10 Top Private Universities in Malaysia with High Employability Rates

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - There has been a moderate leap of international students admitted to various top private universities in Malaysia for some good reasons. As an Asian global education hub, the country boasts high-quality education at reasonable and affordable costs, making it a world-renowned endeavor. More to that, graduates are exposed to expansive employment opportunities all while receiving career-focused skills.

Top Private Universities in Malaysia

YourUni and EDMates both picked Taylor’s University and Asia Pacific University (APU) as some of the top private universities in Malaysia. Other remarkable nominee sharing the same reputation also include:

1. Taylor’s University 

Taylor’s University occupies the first spot of the top private universities in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, owing to its top-notch education quality. Boasting a diverse array of programmes, it attracts a vibrant international student community from countries like Indonesia, Vietnam, Japan, South Korea, and beyond. With a prime location in a lively suburban area, the university offers a dynamic glimpse into Malaysia’s multicultural essence, making it a hub of both educational and cultural exchange.

Tuition fees: starts from US$4,385 per year 

Location: Subang Jaya, Selangor 

Available discount: US$2,660 to US$4,000 yearly tuition fee waiver for selected programmes

2. UCSI University 

UCSI University enforces a career-driven approach to education, equipping students with real-world experience through a mandatory six-month industry internship. This hands-on training, backed by strong global industry partnerships, has positioned UCSI as a major player in producing workforce-ready graduates with international appeal.

For years, the university has consistently attracted aspiring professionals in fields like Computer Science, Medicine & Health, Business Administration, and Fashion Design, all drawn by its cutting-edge research initiatives and forward-thinking curriculum.

Tuition fees: starts from US$7,143 per year

Location: Kuala Lumpur

Available discount: up to 25% tuition fee discount

3. Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)

As one of top private universities in Malaysia, UTP has been shaping future leaders since its establishment in 1997. With a strong foundation in engineering and technology, UTP offers a research-rich environment where innovation thrives.

Its close-knit industry collaborations not only enhance academic learning but also translate into impressive graduate employability rates. At UTP, students are empowered to explore, experiment, and excel in a future-focused academic setting.

Tuition fees: starts from US$1,705 per year 

Location: Seri Iskandar, Perak

4. INTI International University 

INTI International University is celebrated for its technologically advanced academic environment, complete with cutting-edge science laboratories and high-tech engineering workshops.

These modern facilities reflect the university’s strong commitment to Science, Technology, and Engineering, fields that have propelled its graduates into successful careers within just six months of completing their studies.

With a globally connected curriculum and strong industry-aligned programmes, INTI attracts a vibrant, diverse student community eager to thrive in an ever-evolving professional landscape.

Tuition fees: starts from US$4,800 per year 

Location: Nilai, Subang Jaya, Penang, Sabah

Available discount: free English proprietary courses, free Foundation program, free MBA program, up to 45% discount tuition fee

5. Sunway University 

It's no surprise that Sunway University ranks among top private universities in Malaysia since its reputation for academic excellence speaks for itself. As a key member of the prestigious Sunway Education Group, the university has forged strong ties with world-renowned institutions like Oxford and Cambridge. These global partnerships, paired with innovative programmes, make Sunway a magnet for students pursuing careers in Hospitality & Leisure Management, Art & Design, Engineering, and Business & Management Studies.

Tuition fees: starts from US$6,794 per year 

Location: Petaling Jaya, Selangor 

Available discount: tuition fee waiver of US$1,100 on first year

6. Management & Science University (MSU)

Earning a prestigious five-star rating from QS, Management and Science University (MSU) offers an exceptional gateway for students eager to thrive in a global academic landscape. Through dynamic cultural exchange initiatives like the Global Leadership Program (GLP), Global Mobility Program (GMP), and Global Internship Program (GIP), students gain invaluable international exposure and hands-on experience. MSU has also particularly made its mark in the field of Health & Medical Sciences, attracting aspiring professionals in Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and beyond.

Tuition fees: starts from US$4,650 to US$14,000 per year 

Location: Shah Alam, Selangor  

Available discount: up to 20% tuition fee discount

7. Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) 

Just 15 minutes away from Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) stands at the forefront of top private universities in Malaysia. For multiple decades, the institution has birthed thousands of professionals since it was first opened to the public in 1993. Besides collecting a five star recognition from QS Ranking, APU was also hailed to become a 100% employability rate according to the Graduate Tracer Study by the Ministry of Education Malaysia in 2018.

Tuition fees: starts from US$7,800 per year 

Location: Kuala Lumpur 

Available discount: up to 30% tuition fee discount

8. Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN)

Owned and operated by Malaysia’s energy giant, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN) stands out for its strong emphasis on engineering and information technology. Students passionate about these fields benefit from access to cutting-edge research facilities and hands-on learning experiences. With the backing of strategic industry partnerships, UNITEN graduates enjoy impressive employability rates, making it a launchpad for future-ready professionals.

Tuition fees: starts from US$4,125 per year 

Location: Putrajaya Campus, Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Campus 

Available discount: tuition fee waiver of US$1,000 on the first year

9. Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)

Honoring the legacy of Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) has become a gateway to world-class education, from Foundation studies all the way to PhD programmes. Known for its wide-ranging academic offerings, UTAR combines rigorous curricula with modern facilities, creating a supportive environment where students can thrive both intellectually and professionally.

Tuition fees: starts from US$7,500 per year 

Location: Selangor, Perak

10. Multimedia University (MMU)

Multimedia University, also known as MMU, is both the oldest and one of the top private universities in Malaysia. Its strong industry partnerships with global tech giants like Microsoft, Dell, ZTE, Intel, Nokia, and Cisco bring real-world relevance into the classroom, making its programmes highly sought after. MMU’s global outlook is further strengthened by its collaborations with over 80 universities worldwide, offering students a truly international academic experience.

Tuition fees: starts from US$5,000 per year 

Location: Selangor, Melaka

Available discount: up to 50% tuition fee discount

These top private universities continue to rise as global education powerhouses, offering international students a blend of academic excellence, cutting-edge facilities, and industry-aligned opportunities. Still with the country’s education excellency, check also the best universities in Malaysia here.

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