The Complete Review Of IMU University

1. Introduction

1.1 Background

IMU is Malaysia’s first and most established private medical and health sciences university since its birth in 1992. Over the years, IMC expanded its variety of courses beyond medicine to include other health-related disciplines. In 1999, it was granted university status, and the institution became the International Medical University.

IMU was one of only 3 private universities in Malaysia which was awarded the 6 Star: Outstanding SETARA ranking by the Ministry of Higher Education in 2017 and 2020. The medical school at IMU is recognized by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC). Graduates are eligible to pursue further training or practice in various countries due to IMU’s partnership with many overseas universities.

In September 2012, the Institute for Research, Development and Innovation (IRDI) was set up to grow IMU’s research potential capacity. Faculty and students engage in research across various disciplines, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the medical and health sciences fields.

Here are some key statistics about IMU:

Total student population	3,800
% of international students	12% from more than 40 countries

1.2 IMU Rankings 2025

IMU University ranks in the Top #201-250 globally on QS World University Rankings and has continued to climb since its increased effort in publishing more research work since 2012 and producing over 14,000 in high quality and successful student alumni.

Below are IMU’s fields of study that made it on the QS Subject Rankings:

QS Subject Category	Subject World Ranking
Pharmacy and Pharmacology	#151-200
Medicine	#551-600

2. Student Review Life & Living Cost

2.1 IMU Bukit Jalil Campus Review

Take a tour around the well-equipped campus

Location and Surrounding Vibe: The campus is home to its main Schools which are Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy and Health Sciences and also its centres for alternative medicine studies and post-graduate studies. The Bukit Jalil campus provides a dynamic, interactive environment that fosters educational and research opportunities. It is located in the heart of a constantly developing township and is near the city centre of Kuala Lumpur.

IMU has other campuses which are dedicated for clinical training where students who enrol into the Bukit Jalil campus may be despatched to these out-of-state campuses for a semester or two. They are

• IMU Clinical Campus Seremban
• IMU Clinical Campus Batu Pahat
• IMU Clinical Campus Kluang

Ease of Accessibility to Campus: The IMU Bukit Jalil campus is located in a very strategic place near to many activities students can do after classes, especially for those staying on-campus.

• Free bus shuttle – available to and fro from designated parking areas and off-campus accommodation near the campus. 
• LRT rail station – The Sri Petaling LRT station is only a 5 minutes walk from campus.
• Rapid KL bus – there is a public bus stop outside the campus
• Pavilion Bukit Jalil mall – Only a 5 minutes drive from the campus. Students can also take the LRT to the next station called Awan Besar LRT station and there will be a free shuttle bus ride to the shopping mall.
• Bukit Jalil Park – Huge recreational park for all sorts of activities only 5 minutes drive away and reachable by bus as well.

2.2 Learning Resources

Faculty Learning Resources & Facilities: Despite being over 30 years in existence, IMU’s Bukit Jalil campus is constantly being upgraded with the latest facilities and amenities and students get to enjoy a world class educational experience. Here are the facilities with the latest technology and standards from the different medical disciplines at IMU.

General Learning Resources & Facilities: All 3 campuses have the various learning resources you can think of from the four-level library at the Cheras Campus to modern auditorium halls for lectures, multi-purpose halls, computer laboratories, electronically equipped classrooms, bookstores, and so on.

2.3 Recreational Facilities

There are a few sports facilities as well as a gym room, music room and dance studio for students who want to release some stress. The Green Zone is a multipurpose court for futsal, basketball, volleyball, netball etc. 

2.4 Student Activities

Aside from nearby attractions such as the Pavilion Bukit Jalil mall and Bukit Jalil park, the Student Services Department (SSD) organises or facilitates activities ranging from sports, cultural & religious and social activities which enable students to build friendship, teamwork and enhance their soft skills. 

