UNITAR International University is a recognised private university in Malaysia that focuses on flexible, industry-relevant and career-oriented education. Known for its inclusive academic model and learner-centred approach, UNITAR attracts students from Malaysia and abroad who are looking for accessible higher education pathways.

What makes UNITAR International University Malaysia unique for international students is its blended learning philosophy, strong academic support system and emphasis on professional skills development. The university offers a wide range of diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to meet global workforce demands.

Quick Facts

Type: Private University
Location: Malaysia
Campus Style: Modern, flexible learning environment
Academic Focus: Business, Education, Information Technology, Management, Social Sciences

UNITAR International University was established in 1997 as the first virtual university in Southeast Asia and one of the earliest private universities in Malaysia. Its establishment built on the earlier UNITAR College, founded in 1991 to provide inclusive learning opportunities and industry-recognised education pathways. UNITAR has since developed an education model that combines technology, innovation and accessibility across different stages of learning.

A defining part of UNITAR International University’s development has been its focus on virtual and technology-enabled education. The university states that it was the first institution in Asia to receive a QS 5-Star Rating for the Online Learning category. Its learning ecosystem includes online, face-to-face and customised learning environments, supporting learners through different modes of study.

Today, UNITAR continues to focus on creating highly employable and entrepreneurial global citizens. Its vision is to accelerate innovative solutions in a global learning ecosystem for a sustainable future, while its mission is to create highly employable and entrepreneurial global citizens. The university also aligns its learning ecosystem with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and promotes values including nurturing, accountability, dynamism and integrity.

UNITAR International University provides a supportive campus environment designed to accommodate modern learning styles. The campus includes classrooms, computer laboratories, libraries, academic resource centres and student support facilities.

Facilities support teaching, learning and student engagement, while dedicated services such as academic advising, counselling and international student assistance enhance campus life. The university maintains an international-friendly environment that supports students from different cultural backgrounds and ensures a smooth academic transition.

Key Highlights

• Main Campus: UNITAR International University’s main campus is located at Tierra Crest, Jalan SS6/3, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
• Learning Resource Centre: The LRC provides access to more than 31,000 printed books, along with e-journals, e-books, reports, online theses and academic databases including EBSCOhost, ProQuest and IEEE Xplore.
• Computer Laboratories: UNITAR provides computer laboratories equipped with computer systems and wireless connectivity to support on-campus learning and academic work.
• Language Laboratory: The technology-enabled language laboratory supports students in developing language skills, particularly English-language proficiency.
• Auditorium: The UNITAR auditorium has a capacity of approximately 300–350 students and can be used for events, theatre performances and other activities.
• Student Lounge & Café: The Wi-Fi-enabled student lounge provides a space for students between classes, while the campus café is located on Level 2.
• One Stop Centre: Located on Level 3, the centre handles financial aid, fees and billing, payments, registration and enrolment in one centralised location.
• Academic Support: The Learning Development Centre provides academic advising, writing support, tutoring, mentoring, workshops, webinars and personalised learning consultations for local and international students.
• Counselling Services: UNITAR provides counselling through registered professional counsellors, with services available through physical and online sessions.
• Blended Learning Environment: UNITAR International University Malaysia uses the UNITAR Education Core (UNIEC), combining face-to-face learning, online learning and customised learning environments.

UNITAR International University offers programmes through several academic schools covering core professional and academic disciplines. These include the School of Business & Social Sciences, School of Computing & Informatics and School of Education & Human Sciences. Foundation programmes are available for students requiring academic preparation before progressing to higher qualifications.

The university provides a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, supported by a teaching approach that integrates holistic learning, values-based education and real-world skills development.

UNITAR Course List

UNITAR International University lists tuition fees by individual programme, study mode and student category. The university’s programme listings show total tuition fees rather than a single university-wide fee, so the amount varies according to the qualification and programme selected.

The fees shown above are the tuition figures currently displayed on UNITAR’s official programme listings and are primarily listed for local students. Individual programme pages specify when a displayed fee applies only to local students.

 International Student Fees

International students have separate fee structures for applicable programmes. For example, UNITAR currently lists RM 34,634 as the total tuition fee for its Master of Business Administration, while the university’s international admissions page lists an application fee of RM 2,700 inclusive of the applicable EMGS payment for conventional programmes at the Kuala Lumpur campus.

