Malaysia is a country in Southeast Asia with a multicultural population and a rich cultural heritage. Over the years, Malaysia’s educational system has expanded, and the country is now home to many private higher education institutions that enroll domestic and international students.
International students considering private universities in Malaysia can find undergraduate and postgraduate programs across a wide range of disciplines. Program availability, accreditation, tuition, scholarships, admission requirements, and delivery options vary by institution, so applicants should confirm the latest details on each university’s official website.
Let’s take a look at the best private universities in Malaysia!
Top Private Universities in Malaysia
| INSTITUTION NAME | SELECTED PROGRAM AREAS |
|---|
| Taylor’s University | Architecture, Biomedical Science, and Business |
| UCSI University | Music, Hospitality and Tourism, and Petroleum Engineering |
| Sunway University | Hospitality and Tourism, Applied Mathematics, and Business |
| Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation | Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and Industrial Design |
| SEGi University and College | Medicine (MBBS) |
| INTI International University | Business, Engineering, and Biotechnology |
| HELP University | Information Technology, Data Analytics, and Psychology |
1. Taylor’s University
Taylor’s University traces its history to 1969 and received university status in 2010. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across fields including architecture, biomedical science, and business.
The university also publishes information about scholarships and financial aid. International applicants should carefully review the eligibility conditions for each award because availability varies by scholarship, qualification, and level of study.
2. UCSI University
UCSI University traces its origins to a computer-training institute established in 1986. It now offers a broad selection of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including programs in music, hospitality and tourism, and petroleum engineering.
UCSI has campuses in several parts of Malaysia and publishes information about scholarships for international students. These awards are limited, merit-based, and competitive, so applicants should check the current eligibility criteria and application deadlines.
3. Sunway University
Sunway University is a private, not-for-profit university governed by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation. The university emphasizes academic development, research, and student support while offering programs across business, hospitality, mathematical sciences, computing, the arts, and other disciplines.
Its current undergraduate and postgraduate offerings include the Master of Science in Applied Mathematics, the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Actuarial Studies, and programs in international hospitality management and business.
4. Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation
Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation, commonly known as APU, is a private university with a strong focus on technology, innovation, business, engineering, design, and related disciplines.
International students can choose from a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Current offerings include the Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence, information technology degrees with several specializations, and the Bachelor of Arts in Industrial Design.
5. SEGi University and College
SEGi University & Colleges traces its history to 1977 and has developed into a large private higher education provider in Malaysia. Its locations include SEGi University’s main campus in Kota Damansara and campuses in Kuala Lumpur, Subang Jaya, Penang, and Sarawak.
International students can access a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. SEGi University also currently offers a five-year Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery program that combines medical-science and clinical training.
6. INTI International University
INTI International University is part of INTI International University & Colleges, a private higher education provider with several locations in Malaysia. Its academic offerings cover fields such as business, engineering, biotechnology, computing, communications, hospitality, and health sciences.
Students can explore INTI’s current undergraduate and postgraduate programs through the university’s official website. International applicants should also consult the current admissions guide for application procedures, required documents, fees, and available financial assistance.
7. HELP University
HELP University was founded as HELP Institute in 1986. It received university college status in 2004 and full university status in 2011.
The university currently offers programs across psychology, business, law, education, communication, information technology, data analytics, and other fields. Its international admissions service provides information about applications, entry requirements, student passes, and support for prospective international students.
Before applying, students should confirm that their chosen program appears in the Malaysian Qualifications Register and review the university’s current tuition, admission requirements, scholarship conditions, intake dates, and international-student policies.
This article provides a starting point for comparing established private universities in Malaysia. If you are interested, visit our Study in Malaysia guide and Available Programs for International Students!