Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM) is the first overseas campus established by China’s prestigious Xiamen University. Located in Sepang, Malaysia, the university offers a world-class, fully residential learning environment designed for international students seeking high-quality and affordable education in Asia.

What makes Xiamen University Malaysia unique is its strong blend of Chinese educational excellence, Malaysian multicultural values, and a global teaching approach. Students benefit from modern facilities, diverse programmes, and a campus experience that emphasises holistic learning, personal growth, and future-ready skills.

Quick Facts

This guide is created for students planning to study in Malaysia and looking for a reputable, affordable university with a global environment.

Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM) was established following an invitation from the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education and became the first Chinese university to establish a branch campus in Malaysia. Its registration was approved by Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education in November 2015, with the first undergraduate intake beginning in February 2016.

The university follows the legacy of Xiamen University China, founded in 1921, and carries forward its vision of nurturing well-rounded graduates equipped for global challenges. Over the years, XMUM has grown rapidly, expanding its programmes, research capabilities, and international student community.

XMUM’s campus is fully residential, meaning students have access to secure, well-planned living spaces that encourage a community-focused lifestyle. The campus spans a large, peaceful area with green landscapes and modern buildings.

• Purpose-built campus: Xiamen University Malaysia has a 150-acre campus in Sepang, designed with academic, residential, research, and recreational spaces in one setting.
• Academic facilities: Students have access to lecture halls, tutorial rooms, computer laboratories, science laboratories, research facilities, and dedicated learning spaces.
• Library and study areas: The People's Great Hall includes the university library, study spaces, seminar rooms, exhibition areas, and facilities for collaborative learning.
• Research facilities: The campus includes laboratories supporting areas such as chemistry, physics, chemical engineering, marine biotechnology, electrical and electronics engineering, information and communication technology, and new energy science.
• Sports and recreation: Facilities include an Olympic-sized swimming pool, football field, basketball courts, badminton courts, table tennis facilities, a gymnasium, and spaces for activities such as yoga and martial arts.
• Student accommodation: On-campus residences provide students with hostel rooms, common areas, pantries, laundry facilities, dining options, and security services.
• Student support: Students can access campus-based services such as a medical clinic and counselling support.
• Location: The campus is in Bandar Sunsuria, Sepang, with access to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the Salak Tinggi station, making travel more convenient for local and international students.
• Student life: The combination of residential, academic, sports, and student activity facilities allows students to spend much of their university life within the campus environment.

What makes the campus useful for students?

• You can access classrooms, laboratories, study spaces, sports facilities, accommodation, and student services without travelling between separate campuses.
• International students have access to residential facilities and campus services within the university environment.
• The range of laboratories and research spaces supports students across science, engineering, technology, and other specialised programmes.
• The sports and recreational facilities give students options for exercise and extracurricular activities outside class hours.

Xiamen University Malaysia offers foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes across business, communication, arts and social sciences, engineering, marine sciences, computing, data science, artificial intelligence, robotics, mathematics, physics, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. The following faculties and programmes are listed on the university's official website.

Economics and Management

• Bachelor of Management in Accounting (Honours)
• Bachelor of Economics in Finance (Honours)
• Bachelor of Management in International Business (Honours)
• Bachelor of Management in E-Commerce (Honours)
• Bachelor of Management in Hospitality Management (Honours)
• Master of Economics in Finance
• Master of Business Administration

Communication

• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (Honours)
• Bachelor of Arts in Advertising (Honours)
• Bachelor of Arts in Communication (Honours)
• Master of Communication and Culture
• Arts and Social Sciences
• Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Studies (Honours)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Language and Literature
• Master of Arts in Chinese Studies
• Doctor of Philosophy in Chinese Studies

Energy and Chemical Engineering

• Bachelor of Engineering in New Energy Science and Engineering (Honours)
• Bachelor of Chemical Engineering with Honours
• Master in New Energy Science and Engineering
• Master of Science in Chemical Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy in New Energy Science and Engineering
• Doctor of Philosophy in Chemical Engineering

