Quick Information
| Last Verified Date | November 10, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Application Link | Apply via the official page |
| Official Source | https://admission.usm.my/ |
Why Universiti Sains Malaysia stands out
Universiti Sains Malaysia is Malaysia’s only APEX university, with its main campus in Penang and specialist campuses for engineering and for health sciences. It is a research-led university with strengths in the sciences, engineering, medicine, pharmacy and the arts, and it runs a global network that includes offshore and franchise programmes. International students apply through a direct International Channel, separate from the national system used by Malaysian applicants.
What you can study
Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees are offered across the university’s schools, including engineering, computer science, the natural and applied sciences, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and health sciences, business and management, and the arts and humanities. Postgraduate study includes coursework, mixed-mode and research degrees, and the university also offers dual and joint PhD programmes with international partners.
International admissions
International undergraduates apply online through the POHON@USM portal, and postgraduate applicants apply through the Institute of Postgraduate Studies. You need a recognised school-leaving certificate after at least 12 years of schooling, and the published English floor for many programmes is IELTS 5.0 or an accepted equivalent. Full details are on the official USM admissions page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to apply to Universiti Sains Malaysia?
For a bachelor’s degree you need a recognised school-leaving certificate after at least 12 years of primary and secondary education, or an equivalent diploma or foundation qualification. Final results are required, and each programme sets its own subject requirements.
How much is tuition for international students?
International students are charged per semester, and the fee depends on the programme. Check the fee listed for your chosen programme on the university’s official pages before you apply.
When should I apply?
USM runs a main intake and a smaller second intake each year, and the international application portal announces its opening dates on the portal itself. Check the POHON@USM portal for the current window, as the windows are short.
How does the student visa work?
After you receive an offer, you apply for a Student Pass through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), with the university’s support. Allow several weeks for the visa process before your start date.