Sunway University in Malaysia

Sunway University in Malaysia

Sunway University Malaysia is a leading private university that offers accredited programs in business management, hospitality, engineering, and information technology within a modern learning environment.

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Sunway University is one of the most well-known universities in Malaysia and stands out for allowing students in many programs to graduate with 2 university degrees at the same time: one from Sunway University and another from its British partner university.

For this reason, Sunway University offers an attractive opportunity for students who want to earn a British qualification while paying lower tuition fees.

So, what programs are available? Can students continue their studies at partner universities? And is English proficiency required for admission?

This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know.

About Sunway University in Malaysia

Sunway University began its academic journey in 1987 as a college.

Thanks to its commitment to educational and research quality standards, and following a request from Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education, it was upgraded into an independent private university in 2011.

One of the most distinctive features of Sunway University is its dual-degree education system.

The university has an official partnership with Lancaster University in the United Kingdom and Le Cordon Bleu in France, allowing students in applicable programs to graduate with 2 qualifications.

It is also worth noting that Sunway University is a non-profit university fully owned by the Jeffrey Cheah Foundation.

All financial returns are reinvested in:

  • Infrastructure development
  • Scientific research
  • Student scholarships

Vision, Mission, and Goals of Sunway University

Sunway University aims to become a world-class university.

It translates this vision into several key academic missions:

  • Preparing highly skilled professionals with advanced academic and practical capabilities.
  • Focusing on scientific research and knowledge transfer to serve local and international communities.

University Goals

The university has established several academic and community-focused objectives, including:

  • Achieving excellence in higher education and scientific research through modern curricula.
  • Aligning academic programs and research outcomes with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Developing a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among students to prepare future leaders.
  • Building and expanding a strong network of global partnerships supporting graduates’ professional careers.

Where Is Sunway University Located in Malaysia?

The main Sunway University campus is located in Bandar Sunway, Selangor.

It is only around:

20 km from central Kuala Lumpur

or approximately:

35 minutes by car

The university’s location within this integrated city provides students with a smart educational environment surrounded by major facilities such as:

  • Sunway Pyramid shopping mall
  • Sunway Lagoon water theme park
  • Sunway Medical Centre

All these facilities are connected to the university campus and student accommodation through pedestrian walkways.

The university also provides a rapid bus transportation system, creating a safe and convenient study and living experience.

Why Choose Sunway University in Malaysia?

Choosing a university is an important decision that should be based on clear and practical factors.

Here are 5 major reasons students choose Sunway University.

Earn 2 University Degrees

Graduates from many Sunway University programs receive 2 qualifications:

  • One from Sunway University
  • One from Lancaster University in the United Kingdom

Lancaster University is ranked among the top 15 universities in the UK according to the article.

This dual-degree system can strengthen the graduate’s academic profile in the international employment and academic markets.

Integrated and Safe University City

Students at Sunway University do not need to leave the surrounding city for most:

  • Daily needs
  • Entertainment
  • Healthcare
  • Shopping

The entire area is supported by 24-hour security.

High Graduate Employment Rate

The graduate employment rate at Sunway University exceeds:

97%

The article attributes this partly to the university’s connection with the wider Sunway Group, which owns:

  • Hotels
  • Hospitals
  • Major companies

These organizations provide students with professional training under experienced specialists, and outstanding trainees may later receive employment opportunities.

Advanced Research and Educational Infrastructure

According to the university information stated in the article, Sunway has invested millions of dollars in:

  • More than 80 modern laboratories
  • A large ISO-certified library
  • Research centers

These research centers cooperate with international universities such as:

  • Harvard University
  • University of Oxford

International English-Speaking Environment

English is the main language of daily communication across the university campus.

The university attracts both Malaysian and international students, helping students:

  • Improve their English
  • Expand their international network
  • Develop intercultural communication skills

Clarification from the Educational Consultant

Only graduates from faculties included in the relevant partnership receive both Malaysian and British degrees.

These faculties include:

  • Business School
  • Information Technology
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Arts and Communication
  • Engineering

Other programs are associated with the university’s partnership with Le Cordon Bleu in France.

Sunway University Ranking in Malaysia and Worldwide 2026

Official rankings stated for 2026 reflect Sunway University’s strong academic position.

