Tunku Abdul Rahman University (UTAR)

Tunku Abdul Rahman University (UTAR)

جامعة تونكو عبد الرحمن (UTAR) في ماليزيا جامعة خاصة رائدة تقدم برامج متنوعة ومتميزة في بيئة تعليمية حديثة تجذب الطلاب المحليين والدوليين.

Need help with selecting the right specialization?

We are always happy to provide assistance to all students in choosing the right specialization for them and providing free consultation from specialists

Apply with us

Tunku Abdul Rahman University is an internationally recognized Malaysian university known for providing high-quality education at relatively affordable tuition fees compared with many of Malaysia’s major universities.

The university also records a graduate employment rate exceeding 97% within 6 months of graduation, making career readiness one of the features attracting students who want to study in Malaysia.

In this guide, you will discover the main advantages of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), its academic programs, tuition fees, international accreditations, scholarships, campuses, and admission requirements for international students.

About Tunku Abdul Rahman University

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, commonly known as UTAR, is a private university in Malaysia established in 2002 by the Tunku Abdul Rahman Education Foundation.

The university became known for combining international academic quality with relatively affordable tuition fees.

Today, UTAR is considered one of Malaysia’s notable private universities.

Despite holding major international professional accreditations and appearing in global university rankings, the university remains comparatively affordable.

According to the university information, approximately 95% of graduates secure employment within 6 months of graduation.

Vision, Mission, and Goals of Tunku Abdul Rahman University

UTAR aims to become a world-class university and a leader in providing distinctive higher education.

Its mission focuses on:

  • Providing high-quality education.
  • Promoting scientific research.
  • Supporting innovation.
  • Developing graduates with internationally competitive skills.
  • Preparing students for professional and academic challenges.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University in Numbers

UTAR has developed a large academic and research environment since its establishment.

Category

Facts and Figures

Academic Structure

11 faculties, 4 centers, and 3 educational institutes

Research Environment

36 research centers and 4 research institutes

Research Network

Member of the UTAR Global Research Network

Academic Programs

More than 140 programs from foundation to postgraduate level

International Partnerships

More than 880 cooperation agreements across 42 countries

Student Diversity

International students from 37 countries

Graduate Employment

97% employed within 6 months of graduation

Consultancy Expertise

More than 170 specialized consultants

University Staff

More than 2,000 academic and administrative staff

Alumni

More than 90,000 graduates

Awards

More than 360 national and international awards in 2025

Student Life

More than 90 student clubs and societies

Quality Certification

ISO 9001:2015

Library Resources

More than 687,600 books, publications, and electronic resources

Engineering Rating

Tier 5 – Excellent in D-SETARA

Health Sciences Rating

Tier 4 – Very Good in D-SETARA

Where Is Tunku Abdul Rahman University Located in Malaysia?

Tunku Abdul Rahman University operates through two main campuses.

Kampar Campus

The main UTAR campus is located in Kampar, Perak, approximately 190 km from Kuala Lumpur, or around 2 hours by car.

Sungai Long Campus

The second campus is located in Sungai Long, Kajang, on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur.

It is approximately 20–25 km from the capital.

This location gives students easier access to Kuala Lumpur while allowing them to study in a university environment outside the most congested parts of the city.

Why Study at Tunku Abdul Rahman University?

Tunku Abdul Rahman University combines academic diversity, international recognition, practical training, research, and comparatively affordable tuition fees.

Internationally Recognized Degrees

UTAR focuses on ensuring that its degrees have professional and international value rather than being limited to academic qualifications.

Its professional accreditations contribute to graduate recognition in both academic and employment environments.

Wide Range of Academic Programs

UTAR is a comprehensive university offering programs ranging from arts and business to engineering, medicine, science, and technology.

Students can continue their studies from Bachelor’s Degree level through Master’s and Ph.D. programs.

Comprehensive Learning Model

UTAR works to reduce the gap between theory and practice.

Students have access to:

  • Laboratories
  • Research centers
  • Professional training facilities
  • Industry placements

Practical training with companies is also integrated into several academic programs as part of graduation requirements.

Advanced Research and Innovation Environment

The university operates more than 32 research centers alongside specialized laboratories.

Research fields include areas such as:

  • Renewable energy
  • Biotechnology
  • Artificial Intelligence

These facilities give students opportunities to participate in research and innovation projects while developing analytical and critical-thinking skills.

International Student Exchange

UTAR students may participate in international student exchange and research cooperation programs with universities in:

  • China
  • Japan
  • Europe

These opportunities help students gain experience in international academic and professional environments.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Recognition and Partnerships

A Tunku Abdul Rahman University degree benefits from national recognition and several international professional partnerships.

