Persiaran Sains0.23 km
Show More

Shopping Mall

Naelofar Hijab Pulau Pinang0.83 km
Gintell0.85 km
Outlet DeXandra Penang1.52 km
Young Heart2.50 km
Show More

Airport

Penang International Airport7.32 km
Airport Helipad7.68 km

Book Store

Bismi Books & Stationery0.35 km
Taman Buku USM0.46 km
Pustaka Union & Enterprise0.51 km
The Universiti Sains Malaysia Co-Operative Bookshop Ltd1.43 km
Show More

Hospital

Penang Hyperbaric Center2.21 km
Diabetes Treatment | Natural & Holistic3.55 km
Lam Wah Ee Hospital3.99 km
Ambulance MEDILIFE4.34 km
Show More

● All distance are measured radially. Actual distance may vary

Comments


Found 6 Comments

S
simrah anif
Jun 25, 2024 18:07
What is the tuition fees for the selected coarse
K
Karan Gupta
Jun 26, 2024 16:59

The total program tuition fee for international undergraduate students ranges between 54,587-74,862 RM. International graduate tuition fees range between 9,680-15,480 RM per year. You can check Universiti Sains Malaysia Programs and tuition fees for more information.

S
soo yu sen
Apr 26, 2024 08:37

May I have a chance to walk into this university? Because I felt very interested in studying at this university. Thank you!!!

L
Lagan Kapoor
May 2, 2024 23:49

For certain postgraduate research programs, there might be a possibility of contacting the supervisor directly to discuss potential research opportunities. However, You can explore the USM courses to learn more about the curriculum, fees, and other details. 

A
alice tan
Feb 27, 2024 16:16

How long does it take for my application to finish processing? I submitted my application about a week ago, but its current status is just "in review".

L
Lagan Kapoor
Mar 11, 2024 11:39

Each program has its own application deadline and processing timeframe. However, you can explore the USM courses to learn more about the curriculum, fees, and other details.

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