Top Private Universities in Malaysia
Studying in Malaysia is like embarking on a thrilling adventure with a side of Nasi Lemak; you get to explore vibrant cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in mouthwatering food while earning a world-class education. It’s an opportunity to discover the “boleh spirit” and make lifelong memories, all while expanding your knowledge and enjoying the sunny tropical weather!
Looking for an extraordinary study adventure but also looking for a laid-back-culture place to crash in? Malaysia is your go-to destination! From its hawker foods, diverse cultures, and stunning landscape, Malaysia is also renowned for its top-notch education. Malaysia offers an unmatched experience for ambitious learners. With a plethora of esteemed universities and colleges offering diverse academic programmes, from business to engineering and the arts, Malaysia has it all. The cherry on top? The affordable cost of living makes it a budget-friendly option. So, if you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable educational journey, Malaysia is the place to be.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about which university to choose based on its rankings or programmes, don’t fret! If you’re considering pursuing higher education in Malaysia, you may be wondering which private universities are worth considering. To help you make a wise and an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 private universities in Malaysia for 2023, based on the QS Asia University Rankings. This list can serve as a helpful starting point as you weigh your options and determine which institution is the best fit for your academic and career goals.
1. Taylor's University
Taylor’s University has established itself as a prominent institution on the global academic stage, being among the elite 1% of universities worldwide. Additionally, it holds the esteemed position of being the leading private university in Southeast Asia for three consecutive years according to the 2023 QS World University Rankings. Its remarkable achievements continue as it secures the 49th spot in the prestigious 2023 QS Asia University Rankings. Notably, Taylor’s University has received a commendable 5-star rating for its online learning programmes, a testament to its unwavering commitment to delivering engaging and effective education.
Taylor’s University’s reputation extends to specific fields of study as well. It proudly claims the 17th spot worldwide and the top spot in Southeast Asia for Hospitality & Leisure Management, solidifying its position as a premier destination for aspiring professionals in the industry. Furthermore, its Business School stands tall among its counterparts in Malaysia and Southeast Asia as it secures a place in the world’s top 100 for Business & Management Studies, earning the prestigious title of the region’s leading private business school in accordance with the 2023 QS World University Rankings by Subject.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | =49 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | February, April, August | April, August | January, March, September |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
2. UCSI University
UCSI University, long acknowledged for its exceptional standards in teaching and learning, is rapidly forging a reputation for itself in the realm of research and innovation within the field of higher education. Throughout its history, the university has consistently ascended the ranks, distinguishing itself as an institution of higher learning that consistently delivers educational excellence.
Notably, UCSI University received a prestigious accolade, the “QS Recognition for Improvement,” from the esteemed QS World University Rankings 2023. This esteemed recognition solidifies UCSI University’s position as the world’s first and only recipient of such an honour, highlighting its remarkable progress in the rankings. On average, the university climbed an impressive 63 spots to secure the 284th position, thus earning its place among the top 300 universities globally. Additionally, UCSI University maintains its standing in the top 0.9% of universities worldwide and secures the impressive 6th position among all Malaysian universities. Furthermore, it holds the highest ranking within the private university sector in the country, underscoring its exceptional status within the education landscape.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 72 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | April, August, December | April, August, December | January, Jun, July, September, December |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
3. Sunway University
Sunway University, one of Malaysia’s most prestigious private institutions, is ranked highly in the QS World University Rankings. Sunway University is a private institution in Malaysia that has risen to the top of both the Times Higher Education and QS World University Rankings for 2023.
Talentbank Group’s National Graduate Employability Index ranked Sunway University first among Malaysian universities for graduate employability. According to the results of the QS Stars University Ratings, both the overall rating and the ratings in each of the following categories (teaching, facilities, employability, social responsibility, inclusivity, academic development, internationalisation, and actuarial studies) were awarded the maximum five stars (Excellent).
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | =122 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | February, April, August | January, April, August | January, April, August |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
4. Multimedia University (MMU)
As the oldest and first full-fledged private institution in Malaysia, Multimedia institution (MMU) is affiliated with the government due to its ownership by Telekom Malaysia. Two campuses for the institution can be found in Cyberjaya, Selangor, and Melaka. Offering cutting-edge undergraduate and graduate studies in information technology, management, law, applied communication, cinematic arts, and creative multimedia, it aims to improve society through innovation.
The first private institution recognised by the Malaysian government, MMU upholds the toughest standards for a top-notch education. MMU is among the top five universities large ICT businesses pick for graduate employment, according to a research by Gartner and MSC Malaysia. This is a testament to the calibre of our academic staff, curriculum, student development initiatives, and our strong reputation with the industries.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | =207 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | March, July, October | March, July, October | March, July, October |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
5. Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU)
One of Malaysia’s top private universities, the Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU), is where a special mix of technology, innovation, and creativity works efficiently to develop students into highly competent, employable, and future-proof professionals. APU has achieved an extensive list of over 300 outstanding honours at local and international levels, earning it the unique reputation of being an award-winning university.
