Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) – Courses, Fees, Admissions

Introduction

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) is a public university located in Sarawak, Malaysia. Established in 1992, it is one of the youngest universities in Malaysia. UNIMAS is a research-intensive university with a focus on technology, social sciences, and the environment. It has campus located in Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, and Sibu.

The university has a diverse student population, with approximately 15,000 students enrolled, including both local and international students from over 50 countries. UNIMAS has a strong commitment to sustainability, and its research activities are aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. It is also known for its vibrant campus life and the wide range of extracurricular activities offered to students.

Available programmes/ courses at UNIMAS

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) offers a wide range of programmes and courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These include various fields of study such as medicine, engineering, social sciences, arts and humanities, natural sciences, and business and management. UNIMAS is particularly known for its strong focus on research and innovation, and offers many research-based programmes in various disciplines.

Some examples of courses and programmes offered at UNIMAS include Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Bachelor of Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Electronic), Bachelor of Social Science (Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, and Geography), Bachelor of Arts (English, History, and Malay Studies), Bachelor of Science (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics), and Master of Business Administration.

Foundation Programme

Bachelors Programme

Master’s Programme

Costing

As an international student considering studying at UNIMAS in Malaysia, it is important to be aware of the various costs associated with studying abroad. One of the major expenses is accommodation, and UNIMAS offers several options such as on-campus dormitories or off-campus apartments. The cost of living on-campus ranges from RM450 to RM900 (USD 100-200) per month, while off-campus housing options range from RM 500 to RM 1,200 (USD 112-269) per month.Food costs can vary depending on personal preferences and eating habits, but students can expect to pay an average of RM500 to RM700 (USD 112-157) per month for meals. Transportation is also relatively inexpensive with public transportation options such as buses and taxis being readily available at affordable rates.

In terms of application fees, international students are required to pay a non-refundable application fee of RM50 (USD 11). Health insurance coverage is mandatory for international students and can cost around RM500 to RM800 (USD 112-180) per year. Visa and immigration fees vary depending on the student’s country of origin and type of visa required, but students can expect to pay around RM100 to RM300 (USD 23-67) per year.

Textbooks and other course materials can add up, with costs varying depending on the course and academic department.Overall, it is important for international students to carefully plan and budget for all expenses associated with studying at UNIMAS in Malaysia. It is recommended to research and compare costs for various accommodation and living options, as well as to consider potential expenses such as travel and extracurricular activities. By being prepared and informed about all costs, international students can make the most of their educational experience at UNIMAS.

Admission Requirement

The general admission requirements for international students at UNIMAS include a minimum of three credits in relevant subjects at the SPM/O-Level or equivalent level, as well as a pass in English. For undergraduate programmes, students must have completed their high school education or equivalent. For graduate programmes, students must have a relevant bachelor’s degree.
As part of the admission process, international students need to submit their academic transcripts, English language proficiency test scores (such as TOEFL or IELTS), a copy of their passport, and proof of financial support.

They may also need to submit a statement of purpose and letters of recommendation, depending on the programmes they are applying to.It is important to note that admission requirements may vary depending on the specific programmes and level of study. Additionally, some programmes may require additional documents or have higher admission standards. Prospective international students should consult the UNIMAS website or contact the admissions office for detailed information and guidance regarding their application.

For Bachelor’s programmes, the minimum CGPA required for international students to enroll at UNIMAS is at least 2.50 out of 4.00 or its equivalent. For Master’s programmes, the minimum CGPA required is 2.75 out of 4.00 or its equivalent. International students are also required to meet the English language proficiency requirements, which can be demonstrated through a score of at least 6.0 in IELTS or 550 in TOEFL (paper-based) or 79-80 in TOEFL (internet-based).Other criteria for international students to enroll at UNIMAS include submitting all required documents (such as academic transcripts, passport copy, and application fee), meeting the specific programme requirements, and obtaining a valid student visa for Malaysia. It is important for international students to check with the relevant departments or offices at UNIMAS to ensure they have met all the necessary requirements for admission.

How to apply

The application process for international students at UNIMAS is as follows:
Check the admission requirements for the programme you are interested in, including academic qualifications and English language proficiency. Create an account on the UNIMAS online application portal and complete the application form. Upload all required documents, including academic transcripts, English language proficiency scores, passport copy, and other supporting documents.

Pay the application fee, which can be done online through the application portal. Submit the completed application and wait for a decision from the university. If accepted, receive the offer letter from the university, which will include information on fees, visa requirements, and other important details. Accept the offer and pay any necessary fees to secure your place in the programme. Apply for a student visa, which can be done through the Malaysian embassy or consulate in your home country. Once the visa is approved, make travel arrangements and prepare for your arrival at UNIMAS.

