The International University of Malaya Wales (IUMW) is a pioneering institution in Malaysia that blends British educational standards with a global learning environment. Established through collaboration between University of Malaya and University of Wales, IUMW provides students with internationally recognized degrees, modern teaching methods, and strong industry connections.

What makes IUMW Malaysia unique for international students is its dual emphasis on academic excellence and global employability. Students benefit from British-style curriculum, exposure to international faculty, and a multicultural campus setting, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to compete in global industries.

Quick Facts:

• Type of University: Private international university
• Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
• Campus Style: Modern urban campus with fully equipped facilities
• Academic Focus: Business, management, engineering, IT, health sciences

Target Audience: International students looking for globally recognized degrees in Malaysia
 

Founded in 2013, International University of Malaya Wales (IUMW) was established through a collaboration between Universiti Malaya and the University of Wales. The university graduated its first cohort of 6 postgraduate students in 2015 and, by its 10th anniversary, had grown into a community of around 3,000 students, staff and alumni. Today, IUMW, now known as Universiti Malaya-Wales (UM-Wales), continues to offer foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with an international academic outlook. 

The International University of Malaya Wales was established to provide high-quality education that meets international standards while remaining accessible to Malaysian and foreign students. Its foundation is built on the partnership between University of Malaya and the University of Wales, UK, ensuring that students receive the best of both academic cultures.

The university’s mission is to foster academic excellence, cultivate innovative thinking, and develop ethical leaders. IUMW emphasizes social responsibility, inclusivity, and global citizenship, encouraging students to engage in community service and collaborative projects. Over the years, the university has grown steadily, introducing new programmes, expanding its facilities, and achieving recognition in international rankings such as the University Malaya-Wales QS ranking.

IUMW offers a vibrant campus life with state-of-the-art facilities. The University Malaya Wales campus in Kuala Lumpur provides a conducive environment for academic growth, innovation, and collaboration.

Students enjoy modern classrooms, fully equipped laboratories, a digital library, and specialized research centers. Sports enthusiasts have access to fitness centers, courts, and recreational areas, while social spaces on campus encourage community interaction.

International students benefit from dedicated support services, including visa assistance, orientation programmes, and personal counselling. IUMW is well-known for creating an international-friendly environment where students from different cultural backgrounds can thrive academically and socially.

Campus Highlights

• Campus Location: The International University of Malaya Wales (IUMW) campus is located on Jalan Tun Ismail in Kuala Lumpur.
• Library & Resource Centre: The library supports learning, teaching, research, and innovation, with more than 10,000 printed books, journals, periodicals, and articles. Students can also access resources from the Universiti Malaya Library.
• Study Facilities: Library facilities include computers, postgraduate discussion rooms, individual and carrel rooms, charging stations, Wi-Fi access, and printing, binding, and laminating services.
• Computer Laboratories: IUMW provides computer laboratories equipped with industry-standard equipment and software, including applications used for digital production and scientific research.
• Creative Studio: The campus has a studio equipped with green-screen facilities, digital cameras, lighting, and an audio studio for students interested in broadcast and digital production.
• Student Centre: The Student Centre provides computer workstations, wireless access, lounge space, a pool table, TV area, discussion space, private study areas, and a student-run coffee shop.
• Student Workspace: Students have access to a dedicated workspace that can also be used for events and gatherings.
• Sports & Recreation: IUMW supports student participation in sports through sports clubs, including basketball, netball, volleyball, and futsal.
• Student Support: The Student Services Centre provides support for orientation, student welfare, accommodation, sports clubs, cultural clubs, student activities, and university events.
• International Student Environment: The university provides student support services and co-curricular activities designed to support students' academic, social, and overall university experience.

International University of Malaya Wales (IUMW), now operating as Universiti Malaya-Wales (UM-Wales), offers foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across business, communication, technology, science and psychology. The university's current academic structure includes the Faculty of Business, the Faculty of Arts & Science, and the Centre of Foundation, Language and Malaysian Studies.

The Faculty of Arts & Science incorporates the School of Communication & Technology and the School of Science & Psychology, with an emphasis on combining academic knowledge with practical experience and industry exposure.

IUMW/UM-Wales also offers opportunities for industry engagement, internships, study abroad, field trips, events and competitions, with employability highlighted as an important part of its undergraduate education.

