In short
UCSI University is a private research university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, offering a diverse range of programs to around 16,000 students from over 110 countries. It is recognized for its QS Asia top-300 ranking and affordable tuition and living costs.
Key facts
- Type
- Private
- Founded
- 1986
- Students
- 16,000
- International students
- 3,500
- Acceptance rate
- 65%
- Tuition (intl)
- €5–15k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
UCSI University is a leading private research university in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, founded in 1986 and granted university status in 2003. Enrolling approximately 16,000 students from over 110 countries, UCSI offers programmes across medicine, pharmacy, engineering, computing, music, business, and social sciences. The university is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and consistently ranked among the top 300 universities in Asia, making it a popular destination for international students seeking quality education at affordable Asian tuition levels.
Why study here
- QS Asia top-300 ranked university offering recognised degrees in medicine, pharmacy, engineering, and business.
- One of the few Malaysian universities with a full Faculty of Music offering performance degrees.
- Diverse international campus: students from 110+ countries create a genuinely global learning environment.
- Affordable tuition and living costs compared to Western universities, with English-medium instruction.
- Strong industry connections and dedicated research institutes across healthcare, engineering, and technology.
Student life
UCSI's Kuala Lumpur campus features modern facilities including research labs, a performing arts centre, sports courts, and a student hub. Student life is vibrant, with over 70 clubs and societies spanning cultural, academic, sports, and arts interests. Kuala Lumpur itself is a dynamic city with excellent food, shopping, public transport, and cultural diversity — and is one of Southeast Asia's most affordable capitals for students.
Fees
InternationalInternational undergraduate tuition: approx. MYR 20,000–65,000/year (EUR ~4,500–15,000) depending on programme; medicine is at the higher end.
HomeDomestic students pay similar or slightly lower rates as UCSI is a private university; financial aid and PTPTN loans available.
LivingKuala Lumpur living costs: approx. MYR 1,500–2,500/month (EUR ~320–530) for accommodation, food, and transport.
Application fee: MYR 200–500. UCSI offers a range of scholarships for high-achieving international students.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryMinimum SPM/O-Level equivalent with passes in relevant subjects; A-Level, Foundation, or Diploma accepted.
Medicine / PharmacyStrong science A-Levels or equivalent; interview required; MQA and MMC compliance.
English proficiencyIELTS or TOEFL required for non-English-medium secondary school graduates.
IELTS Academic5.5–6.0 depending on programme
TOEFL iBT60–80 depending on programme
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2024601–650
QS Asia University Rankings 2024Top 300
Times Higher Education Asia Rankings501–600
University scholarships
UCSI Excellence ScholarshipUp to 100% tuition waiver for top-performing applicants
UCSI International Merit Award10–50% tuition reduction for international students with strong academic records
UCSI Sports ScholarshipUp to 50% tuition waiver for outstanding athletes
Accreditation
UCSI University is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). Its medical programme is recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC) and listed by the World Directory of Medical Schools (WDOMS). Pharmacy is recognised by the Malaysian Pharmacy Board. Engineering programmes are accredited by the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM).
Programs
a selectionUCSI University · Malaysia
BA (Hons) in Event and Tourism Management
This three-year Bachelor of Arts (Honours) programme provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the dynamic multi-million ringgit event and tourism industry. You will gain operational, supervisory, and managerial expertise applicable to modern business practices within these sectors. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of areas, including conventions, event planning, and tourism management.
Bachelor's
Level
€18k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
UCSI University · Malaysia
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Branding and Advertising
This Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Branding and Advertising is a unique degree in Malaysia that uniquely combines strategic marketing principles with creative advertising techniques. It's designed for students aspiring to build brands and develop impactful advertising campaigns. The program equips you with the skills to plan and execute innovative strategies, fostering adaptability and resilience in a dynamic field. You will gain expertise in both the strategic aspects of marketing and the creative execution of advertising, preparing you for a successful career in this exciting industry.
Bachelor's
Level
€20k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
UCSI University · Malaysia
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Logistics Management
This program focuses on the essential concepts, techniques, and principles of logistics and supply chain management. It is designed with industry insights, as UCSI University is affiliated with the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport. Graduates of this program will be equipped to manage the flow of goods and supplies, playing a crucial role in ensuring the seamless operation of businesses worldwide. The curriculum aims to develop up-to-date vocational skills relevant to the dynamic business environment.