Additional Fee Information

• Application Fee for International Students: RM 2,700, inclusive of the applicable EMGS payment for conventional programmes at the Kuala Lumpur campus.
• Payment Methods: International students can make overseas payments through Flywire, bank transfer or credit/debit card, according to UNITAR's international admissions information.
• Fee Variation: Tuition fees differ according to programme, study mode and student category. Students should check the individual programme page for the latest applicable fee before applying.

Note: UNITAR’s official programme pages are the appropriate source for the latest programme-specific tuition fees, as fees and promotional rates can vary between programmes and intakes.

UNITAR International University offers scholarships and financial support options for eligible students based on academic merit, leadership qualities and programme criteria. International students may qualify for selected scholarship schemes depending on their academic background.

Scholarships may support tuition components, accommodation assistance or academic-related allowances. UNITAR is considered an affordable study option in Malaysia due to its flexible learning models and commitment to widening access to higher education for financially constrained students.

• I-Future Scholarship: For eligible 2026 Foundation and Diploma students, with tuition fee waivers of up to 100% depending on SPM/O-Level results and applicable conditions.

• Tertiary Merit Scholarship: Eligible students entering selected Bachelor’s programmes can receive tuition fee waivers of up to 100%, depending on academic results.

• Sports Scholarship: National-level players may receive up to 100% tuition fee waiver, while state-level players may receive up to 50%, subject to eligibility requirements.

• Progression & Alumni Support: Eligible UNITAR progression students and alumni can receive tuition fee discounts when continuing into selected undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.

• B40 & M40 Support: UNITAR lists specific bursaries, tuition discounts and payment options for eligible students from B40 and M40 categories.

• Other Financial Aid: Available options include PTPTN, ZAKAT, EPF-related education support and other financial-aid schemes, depending on eligibility.

Student life at UNITAR International University reflects a multicultural and inclusive academic environment. Students from various countries interact through academic activities, group projects and university-led events.

Residential life is supported through nearby accommodation options, while campus activities encourage participation in clubs, societies and student initiatives. The university promotes cultural exposure, global networking and student well-being through counselling services, academic support and international student guidance.

 Key Highlights

• Student Representative Council: UNITAR’s Student Representative Council (SRC) represents the student population and connects students with university administration. Positions include academic affairs, clubs and societies, welfare and accommodation, sports and cultural activities, and community outreach.
• Student Clubs & Societies: Students can participate in a range of communities, including the UNITAR International Student Society, Indian Society, Chinese Society, Borneo Student Society, Muslim Society, IT and Technopreneurship Club, Recreational & Adventure Club and UNITAR Peers Club.
• Sports & Recreation: UNITAR has student sports clubs such as the Football & Futsal Club and Badminton Club. The Recreational & Adventure Club also organises sports and outdoor activities, including mountaineering.
• Cultural Activities: Cultural societies provide opportunities to explore different traditions and languages. The Borneo Student Society promotes Sabah and Sarawak culture, while the Indian Society and Chinese Society bring students together around cultural activities.
• International Student Community: The UNITAR International Student Society focuses on bringing students from different cultures together, encouraging cultural exchange, language learning and social interaction.
• Student Accommodation: UNITAR offers accommodation at Parklane and Grand hostels. Listed options include shared and single rooms, with selected residences providing facilities such as swimming pools, gyms, playgrounds, multipurpose halls and rooftop gardens.
• Residential Support: UNITAR’s Admin and Residence Management team assists overseas, outstation and students from different cultural backgrounds with adapting to daily student life. Residences also have 24-hour security, CCTV and access-card systems.
• Counselling & Well-being: The Counselling Unit provides individual and group counselling, self-help consultation, academic advising, career and psychological testing, awareness talks and training. Sessions are conducted by licensed professional counsellors registered with the Malaysian Board of Counsellors.
• Career Activities: The Career Placement Centre provides career advising, employability workshops, networking events, recruitment activities, internships, work-study opportunities and job-placement support through the MyFutureJobs partnership.
• Student Lounge & Campus Spaces: The main campus includes a Wi-Fi-enabled student lounge, auditorium, café, computer laboratories, language laboratory and prayer facilities, providing spaces for study, social interaction and student activities.