At the national level, the university is classified in:

Tier 5 – Excellent

under Malaysia’s SETARA assessment approved by the Ministry of Higher Education.

According to the article, this is the highest category awarded to private universities.

Sunway University World Ranking

  • QS 2026: Sunway University is ranked within the 530–550 range worldwide and among the top 150 young universities under 50 years old.
  • Times Higher Education (THE): The university is ranked within the 601–800 global range and is positioned among Malaysia’s leading private universities.

Sunway University Recognition and Accreditations

All academic programs at Sunway University are fully accredited by the:

  • Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA)
  • Ministry of Higher Education

However, the university’s international accreditations provide additional professional value.

Business School Accreditation

Sunway University Business School holds AACSB accreditation.

According to the article, fewer than 6% of Business schools worldwide hold this academic quality accreditation.

Accounting Accreditation

Accounting programs at Sunway University hold recognition from ACCA.

This can give eligible graduates exemptions from:

9 examinations

leaving only 4 examinations to complete the professional qualification process to become a globally recognized chartered accountant.

Engineering Accreditation

Sunway University is currently described in the article as being in the final stages of evaluation for inclusion under the Washington Accord framework.

This framework supports recognition of Engineering qualifications in countries including:

  • United States
  • United Kingdom
  • Australia
  • Other member countries

The article also states that because students receive a qualification from Lancaster University, which is a full member of the Washington Accord, Engineering graduates can obtain internationally recognized qualifications across member countries regardless of Sunway’s final accreditation status.

Important Clarification from Your Consultant

According to the article, earning a Sunway University qualification through the Lancaster partnership also gives students British academic recognition.

This dual recognition can make it easier to:

  • Continue postgraduate study in Europe
  • Apply to multinational companies
  • Reduce complicated degree equivalency procedures

Faculties and Programs at Sunway University

Sunway University offers more than:

80 academic programs

through faculties known for their modern academic infrastructure.

These include:

  • School of Business
  • School of Science and Technology
  • School of Arts and Communication
  • School of Hospitality and Culinary Arts
  • School of Medical and Life Sciences

Popular Bachelor’s Programs at Sunway University

Major undergraduate programs include:

  • Accounting and Finance
  • Business Administration and Marketing
  • Computer Science
  • Software Engineering
  • Information Systems
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Medical Biotechnology
  • Psychology
  • Culinary Arts
  • International Hospitality Management
  • Graphic Design
  • Digital Film Production

Popular Master’s and Ph.D. Programs

Major postgraduate programs include:

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master in Data Analytics
  • Master in Sustainable Development
  • Master in Clinical Psychology
  • Master in Public Policy
  • Ph.D. in Business Administration
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science
  • Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
  • Ph.D. in Scientific Sustainability

Popular Diploma Programs

Major Diploma programs include:

  • Diploma in Business Administration
  • Diploma in Information Technology
  • Diploma in Culinary Arts in cooperation with Le Cordon Bleu
  • Diploma in Hotel Management
  • Diploma in Nursing
  • Diploma in Graphic Design
  • Diploma in Mass Communication

If your preferred program is not included in this list, you can contact an educational consultant to confirm its availability and admission requirements.

Sunway University Fees in Malaysia

Sunway University is considered a medium- to high-cost Malaysian university in some academic fields.

This reflects its:

  • Educational quality
  • Advanced facilities
  • Dual-degree system

The approximate annual tuition fees for 2026 are:

Study Level

Estimated Annual Tuition Fees

Diploma / Foundation Year

4,500–6,000

Bachelor’s – Business, Technology, Arts

6,500–8,500

Bachelor’s – Biological Sciences, Advanced Culinary Arts

8,500–9,500

Master’s – Coursework or Research

5,000–7,500

Ph.D.

4,000–6,000

Advice from Your Educational Consultant

The figures above cover approximate academic tuition for 1 year.

They do not include:

  • Accommodation
  • Visa fees
  • Personal living expenses

Sunway University Scholarships for International Students

Sunway University offers an Excellence Scholarship for high-achieving international students.

Eligibility is primarily based on academic achievement in secondary education.

Applicants generally need grades above:

90%

or equivalent results under systems such as A-Levels.

