Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) – Fees, Courses, Admission

Introduction

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) is a public university located in the northern state of Kedah, Malaysia. Founded in 1984, it is one of the five public universities in Malaysia dedicated to business and management education.

UUM is renowned for its excellence in business and management education, and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in various disciplines such as accounting, finance, economics, marketing, management, information technology, and law. With a strong focus on research and innovation, UUM has established itself as a leading institution in the region, attracting students from Malaysia and around the world.

Available Programmes/ courses at USM

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes. Some of the undergraduate programmes available are Bachelor of Accounting, Business Administration, Actuarial Science, Law, Economics, and Information Technology.

Postgraduate programmes offered include Master of Business Administration, Education, and Doctor of Philosophy, to name a few. UUM also offers various research programmes in different fields, including Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing, Information Technology, and Law.

Foundation

Bachelors/ Undergraduate programme

Master’s/ postgraduate programme

Costing

As an aspiring student, one of the important factors to consider is the cost of studying at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM). The estimated cost for the foundation programme is around RM 10,000 to RM 12,000 (USD 2,242 to USD 2,690) per year, depending on the course of study. For undergraduate programmes, the cost is around RM 12,000 to RM 15,000 (USD 2,690 to USD 3,363) per year, again depending on the course of study. The cost of postgraduate programmes at UUM varies depending on the chosen programme. However, the approximate cost ranges from RM 12,000 to RM 20,000 (USD 2,690 to USD 4,484) per year.

In addition to tuition fees, there are also other costs to consider such as application fees, visa fees, and health insurance policies. The application fee for UUM is around RM 60 to RM 100 (USD 14 to USD 23), depending on the programme. International students are required to obtain a student visa, and the cost for this ranges from RM 1,000 to RM 2,000 (USD 224 to USD 448). Health insurance is mandatory for international students, and the cost for this is around RM 500 to RM 1,000 (USD 112 to USD 224) per year.

Overall, studying at UUM is relatively affordable compared to other universities in Malaysia and around the world. The university also provides scholarships and financial aid to eligible students, which can greatly reduce the cost of studying. As an international student, I am excited about the prospect of studying at UUM and believe that the quality education and affordability of the university make it an excellent choice for pursuing my academic and career goals.

Admission Requirement

For Bangladeshi students, the application process for admission into universities usually occurs online, requiring the submission of various documents including academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, and a copy of their passport. Alongside these, some universities may also request letters of recommendation and personal statements as part of the application. After submission, the university evaluates the student’s academic credentials and language proficiency to determine their eligibility for admission.

Depending on the course and university, students may also have to attend an interview or take an entrance exam to further assess their skills and knowledge. It is crucial for Bangladeshi students to ensure the timely and accurate submission of all necessary documents, as this could significantly impact their chances of acceptance into their preferred university. Additionally, researching and comprehending the admission process and requirements for each university they wish to apply to be recommended as they may differ from each other.

Academic and English Language Proficiency

For undergraduate programme admission, the University has specific requirements that must be met by prospective students. These requirements include being between the ages of 18 and 25 and having a credit pass in Mathematics and English Language. Furthermore, the University only recognizes certificates from government schools that have a minimum of 11-12 years of study, or certificates approved by the Senate of the University. Private school and college certificates are not accepted.

Students who are non-native speakers of English must pass an English Language proficiency test or complete an Intensive English Course offered by the University. Certain foundation and undergraduate programmes have a mandatory requirement of achieving a minimum score of 5.5 to 6 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or a score of 550 in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

On the other hand, for postgraduate programmes, a minimum score of 6-6.5 is compulsory in the IELTS. To be considered for admission into specific programmes, completion of 12 years of schooling is required. Passing both the SSC and HSC examinations is mandatory for all students. Moreover, achieving a minimum score of 60% to 75% (1st Division) or a minimum CGPA of 2.50 to 3.00 in the HSC examination is also necessary. It’s worth noting that there might be other requirements endorsed by the University Senate that need to be satisfied by the applicants.

Additionally, it should be noted that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the University, and it is recommended that students research the admission requirements and procedures of the University before submitting their applications.

How to apply

The application process for international students applying to UUM involves research, submission of application and documents, payment of application fee, processing of application, interview or entrance exam, acceptance letter, visa application, health insurance policy, and accommodation arrangements.

It is important to note that the admission requirements and process may differ depending on the programme and university, so it is essential to research and understand the specific requirements for the programme you wish to apply for.

