National Defense University of Malaysia UPNM

Location: National Defense University of, Kuala Lumpur
Rating:

★★★★★
★★★★★
Scholarship:
Yes
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432
Type: Public Institution
Courses: 38
QS World University Rankings:
Times Higher Education World University Rankings: 1501+
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Introduction of National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM)

The National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) is Malaysia’s premier military and defence-focused higher education institution. As the country’s only university combining academic excellence with military leadership training, UPNM offers a unique educational experience for students who want to pursue careers in defence, security, engineering, health sciences, and strategic leadership.
For international students, UPNM stands out because of its structured discipline, advanced research facilities, modern campus, and strong government support. Students benefit from world-class military values, leadership development, and high-quality academic programmes

Quick Facts

Type: Public Military University
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Campus Style: Fully residential, modern military-academic campus
Academic Focus: Defence studies, engineering, security, management, health sciences

About National Defence University of Malaysia

Campus setting	Urban
Living cost	30,295 per month
Student population	Medium (1,001 to 10,000)
International students	10%
Institution type	Public University

Established in 1995, the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) serves as Malaysia’s first military institution that accommodates to the Malaysian Armed Forces’ needs. From its base in Sungai Besi Camp, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 2,700 undergraduate students and 1,300 Officer Cadets receive 4 to 6 years of training alongside their studies.

Other than that, courses in UPNM are recognized by Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education with some of its courses and programmes leading to fully accredited degrees in a number of study areas.

The infrastructure of UPNM. The library is available to all of the students. The National Defence University of Malaysia has a variety of sports facilities which might be important to many students.

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History & Background

UPNM was established in 1995 as the Malaysian Armed Forces Academy before being officially upgraded to a full university in 2006. Its mission is to develop future leaders with the skills, discipline, and ethics needed to serve in the military, public service, and international security sectors.

Mission & Vision

To develop globally competitive defence professionals
To promote innovation in military science & defence technology
To uphold values of leadership, discipline, and integrit

Core Values

Social responsibility
Inclusivity
Global citizenship
High moral standards and military ethics

UPNM has grown rapidly, expanding its academic programmes, military facilities, global partnerships, and research opportunities.

Campus Environment & Facilities

UPNM offers a fully residential campus with top-tier military and academic facilities. The campus is large, secure, and designed for both academic learning and military leadership development.

Key Facilities

Modern classrooms
Science & engineering laboratories
Military training grounds
Fully equipped library
Simulation & defence labs
Sports centers (gym, stadium, swimming pool)
Student residential quarters
On-campus dining halls

Student Support Services

International student centre
Counselling services
Academic support units
Medical and emergency care
Leadership and discipline training

UPNM provides a welcoming, supportive environment for international students despite being a military-based institution.

Scholarships & Financial Support

UPNM offers excellent financial support for both local and international students.

Available Scholarships

UPNM International Student Scholarship
Government of Malaysia scholarships
Research assistantships for postgraduate students

Eligibility

Strong academic performance
Good physical health (selected programmes)
English language proficiency

Coverage

Tuition fees
Accommodation
Monthly allowance (for selected awards)

Why UPNM is Affordable

Low tuition fees
Subsidized facilities
Scholarships for international students

UPNM is ideal for financially constrained students seeking defence-oriented education.

Student Life & International Community

UPNM offers a disciplined yet multicultural student experience with learners from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Residential Life

Safe dormitories
Structured daily routine
Community dining & military mess halls

Clubs & Activities

Military clubs
Sports teams
Cultural societies
Leadership and volunteer groups

Student Well-Being

Counselling
Physical fitness programs
Medical services

UPNM promotes cultural exposure and global networking in a disciplined environment.

Why Choose the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM)

Key

Malaysia’s only military university
Fully residential, secure campus
Highly affordable with strong scholarships
Military + academic training combination
Global career pathways in defence & security
Modern facilities and government-supported research

Living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

UPNM is located in the nation’s capital, offering students world-class infrastructure and a dynamic lifestyle.

Cost of Living Table

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (RM)
Accommodation	350 – 700
Food & Dining	300 – 500
Transport	80 – 150
Miscellaneous	120 – 200
Total	850 – 1,550 RM

Lifestyle & Environment

Modern transportation
Cultural diversity
Safe and friendly student environment
Access to malls, medical centres, parks

Conclusion

The National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) is the perfect choice for students seeking a disciplined, leadership-focused, and academically strong education. With affordable fees, scholarships, global career pathways, and world-class training, UPNM offers unmatched opportunities for international students.
If you want to study at UPNM, explore programmes, check scholarships, and apply early for admission.

Faculties & Academic Programmes

UPNM offers a balanced mix of military, engineering, technology, management, and strategic studies programmes for both local and international students.