Scholarship Continuation Requirements

Because of the university’s strict academic system, students must maintain strong academic performance to renew the scholarship in subsequent semesters.

Requirements include:

  • Maintaining a cumulative GPA of generally at least 3.5 out of 4.0.
  • Full compliance with the university’s academic and behavioral regulations.

Sunway University Campus in Malaysia

The Sunway University campus is known for its modern and sustainable architectural design.

It functions as an integrated university environment designed to:

  • Expand students’ academic knowledge
  • Strengthen practical experience
  • Develop professional abilities
  • Improve leadership and social skills

Academic Facilities

Classrooms are designed according to international educational standards.

They include:

  • Smart presentation systems
  • Automatic lecture recording technology

These facilities make learning, communication, and lecture review more flexible for students.

Training and Research Facilities

Sunway University provides advanced practical and research facilities across its programs.

These include experimental kitchens worth millions of dollars developed with Le Cordon Bleu, more than:

80 specialized laboratories

and:

15 research centers

Examples include:

  • Anatomy laboratories for Nursing students
  • Cell Culture laboratories for Biological Sciences
  • Nanotechnology Research Centre
  • Jeffrey Sachs Centre for Sustainable Development
  • Fully equipped Film and Digital Production studios

University Library

The Sunway University library holds an ISO certification for meeting international quality standards.

It consists of:

3 floors

and contains:

  • Thousands of books
  • Millions of digital academic resources
  • Scientific articles

Students can also access databases such as:

ScienceDirect

The library includes:

  • Study rooms
  • Reservable group discussion rooms
  • Recreational seating areas
  • High-speed internet

The university also provides additional facilities and services designed to create a comfortable study environment.

Student Life at Sunway University

Some students may assume that studying at Sunway University involves heavy academic pressure and limited free time.

However, the university provides a range of activities and services designed to make student life enjoyable and valuable.

Student Clubs

Sunway University has more than:

60 student clubs

Examples include:

  • Content Creators Club
  • Islamic Club
  • Robotics Club
  • Debate Club

These clubs allow students to participate in activities and develop:

  • Personal skills
  • Leadership
  • Communication
  • Teamwork

Sports Centre

Students can use sports facilities across both the campus and residential areas.

These include:

  • Olympic swimming pool
  • Modern fitness center
  • Tennis courts
  • Basketball courts

These facilities allow students to maintain their health and physical fitness.

Career Guidance

Sunway University provides a dedicated Career Development Centre.

The center organizes large annual career fairs attended by major companies including:

  • PwC
  • KPMG

Student Exchange

Sunway University offers student exchange opportunities lasting:

1 or 2 semesters

Students may study at Lancaster University in the United Kingdom or partner institutions in Australia while paying the same Malaysian tuition fees.

General University Services

Students also have access to:

  • On-campus medical clinic offering free or low-cost healthcare.
  • Confidential psychological counseling services.
  • Free shuttle bus network operating around Sunway City.
  • More than 10 cafés and restaurants inside the campus.
  • 24/7 security with surveillance cameras and controlled electronic access.

Sunway University Accommodation in Malaysia

Sunway University provides several high-quality accommodation options close to university facilities and city services.

These residences are managed by the university to maintain high levels of security and comfort.

Options include:

  • Sun-U Residence, connected to the campus by elevated walkways.
  • Sun-U Apartment, the most affordable option.
  • Sunway Monash Residence, the newest and most premium option.

Room Types and Facilities

Accommodation options include:

  • Single rooms with private bathrooms
  • Single rooms with shared bathrooms
  • Double rooms

Male and female students stay in completely separate:

  • Towers, or
  • Floors

Rooms are fully furnished and generally include:

  • Comfortable bed
  • Study desk
  • Wardrobe
  • Air conditioning
  • Mini refrigerator, depending on room and residence type

Services and Facilities

Student accommodation includes:

  • 24/7 security and electronic access systems
  • High-speed internet
  • Shared kitchens on every floor
  • Laundry rooms
  • Cafeteria
  • Shared lounges

Sunway University Accommodation Fees 2026

Accommodation fees range approximately between:

$1,800 and $5,400 per year

The final amount varies according to:

  • Residence
  • Room type
  • Facilities

The highest prices apply to air-conditioned single rooms at Sunway Monash Residence.