Step 1: Research Programmes and Requirements – The first step is to research the different programmes and their requirements offered by UUM. This can be done by visiting the official website of UUM or contacting the international office.

Step 2: Application Submission – Once you have decided on the programme, the next step is to submit the application form and all necessary documents online. Some of the required documents include academic transcripts, language proficiency test scores, copy of passport, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

Step 3: Application Fee Payment – After submitting the application, students are required to pay an application fee. The amount of the fee may vary depending on the programme applied for.

Step 4: Application Processing – After receiving the application and required documents, the university will process the application and evaluate the student’s academic qualifications and language proficiency to determine if they meet the admission requirements.

Step 5: Interview or Entrance Exam – Depending on the programme, the student may be required to attend an interview or take an entrance exam to further assess their knowledge and skills.

Step 6: Acceptance Letter and Visa Application – If the student is accepted, the university will send an acceptance letter. The student can then proceed to apply for a student visa from the nearest Malaysian Embassy or High Commission in their home country.

Step 7: Health Insurance and Accommodation – Once the visa is granted, the student is required to purchase a health insurance policy and arrange for accommodation in Malaysia.

Intakes

UUM provides four admission intakes per year, namely in January, May, June, and September. However, the availability of programmes may differ based on the course. Hence, it is advisable to visit the university’s website to check whether your desired subject is available during any of the intakes. Meeting the application deadlines is a prerequisite for applying to any of these intakes. It is important to note that some courses are offered only in specific semesters.

Thus, students are urged to verify the USM website to confirm the availability of their chosen programme. The official website offers comprehensive information on course details, including their respective semester intakes. This enables prospective students to plan their applications effectively.

International Student Facilities

The university offers a variety of student facilities to enhance our overall university experience. One such facility is the International Student Centre (ISC), which serves as a one-stop hub for international students to obtain information on academic and non-academic matters, including immigration, accommodation, and campus life. Another important facility is the UUM Health Centre, which provides free medical consultation and treatment for all students, including international students.

Additionally, UUM offers various sports facilities such as an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a gymnasium, and various sports courts. International students can participate in sports activities organized by the UUM Sports Centre and can also form or join student clubs and societies to engage in various extracurricular activities. UUM also provides on-campus accommodation for international students, with different types of rooms and apartments available to cater to individual preferences and budgets. These facilities and services make UUM a welcoming and supportive environment for international students to thrive and make the most out of their university experience.

Scholarship

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) offers several international scholarships for international students who wish to study at the university. The scholarships available include:

Vice-Chancellor Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students who have achieved excellent academic results. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a living allowance. Students can apply for this scholarship by submitting an application form and supporting documents to the university.

Graduate Assistantship Scheme: This scheme offers financial assistance to international students who are pursuing a postgraduate degree at UUM. The scheme provides a monthly stipend to cover living expenses and tuition fees. Students can apply for this scholarship by contacting the Graduate School of UUM.

Malaysia International Scholarship (MIS): This scholarship is awarded by the Malaysian government to international students who wish to pursue a postgraduate degree in Malaysia. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a living allowance. Students can apply for this scholarship through the Malaysian government’s scholarship portal.
External Scholarships: UUM also accepts external scholarships from various organizations and foundations.Students can apply for these scholarships by contacting the organizations directly and submitting the required documents.

To apply for any of these scholarships, international students are required to submit an application form and provide supporting documents, which may include academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. The application deadlines and specific requirements may vary depending on the scholarship. Therefore, it is recommended to check the university’s website or contact the relevant department for more information.

Accommodation

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) offers on-campus accommodation for international students in two main areas, which are the Kedah Residential College and the Perlis Residential College. Both of these colleges offer single and twin sharing rooms, which are equipped with basic amenities such as beds, wardrobes, tables, chairs, and fans. The rental fee for a single room is approximately RM 500-600 (USD 112 to USD 135) per month, while a twin sharing room costs around RM 250-300 (USD 56 to USD 67) per month per person. Each residential college also provides shared facilities such as kitchens, laundry rooms, study rooms, and lounges.

Off-campus accommodation options are also available in the surrounding areas of UUM. These include apartments, condominiums, and landed properties. The cost of off-campus accommodation can vary depending on factors such as location, type of accommodation, and number of occupants. The average monthly rental cost for off-campus accommodation ranges from RM 600-1,500 (USD 135 to USD 336). The facilities and amenities provided in these accommodations also vary, but most of them come with basic furniture, kitchen appliances, and air conditioning.