It is important to note that the application process may vary depending on the programme and country of origin of the applicant, so it is recommended to check with the University Specific Instructions and guidelines. UNIMAS has two intakes for international students each year, which are the September intake for the first semester and the February intake for the second semester. UNIMAS also offers a June intake, which is usually open for Malaysian students and offers a limited number of courses.

To be eligible for any intake at UNIMAS, applicants are required to adhere to the application deadlines. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all courses may be available in both semesters. Certain programmes may have specific intake periods that are exclusive to either one of the semesters. Therefore, it is advisable that prospective students visit the UNIMAS website to confirm the availability of their desired course.

UNIMAS offers a range of facilities and services to support international students during their studies. The university provides comfortable accommodation options, including dormitories and apartments, with fully furnished rooms, internet access and other amenities. There are also dining facilities on campus, including food courts and cafes, where students can enjoy a variety of affordable meals.

UNIMAS offers transportation services for students, with shuttle buses that operate on fixed routes throughout the campus and surrounding areas. The university also provides health insurance coverage for all students, including international students. UNIMAS has a dedicated International Student Centre, which offers a range of support services to assist international students with academic, social, and personal issues.

The Centre also organizes cultural activities, events and excursions to help students adjust to their new environment and get to know other students from around the world. Additionally, UNIMAS has a well-equipped library with a large collection of books, journals and online resources, as well as computer labs, sports facilities and student clubs and societies. Overall, UNIMAS strives to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for international students to succeed in their academic pursuits and to have a fulfilling experience during their time at the university.

UNIMAS offers several scholarships for international students to support their academic journey. Here are some of the scholarships available:

UNIMAS Scholarship – this scholarship is offered to international students who demonstrate excellent academic performance. Students who meet the eligibility criteria are automatically considered for the scholarship.

Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS) – this scholarship is provided by the Malaysian government to international students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Malaysia. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and other allowances.

MyBrainSc Scholarship – this scholarship is offered to Malaysian students and international students with a strong academic background who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in science and technology.

HBAU (UNIMAS INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD)
THE MALAYSIAN TECHNICAL COOPERATION PROGRAMME (MTCP)

External Scholarships – UNIMAS also has partnerships with various organizations that provide scholarships to international students. Examples include the Japanese Government Scholarship and the Taiwan Scholarship.
To apply for these scholarships, international students should first check the eligibility criteria and application deadlines on the UNIMAS website or the scholarship provider’s website. They will need to provide academic transcripts, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents as part of their application.

Accommodations

UNIMAS offers both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options for its students. The on-campus accommodation is mainly provided through residential colleges and apartments, with shared or private rooms available. The monthly cost for on-campus accommodation ranges from RM250 to RM550 (approximately USD60 to USD130) depending on the type of accommodation chosen. The amenities provided include bed, study table, chair, wardrobe, fan, and basic kitchen facilities. The on-campus accommodation also provides 24-hour security, laundry services, and access to Wi-Fi.

Off-campus accommodation options are also available in the surrounding areas of UNIMAS, such as Kota Samarahan and Kuching city. The monthly cost for off-campus accommodation ranges from RM 350 to RM 1,000 (approximately USD80 to USD240), depending on the type and location of the accommodation. Amenities provided vary from place to place and may include furnished rooms, internet access, shared or private bathrooms, and kitchen facilities.

The cost of both on-campus and off-campus accommodation options at UNIMAS is generally considered to be affordable for international students, including those from Bangladesh. However, the cost may vary depending on the exchange rate, location, and type of accommodation chosen. UNIMAS also provides a guide for international students on its website, which includes information on the estimated monthly expenses for living in Malaysia, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other basic necessities.

University Rankings

UNIMAS, or the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, is one of the leading universities in Malaysia, known for its exceptional academic programmes, research initiatives, and top-notch facilities. There are several reasons why UNIMAS is an ideal destination for international students.

One of the main advantages of studying at UNIMAS is its international student community. The university welcomes students from all over the world and has established a supportive environment to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds feel at home. UNIMAS is also known for its strong academic programmes, which span across various fields, including engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, business, and humanities. The university has a faculty of highly qualified and experienced professors who are dedicated to providing students with a world-class education. Additionally, the university has state-of-the-art research facilities and labs, providing students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research.

Another factor that has contributed to UNIMAS’ world ranking of band 1001-1200 (QS World University Rankings) is the university’s commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. UNIMAS has been recognized as a green campus due to its efforts in environmental sustainability, such as promoting the use of renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions.

Facilities & Resources

Leading Malaysian research institution Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) provides a wide range of resources and facilities to serve its faculty, staff, and researchers. These tools and facilities are intended to offer an engaging and encouraging atmosphere for education, research, and creativity.

Leading Malaysian research institution Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) provides a wide range of resources and facilities to serve its faculty, staff, and researchers. These tools and facilities are intended to offer an engaging and encouraging atmosphere for education, research, and creativity.

