Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) is a public research university established in 1969. It was the second university established in Malaysia and was initially known as Universiti Pulau Pinang. Today, the university has its main campus in Minden, Penang, along with an Engineering Campus and a Health Campus.

The university is often searched online using names such as University of Science Malaysia, University of Sains Malaysia, and USM Penang. Its academic offerings cover a wide range of disciplines, including natural sciences, applied sciences, health sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, social sciences, humanities, education, and technology.

The main USM Penang campus is known for its "University in a Garden" setting, with extensive green spaces, trees, natural areas, and academic facilities. For students comparing universities in Malaysia, USM offers undergraduate and postgraduate study options across different fields, with research and innovation forming an important part of its academic environment.

Quick Facts:

• Type: Public research university
• Established: 1969
• Main campus: Minden, Penang
• Other campuses: Engineering Campus and Health Campus
• Academic areas: Sciences, health sciences, technology, social sciences, humanities, education, and related fields
• Academic levels: Undergraduate and postgraduate
• Campus identity: "University in a Garden"

Students researching an USM Penang course can choose from a broad selection of academic programmes offered across the university's different schools, centres, and campuses.

Universiti Sains Malaysia was established in 1969 as Malaysia's second university. It was initially known as Universiti Pulau Pinang and began with 57 science students. The university later moved to its present Minden campus in Penang in 1971.

Over the decades, USM Malaysia expanded its academic programmes, research activities, campuses, and international collaborations. Its academic portfolio now includes areas such as natural and applied sciences, medical and health sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, social sciences, humanities, education, and technology.

The university's development also led to the establishment of its Engineering Campus and Health Campus, extending its academic and research activities beyond the main Penang campus. This broad academic structure gives students several options when searching for a University of Science Malaysia or University of Sains Malaysia programme.

USM also maintains a strong focus on sustainability. Its main campus follows the "University in a Garden" concept, incorporating green spaces and natural ecosystems into the campus environment. This remains an important part of the identity of USM Penang.

The main Universiti Sains Malaysia campus is located in Minden, Penang, on a 416.6-hectare site. USM describes the campus through its "University in a Garden" concept, with open lawns, tree-lined areas, natural ecosystems, and heritage buildings integrated into the campus environment. The university also provides academic, residential, recreational, cultural, and student support facilities across the campus.

Main Campus Environment

The Minden campus combines academic buildings with green spaces and outdoor areas. USM provides public access to many of its open and green spaces for recreation, relaxation, and outdoor learning. EcoHub USM also operates within the main campus as a sustainability and community space, supporting activities related to biodiversity, composting, environmental awareness, and sustainable living.

The official USM campus map lists academic buildings, lecture halls, libraries, student residences, food outlets, sports facilities, the mosque, museum, and other university facilities across the Minden campus.

Libraries & Learning Facilities

Students at USM Malaysia have access to university libraries and a range of learning spaces. Hamzah Sendut Library provides reading areas, quiet study spaces, discussion rooms, Wi-Fi, postgraduate facilities, computer access, self-check machines, and other study resources. The library system also provides access to a large collection of physical and electronic academic resources.

USM also provides lecture theatres and halls for teaching and learning, along with digital learning and technology resources. Its Education section lists services including e-learning, Campusonline, ICT support, libraries, student affairs, counselling, housing and accommodation, and disability facilities.

Student Accommodation

USM Penang provides on-campus accommodation options for students through its hostel and Desasiswa system. Depending on the accommodation, facilities can include Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, cafeterias, study areas, sports facilities, prayer spaces, and grocery stores. Students can also consider off-campus accommodation within walking distance or within the surrounding area.

USM's current sustainability information also lists several Desasiswa residences on the Main Campus, including Aman Damai, Bakti Permai, Cahaya Gemilang, Fajar Harapan, Indah Kembara, Restu, Saujana, Tekun, and the International House.

Sports & Recreation

Sports and recreational facilities form part of campus life at USM. The university's facilities include swimming, basketball, hockey, tennis, jogging and cycling areas, as well as other sports spaces. The official campus information also lists an Olympic-sized swimming pool, an eight-lane synthetic running track, an Astroturf hockey stadium, soccer fields, and other recreational facilities.