International University of Malaya Wales (IUMW)-Fee Structure

The fees above are the total fees for the entire course based on the university's recommended study duration. For international students, the published amounts exclude EMGS fees and the Personal Bond. UM-Wales also states that programme-related fees for international students are subject to 6% SST, effective from 1 October 2025.

For programmes marked with a dual-award option, the official fee page lists an additional RM19,080 UK degree fee. The Mobility Programme Fee is listed as RM21,000.

• International Student Scholarships: UM-Wales, formerly known as International University of Malaya-Wales (IUMW), provides scholarships, waivers and other financial support options for international students.
• International Entrance Scholarship: Prospective international students may be eligible for a RM5,000 scholarship, subject to the university's eligibility conditions.
• International Undergraduate Scholarship: International students who achieve 75% or above in their country's high school or pre-university qualification may be eligible for a RM15,000 scholarship. This scholarship is not applicable to Foundation or Open Distance Learning programmes.
• Postgraduate Scholarship: International students entering postgraduate programmes may receive RM10,000 if they achieve a CGPA above 3.50 or above 75% in their highest academic qualification.
• A's Reward: International students who have A grades in A-Level or an equivalent qualification may receive RM1,000 per A, subject to the stated conditions.
• Overseas Exhibition Waiver: International students who register during an eligible promotional event may receive a RM5,000 waiver, subject to the university's terms and conditions.
• Event Waiver: Eligible prospective students registering during specified promotional events may receive a RM1,000 waiver.
• Family Waiver: Students with immediate family members who are studying at or have graduated from IUMW may be eligible for a RM2,000 family waiver.
• Staff Waiver: Eligible IUMW staff and immediate family members may receive 40% off tuition fees, while eligible staff of Universiti Malaya, University of Wales Trinity Saint David and UM Holdings may receive 10% off tuition fees, subject to the stated conditions.
• Financial Support Services: The university also provides financial support services to guide students on available avenues of financial aid and scholarship opportunities.

Life at IUMW Malaysia goes beyond academics. The university hosts students from various countries, creating a multicultural and vibrant campus atmosphere. Residential life provides safe, comfortable housing, with modern dining halls and communal areas that foster social interaction.

Clubs and societies focus on areas such as entrepreneurship, sports, arts, and technology, giving students opportunities to develop leadership skills and personal interests. IUMW also emphasizes cultural exposure, encouraging participation in international conferences, exchange programmes, and community projects that help students build global networks.

The university ensures student well-being through comprehensive support services, including health facilities, counselling, and academic guidance, making it easier for international students to adjust and thrive.

Key Highlights

• International Student Community: Opportunities to interact with students from different cultural backgrounds.
• Student Services: Support covering orientation, student welfare, accommodation, sports, cultural activities and student events.
• Student Clubs & Activities: Students can participate in sports clubs, cultural clubs, university events and other co-curricular activities.
• Student Council: Students can participate in the Student Council and contribute ideas and feedback on university life.
• International Student Support: Dedicated support is available for international students, including assistance with student-related and administrative matters.
• Student Centre: A dedicated space for studying, socialising and recreation, with workstations, Wi-Fi, lounge and discussion areas.
• Study Abroad Opportunities: Eligible students can have opportunities for international study through the university's mobility and dual-award arrangements.

• University Collaboration: Owned by Universiti Malaya and the University of Wales, combining Malaysian and Welsh academic connections.
• UK Degree Opportunities: Eligible programmes offer UK degrees through the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) through the university's dual-award arrangements.
• MQA Accredited Programmes: UM-Wales highlights MQA accreditation as part of its academic quality assurance.
• Industry-Recognised Programmes: Selected programmes carry professional or industry accreditation, including CMI and ACCA.
• International Study Exposure: Eligible students can undertake study opportunities in Wales through the university's UK partnership and dual-award programmes.
• Career & Employability Focus: The university highlights industry exposure, career opportunities and employability through its programmes and industry connections.
• Student Development: Students can participate in activities such as the Student Council, gaining opportunities to represent their peers, advocate for student interests and develop skills useful for university life and careers.
• Academic Heritage: UM-Wales highlights 200 years of academic heritage through its association with the University of Wales.

