UM SATU opens doors for students to access world-class education through a direct, flexible channel.

If you’re aiming for a world-class education at Universiti Malaya (UM)—the No.1 university in Malaysia and No.58 university in the world (QS World University Rankings 2025)—there’s more than one way to get there.

UM SATU (Saluran Terbuka Universiti Malaya) is a direct application channel that provides eligible students with an alternative way to pursue higher education at one of Asia’s most prestigious universities.

Whether you’re an SPM, IGCSE or O-Level graduate, UM SATU enables you to pursue a globally recognised degree through a world-class university.

As Malaysia’s top university, Universiti Malaya offers students a world-class education and a dynamic learning environment that enables them to thrive academically, personally and professionally.

Foundation Programmes for a Smooth Transition

UM SATU offers students a direct route into Universiti Malaya, while upholding the university’s high academic standards.

Applicants must first meet rigorous academic entry requirements to gain admission into all the UM Foundation Programmes offered. Once accepted, applicants embark on a foundation curriculum designed to prepare them for their degree-level studies across a wide range of disciplines, including science, engineering, business, arts, and social sciences.

However, this is not a shortcut. UM SATU is a parallel pathway that maintains the same level of academic quality and rigour as the standard programme.

Progression to a degree programme is subject to academic performance and seat availability, ensuring that every student admitted into a UM degree programme continues to meet its world-class standards.

UM SATU Foundation tracks, each leading to a wide array of undergraduate degrees, are:

Flexible Financing for Malaysian Families

The cost of studying at UM through this pathway is structured to be affordable for students. To make education even more accessible, flexible funding options are available: 

• EPF Withdrawal

Parents can withdraw from their Account 2 and 3 of their Employees Provident Fund (EPF) accounts to fund the tuition fees. It’s a secure, government-approved way to support their child’s studies, and one that has been used by thousands of Malaysian families (Applicable to both foundation and degree programmes).

• PTPTN Study Loan

Students may consider applying for a PTPTN Study Loan to support their studies at UM, which can help cover tuition fees and living costs (Applicable to degree programmes only).

Beyond academics, UM is a place where students are empowered to grow into leaders and changemakers.

Why Universiti Malaya?

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, UM is known for combining academic excellence with real-world relevance. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Ranked #1 in Malaysia and #58 in the World (QS 2025)
• A diverse student body with over 12,000 international students
• A comprehensive suite of academic programmes at every level, from Foundation to PhD
• Industry partnerships, global mobility and hands-on learning experiences
• 50+ research centres making breakthroughs across disciplines

Your Future is Within Reach

The UM SATU Channel offers Malaysian students a direct pathway to join a globally respected university with a legacy of excellence.

Your future at Malaysia’s top university starts here! Apply directly through the UM SATU Channel at: apply.um.edu.my