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Is embarking on a new degree programme worth celebrating? YES! After all, it is another adventure in your future.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is one of the most highly coveted higher education institutions in Malaysia, and it is not easy to secure a seat in one of their degree courses.
We have prepared 5 reasons why you should list USM as your top consideration!
1. Missed UPU But Still Want Public Universities
Unit Pengambilan Universiti, ubiquitously known as UPU, is the platform under the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE). It facilitates the application and admission into Malaysia’s public university system, such as USM.
Unfortunately, admission seats through UPU are extremely limited. In recent intakes, the competition was so fierce that it made national headlines—even top-scoring students with a perfect 4.0 CGPA were rejected from their first-choice courses due to massive applicant volumes and strict quotas.
So, what can you do if you do not get a UPU offer? Well, do not panic! Through USM’s Saluran Alternatif pathway, your options are no longer limited. (Read our comparison between UPU and Saluran Alternatif.)
This channel opens a direct pathway into this highly reputable university. Uni Enrol is one of the official representatives of USM’s Saluran Alternatif application. By applying through Uni Enrol, you can skip the many layers of enrollment steps and secure your offer letter in no time.
2. Looking For A High-Ranking University
USM sits firmly on the #134 spot of the QS World University Ranking 2026, which is higher than many public and private universities in Malaysia.
In 2008, the MOHE awarded USM with the Accelerated Programme for Excellence (APEX) status. In recognition of this status, it receives financial, management, and service assistance to enhance the education structure under its wing. Meaning that your classes are up-to-date and fully supported!
USM’s Saluran Alternatif Programme has a platter of over 70 courses available. It covers a wide range of interests, including
- Accounting and Finance
- Architecture and Built Environment
- Business
- Communication and Media Studies
- Computing and IT
- Creative Arts and Design
- Education
- Engineering
- Hospitality and Services
- Languages and Social Studies
- Law
- Medicine and Allied Health Sciences
- Science and Mathematics
3. Want Quality Education Without Breaking The Bank
Though tuition fees paid by students enrolling in the UPU system are heavily subsidised through government support, the fees under Saluran Alternatif are still considerably more affordable than those at most private institutions.
From Uni Enrol’s comprehensive database of private institution degrees in Malaysia, USM’s tuition fees (for Saluran Alternatif) costs about 20%-30% lower than other private institutions in Malaysia of the same calibre, ranking and reputation, such as Sunway University, Taylor’s University, Monash University, IMU University, APU and so on.
Not to be forgotten, what USM offers is not just quality education but an array of learning facilities and resources too. There are a total of 27 research centres and over 1 million references in its library to boost your studies!
Nevertheless, should you need financial assistance, there are ways to lighten the burden. You can opt for a PTPTN loan, which provides up to RM6,000 a year throughout your education (USM Saluran Alternatif has a cap on PTPTN amount).
Additionally, there are financial institutions that provide scholarships and education loans for your university courses:
It is always a good idea to have a conversation with your parents about your education budget. Our counsellors at Uni Enrol will also assist in tailoring the programme to your budget.
4. Want To Be Part Of A High-Achieving Community
Our personalities, habits, and achievements are influenced by our environment and the people we surround ourselves with. This is no exception to our learning environment.
Among USM’s community of over 34,000 students, many of them have entered through the UPU system. What is more jaw-dropping is that the entry threshold for highly competitive courses often demands a near-perfect 3.80 to 4.0 CGPA just to be considered! Thus, you will be surrounded by many bright students.
That aside, the university’s student population is supported by over 2,000 highly qualified faculty members. Even with a hectic schedule, they pour their time and energy into being the best in their fields.
One example is Dr. Teoh Soon Huat, an obesity medicine doctor and a USM lecturer. While teaching, he continues to expand his bariatric knowledge. In 2020, he received his Bariatric Board Certificate. In 2023, his contribution to obesity care earned him the Dr. Peter G. Lindner Award.
If being around such individuals excites you, then USM may just be the right place.
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5. Love The Experience Of A Huge Campus Environment
When you attend USM, everything you need is a stone’s throw away! Not only can you swiftly get to your classes from on-campus housing, but there are also shuttle bus services for added convenience. Within the 253.65-hectare campus grounds, you can also find
- a bank,
- a post office,
- a library,
- a sports arena,
- research labs, and
- even a mosque!
On top of that, there are 5 campuses across the city centres of Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. Thanks to the on-campus accommodations, you save a lot of travel time and money. Being located in or near city centres, you are not far from experiencing vibrant cultures and tasty food too.
Meanwhile, if you are looking for a way to relax and recharge while studying, you can do so too. Beautiful tropical forests, serene ponds, and colourful gardens decorate Universiti Sains Malaysia. Anyone who pays a visit will always remember this beautiful school as The University in the Garden.
All in all, choosing a university is no easy task, and it can be overwhelming. As a friendly reminder, it is okay to reach out for professional help to understand your options better.
Check out our The Complete Review Of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
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