Eligibility Requirements

• Academic Qualification: Applicants must meet the academic entry requirements specified for their chosen programme. Requirements vary by foundation, undergraduate and postgraduate programme and must comply with applicable MQA requirements.
• English Proficiency: International applicants must meet the English-language requirement for their programme. UM-Wales accepts qualifications including IELTS, TOEFL iBT, TOEFL Essentials, PTE Academic, Cambridge English, Linguaskill and OET, with the required score depending on the programme and level.
• Programme-Specific Requirements: Applicants should check the entry requirements of their selected programme before submitting an application, as academic and English requirements differ between programmes.

Documents Required

International applicants should prepare:

• Completed international student application form
• Copy of passport
• Copies of academic certificates and transcripts
• English-language test results, where applicable
• Passport-size photographs
• Any additional documents required for the selected programme or stated in the application form.

Application Process

1. Choose a Programme: Check the academic and English-language entry requirements for the selected programme.
2. Prepare Documents: Prepare your passport/identification, academic results and English-language evidence, along with any programme-specific supporting documents.
3. Submit the Application: Create an account and submit the application through the UM-Wales online application system.
4. Application Assessment: UM-Wales reviews the submitted application and supporting documents. Applicants may receive a conditional offer where additional requirements or documents need to be fulfilled.
5. Accept the Offer: Follow the instructions in the offer letter to accept the offer, pay the required fees and submit any outstanding documents.
6. Student Visa & Pass: UM-Wales' International Student Office assists with matters relating to visa and Student Pass applications, including liaison with EMGS, Immigration Malaysia and relevant embassies or authorities.
7. Pay Required Fees: International students are required to pay the Semester 1 fees before arriving in Malaysia. The personal bond is payable upon arrival and is refundable after completion of studies, provided there are no outstanding fees.
8. Arrival & Registration: After completing the required immigration and admission procedures, students complete university registration and begin their programme.

International Student Support

The International Student Office provides assistance throughout the admission process, including information and advice on visas and Student Passes, documentation approval, and communication with EMGS, Immigration Malaysia and other relevant authorities.

Graduates of IUMW Malaysia enjoy strong career prospects due to the university’s industry-aligned curriculum. Career support services include internship placement, career counselling, job fairs, and alumni networking.

• Industry Exposure: UM-Wales programmes emphasise employability through industry engagement, practical learning and real-world skills. 
• Work Placement: Students have opportunities to undertake work placements, with the university noting that some students secure full-time positions through their placement experience. 
• Career Fairs: IUMW has organised career fairs that provide students with opportunities to meet employers and participate in job interviews. 
• Graduate Employers: The university's official materials list graduates working with organisations including Maybank, Petronas, UMW Toyota Motor, Telekom Malaysia, Sime Darby, Nestlé, Oracle, AirAsia, IBM, DHL and Ernst & Young.
• Alumni in Professional Roles: UM-Wales alumni featured on the university website include professionals working in areas such as banking, human resources, marketing, business strategy, accounting and technology. 
• Graduate Achievements: Alumni and graduate stories include a Perdana Fellow to the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, a Graduate Research Assistant at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and professionals working with organisations such as Unilever and Sime Darby Plantation. 
• International Exposure: Eligible students can gain international experience through study-abroad opportunities and the university's partnership with its UK academic partners. 

Kuala Lumpur is a vibrant, multicultural city with excellent infrastructure, making it ideal for international students. The cost of living is reasonable, with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation options.

Students can enjoy Malaysia’s warm tropical climate, rich cultural experiences, diverse cuisine, and recreational activities. Public transport, including MRT, buses, and ride-sharing services, ensures easy access across the city. Kuala Lumpur is generally safe, with a welcoming environment for students from different parts of the world.

