City University Malaysia

Overview of City University Malaysia

City University Malaysia was founded in 1984 and is one of the country's oldest higher-education institutions, combining academic quality with reasonable costs.

The university holds full recognition from Malaysia's Ministry of Higher Education and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), which gives its degrees both local and international standing. It offers more than 80 study programmes across diploma, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.

City University places a strong emphasis on career-focused education, and its graduate employment rate of 99% reflects that commitment.

It has earned a 5-star rating in the QS Stars system and a competitive rating in the SETARA 2022 assessment.

Where is City University Malaysia located

City University Malaysia sits in a lively, central spot in Petaling Jaya, Selangor — a commercial and residential district next to the capital, Kuala Lumpur. The main campus is in the Menara City U building, with direct access from the Federal Highway.

The location works well for public transport: it's roughly 10 minutes from the Asia Jaya LRT station, which makes getting around easy for students. Everyday amenities such as restaurants, cafés, hospitals, and shops are all close to campus.

University branches

City University Malaysia has expanded to four main branches across the country:

1. Main campus – Petaling Jaya (PJ): houses the business faculty and postgraduate programmes (master's and doctoral).
2. Cyberjaya campus: home to most faculties and disciplines, including engineering, technology, health sciences, and the arts.
3. Johor Bahru campus: serves students in southern Malaysia with a range of programmes.
4. Kota Kinabalu campus: serves students in the Sabah region (East Malaysia).

This spread reflects the university's success in making education accessible across different parts of Malaysia.

The City University Malaysia campus

City University Malaysia provides a complete learning environment with modern facilities that support study and campus life.

Academic facilities:

• Lecture halls and classrooms fitted with up-to-date teaching technology.
• Specialised laboratories.
• A modern digital library with access to thousands of books and online resources.
• Modern computer labs running advanced software for different disciplines.

City University Malaysia ranking and accreditation

Local accreditation:

• All of the university's programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), meeting the highest national quality standards.

Ratings:

• SETARA 2022 rating: Competitive.
• 4-star rating in earlier SETARA editions (2017 and 2019), reflecting the university's commitment to academic excellence.

Regional and international rankings:

• Among the top 6 private universities in the ASEAN region according to the AppliedHE ranking.
• Awarded 5 stars in the QS Stars system for teaching, employability, academic development, online learning, and inclusiveness.

Recognition:

• The university's degrees are recognised internationally, opening doors to study or work abroad, and it holds membership in several international education bodies.
• It received the International Quality Award for its distinguished research work in engineering and technology.

International partnerships and collaborations

City University Malaysia takes on international collaboration and strategic partnerships to strengthen the quality of its teaching and research.

The university partners with institutions and universities in England, Australia, the United States, and China across teaching, research, and development. It offers dual-degree programmes with international universities, letting students earn two globally recognised qualifications and improving their career prospects.

It also supports student and staff exchange programmes that draw on international experience.

Why study at City University Malaysia

• Career opportunities: a 99% graduate employment rate (2023), reflecting the quality of teaching and how well students are prepared for the job market.
• Teaching: curricula designed with industry input so students gain the skills the workplace actually needs.
• Cost: a private university with reasonable fees compared to similar institutions.
• Cultural diversity: a student community from many countries, which encourages cultural and intellectual exchange.
• Range of programmes: more than 80 study programmes covering every discipline and academic level.
• Accreditation: full MQA accreditation and international recognition that guarantee high educational standards.
• Facilities: a learning environment equipped to support study and research.
• Student support: the university offers academic advising, counselling, and full employment-support services.

Programmes and study costs at City University Malaysia

City University Malaysia offers more than 80 study programmes spread across several specialised faculties, at fees that are competitive given its academic quality and international accreditation. Below are the programmes by faculty, with the estimated annual tuition for each (inclusive of up to 50% discount), plus the one-time administrative fees.

City University Malaysia offers 2026

• Up to 50% discount on tuition fees — for all international students (already applied to the prices in the tables below).
• ApplyUni exclusive offer for Sudanese students: an additional 50% waiver on the International Student Fee.
• IGCSE student bonus: start with the Foundation year at City University and get the final year of your bachelor's degree free.