The university also provides facilities such as the Bakti Basketball Court, Petanque Court, outdoor gym, jogging and cycling tracks, and kayak facilities. Some of these facilities are also made available to the wider community.

Food, Retail & Everyday Facilities

The main campus has facilities designed to support students' everyday needs. These include cafeterias, pavilions, banks, a bookshop, pharmacy, post office, retail outlets, and food outlets. Students can also find food outlets and food banks at several locations shown on the official USM campus map.

Cultural & Student Facilities

USM provides spaces and activities that support student development outside the classroom. The campus includes the Cultural Centre, Tuanku Fauziah Museum and Art Gallery, clubs and societies, and spaces for cultural and student activities. Students can participate in organisations covering areas such as computing, astronomy, debating, cultural activities, communication, and other interests.

Accessibility & Inclusive Facilities

USM has also developed accessibility features across its campuses. Official information states that accessible facilities include wheelchair ramps, accessible toilets, tactile walkways, reserved parking spaces, lifts, and adapted teaching and learning environments. In 2024, USM reported 147 accessible facilities, including 48 accessible toilets, 64 wheelchair lanes, and 15 lifts.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) offers courses undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across a broad range of academic disciplines. The university's programmes cover areas such as natural and applied sciences, engineering, medical and health sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, business and management, social sciences, humanities, education, arts, and building science and technology. USM currently offers more than 60 undergraduate programmes, while its postgraduate portfolio includes more than 200 programmes.

The academic structure is spread across the Main Campus in Penang, the Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus in Nibong Tebal, and the Health Campus in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan. The Main Campus has 17 academic schools, while the Engineering and Health campuses have six and three schools respectively.

Faculties and Schools at USM

USM generally organises its academic programmes through Schools rather than using the traditional faculty structure. The official USM profile lists the following academic schools across its campuses.

Penang Main Campus

• School of Housing, Building and Planning
• School of Industrial Technology
• School of Pharmaceutical Sciences
• School of Computer Sciences
• School of Educational Studies
• School of Management
• Graduate School of Business
• School of Communication
• School of the Arts
• School of Languages, Literacies and Translation
• School of Humanities
• School of Social Sciences
• School of Biological Sciences
• School of Chemical Sciences
• School of Mathematical Sciences
• School of Physics
• School of Distance Education

Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Engineering Campus

The Engineering Campus in Nibong Tebal has six schools:

• School of Aerospace Engineering
• School of Civil Engineering
• School of Chemical Engineering
• School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• School of Materials and Mineral Resources Engineering
• School of Mechanical Engineering

Health Campus

The Health Campus in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, includes schools and academic units covering medical, dental, and health-related education. USM's academic profile identifies the Health Campus as having three schools.

Undergraduate Programmes

Students searching for a USM Penang course can choose from a wide range of undergraduate programmes. The current USM admission portal lists programmes in Natural and Applied Sciences, Engineering, Medical and Health Sciences, Arts, Humanities, Business and Management, and other areas.

Examples of undergraduate programmes listed by USM include:

• Bachelor in Biomedical Science with Honours
• Bachelor in Computer Science
• Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours
• Bachelor of Nursing with Honours
• Bachelor of Music with Honours
• Bachelor of Accounting with Honours
• Bachelor of Management with Honours
• Bachelor of Economics with Honours
• Bachelor of Social Sciences with Honours
• Bachelor of Social Work with Honours
• Bachelor of Science Architecture with Honours
• Bachelor of Urban and Regional Planning with Honours
• Bachelor of Building Surveying with Honours
• Bachelor of Polymer Engineering with Honours
• Bachelor of Education programmes
• Bachelor of Fine Arts programmes

The exact programme availability and intake requirements can vary by admission route and academic year, so students should check the current USM admission guidelines portal before applying.

Postgraduate Programmes

University of Science Malaysia also offers a large postgraduate programme through its academic schools and research centres. Current USM information states that postgraduate study is available through Research Mode, Coursework Mode, and Mixed Mode. Selected programmes are also offered through Open and Distance Learning.

