Increased attractiveness of Malaysia as the ideal research and study destination for researchers and international students alike, given that this exposes them to top institutions, cheap tuition fees, and cultural diversity in one basket. In reference to every top university in Malaysia, there is a reason serving local learners or foreign students based on their diverse interests in learning and profession. In this blog, we take a look at the Top 10 universities in Malaysia and some of their unique features, along with some other aspects of higher education in Malaysia.

1. University of Malaya (UM)

Rank: #1 in Malaysia
Type: Public University
Being the oldest and most prestigious institution in Malaysia, the University of Malaya is regularly charted within the best in both Asia and globally. UM is a modern research university with diversified programs and a lively campus atmosphere; it is considered a dream destination for students.

• Popular programs: Engineering, Medicine, Business Administration, Social Sciences.
• Highlights for International Students : UM offers a wide range of support to international students, from English-taught programs to cultural immersion projects.

2. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Rank: Top 3 in Malaysia
Type: Public University
Also known as the National University of Malaysia, UKM is highly regarded for its emphasis on research and innovation. The university is deeply involved in collaborations with industries, hence being a great choice for students who desire practical exposure.

• Popular Programs: Environmental science, education, and economics.
• Why Choose UKM: Emphasizing sustainability and inclusiveness, it attracts students from all around the world.

3. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)

Rank: Top 5 in Malaysia
Type: Public University
Specializing in engineering and technology, UTM is very popular with students who further plan on pursuing STEM fields. This university boasts really advanced labs and collaboration with the most prominent tech companies in the world.

• Some of the popular programs here include: civil engineering, computer science, and architecture.
• International Appeal: UTM offers a large number of courses taught in English and is extremely friendly to international students.

4. Taylor’s University

Rank: #1 Private University in Malaysia (2024-2025)
Type: Private University
Taylor’s University is one of the best private university out there. It boasts of a modern campus and employability focus, with programs designed to meet the needs of the industry.

• Popular Programs: Hospitality, Design, and Communication.
• Special Features: Partnerships with more than 200 universities from all over the world for the purpose of student exchange.

5. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Rank: No. 3 In Malaysia
Type: Public University
Since USM also means Universiti Sains, Malaysia, therefore, it will be good in research for a student. USM includes three campuses to centre on the fields that create a better improvement towards an educational hub. USM is suitable for students, whereby it takes them toward seeking a balanced education.

• Popular Programs: Natural Science, Institute of Medicine and Engineering.
• Why USM: There is constant encouragement to create more and be greener.

6. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)

Rank: No 10 In Malaysia
Type: Public University
Whereas, there comes agriculture and life sciences that initially were the claim to fame of UPM, nowadays engineering and business are additions to the university’s feather. Its sprawling campus, abreast of all modern facilities, calls for a lot of students’ attraction.

• Popular Programs: Biotechnology, Business and Veterinary Medicine.
• International Appeal: Internationalization, by definition, is the name in which this game gets played-the institutional staff to students who study there.

7. Monash University Malaysia

Rank: Best Private University Among International Students
Type: Private University (International Branch Campus)
This is a branch campus of one of the leading universities in Australia, offering the same degree but with the advantage of studying in Malaysia at a cheaper fee.

• Popular Programs: Medicine, Psychology, and Engineering.
• Highlights: Employment rates of graduates, as well as various services offered to the students.

8. Sunway University

Rank: 5th Best Private University in Malaysia.
Type: Private University
Its Sunway University business and hospitality courses are very renowned. It would be among your top choices in case one prefers a campus that is more modern and with possibilities of greater connection with the industry-a practical education delivery model.

• Popular Programs: Business Management, Hospitality, and Actuarial Fortification courses.
• Why Sunway: It is a culturally diverse university that seeks inculcation of entrepreneurial skills within its students.

9. Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)

Rank: Malaysia’s 10th Best University.
Type: Public University
As the majority of its students are Malaysian citizens, UiTM specializes in areas that most Malaysians need; however its strong reputation is recognized globally with many of its graduates working in reputable firms all over the world as professionals in law, engineering and business.

• Popular Programs: Programs on Business, Law, Marketing and Engineering.
• Special Mention: Universiti Teknologi Mara is dedicated to enhancing the aspirations of its Bumiputera (indigenous) population.

10. HELP University

Rank: 1st Best Private Social Sciences University in Malaysia.
Type: Private University.
HELP University is also favorable due to its psychology as well as social sciences programs which appeal to students who want to work on their personal whilst doing great in their studies.

• Popular Programs: Courses in Psychology, Business Information Systems and Technology Management.
• International Appeal: There are built in pathways for students to partner universities around the UK, Australia and the US.

Main Aspects Resulting To Malaysian Universities’ Rankings (2024-2025)

• Academic Reputation: For example, UM and UKM have good ranking because of their performance in studies over the years.
• Research Output: USM and UPM are among the research driven universities in Malaysia.
• Internationalization: International students are drawn to private institutions such as Taylor’s and Monash.
• Industry Collaboration: Focused on market relevant programs, especially through Sunway and HELP influences rankings.

Best Malaysian Universities For Overseas Students

• Taylor’s University: focuses on international programs and exchange programs.
• Monash University Malaysia: obtain the accredited degrees.
• University of Malaya (UM): Traditional and modern university with programs taught in English.

FAQs

1. Who is the top 10 university in Malaysia?

The top 10 universities in Malaysia include:

1. University of Malaya (UM)
2. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
3. Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
4. Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
5. Taylor’s University
6. Monash University Malaysia
7. Sunway University
8. Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
9. Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM)
10. HELP University

2. What is the most expensive university in Malaysia?

Private institutions like Monash University Malaysia and Taylor’s University are among the most expensive universities due to their global affiliations, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive international programs.

3. Which is the rank 1 private university in Malaysia?

Taylor’s University holds the top spot among private universities in Malaysia for 2024-2025. Its strong focus on industry alignment, international collaborations, and high employability rates make it a leader in private education.

Conclusion

The higher education system in Malaysia is quite colorful and has numerous options for every student. The country is full of potential in terms of development whether it’s through exposure at respected public centers such as the University of Malaya or prominent private colleges such as Taylor’s and Monash, In case one is determined where the ambition lies be it from local or international level, where to study can become the best start of future.

For those of you who have further doubts, we recommend that you check out ACE Education to seek assistance on how to find your ideal university and course. Do not hesitate to call them right now to start working towards your academic goals!