Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) is a public university in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, known for integrating Islamic perspectives with contemporary academic disciplines. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across areas including Islamic studies, law, medicine and health sciences, economics, business, science, engineering, and social sciences.

USIM follows an integrated academic approach that combines Naqli and Aqli knowledge, aiming to develop graduates with academic competence, ethical awareness, communication skills, and professional capabilities. Its programmes are designed to connect Islamic values with the knowledge and skills required in modern professional environments.

For international students, USIM provides a multicultural academic environment with access to academic facilities, student services, accommodation, sports and recreational facilities, and opportunities for international collaboration.

Quick Facts About USIM

Established in 1998, USIM Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia was founded with the vision of harmonizing traditional Islamic sciences with contemporary academic knowledge. From the beginning, USIM aimed to produce graduates who are ethically responsible, intellectually balanced, and globally competitive.
The Malaysian Cabinet approved its establishment on 11 June 1997, and it was officially gazetted on 13 March 1998. USIM began welcoming its first students in June 2000 at a temporary location in Kuala Lumpur before moving to its permanent campus in Bandar Baru Nilai, Negeri Sembilan, in July 2005. In 2007, KUIM was upgraded and officially renamed Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM). 

From its foundation, USIM has focused on bringing Islamic education into the mainstream of higher education while integrating contemporary knowledge and technology. Its academic philosophy is built around the integration of Naqli (revealed) and Aqli (rational) knowledge, with the aim of developing knowledgeable, disciplined, and devout graduates. 
Over the years, USIM has expanded its academic offerings, strengthened international collaborations, and modernized its teaching and research infrastructure. The university’s philosophy emphasizes balance between faith and reason, tradition and innovation, and local relevance and global engagement. Today, USIM continues to strengthen its position among the best Islamic universities in Malaysia, attracting students from various parts of the world.

The campus of USIM in Nilai provides a modern academic environment supported by Islamic values. It features well-equipped lecture halls, advanced laboratories, research centers, medical and dental training facilities, and ICT infrastructure. Mosques and prayer facilities are conveniently located across the campus, reinforcing spiritual development alongside academic learning.
International students at USIM receive structured support services, including assistance with Malaysia student visa requirements, airport pickup, orientation programmes, counseling services, and academic advising. These services ensure a smooth transition into university life and help students focus on their academic goals.

Key Campus Facilities

• USIM Library: Provides dedicated library facilities for students and academic users.
• ICT & Digital Learning: The ICT Centre (Goal Itqan) supports the university's digital infrastructure, while GOALS (Global Open Access Learning System) provides online learning resources, forums, quizzes, blogs, video-conferencing tools, and Turnitin integration.
• Health Services: The campus map identifies the University Health Centre, while USIM also provides counselling and welfare services for students.
• Sports & Recreation: The Tuanku Najihah Sports Complex houses the Sports Centre, while the campus also has football fields and other recreational facilities.
• Student Accommodation: USIM manages six residential colleges with more than 6,000 beds, including Residential College One, Sutera Indah, Acacia Avenue, Nilam Court, Anggerik Court, and Pandan Residential College.
• Student Services: The Student Affairs building houses the Student Affairs Centre, Cultural Centre, University Health Centre, Student Housing Centre, and Alumni & Career Centre.
• Islamic Facilities: Kompleks Islam Tuanku Muhriz houses the Centre for Islamic Affairs and the Waqf and Zakat Centre, reflecting Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia's integrated Islamic academic environment.
• Food & Commercial Facilities: Students have access to cafeterias, food courts, a commercial centre, university stores, and other on-campus services.
• Campus Transportation: USIM operates bus services connecting residential colleges with campus, along with shuttle services for movement within the campus.
• International Student Support
• For international students planning to study at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, USIM ‘Alamiyyah assists with immigration procedures, including the Visa Approval Letter (VAL) and student-pass process. The university's international admission guidelines states that international students must obtain the appropriate student pass and single-entry visa before entering Malaysia.
• Beyond immigration support, students can access university-level counselling, welfare, health, accommodation, transportation, career development, and student services, providing practical support throughout their studies.

Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia courses are offered at foundation, undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels. Academic programmes at USIM are designed to integrate Islamic principles with practical, career-oriented education.

Key faculties include Quranic & Sunnah Studies, Syariah & Law, Leadership & Management, Science & Technology, Medicine & Health Sciences, Dentistry, Economics & Muamalat, and Computing & Informatics. Through these faculties, USIM delivers programmes that are relevant to both Islamic and modern professional sectors.

