In short
The University of Macau is a comprehensive public research university founded in 1981, offering over 130 programs taught in English. It features a multicultural campus, a unique '4-in-1' education model, and strong research achievements, particularly in 16 ESI fields.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1981
- Students
- 16,800
- International students
- 296
- Acceptance rate
- 25%
- Tuition (intl)
- €11–14k/yr
- Languages
- EN, ZH, PT
- Location
- Macau, Macau
The University of Macau (UM) is a comprehensive public university with a strong focus on research, founded in 1981. It boasts an international and multicultural campus environment, with 80% of its faculty members recruited globally. English is the primary medium of instruction across its diverse programs. UM is dedicated to fostering innovative and socially responsible graduates who are globally competitive and possess a deep understanding of their home country. The university offers over 130 degree programs at bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels, spanning fields like literature, business, education, health sciences, law, and engineering. It employs a unique '4-in-1' collaborative education model for undergraduates, integrating discipline-specific learning, general education, research/internship, and community engagement through its residential college system. Postgraduate education emphasizes 'knowledge integration' and 'collaborative innovation' to drive interdisciplinary research and cultivate talent.
Why study here
- Experience a multicultural campus with a diverse international faculty, with English as the primary language of instruction.
- Benefit from a '4-in-1' collaborative education model and a unique residential college system for holistic development.
- Study at a highly-ranked institution with strong global reputation and significant achievements in research, particularly in 16 ESI fields.
- Access a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, many with international accreditation.
- Engage in international exchange opportunities with over 350 partner institutions in more than 40 countries and regions.
- Develop skills for future careers through internship opportunities both locally and internationally.
Student life
The University of Macau offers a unique residential college system designed to provide a holistic education experience, complementing academic faculties. There are 10 residential colleges that foster whole-person development through experiential learning and community engagement. This system aims to cultivate seven competencies in students: civic responsibility, global competitiveness, knowledge integration, teamwork, service and leadership, cultural engagement, and healthy living. The campus is vibrant with various news and events, from academic seminars to cultural exhibitions and long service award ceremonies.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 11,000-14,000 per year (around MOP 95,000-120,000) for undergraduate programmes; postgraduate fees vary by programme.
HomeLocal Macau students pay lower, government-subsidised tuition rates.
LivingAround EUR 8,000-12,000 per year including residential college fees, meals and personal expenses in Macau.
Application fees for the Admission Examination are MOP 250, and MOP 300 for Direct Admission. Specific tuition varies by programme and is published on the university's admissions pages; generous merit scholarships can offset fees.
Admissions
Undergraduate Applicants (Admission Examination)Form 6 graduates or equivalent. Currently enrolled Form 6 students may submit Form 5 transcripts and proof of current enrollment.
Undergraduate Applicants (Direct Admission)Currently enrolled in or successfully completed Form 6 or equivalent, and have met specific public examination results or qualifications for undergraduate admission.
IELTS6.0-6.5 overall (typical undergraduate requirement)
TOEFL iBT80+ (typical undergraduate requirement)
Rankings
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings145th
Times Higher Education (THE) Young University Rankings14th
Times Higher Education (THE) Asia University Rankings28th
Times Higher Education (THE) Association of Portuguese Speaking Universities (AULP)1st
Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings285th
U.S. News & World Report’s Best Global Universities Rankings230th
Essential Science Indicators (ESI)Top 1% in 16 fields (Engineering, Materials Science, Computer Science, Chemistry, Clinical Medicine, Pharmacology & Toxicology, Psychiatry/Psychology, Social Sciences, General, Biology & Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Genetics, Agricultural Sciences, Economics & Business, Environment/Ecology, Neuroscience & Behavior, Geosciences, and Mathematics)
Essential Science Indicators (ESI)Top 0.1% in Engineering, Computer Science, and Pharmacology & Toxicology
QS World University Rankings by Subject51-100 in Hospitality & Leisure Management
QS World University Rankings by Subject98 in Linguistics
QS World University Rankings by Subject151-200 in Sociology
QS World University Rankings by Subject201-250 in Psychology
QS World University Rankings by Subject251-300 in English Language & Literature, Education, Computer Science & Information Systems, and Pharmacy & Pharmacology
QS World University Rankings by Subject301-350 in Modern Languages and Electrical & Electronic Engineering
QS World University Rankings by Subject351-400 in Law
QS World University Rankings by Subject370 in Arts & Humanities
QS World University Rankings by Subject401-450 in Social Sciences & Management
QS World University Rankings by Subject401-550 in Materials Sciences
QS World University Rankings by Subject451-500 in Mathematics and Biological Sciences
QS World University Rankings by Subject551-600 in Medicine
QS World University Rankings by Subject551-700 in Economics & Econometrics
QS World University Rankings by Subject601-650 in Business & Management Studies
THE World University Rankings by Subject83 in Education Studies
THE World University Rankings by Subject101-125 in Computer Science, Engineering, and Psychology
THE World University Rankings by Subject151-175 in Medical and Health, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences
THE World University Rankings by Subject176-200 in Arts and Humanities, Business and Economics, and Physical Sciences
U.S. News & World Report’s Best Global Universities Rankings by SubjectTop 50 in Education and Educational Research, Pharmacology and Toxicology, and Electrical and Electronic Engineering
U.S. News & World Report’s Best Global Universities Rankings by Subject51-100 in Artificial Intelligence, Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Condensed Matter Physics, Arts and Humanities, Computer Science, Physical Chemistry, and Psychiatry/Psychology
University scholarships
Principals’ Recommended Admission Scholarship (University of Macau Grand Lotus Scholarship, Golden Lotus Scholarship, Silver Lotus Scholarship)Half to full tuition fee waiver, and/or Residential College (RC) fee waiver, and/or additional scholarship in the first year.
