Malaysia University Ranking 2025: Find the Right One for You

Choosing the right university is a big decision, and rankings can be a helpful guide. They highlight top universities based on academic quality, research strength, and reputation. 

In Malaysia, global ranking systems like QS World Rankings, along with local university rankings, offer valuable insights into the best universities. Knowing where universities stand can help you find the perfect fit for your academic and career goals. 

This article is designed to guide you through Malaysia university rankings, helping you find the top universities to study in Malaysia. 

Let’s begin!

Top 20 Best Universities to Study in Malaysia for 2025 (QS Rankings)

The QS World University Rankings 2025 highlights the top universities in Malaysia that excel in academic reputation, employer recognition, and international outlook. Universities in Malaysia are rising fast, with many showing big improvements in this year’s rankings. Private universities and international campuses, like Taylor’s University and Monash University Malaysia, are among the best universities to study in Malaysia, offering top-notch programs and global recognition.

Curious to see which universities made it to the top 20? Let’s dive into the list!

 

University Ranking Systems: How it Works?

Struggling to shortlist the top universities in Malaysia because of the confusing ranking systems? With various ranking frameworks, understanding how they work is essential for identifying the best universities to study in Malaysia. We’ve simplified the key ranking systems to help you make the right choice for your education.

1. Times Higher Education (THE)

Focuses on a variety of indicators:

• Teaching environment
• Research influence
• Citations per faculty
• International outlook

Example: The University of Malaya (UM) improves in THE rankings due to its extensive international research networks and high citation rates.

2. QS World University Rankings

Focus on;

• Academic and employer reputation
• International faculty and student numbers

Example: Taylor’s University shines in QS rankings for its strong employer engagement and innovative teaching but may not rank as high in THE due to a lighter research focus.

3. Scimago Journal & Country Rank (SJR)

Concentrates on research performance:

• High-quality publications and prolific output

Example: The University of Science Malaysia (USM) and University Putra Malaysia (UPM) excel in SJR rankings because of their significant contributions to research journals.

Top Universities by Subject in Malaysia

Choosing the right university for your specific field of study can significantly impact your future career. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best universities in Malaysia based on various subjects:

1. Best Universities for Architecture in Malaysia

If you aspire to become an architect, these institutions are among the top universities in Malaysia for architecture:

• Taylor’s University
• Universiti Malaya (UM)
• Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
• Sunway University
• SEGI University 

2. Best Medical Universities in Malaysia

For those interested in pursuing a medical career, consider these leading medical schools in Malaysia:

• International Medical University (IMU)
• Taylor's University
• University of Malaya (UM)
• Monash Univeristy 
• Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
•  

3. Best Universities for Engineering in Malaysia

These universities are recognized for their exceptional engineering programs in Malaysia:

•   Sunway University
• Taylor's University  
• Universiti Malaya (UM) 
• Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)  
• Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)

4. Best Universities for Business and Management in Malaysia

If you’re looking to excel in business, these universities offer top-notch business programs in Malaysia:

• Taylor’s University
• Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU)
• Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM)

5. Best Universities for Information Technology (IT) in Malaysia

For a strong foundation in IT, consider these leading Malaysian institutions:

• Universiti Malaya (UM)
• Sunway University
• Multimedia University (MMU)

6. Best Universities for Humanities and Social Sciences in Malaysia

These universities are well-regarded for their programs in humanities and social sciences:

• Universiti Malaya (UM)
• Management and Science University (MSU)
• Monash University
• Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
• Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a University

Choosing which university to enroll in is not an easy decision to make. So, what are some factors you should be aware of before making your choice?

Let's look at those considerations below:

1. Programs Offered

Reflect on subjects that excite you and the related career opportunities. If you are interested in numbers, you might explore programs like accounting, business management, finance, or engineering. 
Research universities that offer strong programs in those fields to ensure a good fit for your interests.

2. University Rankings

University rankings are an essential guide to finding the best universities in Malaysia. They provide insights into program quality, research excellence, and graduate employability. Reviewing QS rankings can help you make an informed decision and choose a highly regarded institution to pursue your studies.

3. Location and Environment

Think about the type of campus environment you prefer. An urban campus might provide more internship opportunities and extracurricular activities, while a rural campus can offer a quieter, more supportive community.

4. Global Opportunities

Look for universities with international recognition and global partnerships. Look for institutions that offer exchange programs such as HELP University or SEGi University, where you can spend a semester or more studying at a partner university in another country.
Consequently, graduates can leverage their Malaysian university qualifications as a pathway to further studies overseas. 

5. Financial Considerations

Analyze the total costs, including tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Investigate scholarship opportunities to alleviate financial burdens. Many universities in Malaysia, for instance, offer merit-based and need-based scholarships.

For more information on schlorships and financial aid, read this article.

Public vs. Private Universities: Which one should you choose?

When choosing higher education in Malaysia, public and private universities each offer distinct advantages. Public universities typically feature lower tuition fees and larger student populations. 
In contrast, private institutions like Taylor’s University and Asia Pacific University (APU) provide smaller class sizes, personalized learning experiences, and in-demand programs closely aligned with industry needs. This focus on employability equips students to become competitive in the job market.

Here is a quick comparison;