• Warm Tropical Climate: Kuala Lumpur has a hot and humid tropical climate throughout the year, with temperatures generally ranging from 23°C to 33°C. Rainfall is common, particularly during the monsoon periods, so students should be prepared for frequent showers.
• Diverse Food Culture: Students can enjoy a wide variety of Malaysian cuisine, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and local fusion dishes. Vegetarian, halal, and international food options are also widely available.
• Multicultural Environment: Kuala Lumpur is home to people from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Students can experience Malay, Chinese, Indian, and international cultures, along with festivals, traditions, markets, and cultural events.
• Convenient Transportation: The city has an extensive public transport network, including MRT, LRT, monorail, buses, and taxis, while ride-sharing services make travelling around the city convenient.
• Modern City Life: Students have access to shopping malls, cafés, restaurants, libraries, entertainment venues, parks, and other modern amenities. Attractions such as the Petronas Twin Towers, KLCC, and Batu Caves are also within easy reach.
• Student-Friendly Lifestyle: Compared with many major international cities, Kuala Lumpur offers relatively affordable options for accommodation, food, transportation, and daily expenses, although costs vary depending on lifestyle and location.
• Green Spaces and Recreation: Despite its urban setting, Kuala Lumpur has parks, gardens, hiking spots, and recreational areas where students can relax or stay active.
• Comfortable Student Environment: Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for international students and offers a diverse community, modern facilities, and services designed around everyday convenience.
• International Connectivity: Kuala Lumpur has strong domestic and international transport connections, making it convenient for students to explore other parts of Malaysia and travel to nearby countries in Southeast Asia.

The International University of Malaya Wales (IUMW) is an excellent choice for international students seeking a globally recognized degree in Malaysia. With its modern campus, British-standard education, affordable fees, multicultural environment, and strong career focus, IUMW prepares students for success in international industries.

Students are encouraged to explore IUMW’s programmes, check scholarship opportunities, and begin their application process to secure a bright academic and professional future.

Can I transfer credits from another university to UM-Wales?

Yes. Students may apply for credit transfer or credit exemption, subject to the university’s assessment and applicable academic requirements. Previous academic records may be required to determine eligible credits.

Can I change my programme after enrolling at UM-Wales?

Yes. Students can apply to change their programme through the university’s administrative process. Approval depends on the relevant academic and administrative requirements, and students should check whether the change affects their study duration or fees.

Can students drop or add subjects after the semester begins?

Yes, subject to the university’s rules and approval. Students should complete the required process within the specified period after the semester begins.

Does UM-Wales provide counselling services for students?

Yes. UM-Wales provides counselling and psychological support to help students manage personal, emotional and academic challenges. These services are intended to support student well-being and are provided confidentially.

What support is available if an international student faces difficulties after arriving in Malaysia?

The International Student Office provides support to international students on matters such as student welfare, visa-related issues, medical insurance and other administrative concerns. Students can contact the relevant university office when they need assistance.

Can I defer my studies at UM-Wales?

Students may apply for deferment through the university’s administrative process, subject to the applicable rules. International students should also consider how deferment may affect their Student Pass and consult the university before making changes to their study plans.

What happens to my tuition fees if my Malaysian student visa application is rejected?

UM-Wales has a refund policy for international students whose visa applications are rejected by the relevant immigration authorities. Any refund is subject to the university’s applicable terms and administrative deductions.

Does UM-Wales offer opportunities to study in Wales during a degree programme?

Yes. Eligible students enrolled in applicable programmes may have opportunities to participate in mobility arrangements and study in Wales through the university’s UK academic partnership. Eligibility, programme availability and additional fees may apply.

How does UM-Wales communicate important information to enrolled students?

UM-Wales provides students with a university student email account, which is used for official communication. Students are expected to regularly check their student email for important academic, administrative and university-related updates.

Can international students receive help with overseas qualification equivalency?

Yes. UM-Wales provides guidance to international applicants regarding overseas qualifications and their equivalency for admission purposes. Students can contact the university for advice based on their country and academic qualifications.

Does UM-Wales have an International Student Association?

Yes. The university provides opportunities for international students to connect through its International Student Association and other student activities. These platforms can help students build social connections and participate in campus life.

Can students participate in activities outside their academic programmes?

Yes. Students can participate in sports clubs, cultural clubs, student organisations, university events and other co-curricular activities. These activities provide opportunities to develop interests, leadership skills and connections with other students.

What happens if I need to extend my study period at UM-Wales?

Students who need additional time to complete their programme may be subject to the university’s extension procedures and applicable fees. The requirements can vary depending on the programme and individual circumstances.

Is accommodation arranged directly by UM-Wales?

UM-Wales works with accommodation providers to support students with housing arrangements. Accommodation terms, payments and tenancy conditions are generally governed by the agreement with the respective accommodation provider.