Key Faculties and Academic Areas

• Faculty of Leadership and Management – New Media Communications, Communication, Counselling, Da'wah and Islamic Management, Akidah and Religion Studies, and Management with Tourism.
• Faculty of Quranic and Sunnah Studies – Qiraat Studies, Quranic and Sunnah Studies, Quranic Studies with Multimedia, and Sunnah Studies with Information Management.
• Faculty of Syariah and Law – Fiqh and Fatwa, Laws and Syariah, and Syariah (Halal Industry).
• Faculty of Economics and Muamalat – Accounting, Corporate Administration, Islamic Banking and Finance, Marketing (Financial Services), and Muamalat Administration.
• Faculty of Science and Technology – Computer Science (Information Security and Assurance), Actuarial Science and Risk Management, Applied Physics, Financial Mathematics, Food Biotechnology, Industrial Chemical Technology, and Health Industry Technology.
• Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences – Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS).
• Faculty of Major Language Studies – Arabic Language and Islamic Literature, Arabic Language with Communication, English Language with Commerce, and selected education programmes.
• Faculty of Dentistry – Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS).
• Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment – Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, and Science in Architecture.

Foundation / Preparatory Programmes

• Tamhidi of Accounting and Muamalat
• Tamhidi of Medicine, Dentistry and Science
• Tamhidi of Physical Science & Technology
• Tamhidi of Shariah and Law
• Tamhidi of Social Science

Undergraduate Programmes

USIM offers Undergraduate study through bachelor programmes include:

• Faculty of Leadership and Management: Communication, New Media Communications, Counselling, Da'wah and Islamic Management, Akidah and Religion Studies, Management with Tourism
• Faculty of Quranic and Sunnah Studies: Qiraat Studies, Quranic and Sunnah Studies, Quranic Studies with Multimedia, Sunnah Studies with Information Management
• Faculty of Syariah and Law: Fiqh and Fatwa, Laws and Syariah, Syariah (Halal Industry)
• Faculty of Economics and Muamalat: Accounting, Corporate Administration, Islamic Banking and Finance, Marketing (Financial Services), Muamalat Administration
• Faculty of Science and Technology: Computer Science (Information Security and Assurance), Actuarial Science and Risk Management, Applied Physics, Financial Mathematics, Food Biotechnology, Industrial Chemical Technology, Health Industry Technology
• Faculty of edicine and Health Sciences: Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
• Faculty of Major Language Studies: Arabic Language and Islamic Literature, Arabic Language with Communication, English Language with Commerce
• Faculty of Dentistry: Dental Surgery (BDS)
• Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment: Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Science in Architecture

Postgraduate Programmes

USIM offers postgraduate study through master's and doctoral programmes, including coursework, mixed-mode, and research pathways. Areas include:

• Islamic Studies
• Quranic and Sunnah Studies
• Shariah and Law
• Economics and Muamalat
• Management
• Education
• English and language studies
• Computing and information technology
• Science and technology
• Actuarial Science and Risk Management
• Financial Mathematics
• Food Technology
• Medical Sciences

Research Programmes

Research-based master's and doctoral study is available across several academic disciplines, allowing students to undertake specialised research under the relevant USIM faculties and institutes.
Note: Programme availability and international-student eligibility can vary by intake. For the website, it is best to link each study level to USIM's current official programme list rather than presenting this as a permanently fixed list.

The USIM fee structure varies according to the programme, faculty, and study level. For international students, the current official tuition figures show a wide range, with medicine and dentistry carrying substantially higher fees than most other undergraduate programmes. USIM also states that the published fees are subject to change.

These figures represent the total tuition fees listed by Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) for international undergraduate students. Additional charges may apply separately, including registration, student-pass/visa-related costs, and other university fees.

Postgraduate Fees

For international students, master's tuition varies according to the programme and study mode:

• Master's by coursework: approximately RM16,540–RM26,890 for the programmes currently listed.
• Master's by mixed mode: approximately RM14,440–RM16,190 for the listed programmes.
• Master's by research: approximately RM13,940–RM17,940 for the listed programmes.

PhD fees vary by programme and research area, so prospective students should check the specific programme fee before applying.

Important Fee Note

The USIM fee structure should be used as a guide because the university reserves the right to revise fees. Students should confirm the applicable tuition and additional charges with USIM before submitting their application.