UNITAR International University accepts international applications throughout the year, with semester intakes in January, May and September. International students can apply for conventional on-campus or online programmes, subject to the admission requirements of their chosen programme.

 Eligibility Requirements

• Academic Qualifications: Applicants must meet the academic entry requirements specified for their chosen programme. UNITAR provides country-specific entry requirements for international applicants. For example, applicants from India can use qualifications such as the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (Standard X), Secondary School Certificate (Standard X) or CBSE All India Secondary School Certificate for Foundation/Certificate and Diploma entry, while Standard XII qualifications are listed for Bachelor’s degree entry.
• Postgraduate Entry: Applicants for postgraduate programmes must submit the relevant academic qualifications required for the selected programme. UNITAR also requests a CV or resume and a 2–3 page personal statement for postgraduate applications.
• English Proficiency: International applicants may need to provide recognised English-language proficiency evidence such as IELTS or TOEFL. Students who do not have IELTS/TOEFL can be required to take the UNITAR English Placement Test after arrival.
• Passport Validity: The passport should have at least 18 months of validity from the date of admission/submission to UNITAR.

 Documents Required

International applicants should prepare the following documents for their UNITAR application:

• Academic Documents: Academic transcripts and completion certificates. Documents not issued in English must be accompanied by official English translations.
• Passport: A colour copy of all passport pages, including the cover pages, with clearly visible page numbers.
• Passport Photograph: One recent colour photograph with a white background, measuring 45 mm × 35 mm, following EMGS requirements.
• Health Declaration & Medical Documents: Completed Health Declaration Form and required medical documentation. New international students must complete the required medical screening in accordance with Malaysian Ministry of Education requirements.
• Postgraduate Documents: CV/resume and a 2–3 page personal statement explaining the applicant’s goals and how the selected programme supports those objectives.
• Transfer Documents: Students seeking credit exemptions may need to provide final transcripts, programme syllabus and portfolio, where applicable.
• Additional Documents: Students with Sudanese passports require a No Objection Certificate (NOC), while students with Iranian passports require an Eligibility Letter (EL), according to UNITAR’s international admissions requirements.

 Application Process

1. Choose a Programme: Check the programme’s academic and English-language requirements before applying.
2. Register Online: Complete UNITAR’s online registration/application process and upload the required documents.
3. Submit Academic & Personal Documents: Upload academic certificates and transcripts, passport copies, photograph, health documents and any additional documents applicable to your nationality or programme.
4. Pay the Application Fee: UNITAR currently lists an application fee of RM2,700 for conventional programmes at its Kuala Lumpur campus, inclusive of the applicable first-year EMGS payment.
5. Receive the Offer Letter: UNITAR verifies the submitted documents and eligibility before issuing the university acceptance/offer letter.
6. Apply for the Student Pass: UNITAR submits the required documents to Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) for the Visa Approval Letter (VAL). The university states that VAL processing may take approximately 6–8 weeks.
7. Obtain Entry Visa if Required: Students from countries requiring a Single Entry Visa (SEV) must obtain it from the nearest Malaysian Embassy after receiving the relevant approval.
8. Complete Arrival Formalities: After arriving in Malaysia, students must report to the UNITAR International Office on the next business day for the required medical check-up and complete registration procedures.

Student Pass & Arrival Requirements

International students must obtain the required Malaysian Student Pass/Student Visa before beginning their studies. UNITAR’s International Office assists students with the Student Pass and visa process. Students should also bring their passport, acceptance letter, Immigration Approval Letter, original academic qualifications and relevant payment receipts when travelling to Malaysia.

Applicants should check UNITAR’s official programme-specific entry requirements before submitting an application, as academic qualifications and English-language requirements can differ by programme and nationality.

UNITAR International University is a private higher education institution in Malaysia with its main campus in Kelana Jaya, Petaling Jaya, Selangor. UNITAR states that its programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), while its quality-assurance framework also includes accreditation from the Accreditation Service for International Schools, Colleges and Universities (ASIC).