Annually the SSD hosts signature events including Merdeka Week and International Day, offering students from diverse cultures and religious backgrounds the chance to celebrate, unite, and enhance mutual understanding. Attendees have the opportunity to immerse themselves in vibrant cultural diversity through the enjoyment of performances, culinary experiences, participation in sharing sessions, and engaging in various exciting activities.

Furthermore, various clubs within IMU also organise events dedicated to their unique festivals, including Diwali, Chinese Cultural Week, Malay Cultural Week, and many others.

2.5 Student Services

The IMU Self-Development Unit (IMU SDU) functions as a centre to assist and facilitate students’ university life in the social, developmental, and academic activities. Among the support provided include: 

• Counselling – Individual and group counselling, educational wellbeing, personal development, referral, and crisis intervention.

• Career Counselling – In career counselling, IMU’s in-house counsellor helps you to explore your skills, strengths, interests, abilities, values, personality, and the career options using various tools.

• Self Development – Programmes are introduced to students through orientation, ongoing workshops, and online videos and webinars on the Student Portal.  There are also special ad hoc self-discovery programmes such as sand tray, expressive art therapy and self-discovery via cards.

• Career Development – The Industry Partnership and Career Development Unit find ways to embed students learning with the industry such as internships, job placements, industry speaking sessions, industry visits, and careers fairs. Career development delves into the myriad of essential skills that are required by employers such as thinking skills, communication skills, conflict resolution skills, interview skills and so forth.

• IMU Aflame Student Awards – This is a note-worthy award given out to outstanding graduating students of IMU who have displayed an exemplary role in contributions to help humanity in an impactful way. The recipient of the award will receive a cash prize of RM1,000 and is given the opportunity to nominate a beneficiary to receive a donation of RM5,000

2.6 IMU Student Accommodation

Off-Campus: There is no on-campus accommodation at the IMU Bukit Jalil campus. Nevertheless, IMU works with accommodation providers to ensure adequate services and support are provided to students. Students have 2 choices between Vista Komanwel and Covillea apartments. 

Vista Komanwel units can be shared among 4 students while Covillea units are shared with 3 students. Students enjoy the privacy of their own rooms but share the facilities in the unit such as living room, bathrooms, kitchen, and laundry area. Both these accommodations are 5-10 minutes walk away from the campus. Students get free Wifi, and access to gym, swimming pool and mini market downstairs.

Accommodation Costs: Vista Komanwel costs RM900 – RM1,400 per month per room depending on different room sizes and configurations. Covillea apartments are more premium as it is a newer development with better facilities and costs about RM1,400 – RM2,000 per month per room.

Living Cost: General cost of living, excluding accommodation, for students studying in Bukit Jalil typically ranges between RM800 and RM1,200 per month. This would cover expenses like food, transportation, books, and miscellaneous personal expenses. Please note, these are estimates and actual costs may vary based on individual lifestyle and choices.

3. Courses Review, Fees & Scholarships

3.1 Courses You Can Study At IMU Malaysia

These are the well known areas of study and courses offered at IMU Malaysia. Click the respective area of study below to see all courses offered:

Foundation Foundation in Science	Business Business Admin in Healthcare (Postgrad)
Education Health Education (Postgrad)	Language and Social Studies Psychology
Medicine and Allied Health Sciences Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Chinese Medicine, Nursing, etc	Science and Mathematics Medical Biotechnology

IMU offers Foundation, Diploma, Degree, Masters and PhD courses.

3.2 Course Fees At IMU Malaysia

We have also saved you the hassle and compiled the full list of IMU’s detailed course fees into one article below. Check it out and share it!

IMU University Fees & Courses In 2025

3.3 IMU Malaysia Scholarships

These are some of the popular scholarships offered by IMU. Click here to see the full list of scholarships:

Scholarships	Details
IMU Foundation in Science Scholarship	Up to RM14,700 based on academic results.
IMU Merit Scholarship	Partial (50%) or full (100%) fee waiver based on outstanding academic results, having strong leadership or extracurricular achievements and maintaining CGPA 3.30 throughout.
Degree Entrance Bursary	Various bursary awarded between RM7,000 to RM20,000 for enrolling into certain programmes
Nursing Scholarship	100% fee waiver plus allowances. Sponsored by participating hospitals with job bonding upon graduation.
IMU Need Scholarship	100% fee waiver for students from B40 and M40 families.