• Zakat Trust Fund – Financial assistance for eligible students under the asnaf categories, including study-fee assistance.
• LAKIM Trust Fund – Financial assistance for qualified students who meet the fund's specified categories.
• Endowment Trust Fund – Financial assistance for eligible students with good academic performance, including study-fee support.
• Education Waqf Funding – Supports disadvantaged USIM undergraduate students through study fees, allowances, and other relevant financial assistance.
• Barakah Scholarship Award (ABB) – A USIM initiative under its zakat programme for high-achieving asnaf students. The official announcement states that eligible recipients with a CGPA of 3.5 and above received monthly assistance and a book voucher.
• Endowment Scholarship Barakah for Orphans (BAYU) – An endowment initiative intended to support USIM students who are orphans with living and education-related expenses.

Student life at USIM emphasizes academic engagement, spiritual growth, and community involvement. Students participate in Islamic programmes, academic societies, leadership development activities, sports, and volunteer initiatives. These experiences help international students integrate socially while developing personal and professional skills.

Residential colleges at USIM provide safe and comfortable accommodation, complete with study rooms, dining facilities, and communal spaces. Health clinics, counseling services, and mentorship programmes further support student well-being.

Student Activities & Development

• Co-Curricular Activities: USIM's Centre of Soft Skills Development offers credit-bearing co-curricular courses covering sports, culture, volunteering, public speaking, leadership, initiative and innovation, community service, and entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurship: The Centre of Entrepreneurial Development supports students in developing entrepreneurial skills and encourages them to become Muslim entrepreneurs.
• Arts & Culture: The USIM Cultural Centre organises arts and cultural programmes and provides modules aimed at developing students' soft skills.
• Sports & Recreation: The Sports Centre promotes participation in sports, outdoor recreation, and sunnah sports, alongside high-performance sporting activities.
• Student Representation: The Student Representative Council (SRC) represents the student body and addresses students' academic, welfare, and social interests.

Accommodation & Student Support

• Residential Colleges: USIM manages six residential colleges with more than 6,000 beds. Five are located at the Nilai campus and one is at Pandan Indah, Kuala Lumpur.
• Off-Campus Support: The Off-Campus Students Management Office oversees the welfare of students living outside university accommodation.
• Counselling Services: USIM provides free counselling to students, covering personal, academic, career, financial, family, relationship, and emotional concerns.
• Health & Welfare: Student support includes health services and welfare assistance alongside counselling and accommodation services.
• Digital Learning: GOALS (Global Open Access Learning System) provides students with access to learning materials, forums, quizzes, blogs, video-conferencing tools, and Turnitin.

International Student Community

For students who study at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, USIM provides dedicated international-student support through USIM 'Alamiyyah. The university also has an International Student Society that supports interaction and activities among international students, helping create opportunities for students from different countries to connect with one another.

USIM is an ideal choice for students seeking a balanced education that supports both academic excellence and ethical development.

Reasons to Choose USIM

• Integrated Islamic Education: Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia combines Islamic knowledge with contemporary disciplines across areas such as medicine, dentistry, engineering, science, business, law, and technology.
• Growing University Ranking: The latest USIM university ranking places the university at #537 in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026 and #35 in Malaysia. USIM also entered the THE World University Rankings 2026 at #1501+.
• Wide Academic Choice: USIM's current admission portfolio includes foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate pathways across nine faculties and a broad range of disciplines.
• Student Development: Students can take credit-bearing co-curricular courses in sports, culture, volunteering, public speaking, leadership, innovation, community service, and entrepreneurship.
• Entrepreneurship Opportunities: The Centre of Entrepreneurial Development supports students in developing entrepreneurial skills and encourages the development of Muslim entrepreneurs.
• International Student Support: USIM provides international admission and student-support services alongside accommodation, counselling, welfare, health, and transportation facilities.
• Dedicated Residential Facilities: Six residential colleges provide more than 6,000 beds, with five colleges at the Nilai campus and one at Pandan Indah, Kuala Lumpur.
• Distinctive Academic Identity: The university's focus on integrating Naqli and Aqli knowledge gives students an academic model that connects Islamic perspectives with science, technology, professional studies, and contemporary fields.

International students who want to study Islam in Malaysia can apply to USIM by meeting the university's general academic, language, and programme-specific requirements. As an Islamic institution in Malaysia, USIM combines Islamic studies with contemporary disciplines, with additional Arabic and Islamic Studies requirements for many programmes.