University of Macau First Year ScholarshipMOP 5,000 (one-off tuition fee waiver)
University of Macau Golden Lotus Scholarship for Admission Examination—
University of Macau Full Scholarship for Undergraduate Students—
China Green Assistantship—
University of Macau Scholarship for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Programmes—
Donor-funded Scholarships—
Accreditation
The Faculty of Business Administration (FBA) at UM holds triple accreditation from EQUIS (European Foundation for Management Development), AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business), and AMBA (Association of MBAs). The Faculty of Science and Technology also receives professional qualifications recognized worldwide.
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Macau · Macau
Master of Arts in Chinese History and Culture
The Master of Arts in Chinese History and Culture program is designed primarily for primary and secondary school teachers in Macau. It aims to enhance their knowledge of Chinese history and culture, improve their ability to disseminate and appreciate Chinese civilization, and strengthen their skills for independent study and teaching. The program focuses on advancing teachers' expertise to effectively educate younger generations about Chinese history and culture.
Master's
Level
€22k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Macau · Macau
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) of Microelectronics
The Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Microelectronics is a postgraduate research degree designed to deepen your understanding and practical skills in the field of microelectronics. This program focuses on advanced topics and research methodologies, preparing you for a career in research and development or further doctoral studies.
Master's
Level
€22k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Macau · Macau
Master of Philosophy in Chinese Linguistics
This Master of Philosophy program offers an in-depth study of the Chinese language and linguistics, covering both classical and modern aspects, as well as relevant theories. It aims to enhance students' proficiency in the field, broaden their perspectives, and equip them with the skills for independent, high-quality research. The program is designed to lay a solid foundation for further academic pursuits or careers in related sectors.
Master's
Level
€22k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Macau · Macau
Master of Philosophy in Education (Educational Technology)
The Master of Philosophy in Education (Educational Technology) program is designed for students who want to deepen their understanding and research skills in the field of educational technology. This program aims to equip students with advanced knowledge in current educational issues and research methodologies, with a specific focus on designing and implementing digital learning environments, mobile learning, game-based learning, and emerging technologies. Graduates will be prepared to contribute to the advancement of educational practices through research and innovation.
Master's
Level
€22k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Macau · Macau
Master of Philosophy in Education (Mathematics Education)
The Master of Philosophy in Education (Mathematics Education) program is designed for students seeking advanced study and research in the field of mathematics education. This program aims to deepen understanding of educational theories and practices, with a specific focus on mathematics. Graduates will be equipped with advanced research skills applicable to contemporary educational issues. The curriculum emphasizes both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, preparing students for rigorous academic inquiry and thesis development.
Master's
Level
€22k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Macau · Macau
MSc in Biomedical Sciences
The Master of Science (MSc) in Biomedical Sciences program at the University of Macau offers advanced study in cutting-edge areas of biological and medical research. This program is designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding and contribute to the fields of cancer biology, immunology, metabolic diseases, stem cells, and the application of omics and artificial intelligence in medicine. The curriculum focuses on developing critical thinking, research methodologies, and practical skills necessary for a career in scientific research, biotechnology, or further doctoral studies. Students will engage with faculty who are active researchers, gaining exposure to current scientific challenges and discoveries. The program aims to foster a strong foundation in biomedical sciences, preparing graduates for impactful roles in advancing human health through scientific innovation and discovery.
Master's
Level
€22k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Macaufull 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
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
full funding
Rotary Foundation
Rotary Peace Fellowships
For professionals committed to peace and development, with relevant work experience and (for the master's) a strong academic background and proficiency in English. Applicants apply through their local Rotary district and are selected globally by The Rotary Foundation for study at a Rotary Peace Center.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
May 15, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Independent Social Research Foundation (ISRF)
ISRF Europe Early Career Fellowship
Open to early-career researchers in the social sciences and humanities who are within 10 years of their PhD award (career breaks considered) and hold a salaried position at a higher education or research institution, or are independent scholars with a host institution. Research must be hosted at a European institution and address innovative, interdisciplinary social research questions. Open to scholars of all nationalities.
full
Funding
€82k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMassachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT Need-Based Aid for International Undergraduates
For international undergraduate applicants to MIT, which is need-blind in admission and meets the full demonstrated financial need of every admitted student. Aid is a grant (no loans in the standard package); the amount is set by each family's assessed need.
full
Funding
€80k
Max
Nov 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated living costs for international students at the University of Macau?
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Living costs in Macau are estimated to be around EUR 8,000-12,000 per year. This includes expenses such as accommodation in residential colleges, meals, and personal spending.
What is the main language of instruction at the University of Macau?
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English is the primary medium of instruction across the diverse programs offered at the University of Macau. This ensures accessibility for international students.
How can international students apply to the University of Macau?
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International students can apply through an entrance examination or via direct admission for those with specific public examination results or university qualifications. Specific application periods are available on the university's admissions pages.
Does the University of Macau offer scholarships for international students?
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Yes, the University of Macau offers several merit-based scholarships for international students, such as the Principals’ Recommended Admission Scholarship and the University of Macau First Year Scholarship. These can cover tuition fees and/or living expenses.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
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Typical undergraduate requirements include an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of 80+.
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