FAQ
If I want to join Study Abroad Programme @ USM, can I enter Malaysia using visitor pass?
No, you can't. All students must apply a Visa Approval Letter (VAL) and Single Entry Visa (SEV) prior to their arrival.
Can I join the Study Abroad Programme @ USM even though my home institution is not a partner unitersity to USM?
Yes you can. However, you are entitled to pay full fees for the programme.
How can I apply for students' accommodation?
International exchange students: please contact IMCC
Full time international students: please contact Intitute of Postgraduate Studies (IPS) or email (aizat.hisham@usm.my)
You can either stay on campus (students' hostel) or off campus (normally in a private apartment). Student hostels cost from MYR 4 - 13/ day. Private appartment on the other hand, cost MYR 1400 - 1800/ month (fully furnished). Utility are free at the students' hostels but not in the private apartment.
Do all the courses in USM are taught in English?
No it doesn't. Around 85% of courses are taught in English. All Engineering, Science, Health Sciences, Arts, Applied Science courses are taught in English except courses from the School of Education and Humanities. However, the School of Education and Humanities do offer a few English courses for international exchange students. Please refer to the list of courses in 'Service' page. Kindly be informed that postgraduate courses are not offered to undergraduate students.
Do I need vaccines to enter Malaysia?
We do advice you to take some vaccinations such as chicken pox, influenza etc.
What if medical check up in my country is expensive, can I do it in Malaysia instead?
Yes you can! Basic check up cost from MYR 130. You can conduct your health examination at USM Health Centre.
Do Malaysians speak English?
Yes we do. Infact 80% Malaysians can speaks English. You can easily speak English while buying food, tickets, or even to bargain for a better price. Try your luck!
Is Malaysia an Islamic country?
Yes it is. Malaysia has more than 65% Muslim worshipers and most importantly we are not extrimists. Malaysia consists of 4 main religions which is Islam, Hinduism, Budism and Christianity that live peacefully together in the spirit of 1 Malaysia.
What is the currency of Malaysia?
We use Malaysian Ringgit (RM) or (MYR). 1 USD eaquals to MYR 4.40 and 1 Euro equals to MYR 4.80. With 2 Euros, you can get a set of meal at Mc Donalds. One bottle of water cost MYR 1 or 0.30 USD.
How much is the expected cost of living in Malaysia?
On average students spend around MYR 10-15 for their daily meals, MYR 50 for mobile and internet fee, MYR 120 student hostel fee, MYR 50 for transportation.
Do Malaysians live on a tree?
Yes we do. We called it apartments, condominiums or KLCC.
Is it OK to bring family members and stay with me during my stay is Malaysia as a USM student?
NO: for students under Study Broad programme. Your dependent have to leave Malaysia once his/her visitor pass expired.
YES: for full time students. You can apply dependent pass at IMCC once you arrived in USM.
Does USM offer airport pick up?
International Exchange Students: 4 days period before orientation week in every semester arranged by IMCC.
Full time students: Please arrange with IPS or Admission Office of USM
Is USM a disable friendly campus?
Not all buildings provide facilities for disable students. However, the faculty members will try their best to asist students with special needs. USM do provide electric wheelchair rental for students that are in need.