Sunway University Admission Requirements

Sunway University follows a selective admission system focused on academic achievement.

International applicants are evaluated based on:

  • Previous academic performance
  • Relevant science subject grades

Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements

Applicants need a secondary school certificate or equivalent with an academic average generally ranging between:

65% and 70% minimum

Science and Technology programs such as:

  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Engineering

also require strong grades in:

  • Mathematics
  • Science subjects

Master’s Degree Admission Requirements

Applicants need:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in the same or a related field.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA between 2.50 and 2.75 out of 4.00 for direct admission.

Ph.D. Admission Requirements

Applicants need:

  • Recognized Master’s Degree in a related field.
  • Strong Research Proposal.
  • Successful personal interview with the admission committee.

Documents Required for Sunway University Registration

International applicants generally need:

  • Academic certificates and transcripts translated into English and certified.
  • Colored copy of all passport pages, including blank pages, with at least 15 months of validity.
  • Passport-size photograph with a white background.
  • English proficiency certificate such as TOEFL or IELTS, if available.

English Language Requirements at Sunway University

English proficiency is a basic requirement for final admission and beginning the academic program.

Study Level

Required IELTS Score

Notes

Bachelor’s Degree

6.0

Approximately equivalent TOEFL / PTE scores may be accepted

Master’s Degree

6.5

May vary for specialized programs

Ph.D.

6.5

May vary for specialized programs

The English certificate should generally be no more than:

2 years old

How to Apply to Sunway University as an International Student

Sunway University allows international students to complete the initial application process remotely.

Documents are submitted through the designated electronic system.

1. Submit the Initial Application

Students begin by:

  • Completing the Sunway University application form.
  • Uploading academic documents.
  • Uploading passport documents.
  • Paying the application processing fee.

2. Assessment and Admission Letter

The admission department carefully reviews the applicant’s file.

The university then issues an admission letter and requests:

  • Student signature
  • Payment of visa fees
  • Return of the signed letter

to confirm acceptance of the university place.

The offer is:

  • Unconditional if all academic and language requirements are met.
  • Conditional if a requirement such as IELTS is still missing.

3. Obtain the Visa Approval Letter (VAL)

Sunway University submits the student’s application to:

  • Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS)
  • Malaysian immigration authorities

to obtain the electronic:

Visa Approval Letter (VAL)

4. Obtain the Entry Visa and Arrange Travel

After receiving the VAL, the student visits the Malaysian embassy in their country to obtain a:

Single Entry Visa

The student then:

  • Books the flight.
  • Sends travel details and arrival time to the university or educational consultant in advance.

5. Arrival and Airport Clearance

The student is received at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) by the university administration or educational consultant.

They assist with the required immigration procedures before accompanying the student to the reserved accommodation.

6. Medical Examination and Final Registration

During the first:

7 days after arrival in Malaysia

the student must complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic.

Afterward, the student submits original documents to the university for verification and completes final registration.

The student then receives:

  • University ID card
  • Orientation information
  • Academic schedule

and begins attending classes.

If you are concerned about completing your Sunway University application independently, New Horizons can submit your file professionally on your behalf without additional service fees.

This guide has covered Sunway University in detail and shown how it can provide an opportunity to study in an international environment while earning Malaysian and British qualifications at Malaysian tuition levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions and answers about studying in Turkey

After many years of working on registering thousands of students in Turkish universities, and answering an unlimited number of questions about studying in Turkey, these are the most important questions that concern students

Sunway University is a private, non-profit Malaysian university that is fully operated by the Jeffrey Cheah Education Sector Service Foundation.

Sunway University is located in Malaysia, specifically within the integrated and vibrant city of Bandar Sunway in the state of Selangor.

Yes, Sunway University degrees are internationally recognized and highly trusted in the job market thanks to the dual degree system in partnership with Lancaster University in the UK.

Sunway University is ranked in the 530-550 category globally according to the QS ranking for 2026, and is considered one of the best private universities in Malaysia.

Monash University of Australia (Malaysia branch) excels in global ranking strength and scientific research, while Sunway University is distinguished by lower tuition costs and a dual British degree system.

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