The most recent QS Stars grade honours were awarded at the QS Apple Conference on November 1st, 2021, and APU is the first university in Malaysia to receive an overall grade of Five Stars Plus. In addition to attaining the minimum maximum benchmark score by QS STARS, institutions that are Five Stars Plus must receive five stars across all categories. APU is one of just 19 universities in the world to receive this honour.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 240 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | July, August, September, November | July, August, September, November | July, August, September, November |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
6. SEGi University
SEGi University Kota Damansara has been providing higher education since 1977. Known as the flagship campus, it accommodates over 12,000 students. With programmes tailored to meet both industry and student needs, SEGi graduates are highly sought after in the job market and have become leaders in their respective industries. SEGi has hosted some of the best graduates from diverse backgrounds with concrete foundations for nearly 40 years.
In 1977, SEGi University Group (SEGi) was then known as Systematic College. Since then, we have been meeting the increasing demand for high academic and professional qualifications – resulting in a string of success in the academic field. Today, the Group boasts an impressive number of young learners; as many as 27,500, in five major campuses located in Klang Valley, Penang and Sarawak.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 261-270 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | January, May, September | January, June, August | January, May, August |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
7. INTI International University
With more than 55,000 graduates attesting to the quality education provided and over 30 illustrious years of empowering young minds, INTI has established itself as one of the most reputable and well-known names in Malaysia’s private higher education market.
INTI International University offers several compelling reasons for you to choose it as your study destination. Their innovative and collaborative approach to education prepares you for the real world by providing a dynamic learning environment that emphasises practical skills development, industry engagement, and global perspectives. INTI’s programmes are designed to nurture critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, ensuring that you graduate with the necessary competencies to succeed in your chosen field. With a focus on industry relevance, INTI provides opportunities for internships, industry projects, and interactions with industry professionals, giving you valuable exposure and connections.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 301-350 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | January, May, August | January, May, August | January, May, August |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
8. HELP University
Since 1986, HELP University has grown steadily and sturdily. HELP University has sustained their student numbers and ensured a robust financial position. Additionally, HELP University has distinguished itself by excelling as a thought leader, an incubator of outstanding graduates, a model of selective excellence, and as a community-caring institution.
It offers a wide and diverse range of programmes covering business, accounting and finance, psychology, law, management, economics, social sciences, IT, and the humanities at undergraduate and graduate levels. Positioned as an Analytics-driven Entrepreneurial University, HELP is one of only seven private Malaysian universities to be recognised as the nations’ Premier Digital Tech Institutions.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 351-400 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | January, May, July, September | January, February, May, August, October | January, February, May, August, October |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
9. Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL)
UniKL is a leading university in engineering technology that was established on 20 August 2002. The university is wholly owned by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), an agency under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKLW), Malaysia. It has been mandated by the government to upgrade the status of technical education in Malaysia. UniKL moulds its graduates with strong technological knowledge and astute entrepreneurial skills to fulfil the current demand of the industries, as the nation expects more from technical higher learning institutions.
UniKL has 14 branch institutes that offer a range of foundation, diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes. With the concept of ‘One Institute, One Specialisation’, UniKL contributes not only to tertiary education but also researches and development for commercialisation purposes. UniKL’s branch institutes are strategically located all over peninsular Malaysia and offer various programmes in their niche areas of specialisation. At present, UniKL boasts a total of 29,043 students. Since its inception, UniKL has produced 37,210 graduates. Graduates of UniKL have successfully established their careers or become successful entrepreneurs in local and international arena.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 351-400 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | January, July | January, July | January, September |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
10. AIMST Univeristy
According to Sections 38 and 39 of the Private Higher Educational Institutions Act of 1996, AIMST University is registered as a tertiary educational institution with the Ministry of Higher Education, Government of Malaysia. It registered with the Department of Private Education under the Ministry of Higher Education, and on October 30th, 2001, it officially started operating. In keeping with the goals of its founders, AIMST strives to be the top private university in the nation and the area serving the needs of both domestic and foreign students by offering high-quality technical education at a reasonable cost.
The majority of the degree programmes’ curricula are taken from the University of Bristol in the United Kingdom. The majority of degree programmes’ components involve computer training, writing, and research to get students ready for the workforce and provide them the skills to use technology in all facets of their education. The minimum required matriculation (local or abroad) grades in the respective disciplines, or possession of other similar qualifications recognised by AIMST University, are required for admission to the degree programmes. Although English is the primary language of instruction for all courses, the significance of the National Language shall be underlined in all University activities. To achieve a sufficient level of fluency, AIMST University will offer language help to students both before and during their degree studies.
QS Asia University Rankings 2023 | 401-450 | ||
Programme | Foundation | Diploma | Degree |
General Intake | July, August, September | March, July, October | March, August, September, October, November |
Note: Different programme has different intakes and listed above are only the general intake. Get in touch with us to know more.
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About The Author
Qasyrina Zahirah
Still figuring out the direction of my life and most of the time life directs me to good foods and beaches 🙂