PTPTN Financial Aids

Malaysian students can apply for the National Higher Education Fund or PTPTN which is responsible for giving loans to students pursuing tertiary education. PTPTN falls under the purview of the Ministry of Higher Education.

You can borrow from RM3,400 to a maximum RM50,000 per annum depending on the level and type of course you are taking. PTPTN only charges an annual interest rate of about 1%.

3.4 Popular Courses Review At IMU Malaysia

First, check out our signature Campus Unboxing at IMU! Click click below

Medicine / MBBS Studies

The Medicine or MBBS degree is one of the most popular courses by IMU that is in demand by students every year. It is a 5 year course where students can fully complete in Malaysia with clinical training at one of IMU’s extended campuses in Seremban or Batu Pahat OR complete the degree at a partner medical school overseas.

A unique feature of IMU’s MBBS degree is that it has more than 20 partner schools for its MBBS programme in Australia, New Zealand, Ireland and the UK. Students who choose to complete at the partnering university will serve 2.5 years in Malaysia and spend the remaining 2.5 years to 3.5 years overseas and graduate with a certification from the partnering university. This allows students to seek practice in those countries.

Another strong attraction for IMU’s MBBS course is the opportunity to start a doctorate career in the USA. Starting in August 2017, IMU has integrated the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Preparatory Course into the medical curriculum, spanning Semesters 1 to 10. 

This integration enables IMU medical graduates to commence early preparation for the USMLE, opening doors to potential career opportunities in the USA. Additionally, students will have the chance to undertake clinical electives at selected hospitals in the USA, further enriching their understanding of diverse healthcare systems.

All graduates are recognised by the Malaysian Medical Council (MMC).

Dentistry Studies

Oral health is a reflection of your overall well-being. Studies reveal that an unhealthy oral cavity could elevate the likelihood of significant health issues. Consequently, the care offered by dentists plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall quality of patients’ lives.

IMU’s Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree is also a highly sought after programme by students and is recognised by MMC.

Similar to the MBBS degree, the BDS degree allows you to either fully complete the course in Malaysia or complete the remaining 2.5 years to 3.5 years overseas and graduate with a certification from a partnering university from Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK which allows you to seek practice in those countries.

Pharmaceutical Courses

Pharmaceutical studies at IMU is ranked in the Top #201-250 under the QS World University Rankings. Students can choose either the Pharmacy path or Pharmaceutical Chemistry.

Pharmacy graduates work alongside doctors at clinics or hospitals to recommend and dispense the right dosage of medicine or treatment. The course is accredited by the Malaysian Pharmacy Board. You can complete the entire 4 year course in Malaysia or transfer to the University of Otago, New Zealand or University of Tasmania, Australia.

As a student, you get the opportunity to apply to the Global Exposure Funding (GEF) programme which will fully or partially fund your posting or research work in an overseas partnering institution in Australia, France, Japan, Taiwan, Croatia, India or Indonesia.

Pharmaceutical Chemistry on the other hand typically is applied to R&D, production, quality control, or regulations and graduates can work for government agencies or chemical companies to develop products for cosmetics and toiletries, oleochemical, polymer, consumer product, food, and biotechnology.

Students will undergo extensive training in laboratory skills, undertake problem-solving projects and an industrial attachment. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), United Kingdom, the world’s leading chemistry community and professional body.

Nursing

Nursing is one of the jobs in the healthcare industry that is continuously experiencing acute shortage. This leads to more opportunities for nursing graduates to not only easily land a job upon graduation but also opportunities to work overseas in Singapore, Australia, Saudi Arabia.