China-ASEAN College of Marine Sciences

• Bachelor of Science in Marine Biotechnology (Honours)
• Bachelor of Science in Marine Environmental Chemistry (Honours)
• Master of Science in Marine Biotechnology
• Master of Science in Marine Science
• Doctor of Philosophy in Marine Science

Computing and Data Science

• Bachelor of Engineering in Computer Science and Technology (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Digital Media Technology (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Cyber Security (Honours)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Data Science (Honours)
• Master of Science in Computer Science and Technology
• Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science and Technology

Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

• Bachelor of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (Hons)
• Bachelor of Engineering in Artificial Intelligence (Honours)
• Bachelor of Robotics and Automation Engineering with Honours
• Master of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Mathematics and Physics

• Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Applied Mathematics (Honours)
• Bachelor of Science in Physics (Honours)
• Postgraduate programmes in Mathematics and Physics are also offered at XMUM, including master's and doctoral study options.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

• Bachelor of Medicine in Traditional Chinese Medicine (Honours)

XMUM also offers foundation programmes in Arts and Social Science, Science, and Information Technology. Its official programme listings cover undergraduate and postgraduate study across multiple academic disciplines.

Xiamen University Malaysia publishes separate tuition rates for Malaysian and international students. The undergraduate tuition generally ranges from RM26,000 to RM32,000 per year, depending on the programme. International students also pay applicable administrative fees and a 6% Sales and Service Tax on tuition and other higher education services.

Undergraduate Tuition Fees

Xiamen University Malaysia offers merit scholarships and study grants for eligible students. The scholarship amounts vary according to academic results, qualification type, programme level, and student category. XMUM also provides specific grants for siblings, teachers' children, and the Bumiputera and Indian community.

Merit Scholarships

For foundation and undergraduate programmes, the university bases merit scholarships on academic results from qualifications such as SPM, IGCSE, UEC, STPM, A-Level, SACE, AUSMAT, New South Wales Higher School Certificate, International Baccalaureate Diploma, and Monash University Foundation Year.

Xiamen University Malaysia has a multicultural campus with students from Malaysia, China, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and other countries. The university currently lists more than 60 student clubs and societies, giving students opportunities to take part in academic, cultural, recreational, and social activities.

Student Clubs & Activities

• XMUM has 60+ student clubs and societies covering different interests and activities.
• Students can take part in sports clubs, non-sports clubs, workshops, events, and other extracurricular activities.
• Student clubs are expected to organise regular activities, while sports clubs conduct regular practice sessions and events.
• Students can also participate in university events such as Gala Night and other campus activities.
• Student activities provide opportunities to meet classmates from different programmes and cultural backgrounds.

International Student Community

• XMUM has students from a range of countries, creating a multicultural campus environment.
• The university officially recognises International Student Communities, which can organise cultural, social, and collaborative activities.
• Recognised international communities can access university venues and may be eligible for funding, subject to approval.
• International communities are required to organise at least two activities each year to maintain active status.
• Students may use English, Malay, Mandarin, or other languages when interacting with peers from different countries, reflecting the multilingual nature of the campus.

Cultural Exchange & Campus Experience

• Students have opportunities to interact with peers from different cultural backgrounds through classes, clubs, group assignments, and campus events.
• XMUM students have described making friends from different countries and experiencing a diverse cultural environment on campus.
• Extracurricular activities, competitions, research opportunities, internships, and student societies contribute to life beyond the classroom.
• The university's student environment combines academic activities with opportunities for social interaction, cultural exchange, and personal development.