Postgraduate study covers fields including:

• Pure and Applied Sciences
• Engineering
• Medical, Dental and Health Sciences
• Arts and Humanities
• Business and Management
• Social Sciences
• Education
• Technology and other specialised research areas

Students can pursue Master's and PhD qualifications through the relevant schools and research centres. For example, USM lists postgraduate programmes in areas such as aerospace engineering, biological sciences, chemical sciences, civil engineering, dental sciences, pharmaceutical sciences, mathematical sciences, management, social sciences, and mechanical engineering.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) charges international undergraduate students tuition fees according to their chosen programme. The official USM fee schedule lists the tuition fee per semester in USD for non-citizens. The amount varies depending on the school and programme.

Undergraduate Tuition Fees for International Students

The official USM fee schedule includes the following tuition fees per semester:

These are the per-semester tuition fees for non-citizens stated in the official USM document.

Other International Programme Fees

The same official USM document also lists fees for several special programmes:

• Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) USM-UOWM KDUPG: USD 2,500 per semester
• Offshore International Medical Programme (IMP) USM-KLE: USD 10,000 per semester
• Bachelor of Management with Honours (USM International, RECSAM): USD 2,520 per semester

Important Note on USM Fees

The amounts above are tuition fees per semester for non-citizens, rather than the total cost of completing the entire degree. The actual amount paid over a full programme will depend on the programme duration and applicable semesters.

Students researching a USM Penang course should check the latest official USM admission and fee documents before applying, as fee schedules can be updated for different academic sessions.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) provides several scholarship and financial assistance options, although eligibility depends on the student's nationality, study level, programme type, and scholarship requirements. USM's official admission information lists different options for Malaysian and international students.

For international students, the university identifies the Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS), Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), and Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship among the available sources of financial support. Availability may vary from time to time.

Scholarships for International Students

The official USM information lists the following scholarship options for international students:

• Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS)
• Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP)
• Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Scholarship

USM's International Mobility and Collaboration Centre also specifically provides information about the Islamic Development Bank Scholarship, which is available to eligible undergraduate candidates from IsDB member countries and Muslim communities in non-member countries. Applications are made through the Islamic Development Bank scholarship system.

USMCARE Scholarship

The USMCARE Scholarship is a current USM financial assistance scheme for Malaysian students and international students from low or lower-middle-income countries. It is specifically available to registered full-time research-mode PhD students.

The scholarship can cover tuition fees for a maximum period of 36 months, subject to semester-by-semester renewal and satisfactory research progress. USM states that the scholarship covers tuition fees only and does not provide an allowance. For international students, the 6% Malaysian Sales and Service Tax is not included in the tuition coverage.

Graduate Horizon Scholarship

USM's Graduate Horizon Scholarship (GHS) supports registered full-time research-mode Master's and PhD students undertaking research attachments at collaborating institutions.

The research attachment must be carried out at an institution ranked within the Top 100 of the QS World University Rankings or at an overseas multinational corporation, subject to USM's conditions.

The collaborating institution must also have an active MOU or MOA with USM. The support is available for one to three months, with maximum funding of RM5,000.

Graduate Financial Assistance

USM also provides Graduate Financial Assistance (GRA-Assist) for postgraduate research students. The scheme aims to support Malaysian and international candidates undertaking Master's or PhD studies by research.

According to USM's official information, the assistance can fund the first and second semester tuition fees. Malaysian Master's and PhD candidates and international PhD candidates can be considered, subject to the stated eligibility requirements.

Other Financial Assistance

USM's official Bursary information also covers student financial support such as student loans, short-term and long-term student loans, and zakat assistance for eligible students. The Bursary department also manages payments related to student allowances, living allowances, fellowships, and graduate assistantships.

Students researching USM Penang and planning to apply for a USM Penang course should check the relevant USM scholarship or financial assistance page for current eligibility, application deadlines, and conditions before applying. Scholarship availability and requirements can change between academic sessions.

Student life at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) includes academic activities, student organisations, sports, cultural programmes, accommodation, counselling, and opportunities to interact with students from different countries. USM's International Office also supports international students through dedicated programmes and services designed to help them adjust to university life in Malaysia.

International Student Community

USM has an established international student community. For the 2026/2027 academic session, the university reported that 999 of its new students came from 37 countries. USM's International Office also runs USM International (USMi), a community for international students that encourages interaction between international and Malaysian students and provides opportunities to share different cultural identities.