Malaysian Recognition

UTAR is officially recognized by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia (MOHE).

Its academic programs are also regulated and accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).

These approvals form the foundation of the university’s national academic recognition in Malaysia.

International and Industrial Partnerships

UTAR has developed a network of approximately 600 industrial and academic partners worldwide.

Its partners include:

  • Universities in China
  • Universities in Japan
  • Universities in the United Kingdom
  • Universities in Australia
  • Major technology companies and MSC-status organizations

These partnerships help the university update its curricula in response to developments associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution while creating professional internship opportunities for students.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Accreditations

UTAR reports a wide range of national and international professional accreditations.

These accreditations can strengthen professional recognition and, in some cases, provide exemptions from professional examinations.

UTAR Accounting and Management Accreditations

The university has professional relationships or recognition involving:

  • ACCA – Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, UK
  • ICAEW – Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales
  • CIMA – Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
  • CPA Australia
  • MIA – Malaysian Institute of Accountants

UTAR Engineering, Architecture, and Science Accreditations

Relevant academic programs are associated with professional bodies including:

  • Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) – internationally connected through the Washington Accord.
  • Lembaga Arkitek Malaysia – Board of Architects Malaysia.
  • Malaysia Board of Technologists (MBOT).
  • Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC), United Kingdom.

UTAR Insurance, Logistics, and Financial Science Accreditations

Professional bodies connected with relevant programs include:

  • Society of Actuaries (SOA), United States
  • Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT)
  • Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM)

Faculties and Programs at Tunku Abdul Rahman University

Tunku Abdul Rahman University includes 11 faculties and a postgraduate institute.

It offers more than 140 programs taught in English, covering fields from medicine and engineering to business, information technology, and the arts.

1. Faculty of Arts and Social Science

Programs include:

  • Psychology
  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Public Relations
  • Journalism
  • Advertising

2. Faculty of Business and Finance

Programs include:

  • Accounting
  • Business Administration
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Economics
  • Actuarial Science
  • Logistics and Shipping Management

3. Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology

Programs include:

  • Electronic Engineering
  • Environmental Engineering
  • Industrial Management
  • Petrochemical Engineering

4. Faculty of Information and Communication Technology

Programs include:

  • Computer Science
  • Information Technology
  • Software Engineering
  • Information Systems

5. Faculty of Science

Programs include:

  • Biotechnology
  • Chemistry
  • Agricultural Science
  • Food Science
  • Microbiology

6. Faculty of Education

Programs include:

  • Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
  • Early Childhood Education
  • Guidance and Counselling

7. Institute of Chinese Studies

Programs include:

  • Chinese Studies

8. Faculty of Accountancy and Management

Programs include:

  • Accountancy
  • International Business
  • Banking and Finance
  • Financial Analysis

9. M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Programs include:

  • Medicine and Surgery (MBBS)
  • Nursing
  • Physiotherapy
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine

10. Faculty of Creative Industries

Programs include:

  • Graphic Design
  • Digital Animation
  • Game Design
  • Multimedia Design
  • Corporate Communication

11. Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science

Programs include:

  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering
  • Mechatronics Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Quantity Surveying
  • Applied Mathematics

Postgraduate Programs at Tunku Abdul Rahman University

UTAR provides postgraduate programs through research-based, professional, and mixed study pathways.

Ph.D. Programs

Available doctoral programs include:

  • Ph.D. in Engineering
  • Ph.D. in Science
  • Ph.D. in Medical Sciences
  • Ph.D. in Biological Sciences
  • Ph.D. in Chinese Medicine
  • Ph.D. in Computer Science
  • Ph.D. in Mathematics
  • Ph.D. in Economics
  • Ph.D. in Social Sciences
  • Ph.D. in Chinese Studies
  • Ph.D. in Creative Arts
  • Ph.D. in Education
  • Ph.D. in Mathematics and Statistics

Master’s Degree Programs

UTAR offers programs including:

  • Master of Architecture
  • Master of Civil Engineering
  • Master of Mechanical Engineering
  • Master of Electrical Engineering
  • Master of Electronic Systems Engineering
  • Master of Engineering Science
  • Master of Environmental Technology
  • Master of Sustainable Construction Management
  • Master of Data Science
  • Master of Computer Science
  • Master of Information Systems
  • Master of Medical Sciences
  • Master of Medical Science in Public Health
  • Master of Science
  • Master of Science in Biological Sciences
  • Master of Science in Chinese Medicine
  • Master of Science in Mathematics
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • MBA in Corporate Governance
  • MBA in Corporate Management
  • Master of Project Management
  • Master of Real Estate Development
  • Master of Arts in Chinese Studies
  • Master of Arts in Communication
  • Master of Strategic Communication
  • Master of Industrial and Organizational Psychology
  • Master of Philosophy

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Fees 2026

Tuition fees at Tunku Abdul Rahman University start from approximately $2,500 per year.