Potential Collaborative Partners

Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) is a leading public research university in Malaysia that has formed collaborations with various national and international universities, research centers, and organizations. Here are some of UNIMAS’s potential collaborative partners:

• Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia,
• Universiti Putra Malaysia,
• Universiti Sains Malaysia,
• Universiti Malaysia Terengganu,
• Universiti Teknologi Mara,
• University of Melbourne (Australia),
• University of Nottingham (UK),
• University of Canterbury (New Zealand),
• University of Sheffield (UK)
• University of Southampton (UK), and others.

Research Centers: UNIMAS has established partnerships with various research centers, including the Forest Research Institute Malaysia, the Malaysian Palm Oil Board, the Sarawak Biodiversity Centre, and the Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation.

Governmental and Non-Governmental Organizations: UNIMAS has formed collaborations with governmental and non-governmental organizations, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Malaysia, the Sarawak State Government, the United Nations Development Programme, and others.

These collaborations have resulted in various research projects, academic exchanges, joint publications, and other forms of academic and research cooperation. UNIMAS strives to continue building and strengthening these partnerships to promote knowledge exchange, cross-cultural learning, and impactful research.

• Academic and English Proficiency
• Requirement
• Intakes
• International Students Facilities
• Scholarships
• Job or Internship Facilities

UNIMAS offers job and internship opportunities to their students through their Career Services Centre. The center provides career counseling, job search assistance, and training programmes to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the job market. The university has a strong network with various local and international companies, organizations, and industries, which offer internships and employment opportunities to UNIMAS students.

Students can apply for jobs and internships through the university’s job portal, where they can find a range of opportunities suitable for their field of study. However, it may take some time for students to secure a job or internship, as competition in the job market is high. The average monthly salary for international students in Malaysia varies depending on the job and industry. However, students can expect to earn around MYR 2,500 to MYR 4,500 (USD 561-1009) per month in entry-level positions.

To work in Malaysia, fresh graduates should have basic skills such as communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. They should also be proficient in the English language and possess good intercultural communication skills to work in a diverse workplace. Additionally, having knowledge of Malaysian culture, customs, and business practices can give graduates an advantage in the job market. Overall, there are ample job and internship opportunities for the students and with the right skills and knowledge, graduates can successfully enter the Malaysian job market.

FAQs

What are the admission requirements for UNIMAS?

Answer: The admission requirements for UNIMAS vary depending on the programme you are interested in. However, generally, for undergraduate programmes, you will need a high school certificate or diploma with good grades in relevant subjects, while for postgraduate programmes; you will need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a good GPA. You will also need to provide English proficiency test scores such as IELTS or TOEFL.

How much is the tuition fee for international students at UNIMAS?

Answer: The tuition fee for international students at UNIMAS varies depending on the programme you choose to enroll in. On average, the tuition fee for undergraduate programmes ranges from RM 11,000 to RM 18,000 (USD 2,465 to 4,035) per year, while for postgraduate programmes, the fee ranges from RM 14,000 to RM 26,000 (USD 3,140 to 5,830) per year. You can find more detailed information on the UNIMAS website.

What types of scholarships are available for international students at UNIMAS?

Answer: UNIMAS offers several scholarships and financial aid options for international students. These include the UNIMAS International Student Scholarship, the Malaysian International Scholarship, and the ASEAN Scholarship. Additionally, there are external scholarships offered by organizations such as the Malaysian government, the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission, and the Fulbright Scholarship.

Is accommodation available on-campus for international students at UNIMAS?

Answer: Yes, UNIMAS offers on-campus accommodation for both local and international students. The university has several residential colleges that offer single and shared rooms with basic amenities such as internet access, study desks, and wardrobes. The cost of on-campus accommodation varies depending on the type of room and location.

What are the job prospects for international students after graduating from UNIMAS?

Answer: UNIMAS has a good track record of producing graduates who are highly employable in various fields. International students who graduate from UNIMAS can find employment in industries such as engineering, finance, education, healthcare, and technology. The average monthly salary for fresh graduates in Malaysia is around RM 3,500 to RM 4,000, depending on the industry and location. However, securing a job right after graduation may take some time and will require good communication skills and a strong resume.

Conclusion

In conclusion, UNIMAS offers a unique opportunity for International students, including Bangladeshi students seeking to pursue their academic aspirations. With its world-class faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and an extensive range of academic programmes, UNIMAS has established itself as a leading institution of higher learning in Malaysia.

Whether you’re interested in engineering, health sciences, social sciences, or business, UNIMAS has a programme that caters to your needs. With the added benefit of affordable tuition fees, a vibrant campus life, and ample job opportunities, UNIMAS is the perfect destination for Bangladeshi students looking to broaden their horizons and take the first step towards a bright future.