Key Highlights

• QS Recognition: UNITAR holds QS 5-Star Ratings for Teaching, Employability, Online Education, Accounting & Finance and Inclusiveness.
• Online Learning Recognition: UNITAR describes itself as the first virtual university in Southeast Asia and the first institution in Asia to receive a QS 5-Star Rating for Online Education.
• MQA Accreditation: UNITAR states that its programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), with individual programme pages displaying the relevant MQA reference numbers.
• ASIC Accreditation: UNITAR is accredited by ASIC for areas including quality assurance and enhancement, student welfare, marketing and recruitment, learning and teaching, course delivery, management and staff resources, and premises, health and safety.
• Employer Recognition: UNITAR identifies itself as an Employer's Top Choice by Talentbank on its official website.
• Language of Instruction: The language of instruction depends on the individual programme and its approved curriculum. Prospective students should check the official programme page for the applicable language and study requirements rather than assuming that every programme is delivered entirely in English.

Graduates of UNITAR International University pursue careers in business, education, information technology, management and social services. The university provides career support services including employability workshops, internship guidance and career planning assistance. Alumni have progressed into roles in private organisations, education institutions and entrepreneurial ventures, reflecting UNITAR’s focus on practical and career-oriented education.

 Key Highlights

• Career Placement Centre: UNITAR’s MyFutureJobs Career Placement Centre supports students and alumni with career advising, profiling and counselling, networking events, recruitment activities, interviews and job-placement opportunities.
• Internships & Applied Learning: Students can access internships, work-study programmes and research opportunities involving industry as part of UNITAR’s career-development services.
• Employability Workshops: UNITAR conducts career fairs, employability workshops and seminars covering resume writing, interview skills, professional online presence, presentation skills and communication.
• Industry Connections: The Career Placement Centre works with employers and industry partners to create opportunities for internships, recruitment, career-related education and job placements.
• UNITAR Passport Programme: The Employability Passport combines career counselling, education mapping, career development planning, micro-credentials, internships, industry activities and student club participation to support career preparation.
• Alumni Network: UNITAR’s official Alumni Network includes more than 31,500 graduates from UNITAR University, College and Academy programmes. Alumni are represented across industries in Malaysia and internationally.
• Alumni Engagement: Alumni activities include career fairs, convocation and homecoming events, career talks and motivational sessions, sports events and engagement with current UNITAR students.
• Areas of Alumni Study: UNITAR’s alumni community includes graduates from Art & Design, Business & Entrepreneurship, Education, Information Technology, Psychology, Accounting & Finance, and Tourism & Hospitality.
• Graduate Employability: UNITAR currently states a 99.8% graduate employability figure on its official website.

Petaling Jaya is a major urban area in Selangor, located within the Greater Kuala Lumpur metropolitan region. UNITAR International University is based at Tierra Crest, Jalan SS6/3, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. The university's main campus is supported by a network of regional centres across Malaysia.

The Kelana Jaya location gives students access to accommodation and everyday facilities around the campus. UNITAR also provides dedicated residence support for overseas and outstation students, with its residences located within a reasonable distance of the main campus.

 Key Highlights

• Main Campus Location: UNITAR International University Malaysia is located at Tierra Crest, Jalan SS6/3, Kelana Jaya, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
• Petaling Jaya Setting: The university's main campus is situated in Kelana Jaya, an area of Petaling Jaya, Selangor. UNITAR also operates regional centres in locations including Alor Setar, Kota Bharu, Johor Bahru, Ipoh, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Terengganu, Kuching and Melaka.
• Student Accommodation: UNITAR provides two student residence options, the Parklane hostel and Grand hostel, located within a reasonable distance from the main campus.
• Accommodation Costs: Selected UNITAR residences list monthly rates of RM350–RM400 per student for non-air-conditioned options and RM380–RM430 per student for air-conditioned options, depending on the room arrangement.
• Residence Facilities: Listed accommodation facilities include beds and mattresses, wardrobes, study tables, chairs, swimming pools, multipurpose halls, gyms, playgrounds, rooftop gardens and surau facilities.
• Security: UNITAR residences have 24-hour security guards, CCTV cameras and technology-enabled main entrances with access-card systems.
• Nearby Amenities: UNITAR states that its residences are located close to a shopping mall, medical centre and post office, with access to cinemas, retail outlets and supermarkets such as Tesco and Giant.
• Support for International Students: UNITAR's Admin and Residence Management team assists overseas and outstation students, including students from different cultural backgrounds, with adapting to daily student life and accommodation-related needs.
• Off-Campus Housing: Students who prefer private accommodation can contact UNITAR's Admin and Residence Management team for a list of agents who can assist with finding suitable housing.
• Blended Learning: Beyond its physical campus, UNITAR operates through the UNITAR Education Core (UNIEC), combining face-to-face learning, online learning and customised learning environments.
• Campus Network: In addition to the main Petaling Jaya campus, UNITAR International University Malaysia has regional centres across several Malaysian states, providing access to UNITAR's learning ecosystem in different locations.

