SharifStudy Best way to Study in Malaysia
When exploring the largest university in Malaysia, it can be considered either by student enrollment numbers or campus area size. Here, we will thoroughly explore both metrics and highlight additional details, rankings, and valuable insights.
Largest University in Malaysia (Student Enrollment)
The following are Malaysia’s leading universities by student enrollment as of the latest available data (2025):
- Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM): Over 175,000 students spread across 34 campuses nationwide, making it the largest by student population due to its extensive branch campus network.
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM): 49,587 students, including approximately 19,201 undergraduates and 14,051 postgraduate students.
- Universiti Malaya (UM): 36,444 students, with around 19,134 undergraduates and 17,310 postgraduates.
- Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM): Approximately 30,700 students enrolled.
- Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM): Around 30,000 students, including international enrollments from diverse countries.
- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM): Approximately 25,000 students at campuses in Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur.
Largest University in Malaysia (Campus Size)
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) remains the largest university by physical campus size, with a main campus covering an area of approximately 1,245.056 hectares (3,076.60 acres) in Serdang, Selangor. Below is a ranking of Malaysian universities by campus area:
| University | Area Size |
| UPM University | 1,245.056 hectares (3,076.60 acres) |
| UTM University | 1,148 hectares (2,836.77 acres) |
| UKM University | 1,096 hectares (2,708.27 acres) |
| UUM University | 1,061 hectares (2,621.78 acres) |
| UNIMAS University | 810 hectares (2,001.55 acres) |
| UMS University | 404 hectares (999 acres) |
| UM University | 373.12 hectares (922 acres) |
Malaysia’s Top Universities by Global Ranking (QS Rankings 2025)
Malaysia’s universities continue to rise in international rankings, demonstrating academic excellence and global recognition:
- Universiti Malaya (UM): Ranked #58 globally and the highest-ranking Malaysian institution.
- Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM): Ranked approximately #126 globally.
- Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM): Ranked within the top #134 globally.
- Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM): Consistently within the top #134 globally.
- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM): Ranked in the top #153 globally.
Facts About Malaysia’s Higher Education
Malaysia hosts over 1 million university students across public and private institutions, highlighting the country’s growing educational capacity. Internationalization remains strong, with universities such as UKM and UM attracting thousands of international students each year.
History of Largest Malaysian Universities
UPM began as the School of Agriculture in 1931 and became Universiti Pertanian Malaysia in 1971, signaling its dedication to agricultural education. UM, Malaysia’s oldest university, founded in 1949, played a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s education system and continues as a leading research hub.
Why Study at Malaysia’s Largest Universities?
These institutions offer vast educational opportunities, high-quality facilities, extensive research capabilities, vibrant campus life, and affordable tuition. Students benefit from multicultural environments and internationally recognized degrees, making Malaysia an attractive educational destination.
