MALAYSIA · SERDANG
University of Putra Malaysia
public · Founded 1931 · Languages: en, ms
In short
The University of Putra Malaysia (UPM) is a research-intensive public university in Selangor, Malaysia, offering diverse programmes with a focus on agriculture and community well-being. It provides a dynamic campus experience and is committed to research, innovation, and digital integration for its students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1931
- Students
- 26,000
- International students
- 3,500
- Acceptance rate
- 30%
- Tuition (intl)
- €4–9k/yr
- Languages
- EN, MS
- Location
- Serdang, Malaysia
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is a leading public research university in Malaysia, with a strong focus on agriculture and a wide range of other fields including medicine, health sciences, forestry, and environmental studies. UPM emphasizes research and innovation aimed at community well-being, as demonstrated by initiatives like the UPM Food Security Blueprint. The university is committed to fostering an innovative environment, with students actively developing solutions for real-world problems. UPM is dedicated to advancing knowledge and contributing to national and global development through its academic and research endeavors.
Why study here
- Engage in impactful research and innovation focused on community well-being and national agendas like food security.
- Benefit from a university committed to developing a robust digital ecosystem and integrating AI into campus life.
- Join a diverse academic environment with strong programs across multiple faculties, including a highly-regarded Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences.
Student life
Campus life at UPM is dynamic, featuring events like the Putra Carnival that strengthen university-community ties. Students are actively involved in creative and innovative projects, from developing applications to promote healthy eating on a budget (PutraPalate) to creating eco-friendly urban farming solutions (Vermacres Mini Pot) and showcasing Malaysian heritage through fine dining. The university also focuses on implementing AI and digital ecosystems to enhance the student experience.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 3,500-9,000 per year for most international undergraduate and postgraduate programmes; clinical and specialised programmes cost more.
HomeHeavily subsidised for Malaysian citizens, typically a few hundred euros per semester.
LivingAround EUR 4,000-6,000 per year for accommodation, food and personal expenses in the Klang Valley.
Tuition varies by faculty and level; on-campus residential colleges offer affordable housing for international students.
Admissions
Undergraduate entryRecognised pre-university qualification (e.g. STPM, A-Levels, Foundation, or equivalent) meeting programme-specific subject requirements.
Postgraduate entryRelevant bachelor's degree with a good CGPA; research programmes require a research proposal and supervisor agreement.
IELTS6.0 (band varies by programme)
TOEFL iBT60-79
Rankings
QS World University Rankings134
QS Asia University RankingsTop 30 in Asia
University scholarships
Graduate Research Fellowship (GRF)Monthly stipend for postgraduate researchers
Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)Full tuition plus living allowance
Accreditation
The Malaysian Journal of Medicine and Health Sciences (MJMHS), published by UPM, is indexed in databases such as Scopus, Crossref, Google Scholar, EBSCOhost, ISC, and MyCite, reflecting the university's commitment to recognized research standards.
Programs
a selectionUniversity of Putra Malaysia · Malaysia
Master in Data Science
The Master in Data Science program is designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in the rapidly growing field of data science. This program focuses on data mining, statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization techniques, enabling graduates to extract meaningful insights from complex datasets. The curriculum integrates theoretical concepts with hands-on projects, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world challenges. Graduates will be prepared for diverse roles in various industries, leveraging data to drive innovation and informed decision-making.
Master's
Level
€13k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
University of Putra Malaysia · Malaysia
Master of Computer Science
The Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology at Universiti Putra Malaysia offers postgraduate programmes designed to deepen your expertise and contribute original knowledge in computer science. You can choose between a 'Programme by Research' or a 'Programme by Coursework'. The research-focused master's (1-3 years) and PhD (2-5 years) programmes involve independent research with limited coursework, while the coursework-focused master's degrees (1.5-3 years) emphasize practical skills and professional development.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
University of Putra Malaysia · Malaysia
Master of Environment
The Master of Environment program at the Faculty of Forestry and Environment, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), is designed to equip graduates with advanced knowledge and skills in environmental management and science. This program aims to address the complex environmental challenges facing the world today, fostering expertise in areas critical for sustainable development and environmental protection. Students will engage with interdisciplinary approaches to understand and solve environmental issues, preparing them for impactful careers in research, policy, and practice. The curriculum offers a comprehensive study of environmental principles, policy, and management strategies. It encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills, essential for navigating the dynamic field of environmental science. The program is ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of environmental systems and contribute to solutions for a sustainable future.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
24 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 the University of Putra Malaysia (UPM)?
+
International undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at UPM typically cost between EUR 3,500-9,000 per year. Some specialised and clinical programmes may have higher fees. Living costs for accommodation, food, and personal expenses are estimated at EUR 4,000-6,000 annually.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International students generally need an IELTS score of 6.0 (though specific programme requirements may vary) or a TOEFL iBT score between 60-79.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission to UPM?
+
For undergraduate studies, a recognised pre-university qualification such as STPM, A-Levels, or a Foundation year is required, along with meeting programme-specific subject prerequisites. Postgraduate admissions require a relevant bachelor's degree with a good CGPA, and research programmes also need a research proposal and supervisor agreement.
Does UPM offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, UPM offers scholarships such as the Graduate Research Fellowship (GRF) which provides a monthly stipend for postgraduate researchers. The Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS) is also available, covering full tuition fees and a living allowance.
What makes UPM unique for international students?
+
UPM is a leading research university with a strong focus on agriculture and community well-being, exemplified by initiatives like the Food Security Blueprint. It also emphasizes innovation, digital transformation, and AI integration within its campus environment.
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