IMU offers a degree in nursing while its college counterpart (IMC) offers diploma in nursing. This course is recognised by the Nursing Board Malaysia. Students who study nursing are typically posted within the first year to IMU’s skill learning centres to gain practical knowledge.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Learning Chinese Medicine is gaining an understanding of Chinese philosophy and how it has been adapted into the healing arts in ways that are still relevant today.

There is a growing acknowledgment of Chinese Medicine, even in Western countries. Notably, techniques such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, cupping, tuina are incorporated into Western medicine practices.

Students can complete in Malaysia or credit transfer to these partner universities in China:

• SHUTCM – Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
• SDUTCM – Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
• GZUTCM – Guangzhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine

Students will start clinical skills almost from the get-go at IMU’s in-house Chinese Medicine Centre. Conducted entirely in English, the programme enables students to explore career opportunities not only in Malaysia but also on a broader global scale.

Chiropractic

Chiropractors commonly address musculoskeletal symptoms, including back and neck pain, headaches, pain in the arms or legs, and various other conditions.

To-date IMU is the only university offering a Chiropractic Degree in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Undergoing a degree programme provides the most comprehensive learning experience in terms of knowledge and real application. Students will be posted for live clinical training.

Graduates of the course will be fully accredited by the esteemed Council on Chiropractic Education Australasia (CCEA) and are qualified to practise in Australia and several other developed nations.

Biomedical Science and Medical Biotechnology Courses

Biomedical Science focuses on ‘’studying and understanding’’ the biology of lifeforms and branches into anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and microbiology. 

Medical Biotechnology, on the other hand, focuses on ‘’finding solutions and applications’’ to develop new technologies and treatments for medical purposes. It involves the manipulation of biological systems at the molecular and cellular levels for medical advancements e.g. vaccine treatment for Covid-19.

The Biomedical Science degree is accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK. Graduates are eligible to apply for registration as a biomedical scientist with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in the UK.

The Medical Biotechnology degree at IMU has obtained accreditation from The Malaysia Board of Technology (MBOT), making graduates eligible to register as a certified Graduate Technologists.

Nutrition and Dietetics Courses

Similarly, Nutrition focuses on ‘’studying and understanding’’ foods and nutrients and their effect on an individual. It encompasses the study of nutrients, their digestion, absorption, metabolism, and the physiological effects they have on the body.

Dietetics on the other hand is a specialised field within nutrition that focuses on the ‘’practical application of nutrition knowledge’’. Dietitians use their understanding of nutrition to provide dietary advice and guidance.

The IMU Student Dietetics Clinic (SDC) offers personalised dietary consultations for individuals with specific medical conditions, led by final-year dietetics students under the supervision of experienced IMU dietitians. Operating within a secure learning environment, the SDC enables students to develop their dietetic skills. 

They provide tailored dietary advice for conditions such as Weight Management, Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Blood Cholesterol, Chronic Kidney Disease, Anaemia, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Acid Reflux Disease, Gastritis, and Gout.

3.3 Industry Partners

IMU collaborates with many industry stakeholders on different levels of capacity for industrial training, exchange of academic findings and industry practices, curriculum review, collaborative research and commercialisation opportunities.

3.3 University Partners

IMU pioneered the concept of credit transfer for medical programmes to an overseas partner university. To-date it partners with more than 30 renowned universities from Australia, Canada, China, Ireland, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

IMU’s Institute for Research, Development and Innovation (IRDI)

The IRDI was established to be an innovative global centre of excellence in learning and research with the primary aim of supporting all research activities at IMU. A key objective of IRDI includes creating partnerships with industry partners either in research areas or commercialisation. The IRDI has a consultation arm that provides the private and government sector with the latest knowledge on healthcare innovations.

The IRDI has 5 centres that focuses on different areas of Health Sciences namely;

• Centre for Bioactive Molecules and Drug Discovery,
• Centre for Environment and Population Health,
• Centre for Cancer and Stem Cell Research,
• Centre for Translational Research and
• Centre for Transformative Nutrition and Health.

Students and graduates may get the opportunity to work with professors as research assistants on various projects depending on availability.