• International university environment: Xiamen University Malaysia brings together students from Malaysia, China, and other countries, giving you regular opportunities to interact with people from different cultural backgrounds.
• Wide range of programmes: You can choose from programmes in business, communication, arts and social sciences, engineering, computing, data science, artificial intelligence, marine sciences, mathematics, physics, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
• Purpose-built campus: The 150-acre campus brings classrooms, laboratories, library facilities, student accommodation, sports facilities, and student services together in one location.
• Strong research focus: Students have access to specialised laboratories and research facilities across areas such as marine biotechnology, new energy, chemical engineering, computing, electrical and electronics engineering, and related fields.
• English-medium education: Many programmes are taught in English, which can make the university a practical option for students looking for an English-language education in Malaysia.
• Scholarship opportunities: XMUM offers merit-based scholarships and selected study grants. Eligible students may receive tuition fee reductions based on their academic results and other criteria.
• Active student life: With more than 60 student clubs and societies, you can participate in sports, cultural activities, academic groups, workshops, and other extracurricular activities.
• Convenient location: The campus is located in Bandar Sunsuria, Sepang, with access to Kuala Lumpur International Airport and the Salak Tinggi station.
• Chinese and Malaysian academic connection: As the Malaysian campus of Xiamen University, XMUM provides students with an academic environment connected to the university's wider international network.
• Career-focused learning: Several programmes include practical learning, laboratory work, research, internships, and industry-related activities that can help you connect academic study with professional settings.

International students applying to Xiamen University Malaysia need to submit the completed application form, certified academic documents, a valid passport, photographs, health documents, and the required fees. After XMUM accepts the application, the university applies for the student pass through Education Malaysia Global Services. The student pass process generally takes about 6 to 8 weeks.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility depends on the programme you choose. XMUM publishes separate academic requirements for each foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate programme.

For Foundation Programmes

• Applicants need a recognised secondary-school qualification such as SPM, O-Level, UEC, or another qualification recognised by the Malaysian Government.
• For example, the Foundation in Arts and Social Science requires a pass in SPM or SPMV with credits in five subjects, or a pass in O-Level with credits in five subjects. UEC applicants need a pass with at least Grade B6 in three subjects.
• Exact subject requirements can vary according to the foundation programme.

For Undergraduate Programmes

• Applicants can apply with qualifications such as STPM, A-Level, UEC, matriculation, foundation, or diploma, depending on the programme.
• The required grades and subjects vary by degree. For example, the Bachelor of Electrical and Electronics Engineering requires specific Mathematics and Physics or Chemistry results.
• International applicants must also meet the English proficiency requirement specified for their chosen programme. Requirements can vary by degree. For example, the Electrical and Electronics Engineering programme lists IELTS 5.0, TOEFL iBT 40, PTE 47, MUET Band 3.5, or an equivalent Cambridge qualification.
• Some programmes have higher English requirements. The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in English Language and Literature, for example, requires IELTS 6.0, MUET Band 4, or an equivalent qualification.

For Postgraduate Programmes

• Applicants generally need a relevant bachelor's degree for master's programmes or a relevant master's degree for doctoral programmes.
• The required academic qualification and minimum CGPA depend on the programme.
• English language requirements also vary by programme. For example, the Master of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering requires IELTS 5.0, TOEFL iBT 40, PTE 47, MUET Band 3.5, or equivalent qualifications.
• Doctoral programmes have their own academic and English proficiency requirements. For example, the Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science and Technology requires a relevant master's degree and an IELTS score of 6.0 or equivalent for international students.

Documents Required

XMUM's official international student admission guidelines list the following documents for an application:

Xiamen University Malaysia reports a 94% employability rate for 2024, with 7,741 graduates recorded on its official website. Its Career Services Office supports students through career coaching, workshops, career fairs, internship and job placement support, company visits, guest lectures, and industry partnerships.

Career Support at XMUM

• Career coaching: Students can receive one-to-one guidance to clarify career goals, identify strengths, and plan their next steps.
• Resume and interview support: Career workshops cover resume writing, interview preparation, and personal branding.
• Career fairs: XMUM organises career fairs where students can meet employers and explore job and internship opportunities.
• Internship support: The Career Services Office connects students with internship opportunities through its employer network.
• Job placement support: Students and graduates can receive support when looking for employment after completing their studies.
• Industry partnerships: XMUM works with organisations through Memorandums of Understanding, which can create opportunities for mentorship, projects, and recruitment.
• Company visits: Students can visit workplaces to gain a better understanding of different industries and professional roles.
• Guest lectures: Industry professionals and other speakers are invited to share practical experience and career insights.