USM Buddies Programme

The USM Student Buddies programme helps international students become familiar with student life in Malaysia and their new surroundings. The programme encourages friendships between international and Malaysian students through activities and social interaction. Student Buddies also assist international students with adjusting to the university environment and building social networks.

Clubs and Student Activities

Students at USM Penang can participate in various clubs and societies based on their interests. USM's official student information lists organisations such as the Computer Science Club, Indian Cultural Club, Astronomy Club, Debating and Public Speaking Club, Mass Communication Club, Navigator Society, and Political Science Society.

The university also organises cultural activities at its Cultural Centre. These activities provide opportunities for students to interact with one another outside the classroom and take part in campus events.

Sports and Recreation

USM provides sports and recreational facilities for students across its campus. Official university information lists facilities including soccer fields, an eight-lane synthetic running track, an Astroturf hockey stadium, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. The university also has a sports centre with indoor and outdoor facilities for student activities and sporting events.

Student Accommodation

USM Malaysia provides student accommodation through its Desasiswa residential system. The university's current information lists residences across its campuses, with facilities such as cafeterias, laundry rooms, prayer spaces, study areas, and recreational facilities.

The Main Campus includes residences such as Aman Damai, Bakti Permai, Cahaya Gemilang, Fajar Harapan, Indah Kembara, Restu, Saujana, Tekun, and the International House.

Accommodation availability and arrangements can vary by campus and student category, so students should check with USM's Housing and Accommodation Centre for current options.

Student Support Services

USM provides several services to support students during their studies. These include hostel accommodation, counselling and motivational guidance, sports and recreational activities, and student development programmes.

The university's International Office also provides services for international students, including orientation, assistance with accommodation, visa application processes, course registration, student activities, and international student support.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) offers students a combination of research-focused education, multidisciplinary academic study, international opportunities, and a large campus environment. USM was established in 1969 and is recognised by Malaysia's Ministry of Higher Education as a Research Intensive University. It was also selected as Malaysia's first APEX university in 2008.

APEX University Status

USM was selected in 2008 to implement the Accelerated Programme for Excellence (APEX). According to USM, the programme is designed to support the transformation of higher education and help selected institutions develop towards international standards. USM's APEX mission focuses on becoming a pioneering, transdisciplinary, research-intensive university.

Research-Focused Academic Environment

Research is an important part of the University of Sains Malaysia academic structure. USM is recognised as a Research Intensive University and has 17 dedicated research centres covering areas such as archaeology, medicine and dentistry, molecular medicine, science and technology, Islamic development and management studies, and policy research.

Wide Range of Academic Disciplines

Students can choose from academic fields including Natural Sciences, Applied Sciences, Medical and Health Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Building Science and Technology, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education. These programmes are available at undergraduate and postgraduate levels across USM's academic schools and campuses.

This broad academic structure gives students researching a University of Science Malaysia or University of Sains Malaysia programme a range of study malaysia options across different disciplines.

Multidisciplinary School System

USM uses a School-based academic structure instead of the traditional faculty system. The university states that this approach gives students exposure to other areas of study and encourages multidisciplinary learning. The Main Campus has 17 academic schools, while the Engineering Campus and Health Campus have six and three schools respectively.

International Study Opportunities

USM Malaysia provides several pathways for international students, including direct international admission, offshore and franchise programmes, global mobility opportunities, and selected dual, double, and joint degree programmes. The current USM admission portal lists more than 60 undergraduate programmes for international students across areas such as Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Business, and the Arts.

Campus and Student Facilities

The main USM Penang campus is located in Minden and covers 416.6 hectares. The university provides academic facilities, research centres, libraries, student residences, sports and recreation facilities, cultural facilities, and student clubs and societies. USM also describes its main campus through its "University in a Garden" concept.

Global Academic Recognition

USM continues to participate in international university rankings and subject assessments. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, USM was ranked 128th globally, according to a USM report published in June 2026. USM also reported that it was ranked in 31 subject areas in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.

International students applying for an undergraduate programme at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) can apply through USM's direct international admission channel. For the 2026 intake information, USM identifies the International Channel under POHON@USM as the direct admission pathway for international applicants with recognised qualifications. USM offers more than 60 undergraduate programmes across areas including Science, Engineering, Medicine, Business, and the Arts.