4. Entry Requirements & Intake Dates

4.1 IMU Malaysia Entry Requirements 2025

Minimum entry requirements for Foundation:

• SPM – 5 credits
• IGCSE – 5 credits

(Those entering MBBS, Dentistry, Pharmacy require 5B that includes Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics / Additional Mathematics)

Minimum entry requirements for Diploma:

• SPM – 5 credits
• IGCSE – 5 credits

(Credits include BM, Math and 1 science subject, pass Sejarah and English)

Minimum entry requirements for Degree:

• UEC – 5B
• STPM – CGPA of 2.50
• A-Level – 2E
• SACE/WACE – ATAR 75
• IB Diploma – 24
• Foundation – CGPA 2.50
• Diploma – CGPA 2.50

(Note that entry into MBBS, Dentistry and Pharmacy are higher)

Please note that the entry requirements may vary depending on the chosen field of study. Health Science studies particularly have higher entry requirements. As such, do consult with our counsellors!

4.2 IMU Malaysia Intake Periods For 2025

The intake periods for IMU in 2025 are as follows:

• Foundation – Apr, Jul, Sep
• Diploma – Apr, Jul, Sep
• Degree – Feb, Apr, Jul, Sep
• Postgraduate – Mar, Jul, Sep

Please note that the intake periods may vary depending on the courses. For specific intake periods and dates, click here.

4.3 Learn How To Choose The Right University

When you need life-changing advice, we often consult professionals such as teachers, lawyers, and bankers. However, many students are not aware that education consultants like Uni Enrol can help you choose the right education path to secure your future prospects.

Check out some articles on what education consultants do and the benefits:

• 7 Vital Questions To Ask Before Choosing Your Educational Consultant
• Top 10 Benefits Of Engaging A Higher Education Consultant

5. Student Testimonials & Alumni

IMU has played a pivotal role in raising the quality and standards of producing highly qualified medical practitioners in Malaysia since it first opened its doors in 1992. 

Here are wonderful testimonials from graduates to successful alumni.

Graduates tell us what they will miss about IMU!

David Tang Chu Yik, School of Medicine Alumni

Ezelea Sandosam, twinning to Manchester University and housemanship in UK

6. Summary Review

Background, Status and Ranking: Established in 1992, IMU is Malaysia’s first and most established private medical and health sciences university. It achieved full university status in 1999 and has since been recognized for its commitment to excellence in medical education and research. IMU ranks within the Top #201–250 globally in the 2025 QS World University Rankings and is among the few Malaysian private universities awarded a 6-Star SETARA rating by the Ministry of Higher Education. The university has produced over 14,000 successful alumni and continues to enhance its global standing through active research initiatives.

Student Life: IMU’s main campus is situated in Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur, offering a dynamic and interactive environment that fosters educational and research opportunities. The campus houses the main schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and Health Sciences, as well as centres for alternative medicine studies and postgraduate studies. Students benefit from modern facilities, including ISO-standard laboratories, an in-house clinic, and medical museums. The campus is strategically located near the city centre, with easy access to public transportation, including a nearby LRT station, and offers free shuttle services to designated parking areas and off-campus accommodations. Additionally, IMU operates clinical campuses in Seremban, Batu Pahat, and Kluang, providing students with diverse clinical training experiences.

Courses Offered: IMU offers a comprehensive range of courses in the medical and health sciences fields. The university provides education from Foundation through to Bachelor’s Degrees and Postgraduate programmes, including Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing, Chiropractic, Chinese Medicine, Psychology, Biomedical Science, and Medical Biotechnology.

Popular Courses: IMU’s courses have achieved commendable positions in the QS Subject Rankings. Notably, Pharmacy and Pharmacology are ranked within the #151–200 bracket, while Medicine falls within the #551–600 range. The university’s MBBS course is particularly popular, offering students the option to complete their studies entirely in Malaysia or transfer to one of over 20 partner universities in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and the UK. This flexibility, combined with IMU’s strong emphasis on research and clinical training, makes its programs highly

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