The final tuition amount varies according to:

  • Academic level
  • Selected program
  • Medical, engineering, scientific, or arts specialization

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Scholarships

UTAR offers several scholarships and tuition reductions for eligible students.

International students may benefit from the following options:

Scholarship

Financial Support

Main Requirements

UTAR Scholarship for International Bachelor’s and Postgraduate Students

100% or 50% tuition coverage

Academic excellence and maintaining the required CGPA

UTAR Alumni Postgraduate Scholarship

Significant tuition discount

Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree at UTAR

Sibling or Parent Scholarship

One-time or continuing discount

Existing family study connection with UTAR

Scholarship continuation may depend on maintaining the required CGPA.

Students who need to understand how this system works can review the guide to cumulative GPA in universities.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Ranking 2026

UTAR holds positions in several Malaysian and international university ranking systems.

The university was placed within the 1100–1200 global ranking range and achieved 189th place in the Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings for 2026.

UTAR QS Ranking 2026

Tunku Abdul Rahman University ranked:

  • 109th in Asia
  • 791–800 worldwide in 2026

These rankings contribute to the university’s growing international academic profile.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Campuses

UTAR operates two campuses, each hosting specific faculties and academic facilities.

Kampar Campus

The Kampar campus is a comprehensive university complex consisting of approximately 15 buildings.

Its facilities include:

  • Lecture halls
  • Academic laboratories
  • Research facilities
  • Modern teaching technologies

One of its main landmarks is the Tun Dr. Ling Liong Sik Hall, which accommodates approximately 4,000 people.

The campus also includes statues of Confucius and Albert Einstein.

For social and recreational life, students have access to:

  • Cafeterias
  • Open spaces
  • Small group discussion rooms
  • Health center
  • Gym
  • Football fields
  • Basketball courts
  • Volleyball courts
  • Badminton courts
  • Table tennis facilities

Sungai Long Campus

Sungai Long is UTAR’s more urban campus.

It is located close to:

  • Shopping centers
  • Banks
  • Public transportation
  • Commercial and urban services

Faculties and facilities located at this campus include:

  • M. Kandiah Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
  • Lee Kong Chian Faculty of Engineering and Science
  • Faculty of Accountancy and Management
  • Faculty of Creative Industries
  • Faculty of Education
  • Institute of Chinese Studies
  • Mary Kuok Pick Hoo Library
  • Postgraduate and research institutes

Student Services at Tunku Abdul Rahman University

UTAR supports students academically, professionally, socially, and personally through a broad range of services.

University Transportation

The university operates shuttle buses connecting campuses with:

  • Main residential areas
  • Railway stations
  • Important nearby locations

Services may be available at low cost or free of charge depending on the route.

Accommodation Support

UTAR does not rely exclusively on university-owned student housing.

Instead, the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) provides lists of approved and safe accommodation options.

Common locations include:

  • Westlake for Kampar Campus students
  • Residential apartments near Sungai Long Campus

Healthcare and Insurance

Students have access to:

  • On-campus clinics for emergency cases
  • Mandatory student health insurance
  • Group accident insurance

Counseling and Psychological Support

UTAR operates counseling units that provide confidential assistance with:

  • Personal challenges
  • Academic difficulties
  • Psychological support
  • Student adjustment

Professional and Personal Development

The university places significant emphasis on soft skills.

The Department of Soft Skills Competency (DSSC) organizes workshops covering:

  • Leadership
  • Communication
  • Critical thinking

Students collect USSDC Points, which may contribute toward an additional certificate at graduation.

Career and Alumni Services

The university’s career services organize annual employment fairs and maintain an online employment portal connecting graduates with companies.

Students also receive support with:

  • CV preparation
  • Interview skills
  • Professional planning

University Libraries

UTAR libraries provide hundreds of thousands of academic resources alongside:

  • Individual study rooms
  • Group study rooms
  • International academic databases

Information Technology Services

Students have access to:

  • Campus-wide Wi-Fi
  • Modern computer laboratories
  • Electronic student portal
  • Academic schedules
  • Online grade management

Student Clubs and Societies

UTAR has more than 90 clubs and societies covering:

  • Culture
  • Sports
  • Religion
  • Arts
  • Academic interests

These organizations operate under the Student Representative Council (SRC).