General Eligibility Requirements

According to the current official USM international undergraduate admission requirements, applicants must:

• Complete and pass a minimum of 12 years of education.
• Hold a National High School Certificate, Grade 12, A-Level, International Baccalaureate (IB), or equivalent qualification.
• Applicants may also apply with a Diploma, A-Level, IB, Australian Matriculation (AUSMAT), South Australian Matriculation (SAM), or another qualification recognised as equivalent by the Malaysian Government and approved by the USM Senate.
• Predicted, provisional, mock, expected, or Advanced Subsidiary results are not accepted.
• Some programmes may require applicants to attend an interview and/or test before admission.

Meeting the general requirements does not automatically mean that an applicant qualifies for every programme. Each USM Penang course has its own subject, academic, and English-language requirements, so applicants should check the requirements shown for their chosen programme on the official USM admission portal.

English Language Requirements

USM's current general English-language requirement for international undergraduate applicants accepts the following minimum qualifications:

• IELTS / IELTS Online: Band 5.0
• TOEFL iBT: 40
• TOEFL Essentials Online: 7.5
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): 154
• Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): 154
• Cambridge English: Linguaskill Online: 154
• PTE Academic / PTE Academic Online: 47
• ELS Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP): Level 107
• MUET: Band 3.5

USM also accepts applicants from institutions where English was the medium of instruction.These are the general requirements. Certain programmes can specify different English-language requirements, so applicants should check the individual programme page before applying.

Programme-Specific Academic Requirements

In addition to the general eligibility criteria, applicants must meet the academic requirements of their chosen programme. These requirements can vary considerably between subjects.

For example, USM's programme pages specify different subject combinations and grades for applicants holding High School Certificates, A-Levels, Australian qualifications, IB qualifications, and other recognised credentials. Some programmes require specific subjects such as Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Economics, Computing, or other relevant subjects.

Applicants should therefore select their intended University of Sains Malaysia programme first and then check its specific academic requirements rather than relying only on the university's general entry requirements.

Documents Required for Application

USM's official "How to Apply" page states that international applicants should prepare the following documents for their online application:

• Official certificates
• Official transcripts
• Mark sheets or school reports from each secondary school or college attended
• Translated copies of certificates if the original documents are issued in a language other than English or Malay
• English-language qualification, such as IELTS, TOEFL, MUET, CAE, CPE, PTE, or an authorisation letter from an institution where English was the medium of instruction
• Copy of passport, details page only, in A4 size
• Student Pass, if the applicant is already studying in Malaysia
• Scholarship letter, if applicable
• Receipt for the application processing fee

Applicants should ensure that their academic documents are complete and correspond with the qualifications entered in the online application.

Online Application Process

International applicants apply online through USM's international application system. The official USM instructions state that applicants need to register for an account or log in if they have previously applied online. After registration, the system generates a reference number that is sent to the registered email address.

The general process is:

1. Select the intended programme and check its specific entry requirements.
2. Register or log in to the USM online application system.
3. Complete the application form.
4. Upload the required academic, English-language, identification, and supporting documents.
5. Pay the applicable RM100 processing fee per application.
6. Submit the completed application.
7. Complete an interview or test if required for the selected programme.
8. Follow USM's instructions after the application has been assessed.

Application Processing Fee

USM's official application instructions state that a RM100 processing fee is applicable for every international undergraduate application submitted. Payment can be made through USM's online payment system, EPayment@USM.

Important Note for International Applicants

Admission requirements are not identical across all USM Malaysia programmes. USM publishes programme-specific academic requirements alongside its general international admission requirements, and some programmes may require an interview or test. Applicants should therefore check the current official programme page for the University of Science Malaysia course they intend to study before submitting an application.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) provides career development and graduate employability support through its Graduate Career and Marketability Sector. The university works on career development, industry collaboration, job opportunities, industrial training placements, and graduate employability tracking. USM also conducts graduate tracer studies to collect information about employment status, job prospects, and entrepreneurship among its graduates.

Career Development and Employability Support

USM's Graduate Career and Marketability Sector provides services designed to help students and graduates prepare for employment. These include interview training, resume writing, communication skills development, career programmes, career fairs, industry exhibitions, and career talks. The sector also works with industries and external agencies to create employment and industrial training opportunities.