Staying on campus can provide easy access to university facilities such as the library, sports center, and classrooms, but off-campus accommodation may provide more privacy and a wider range of amenities. It is recommended that international students plan their accommodation in advance and make sure to consider their budget and preferences before making a decision.

University Rankings

As an international student, choosing the right university for higher education is a crucial decision. Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has been ranked 481 in the world university ranking as per the QS World University Rankings 2023, which makes it an attractive option for Bangladeshi students. One of the plus points of studying at UUM is its excellent academic reputation in Malaysia and beyond, with a focus on producing well-rounded graduates equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in their chosen fields. UUM has also earned recognition for its research output, which attracts academics and researchers from around the world.

Moreover, UUM provides a safe and welcoming environment for international students, with a range of support services to help them adjust to campus life. The university has also invested in modern facilities and technology to enhance the learning experience. It is clear that UUM’s commitment to academic excellence, research, and student support has led to its high rankings, making it a great choice for international students seeking a quality education in Malaysia.

Potential Collaborative Partners

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) has collaborated with various local and international institutions to enhance its research and academic excellence.
Some of the potential collaborators of UUM include government organizations such as the Ministry of Education Malaysia, Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia, and the Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC). UUM also collaborates with other universities in Malaysia, such as Universiti Malaya and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia.

In addition, UUM has established partnerships with international universities, such as the University of Oxford in the UK, Seoul National University in South Korea, and the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. These collaborations provide opportunities for joint research, exchange programmes, and international academic conferences, making UUM a hub for global knowledge exchange.

Job or Internship facilities

As an international student graduating from UUM, you can avail yourself of a variety of internship and job facilities available in Malaysia. Many multinational companies operate in Malaysia, providing ample opportunities for students to gain valuable work experience in diverse fields. The university also has strong industry links and career services that can help students secure internships and job placements.

These services provide career guidance, job search strategies, resume writing tips, interview preparation sessions, and more. Additionally, students can attend career fairs, networking events, and industry talks to meet potential employers and learn about career opportunities in various fields. The average starting salary for freshly graduated students in Malaysia varies based on the industry, job role, and experience level.

However, it is generally competitive and can range from RM 2,000 to RM 4,000 (USD 448 to 896) per month. As an international student, it is crucial to obtain a valid work visa before applying for jobs in Malaysia. The university’s career services and immigration office can provide guidance on the visa application process and work regulations for international students.

FAQs

What programmes does UUM offer for international students?

A: UUM offers various undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes in different fields of study, including business, management, finance, economics, accounting, law, international affairs, education, and information technology.

How do I apply to UUM as an international student?

A: To apply to UUM as an international student, you need to visit the UUM website and create an account. Then, you need to submit your application form, academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores, passport copy, and other relevant documents. You may also need to pay an application fee.

What are the English proficiency requirements for admission to UUM?

A: International students whose native language is not English need to submit their English proficiency test scores, such as IELTS, TOEFL, or MUET. The minimum score requirement varies depending on the programme of study, but it is typically around 6.0 for IELTS or 550 for TOEFL.

What are the tuition fees and living expenses for international students at UUM?

A: The tuition fees for international students at UUM depend on the programme of study and the level of degree. On average, undergraduate programmes cost around RM 20,000 to RM 40,000 per year, while postgraduate programmes cost around RM 10,000 to RM 30,000 per year. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses, can cost around RM 1,500 to RM 2,500 per month.

Does UUM offer any scholarships or financial aid for international students?

A: Yes, UUM offers various scholarships and financial aid options for international students based on their academic merit, financial need, and other criteria. Some of the popular scholarships for international students include the UUM Vice-Chancellor Scholarship, the UUM Global Scholarship, and the Malaysia International Scholarship. Students can apply for these scholarships through the UUM website

Conclusion

In conclusion, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) offers a world-class education and a vibrant campus life for students seeking to pursue their academic and professional goals. With its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and internationalization, UUM provides a stimulating and supportive environment for students to excel in their chosen fields.

From its state-of-the-art facilities to its highly qualified faculty, UUM is committed to providing its students with the resources and support they need to succeed in their academic and personal lives. If you are looking for a dynamic and challenging learning experience that will prepare you for the global marketplace, then UUM may be the perfect fit for you.