First: Foundation year fees

The Foundation year lasts one year (3 semesters) and prepares students to enter bachelor's programmes. The figures below are the total inclusive fee for the full programme.

Second: bachelor's programmes by faculty

The figures below are shown as estimated annual tuition for each programme (they don't include the one-time administrative fees listed at the end of this section).

Faculty of Creative Industries

Covers design, media, and digital arts — a good fit for students drawn to creativity, design, and communication.

Faculty of Business

One of the most sought-after faculties, spanning business administration, accounting, and finance with broad career prospects.

Faculty of Information Technology

Includes computer science, software, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity — fields in high demand worldwide.

Faculty of Allied Health Sciences

Covers nursing, biomedical sciences, environmental health, and occupational safety — among the university's leading health programmes.

Faculty of Hospitality

Focused on hospitality and hotel management, preparing students for the global tourism and services sector.

Faculty of Education & Liberal Studies

Home to education, psychology, and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL).

Faculty of Engineering

Includes civil and mechanical engineering, with accredited programmes built around hands-on practice.

Faculty of Built Environment

Specialises in architectural design and interior design.

Third: diploma fees

All diploma programmes run for 3 years. The figures below are estimated annual fees inclusive of the discount.

Fourth: master's fees

Master's programmes run for one to two years depending on the programme. The figures below are estimated annual fees.

Fifth: doctoral (PhD) fees

Doctoral programmes are research-based and run for 3 years. The figures below are estimated annual fees.

Administrative fees (paid once, in the first year)

On top of tuition, there are administrative fees paid once, at registration in the first year only:

Note: the official fees are set in Malaysian Ringgit (RM); the US dollar amounts are estimates based on 1 USD ≈ 4.70 RM and may change with the exchange rate. Annual tuition figures are estimates (total programme fee ÷ number of study years) and include up to 50% discount. Fees are subject to change; always contact ApplyUni or check the university's official website for the latest figures. Last updated: July 2026.

Registration and admission dates at City University

The university keeps flexible admission dates throughout the year:

• Foundation and diploma programmes: several intakes across the year (January, March, May, July, September, and November).
• Bachelor's and postgraduate programmes (master's and doctoral):
  • Main intake: September/October.
  • Additional intake: January/February.

Student visa and studying in Malaysia

Every student who wants to study in Malaysia and applies to City University needs a Student Pass.
Basic visa requirements:

1. A passport valid for at least 18 months.
2. An official acceptance letter from City University Malaysia.
3. Certified copies of all academic certificates.
4. Passport photos with a white background.
5. A recent medical examination certificate from a recognised hospital.
6. Proof of sufficient funds to cover study and living costs.
7. Health insurance documentation (may be required).

Career prospects after graduating from City University

City University Malaysia has a strong reputation for employment, with graduates achieving an employment rate that reflects the quality of teaching and career preparation:

• Employment rate: 99% of graduates find work within a short time of graduating (2023 study).
• Where graduates work: major companies such as Microsoft, Google, IBM, Maybank, CIMB, Celcom, Maxis, alongside government, medical, engineering, and marketing organisations.

What sets studying at City University apart:

• A focus on practical education, with curricula tied to the job market.
• Strong partnerships with local and international companies.
• Real hands-on training opportunities (internships).
• Employment services and regular career fairs.
• Development of students' personal and leadership skills.

Frequently asked questions

Is the university internationally recognised?

Yes. The university holds full, official recognition from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).

What are the admission requirements?

Requirements vary by programme:

• For bachelor's level: a high-school certificate or equivalent.
• For postgraduate study: a recognised bachelor's degree with a suitable grade.
• English language: IELTS or an equivalent test is usually required.
• For international students: documents such as a passport, academic certificates, and transcripts.

Does the university provide housing for international students?

Yes. The university provides accommodation for international students, and independent off-campus housing can be arranged.

What scholarships are available?

At ApplyUni we handle all the application steps for you, along with a partial scholarship offered exclusively to our students.

Note: scholarship terms and application deadlines vary, and you need to apply for the scholarship separately or alongside the admission application.

What is the language of instruction?

The main language of instruction at the university is English.

Can I apply through ApplyUni?

Yes. Get in touch and we'll make every step of the application easier, staying with you along the way.