The university also manages graduate employability data through the Graduate Employability Tracer Study. This allows USM to monitor graduate outcomes and use the information to support improvements in its career development initiatives.

Graduate Employability

USM reported a Graduate Employability Rate of 94.3% in 2025, alongside a Graduate Marketability Rate of 94.2%, in an August 2026 update on its graduate employability initiatives. These figures were presented by USM as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen graduate readiness for the workforce.

USM also reported recognition in the Talentbank Graduate Employability Index 2026, based on a national study involving feedback from more than 1,200 employers. According to USM's report, the university was placed among the top three nationally in the 2026 index, with several subject areas also receiving recognition from employers.

Career Opportunities Across Different Fields

The wide range of academic programmes at University of Sains Malaysia allows graduates to pursue career paths related to their chosen disciplines. USM's academic portfolio covers areas including science, engineering, healthcare, business, management, computing, education, humanities, social sciences, arts, and technology.

USM's graduate employability initiatives also cover different stages of career preparation, including skills development, industry exposure, job matching, interview preparation, and employment support.

Entrepreneurship Opportunities

Career development at USM Malaysia also includes entrepreneurship. The university's Student Entrepreneur System, known as SUis, tracks entrepreneurship and business activities among graduates. USM uses the system to identify graduates who choose entrepreneurship as a career and to identify opportunities for collaboration with graduate-owned businesses.

USM Alumni Community

USM maintains an Alumni Development Centre to keep graduates connected with the university after graduation. The centre supports alumni engagement and provides a platform for graduates to remain connected with the USM community. USM's alumni platform also maintains alumni statistics and information about its undergraduate and postgraduate alumni.

The university also collects information about graduates through its Graduate Tracer Study and Graduands Entrepreneur System. These systems help USM understand graduates' employment status and entrepreneurship activities after completing their studies.

Alumni Career Highlights

USM's official graduate employability updates highlight alumni involvement in different professional sectors. For example, a 2026 USM graduate employability townhall featured a USM School of Chemical Sciences alumnus who had graduated in 2009 and was serving as Head of the Talent and Job Placement Branch at Malaysia's Social Security Organisation (PERKESO). The session also highlighted the Career LaunchPad programme, which supports resume development, interview simulations, industry exposure, and job matching.

Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM Malaysia) is located at Minden on Penang Island, Malaysia. The main campus covers 416.6 hectares and is approximately 9.7 km from George Town. USM also has an Engineering Campus in Nibong Tebal, Penang, and a Health Campus in Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, so the location students live in can depend on their programme and campus.

Penang provides students with access to a mix of academic, cultural, food, and recreational experiences. USM's International Office describes Penang as a multicultural destination with Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences, particularly reflected in its local food culture.

Accommodation for USM Students

USM provides student accommodation through its hostel and Desasiswa system. The university states that its accommodation is designed for students and includes amenities such as free Wi-Fi, washing machines, and televisions. USM's main campus accommodation includes several Desasiswa residences, and students can check current availability with the Housing and Accommodation Centre.

The Housing and Accommodation Centre is responsible for coordinating student housing and accommodation matters at USM. Its office is located at the Cahaya Siswa Complex on the Main Campus in Penang.

Getting Around Penang

Students living at USM Penang can use public transport to travel around the island. USM's International Office identifies Rapid Penang buses as a convenient way to travel throughout Penang Island.

USM also provides a free campus shuttle service, identified by the university as CT11, which connects the Main Campus with areas including Bukit Jambul, Sungai Nibong, and Queensbay. This can be useful for students travelling between the university and nearby parts of Penang.

Food and Daily Life in Penang

Penang is known for its diverse food culture. According to USM's International Office, the island reflects Malay, Chinese, and Indian cultural influences, with street food forming an important part of everyday food culture. Students living near the University of Sains Malaysia can therefore experience a wide range of local food and cultural traditions alongside university life.
The USM Main Campus itself also has food outlets and cafeterias. The official USM campus map identifies food outlets, food banks, cafeterias, and other student facilities within the campus.

Living Near George Town

USM's Minden campus is approximately 9.7 km from George Town. This places students within access to one of Penang's major urban and cultural areas while studying at the university's main campus.

George Town is also part of Penang's wider cultural environment, while the USM campus itself incorporates green spaces, natural areas, and heritage buildings. USM describes its main campus through its "University in a Garden" concept.

