Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is one of Malaysia’s premier public research universities, internationally acclaimed for its academic excellence and research output. Established in 1931 as a school of agriculture, UPM has grown into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of disciplines across science, engineering, medicine, humanities, and business. It consistently ranks among the top universities in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, recognized for its world-class research, innovation, and commitment to sustainable development.
Located in Serdang, just 30 minutes from Kuala Lumpur, UPM’s sprawling campus combines cutting-edge academic facilities with green landscapes. The university is known for its strong ties with industry, high employability of graduates, and numerous collaborative international research initiatives.
University Overview
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Location: Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Established: 1931
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Student Population: 30,000+
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International Students: 3,500+ from over 60 countries
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Language of Instruction: English & Malay
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Affiliations: ASEAN University Network (AUN), ASAIHL, APRU
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Research Focus: Agriculture, Biotechnology, Engineering, Environmental Science, Social Sciences
Faculties & Schools
UPM has 16 faculties, several institutes, and dedicated research centers:
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Faculty of Agriculture
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Faculty of Engineering
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Faculty of Science
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Faculty of Computer Science and Information Technology
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Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
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Faculty of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences
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Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
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Faculty of Design and Architecture
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Faculty of Educational Studies
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Faculty of Human Ecology
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Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication
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Faculty of Economics and Management
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School of Graduate Studies
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UPM Business School
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Institute of Bioscience
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Institute for Social Science Studies
Intakes
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Main Intake: September
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Application Deadline: February – June
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Secondary Intake: February (limited programs)
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Application Deadline: September – November (previous year)
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Note: Deadlines may vary depending on program and applicant’s nationality. Early application is recommended for visa and scholarship consideration.
Admission Requirements
| Program Level | Academic Requirements | IELTS | TOEFL iBT | MUET (Malaysia) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate | High school/A-levels/IB with strong grades | 5.5 – 6.5 | 60 – 90 | Band 3 – 5 |
| Postgraduate | Bachelor’s degree with relevant background and good CGPA | 6.0 – 7.0 | 80 – 100 | Band 4 – 5 |
Note: Some programs (especially in medicine, veterinary science, or architecture) may require entrance exams, interviews, or portfolios.
Top Programs at UPM
Undergraduate Programs:
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Bachelor of Agricultural Science
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Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering
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BSc in Food Science and Technology
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Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Engineering)
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Bachelor of Business Administration
Postgraduate Programs:
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MSc in Agricultural Biotechnology
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MSc in Environmental Engineering
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Master in Business Administration (MBA)
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Master in Public Health
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PhD in Communication
Tuition Fees (USD/year)
| Program Level | Estimated Tuition Fee (USD/year) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $2,200 – $4,500 |
| Postgraduate | $2,500 – $5,500 |
| Doctoral | $2,200 – $4,800 |
Note: Tuition varies by faculty and field. Science, engineering, and medical-related programs tend to be at the higher range.
Scholarships for International Students
UPM International Graduate Research Assistantship Scheme (IGRAS)
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Eligibility: Full-time postgraduate students in research programs
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Benefits: Tuition waiver + monthly stipend
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Renewable: Yes, based on academic performance
Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS)
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Eligibility: Excellent international students for Master’s and PhD
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Benefits: Covers tuition fees + monthly allowance
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Duration: Full duration of study
Faculty-Based Scholarships
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Eligibility: Merit-based or need-based
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Benefits: Partial tuition waivers or living stipends
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Available in: Engineering, Agriculture, Economics, and more
Why Choose Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)?
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A top-tier Malaysian research university with global recognition
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Strong agricultural and bioscience legacy with diverse academic offerings
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Excellent English-taught postgraduate programs
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Green and smart campus close to Kuala Lumpur
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High graduate employability and strong industry linkages
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Affordable tuition and cost of living for international students
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Extensive research opportunities and international collaborations