Eligibility Requirements for International Students

To apply for an undergraduate programme at USIM, international applicants generally need to meet the following requirements:

• Academic Qualification: Applicants must have completed Senior High School/Senior Secondary School or an equivalent qualification involving at least 11–12 years of education, or hold a recognised GCE A-Level, relevant diploma, or equivalent qualification.
• Programme-Specific Requirements: Applicants must meet the required subjects, grades, CGPA, interviews, tests, or other conditions for their chosen programme.
• Islamic Studies: Applicants generally require a credit in one Islamic Studies subject at O-Level, A-Level, or an equivalent qualification.
• English Proficiency: The general requirement includes IELTS Band 4.0, TOEFL 30 iBT, or an accepted equivalent. Some programmes may require higher English proficiency.
• Arabic Proficiency: Applicants can demonstrate Arabic proficiency through an accepted Arabic qualification, previous education conducted in Arabic, native-speaker status, or the University Arabic Placement Test (UAPT).
• Additional Requirements: Certain programmes have extra requirements, such as interviews, specific science subjects, aptitude tests, or other assessments.

Additional Eligibility for Medicine

Applicants applying for the Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) must satisfy stricter science-entry requirements. Depending on the qualification route, applicants must demonstrate the required grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics.
For Indian applicants, the published USIM requirements include an average of 70% in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics, together with the applicable National Medical Commission and NEET requirements for students intending to practise medicine in India.

Application Process

1. Choose a programme: Review the current USIM international programme list and check the academic, English, Arabic, and programme-specific requirements.
2. Create an account: Register through the official USIM international undergraduate application portal.
3. Complete the application: Enter your personal, academic, programme, and contact information.
4. Upload documents: Submit academic certificates, transcripts, passport copy, photograph, language-test results, and other required documents.
5. Pay the application fee: Pay the applicable processing fee and upload the payment evidence.
6. Submit the application: Review all information and submit the completed application for assessment.
7. Receive the offer: Successful applicants receive an official USIM offer letter.
8. Apply for the VAL: After accepting the offer, begin the Visa Approval Letter (VAL) process through USIM's international office and EMGS.
9. Complete immigration requirements: Submit the required passport, offer letter, academic documents, photograph, health declaration, and other immigration documents.
10. Travel to Malaysia: Travel only after receiving the required immigration approval and visa documentation.
11. Complete medical screening: Complete the required post-arrival medical examination after reaching Malaysia.
12. Complete registration and student-pass endorsement: Finalise university registration and the remaining student-pass procedures with the relevant Malaysian authorities.

USIM Acceptance Rate

USIM does not publish a general international-student acceptance rate on its official admission pages. Admission therefore depends on meeting the university's published academic, language, and programme-specific requirements.

USIM Intake Periods

The international undergraduate admission information lists February and September as the main intake periods. Applicants should check the latest programme-specific deadline before applying because availability and closing dates can vary.

Graduates of USIM pursue careers in Islamic finance, Shariah law, education, healthcare, ICT, psychology, public administration, and business. The university’s career development initiatives include internships, industry collaborations, career workshops, and job placement support.

The integrated academic model at USIM ensures graduates are well-prepared for both Islamic institutions and modern professional environments.

• Career Opportunities: Graduates of USIM can pursue careers in Islamic finance, Shariah and law, education, healthcare, counselling, business, communication, science, technology, and other professional fields.
• Career Development: USIM supports students and graduates through career guidance, career coaching, employer networking, industrial training, internships, and employment-related programmes.
• Industry Exposure: Career and internship fairs provide opportunities for students and alumni to connect with employers, explore job opportunities, and gain practical industry exposure.
• Graduate Employability: USIM recorded a 97.6% graduate employability rate in 2024, according to its Graduate Tracking Study.
• Alumni Support: The university's Centre of Careers and Alumni provides initiatives designed to strengthen graduate employability and maintain connections between alumni, students, and employers.
• Islamic & Professional Education: For students who want to study Islam in Malaysia, USIM combines Islamic knowledge with contemporary professional disciplines, preparing graduates for opportunities in Islamic institutions as well as modern professional environments.

Nilai offers a peaceful and affordable lifestyle for students studying at USIM. The town provides access to public transportation, halal food options, shopping centers, and Kuala Lumpur. For those planning to study in Malaysia for international students, Nilai offers a safe, culturally inclusive, and student-friendly environment that supports academic focus.