Sports Facilities

Facilities include:

  • Gymnasiums
  • Football fields
  • Basketball courts
  • Tennis facilities

The Kampar campus provides particularly extensive sports facilities because of its larger physical area.

Tunku Abdul Rahman University Admission Requirements

UTAR generally evaluates Bachelor’s Degree applicants based on their secondary school qualification or equivalent.

Students must achieve the required passing grade and satisfy subject-specific requirements, particularly in areas such as Mathematics and Science.

Master’s Degree Admission Requirements

Applicants generally need:

  • A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field.
  • Degree from a recognized university.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 out of 4.00.

Ph.D. Admission Requirements

Applicants need:

  • A recognized Master’s Degree in a relevant discipline.
  • Qualification accepted by both the Malaysian government and UTAR.

English Language Requirements

UTAR follows relatively flexible English language requirements.

Students generally need one of the following:

  • IELTS: approximately 5.0–6.0, depending on the program.
  • TOEFL iBT: approximately 42 or above.

Medical and engineering programs may require higher levels of English proficiency.

Students who do not have an accepted English language certificate may receive conditional admission.

They can enroll in UTAR’s English Enhancement Programme (EEP) to improve their language skills before beginning their academic studies.

Documents Required for Tunku Abdul Rahman University

Applicants should prepare the following documents in PDF format:

  • Complete passport copy, including blank pages.
  • Secondary school certificate and transcript translated into English and certified.
  • Bachelor’s Degree certificate and transcript for Master’s applicants.
  • Passport-size photograph with a white background measuring 4.5 cm × 3.5 cm.
  • English proficiency certificate, if available.
  • Medical examination document.
  • Receipt for EMGS visa application fees and university registration fees.

How to Apply to Tunku Abdul Rahman University

With more than 140 academic programs, choosing the correct study path and preparing the application accurately are important parts of the UTAR admission process.

1. Academic Consultation and Program Selection

The first step is to identify the program that best matches the student’s qualifications and career objectives.

Applicants should also confirm that their previous academic qualifications satisfy the specific requirements of the selected program.

2. Prepare and Submit the Application

Students prepare:

  • Certified academic certificates
  • Certified transcripts
  • Passport documents
  • Required supporting documents

The application is then submitted through UTAR’s official admission system.

3. Pay Registration and EMGS Visa Fees

Applicants pay the required university application and Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) visa processing fees to UTAR’s official bank account.

This allows the university to begin the relevant admission and visa procedures.

4. Receive the Admission Letter

After reviewing the student’s academic file and confirming eligibility, UTAR issues the official admission letter.

This document confirms the initial university admission and allows the student to proceed with visa procedures.

5. Obtain the Visa Approval Letter

After admission, the university’s international student department follows the application with Malaysian immigration authorities.

Once the Visa Approval Letter is issued, the student can proceed with the required Malaysian embassy procedures in their country of residence.

6. Arrival and Final Registration

After arriving in Malaysia, international students report to the Department of International Student Services (DISS) at the relevant campus.

Students then:

  • Submit original academic certificates.
  • Complete the mandatory medical examination.
  • Finalize registration.
  • Receive the university student card.
  • Begin their academic program.

Is Tunku Abdul Rahman University a Good Choice?

Tunku Abdul Rahman University combines relatively affordable tuition fees with international professional accreditations, a broad academic portfolio, extensive research facilities, and strong graduate employability.

Its programs cover engineering, accounting, science, medicine, information technology, business, and the arts, making UTAR suitable for students who want a comprehensive Malaysian university with multiple academic pathways.

Its international partnerships and professional accreditations can also strengthen the long-term value of its degrees in both postgraduate education and employment.

If you need help comparing UTAR programs, understanding scholarship opportunities, or preparing your application documents, New Horizons can provide educational guidance throughout the admission process.

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

Yes, UTAR University is considered one of the best private universities in Malaysia, being a leading non-profit university that combines world-class academic quality with low cost, while achieving a graduate employment rate of up to 95%.

No, the university does not have its own on-campus housing, but the Department of Student Affairs (DSA) provides an integrated support system to secure approved, safe off-campus housing very close to the two campuses.

Yes, the study is internationally recognized thanks to the university's inclusion in the Times and QS World University Rankings, and its programs receiving recognition from international professional bodies in Britain, Australia, and the United States.

Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL) is a prerequisite for final admission; however, the university offers conditional admission which allows the student to study the English Language Enhancement Program (EEP) within the university if the international certificate is not available.

The university is spread across two campuses; the main campus, Kambar, is located in the state of Perak (190 km from the capital), and the second campus, Sungai Long, is located in the suburbs of Kuala Lumpur (only 20 km from the city center).

Contact us now! Start conversation on WhatsApp
a