Career Opportunities After Graduation

Career options vary considerably by programme. XMUM's official programme information shows opportunities across areas such as:

• Finance and accounting
• Business and management
• Information technology and software
• Data science and artificial intelligence
• Engineering
• Marine science and biotechnology
• Communication and media
• Traditional Chinese Medicine
• Research and academia
• Consulting and policy-related roles

For example, XMUM's Master of Economics in Finance identifies career paths including financial analysis, financial consulting, investment and asset management, investment banking, corporate finance, risk management, quantitative analysis and data science, policy analysis, teaching, and doctoral study.

Companies Hiring XMUM Graduates

XMUM's official 2025 convocation information lists graduates joining companies including:

• Petronas
• Huawei
• Tencent
• Amazon
• Intel
• Dell
• Sony
• BYD
• CATL
• EY
• ICBC
• Public Bank
• UOB Bank
• OCBC
• Accenture
• Roche
• Top Glove
• Touch 'n Go
• Genting

The university's 2025 Career Fair also attracted 65 companies, with more than 1,500 job positions and 1,000 internship opportunities available to students and alumni. Participating employers included Tencent, Shopee, and OPPO, with some companies offering positions for international students.

Alumni Network & Further Study

XMUM has produced 7,741 graduates since its first graduating cohort. The university's alumni activities include networking events, guest lectures, alumni communications, and initiatives connecting graduates with current students and career services.

Graduates also continue their education at universities in Malaysia and overseas. XMUM's 2025 convocation information reports postgraduate offers for its graduates from institutions including the University of Pennsylvania, University of Chicago, Johns Hopkins University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Carnegie Mellon University, Duke University, New York University, Imperial College London, University College London, National University of Singapore, Nanyang Technological University, the University of Sydney, Peking University, Tsinghua University, the University of Hong Kong, and the University of Tokyo.

Alumni Career Examples

• Software Engineering: Loh Shu Yi, a 2021 Software Engineering graduate, is working as a Software Engineer in Singapore. Her career began with an IT operations internship during her final semester, followed by full-time employment.
• Finance: Lai Yuxian studied Finance at XMUM and later received postgraduate offers from Cornell University, New York University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Rochester. He subsequently pursued a master's degree in Public Administration at Cornell University.
• Business and entrepreneurship: XMUM's MBA alumni include business owners and entrepreneurs who describe using the programme to strengthen their business knowledge and strategic thinking.

Xiamen University Malaysia is the first overseas campus established by Xiamen University of China and the first Chinese university branch campus in Malaysia. Its academic connection with XMU gives students access to a wider Chinese and international academic network.

Key Rankings

• Xiamen University: Ranked 189th globally in the 2025–2026 Best Global Universities Rankings published by U.S. News & World Report.
• XMUM research: XMUM was ranked No. 1 in Malaysia by Nature Index based on research output from April 2024 to March 2025.
• Global research performance: In the 2026 Essential Science Indicators results, XMUM was ranked among the world's top 1% in six fields: Clinical Medicine, Neuroscience & Behaviour, Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, and Social Sciences (General).
• XMU research: The university's 2026 general booklet states that 11 disciplines at XMU are ranked among the global top 1% in Essential Science Indicators.

Affiliations & Academic Recognition

• XMUM is an internationalised branch campus established by Xiamen University in China.
• It was the first Chinese university to establish a branch campus in Malaysia.
• XMUM states that its programmes have international recognition, with approval from both the Malaysian and Chinese governments.
• Programmes are subject to Malaysian Qualifications Agency requirements. For example, the PhD in New Energy Science and Engineering received Full Accreditation from MQA in 2026, becoming XMUM's first fully accredited PhD programme.
• XMU's School of Management holds AMBA, EQUIS, and AACSB accreditation, giving it the international "Triple Crown" accreditation in business education.