• Climate & Weather: Nilai has a tropical climate with warm temperatures, high humidity, and rainfall throughout the year. Malaysia generally experiences temperatures of around 23°C to 32°C, with relatively small seasonal temperature variations. Rain showers can occur throughout the year, so students should be prepared for both hot and wet conditions.
• Temperature: Students can expect warm weather throughout most of the year. Daytime conditions are generally hot and humid, while evenings can be more comfortable.
• Culture: Living in Nilai gives international students an opportunity to experience Malaysia's multicultural environment. Negeri Sembilan has a strong Minangkabau cultural influence, reflected in its traditional architecture, customs, food, and heritage.
• Food & Halal Options: Students can experience Malaysian cuisine alongside a wide range of local food options. Negeri Sembilan is known for dishes and foods such as lemang, rendang, nasi ulam, and local satay varieties.
• Shopping & Daily Essentials: Students have access to shopping complexes, retail outlets, hypermarkets, and local markets in and around Nilai. Tourism Malaysia lists shopping destinations including Nilai 3 Wholesale Centre, Nilai Square Textile Centre, Mesa Mall Nilai, and AEON Nilai.
• Transportation: Negeri Sembilan is connected by road and rail, with bus services linking Nilai to surrounding towns. KTM Komuter and ETS services provide connections within the wider region, while taxis and e-hailing services are also available.
• Access to Kuala Lumpur: Students can travel to Kuala Lumpur and other parts of the Klang Valley using Malaysia's road and rail networks. Kuala Lumpur itself has an extensive public transportation system including MRT, LRT, KTM Komuter, Monorail, buses, taxis, and e-hailing services.
• Airport Connectivity: Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) provides an important international gateway for students arriving in Malaysia. Negeri Sembilan is located close to KLIA, making international travel relatively convenient.
• Student Lifestyle: For international students at USIM, Nilai combines access to essential services and transportation with opportunities to experience Malaysian culture, food, shopping, and nearby urban attractions.
• Cultural Experience: Students can explore Negeri Sembilan's heritage and traditions while also experiencing Malaysia's broader multicultural society, making everyday life an opportunity to learn about different communities, cuisines, languages, and customs.

Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM) offers a well-rounded academic experience for students who seek more than just a degree. With its strong integration of Islamic values and modern disciplines, USIM provides an education that supports intellectual growth, ethical development, and real-world career readiness. From diverse academic programmes and supportive campus facilities to affordable fees and scholarship opportunities, the university creates a balanced and student-focused learning environment.

Supported by improving Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia ranking, a structured admission process, and strong career outcomes, USIM continues to attract students from across the globe. For those planning to study in Malaysia for international students, USIM stands out as a reliable choice that combines academic quality, spiritual grounding, and long-term professional relevance in a peaceful and accessible setting.

1. Does USIM follow a dress code for students?

Yes, USIM has student dress-code requirements that apply during teaching and learning, official events, on-campus activities, residential colleges, sports, and recreational activities. Students are expected to follow the university's applicable dress guidelines.

2. Does USIM provide healthcare services on campus?

Yes, USIM provides student health services on campus through its University Health Centre. The Student Affairs Building also includes a health clinic, dental clinic, emergency and outpatient facilities, medical laboratory, and wellness and rehabilitation services.

3. Does USIM have Wi-Fi and ICT facilities for students?

Yes, Wi-Fi and ICT services are among the facilities provided as part of campus life at USIM, supporting students' academic and digital learning needs.

4. Can international students participate in student organisations at USIM?

Yes, Students can participate in student-led organisations and activities. USIM's Student Representative Council represents the student body and addresses academic, welfare, and social interests. The university also provides spaces for student societies.

5. Does USIM offer entrepreneurship opportunities for students?

Yes, USIM has a Student Entrepreneurship Centre that supports student entrepreneurship and development initiatives. Entrepreneurship is also included among the university's student-development activities.

6. Can USIM students live outside university accommodation?

Yes, USIM has an Off-Campus Students Management Office that oversees the welfare of students living outside the university's residential colleges. This provides an option for students who arrange private accommodation.

7. Does USIM provide counselling services to students?

Yes, Student support at USIM includes counselling services as part of its student-support system. The university's Student Affairs Building also has individual and group counselling spaces.

8. Does USIM provide facilities for student societies and cultural activities?

Yes, The Student Affairs Building includes student society rooms, a cultural stage, recording stage, artistic stage, and other spaces that support student activities and cultural programmes.

9. Can international students progress from one level of study to another at USIM?

Yes, students can apply for further study at USIM after completing a previous qualification, subject to admission requirements. International students progressing to another programme must also follow the applicable student-pass and immigration procedures.

10. Does USIM have a dedicated model for developing graduates?

Yes, USIM uses its Integration of Naqli & Aqli Knowledge Graduand Model (GIINA), which aims to develop graduates who are holistic, balanced, and entrepreneurial.