• Flexible Learning Options: UNITAR offers both conventional and online programmes, reflecting its history as the first virtual university in Southeast Asia and its focus on technology-enabled education.
• Career-Focused Education: UNITAR states that its curriculum is designed around industry-relevant knowledge and skills, with students developing Collaborative, Adaptive, Reflective and Entrepreneurial skills through its C.A.R.E. education methodology.
• Multiple Study Locations: In addition to its main campus in Kelana Jaya, UNITAR provides learning opportunities through campuses and regional centres across Malaysia.
• Financial Support: UNITAR lists PTPTN, scholarships, Zero Fee Bursary, ZAKAT, EPF and other financial-aid options for eligible students.
• QS 5-Star Ratings: UNITAR states that it has received QS 5-Star Ratings in Teaching, Employability, Online Education, Accounting & Finance and Inclusiveness.
• Quality Assurance: UNITAR programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), while the university also holds ASIC accreditation covering areas including learning and teaching, student welfare, course delivery, management and health and safety.
• Career Support: UNITAR's career services include career profiling, industry talks, internship placements, recruitment activities and job-placement support.
• Industry Connections: UNITAR states that it works with government-linked companies and multinational corporations through educational partnerships and collaborations involving training, research and consultancy.

UNITAR International University offers flexible, accessible and career-focused education for international students seeking quality higher education in Malaysia. With its diverse programmes, scholarship opportunities, English-medium instruction and supportive academic environment, UNITAR stands as a strong choice for global learners. Students are encouraged to explore available programmes and begin their academic journey with UNITAR International University.

1. Can students with fewer than three SPM credits apply to UNITAR?

Yes. UNITAR states that students with fewer than three SPM credits can begin with its certificate programmes, subject to the applicable terms and conditions.

2. Can previous work experience help me earn academic credits at UNITAR?

Yes. UNITAR offers APEL.C, which assesses relevant informal and non-formal learning and work experience for possible course-credit awards. Successful APEL.C applicants can receive credits for applicable courses.

3. How much can APEL.C reduce the credits I need to complete?

UNITAR states that APEL.C can provide a maximum credit transfer of 30% of the total graduating credits of a specific programme.

4. Can international students use APEL.C at UNITAR?

Yes. UNITAR states that APEL.C is available to both Malaysian and non-Malaysian citizens, provided they are registered students in an applicable UNITAR programme and have relevant informal or non-formal learning experience.

5. Can students change their programme after starting at UNITAR?

Yes, but UNITAR's international student policy places specific conditions on programme transfers. International students generally need to complete at least one semester, and programme transfers arelimited to one time, within the first year and at the same level of study.

6. Can students transfer credits from another university to UNITAR?

Yes. Students seeking credit exemptions from another institution may be required to submit their final transcripts, programme syllabus and portfolio, where applicable, for assessment.

7. What happens after a student registers at UNITAR?

New students receive a matric number and default password, activate their UNITAR student email, access the Student Resource Backpack and check their registered courses and class schedule through the relevant student systems.

8. Does UNITAR welcome students with disabilities?

Yes. UNITAR states that it welcomes OKU students and provides accessibility support. Students can contact the university directly to enquire about the available arrangements and support.

9. How many industry partners does UNITAR have?

UNITAR states that it has formed industry partnerships with more than 120 multinational corporations and government-linked companies across various industries. These partnerships are intended to provide students with industry exposure.

10. Can prior experience be used to qualify for an academic award at UNITAR?

UNITAR offers APEL.Q, which evaluates prior formal, informal and non-formal learning and work experience for the award of academic qualifications within fully accredited programmes. The pathway is available to Malaysian and non-Malaysian citizens who meet the relevant work-experience requirements.