Campus-Based Lifestyle

Students who choose a USM Penang course can spend much of their daily life within the university campus. The Main Campus includes student accommodation, libraries, sports facilities, food outlets, lecture halls, cultural facilities, and other student services. USM's official campus map also lists facilities such as the swimming complex, badminton complex, sports facilities, museum, library, mosque, and multiple Desasiswa residences.

Universiti Sains Malaysia Ranking

• QS World University Rankings 2027: USM is ranked 128th globally.
• USM was ranked 136th in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
• USM is recognised as Malaysia's APEX university, following its selection for the Accelerated Programme for Excellence.
• The university has 17 dedicated research centres covering areas across medicine, dentistry, science, technology, social sciences, policy and other research fields.

Key Affiliations and International Partnerships

• USM works with universities and institutions in different countries through academic and research collaborations.
• Its International Office supports student exchange, staff mobility, internships and international academic partnerships.
• USM offers international academic collaborations that include dual, double and joint degree programmes.
• The university has international education malaysia initiatives and programmes in countries including India, China and Türkiye.
• USM also operates the USM-KLE Campus in Belgaum, India.

Language of Instruction

• English is widely used in USM's academic environment, particularly in many science, technology, postgraduate and internationally oriented programmes.
• The language of instruction can vary by programme, so students should check the requirements for their selected course.
• International students may need to provide proof of English language proficiency as part of the admission requirements.
• Students applying for a USM Penang course should check the specific programme page for its current language and English proficiency requirements.

University of Sains Malaysia is an outstanding choice for international students seeking a globally recognized, affordable, and inclusive education. From its strong academic reputation to its supportive campus life, USM ensures students gain real-world skills and global exposure. Students are encouraged to explore programmes, check scholarship options, and start their application journey through the official USM portal.

1. Can international students take part in student exchange programmes at USM?

Yes, USM offers inbound mobility opportunities for international students, including one- or two-semester exchange and credit transfer programmes. Exchange students can take courses worth between 9 and 21 credit units per semester, depending on the programme and available courses.

2. Does USM offer short-term study or educational programmes?

Yes, USM's International Office organises short-term mobility opportunities, including Edutourism programmes. These programmes allow visiting students to experience the university, Malaysian culture, and selected academic or educational activities without joining a full degree programme.

3. Can USM students study at a university overseas?

Yes, USM students can participate in outbound mobility programmes and spend one or two semesters at an overseas university. Depending on the approved arrangement, credits earned during the mobility programme can be transferred back to the student's USM academic record.

4. Does USM provide distance learning options?

Yes, USM has a distance learning pathway known as Program Pengajian Jarak Jauh (RPJJ). The university's admission portal lists distance learning separately from its conventional full-time undergraduate admission channels.

5.Can students apply to USM through more than one admission pathway?

USM has different admission channels depending on the applicant and programme. Its current undergraduate admission portal lists UPU Online as the centralised pathway for Malaysian public university applications and POHON@USM for direct admission routes, including an International Channel for international applicants with recognised qualifications.

6. Does USM offer programmes for lifelong learners?

Yes, USM's current POHON@USM admission system includes a Senior Citizen channel under its lifelong learning options. This is separate from the standard undergraduate admission route.

7. Does USM have opportunities for students with sporting or cultural achievements?

Yes, The current POHON@USM admission system lists dedicated Sports Talent and Culture Talent channels. These provide admission pathways associated with recognised achievements in sports or arts and culture, subject to USM's applicable requirements.

8.How many campuses does USM have?

USM's current admission information identifies three main campuses: the Main Campus in Penang, the Engineering Campus, and the Health Campus. The university's student admission portal also highlights these three main campuses alongside its academic programmes.

9.What happens after a USM student completes their degree?

Graduates receive their degree scroll and academic transcript through USM's graduation and convocation process. The university also requires graduates to complete a Graduate Tracer Study, which collects information about their employment status after graduation.

10. Does USM maintain an academic calendar for students?

Yes, USM publishes academic calendars covering activities such as registration, teaching and learning periods, examinations, and semester-related dates. Students should refer to the academic calendar applicable to their programme and study mode because dates can differ between academic categories.