Bachelor's
Level
€20k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
UCSI University · Malaysia
Bachelor of Business Analytics (Honours)
In today's data-driven world, businesses need professionals who can transform information into impactful decisions. This Bachelor of Business Analytics (Honours) program equips you with the skills to analyse data, uncover trends, and drive strategic business outcomes. You'll gain a strong foundation in core business principles while mastering data analytics, statistics, and visualisation tools. The program emphasizes practical learning through real-world projects, case studies, and internships, ensuring you develop industry-relevant experience. Graduates will be well-prepared for high-demand roles in business intelligence, digital strategy, and data-driven decision-making, ready to lead in the evolving business landscape.
Bachelor's
Level
€21k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
UCSI University · Malaysia
Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Mobile Computing and Networking
This program provides a comprehensive understanding of both mobile application development and network design. You will gain the skills needed to create sophisticated mobile apps while also learning how to implement and manage complex network systems. The curriculum progresses from foundational computing and programming concepts in the first year to advanced networking and mobile technology in the final year, preparing you for a career in the rapidly evolving tech industry.
Bachelor's
Level
€21k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
UCSI University · Malaysia
Bachelor Of Financial Technology (Honours)
This three-year Bachelor of Financial Technology (Honours) program explores the core concepts and practices of financial technology. You will learn how technological advancements are reshaping the finance industry and gain a deep understanding of both finance and financial services. The program equips you with expertise in programming and financial applications, enabling you to tackle real-world challenges using your technological skills.
Bachelor's
Level
€21k
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Malaysia
partial fundingMinistry of Higher Education Malaysia
Government of Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
Open to international postgraduate applicants from eligible countries who intend to pursue, or are enrolled in, full-time Master's or PhD study at Malaysian public universities or selected private institutions. Master's applicants must be under 40 and PhD applicants under 45, with a CGPA of 3.0 or a Second Class Upper (Honours), IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL PBT 550, and a research proposal of at least 1,000 words.
partial
Funding
€12k
Max
May 18, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMinistry of Foreign Affairs, Malaysia
Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program (MTCP) Scholarship
Open to citizens of developing countries recognised by the Malaysian government, aged up to 45, with strong academic credentials meeting their chosen programme's requirements. Applicants must already hold admission to a participating public or private Malaysian university and provide proof of English proficiency such as an IELTS score or institutional certificate, and be in good health.
full
Funding
€12k
Max
Mar 31, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingMultimedia University (MMU), Malaysia
International Scholarships at Multimedia University Malaysia
Open to international and domestic students holding an offer for a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programme at Multimedia University Malaysia, awarded on academic merit and, for some schemes, financial need; undergraduate entrants need a high-school certificate and postgraduate entrants a first degree.
partial
Funding
€12k
Max
Dec 31, 2026
Deadline
tuition only fundingMAHSA University
MAHSA University Blue Ribbon Scholarship (MBRS)
Open to local and international students of all nationalities who enrol full-time in a MAHSA Foundation programme (Science, Business or Arts) leading to a Bachelor's degree. Applicants must hold at least 5 SPM or O-Level credits in the relevant subjects, show good conduct, maintain attendance and academic standards, and provide evidence of financial need.
tuition only
Funding
—
Max
May 15, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students at UCSI University?
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International undergraduate tuition fees at UCSI University range approximately from MYR 20,000 to MYR 65,000 per year, varying by program. Medicine programs are generally at the higher end of this range.
What are the living costs for students in Kuala Lumpur?
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Estimated monthly living costs in Kuala Lumpur for accommodation, food, and transport are around MYR 1,500 to MYR 2,500. This is considered affordable when compared to many Western capitals.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
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International students whose secondary education was not in English typically need to provide proof of English proficiency. This can be an IELTS Academic score of 5.5–6.0 or a TOEFL iBT score of 60–80, depending on the specific program.
Does UCSI University offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, UCSI University offers several scholarships for international students, including the UCSI Excellence Scholarship (up to 100% tuition waiver), the UCSI International Merit Award (10–50% tuition reduction), and a Sports Scholarship (up to 50% tuition waiver).
What academic qualifications are needed for undergraduate admission?
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For undergraduate entry, a minimum equivalent of SPM or O-Level passes in relevant subjects is required. Qualifications such as A-Levels, Foundation, or Diplomas are also accepted.
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