Language of Instruction

English is the main language of instruction at XMUM. The university states that, with the exception of some courses in Chinese Studies and Traditional Chinese Medicine, its programmes are delivered in English.

This makes XMUM suitable for students who want to study in Malaysia in an English-medium academic environment while also being exposed to a multicultural campus connected to China and Southeast Asia.

Living in Bandar Sunsuria gives students a convenient base close to Xiamen University Malaysia. The township is in Sepang, Selangor, with access to Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Salak Tinggi, Putrajaya, and other nearby areas. Students can find accommodation, dining options, shops, and everyday services within and around the township.

Accommodation

Students can choose between university accommodation and private housing options in the surrounding area. On-campus residences are located close to classrooms and campus facilities, while nearby residential developments offer alternatives for students who prefer to live off campus.

Food and Daily Essentials

Bandar Sunsuria has food outlets, convenience stores, and everyday services that make student life easier. Students can also access additional shopping and dining options in nearby areas of Sepang and Salak Tinggi.

Transport and Connectivity

The location is well connected for students travelling beyond campus.

• Salak Tinggi ERL station is nearby and provides rail connections towards Kuala Lumpur and Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is around 20 minutes from the university campus by road.
• Putrajaya is also within easy travelling distance.
• Taxis and e-hailing services provide additional options for getting around the area.

Student Lifestyle

Bandar Sunsuria offers a quieter setting than central Kuala Lumpur, which can suit students who prefer to live close to campus. With the university, accommodation, food outlets, recreational facilities, and daily essentials nearby, students can manage their studies and everyday routines without travelling into the city regularly.

Xiamen University Malaysia stands out as an affordable, modern, multicultural institution offering top-quality education backed by a globally recognised parent university. With excellent residential facilities, strong scholarship options, and industry-relevant programmes, XMUM is an ideal choice for international students seeking a meaningful academic journey in Malaysia.

How many semesters are there in an academic year at Xiamen University Malaysia?

XMUM has three semesters in each academic year for its programmes. Students can refer to the university's academic calendar for the specific semester dates.

What is the average class size at Xiamen University Malaysia?

The average class size at XMUM is around 20 to 40 students. This gives students regular opportunities to interact with their lecturers and classmates.

Can students transfer credits from another university to XMUM?

Yes. Students can apply for external credit transfer by submitting their transcripts and detailed course syllabi for assessment. XMUM states that credit transfer can be considered when the similarity between the previous and XMUM courses reaches 80%.

Can XMUM students study at another university overseas?

Yes. XMUM collaborates with more than 40 partner universities and offers opportunities for students to study abroad or join exchange programmes for a semester or an academic year. Some opportunities may also include internships or further study pathways.

What languages are used for teaching at XMUM?

Most programmes at XMUM are delivered in English. Some courses within Chinese Studies and Traditional Chinese Medicine are conducted in Chinese.

How qualified are the academic staff at XMUM?

XMUM states that around 80% of its academic staff hold doctoral degrees, while about one-third are seconded from Xiamen University in China. The remaining academic staff are recruited from Malaysia and other countries.

Are XMUM degrees recognised internationally?

Yes. XMUM states that its programmes have international recognition, with approval from both the Malaysian and Chinese governments.

Can students stay on campus during semester breaks?

Yes. Students living in the university residences can remain on campus during semester breaks, subject to the applicable residence rules.

Does XMUM provide student accident insurance?

Yes. XMUM purchases a personal accident insurance plan for registered students. The coverage includes hospitalisation costs, although students may need to pay any amount exceeding the maximum coverage provided by the plan.

What happens if an international student does not meet the required English score?

Students who do not meet the minimum English proficiency requirement may be required to take an English Placement Test. Depending on the result, they may need to complete the Intensive English Programme before starting their main programme.