
Xiamen University Malaysia: Ultimate Guide to Courses, Fees, Entry Requirements, Scholarships & Intakes 2025
Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM) is the first overseas campus established by a prestigious Chinese university, offering world-class education with an affordable fee structure.
Here, we explore all essential information about XMUM’s academic pathways and student experience in Malaysia.
About Xiamen University Malaysia
Since opening in 2015, Xiamen University Malaysia has grown steadily and earned a strong reputation in engineering, business, Chinese studies, and arts.
Highlights include:
• Affordable tuition fees compared to other international universities
• Focus on innovation, STEM, and applied sciences
• Safe and vibrant campus environment
• Opportunities for exchange to Xiamen University China
Academic Pathways at XMUM
XMUM offers Foundation, Diploma (selected areas), and Degree programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
1. Xiamen University Malaysia Degree Courses
Degree programmes at XMUM follow international curriculum standards and emphasize research, practical learning, and global industry exposure.
Below are the main faculties and their popular degree courses:
Business & Management
• Bachelor of Management
• Bachelor of Economics
• Bachelor of Accounting
• Bachelor of Finance
• Bachelor of International Business
• Bachelor of E-Commerce
Engineering
• Bachelor of Chemical Engineering
• Bachelor of New Energy Science and Engineering
• Bachelor of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Bachelor of Software Engineering
• Bachelor of Civil Engineering
Computer Science & Technology
• BSc Computer Science
• BSc Artificial Intelligence
• BSc Big Data Technology
Arts, Humanities & Social Science
• Bachelor of Journalism
• Bachelor of Advertising
• Bachelor of Digital Media Technology
• Bachelor of Chinese Studies
• Bachelor of English Language and Literature
Biotechnology & Science
• BSc Marine Biotechnology
• BSc Biological Science
• BSc Environmental Science
Music & Performing Arts
• Bachelor of Music Performance
• Bachelor of Arts (Dance)
2. Xiamen University Malaysia Foundation Courses
These one-year foundation courses provide students with essential skills, knowledge, and pre-university training aligned with degree admission requirements.
XMUM offers:
Foundation in Arts
Suitable for:
• Business
• Journalism
• Advertising
• Chinese Studies
• English & literature programmes
Foundation in Science
Suitable for:
• Engineering
• Biotechnology
• Computer Science
• Environmental Science
Foundation in Economics
Direct pathway to:
• Economics
• Finance
• Accounting
• Business Management
Duration: 1 year
Progression: Direct entry to XMUM undergraduate programmes
Admission Criteria
Entry requirements vary based on programme level.
Entry Requirements for Foundation Programmes
• SPM / O-Level / IGCSE: Minimum 5 credits
• UEC: 3Bs
• Recognized equivalent qualifications accepted
Science and Engineering pathways may require:
• Credit in Mathematics
• Credit in Science subject(s)
Entry Requirements for Degree Programmes
General Requirements
• STPM: CGPA 2.0 (2Cs)
• A-Level: 2 passes
• UEC: 5Bs
• Foundation / Matriculation: Minimum Xiamen University Malaysia Courses CGPA 2.0
• IB Diploma: 24 points
Specific Requirements
Engineering / Science:
• Mathematics & Physics required
• Additional science subjects preferred
Business / Economics / Accounting:
• Mathematics credit recommended
Journalism / Communication / Arts:
• English proficiency required
• Portfolio may benefit applicants
Computer Science / IT:
• Mathematics mandatory
• Science subjects an advantage
Music / Dance:
• Audition or portfolio required
Tuition Fees Breakdown
XMUM offers a high-quality education at a significantly lower cost than its Western counterparts.
Estimated fees as follows:
Degree Programme Fees (per programme)
RM 45,000 – RM 55,000 (total)
Typical fees by faculty:
• Engineering: RM 50,000 – RM 55,000
• Computer Science: RM 48,000 – RM 55,000
• Business: RM 45,000 – RM 50,000
• Journalism/Media: RM 45,000 – RM 48,000
• Biotechnology: RM 48,000 – RM 55,000
• Music & Dance: Xiamen University Malaysia Courses RM 45,000 – RM 55,000
Foundation Fees
RM 12,000 – RM 15,000 for entire programme
(One of the most affordable foundation programmes in Malaysia.)
Other Fees
• Registration fee
• Lab fee (Engineering/Science)
• Resource/Library fee
• International student fee (if applicable)
Overall, XMUM is considered one of the most affordable universities Xiamen University Malaysia Scholarships offering international-standard education.
Scholarship Types at XMUM
XMUM provides generous scholarship options to encourage academic excellence.
1. President’s Scholarship
• up to 100% tuition fee waiver
• awarded to top SPM/UEC/A-Level achievers
2. Academic Merit Scholarships
Based on entry results:
• SPM: 6A / 8A / 10A and above
• UEC: Good Xiamen University Malaysia Foundation Courses grades
• A-Level / STPM: High performance
3. XMUM Talent Scholarships
For students excelling in:
• music
• arts
• sports
• cultural activities
4. Financial Need Bursary
• For students requiring fee assistance
• Subject to financial assessment
5. Alumni and Sibling Discounts
• Fee reductions for family members
With a variety of scholarships, XMUM ensures equal opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.
Intake Dates
XMUM typically offers three major intakes per Xiamen University Malaysia Foundation Courses year, making it flexible for students.
Main Intake Periods
• February / March
• June / July
• September / October
Some degree programmes may have specific intake schedules depending on academic alignment.
Benefits of Choosing XMUM
1. Affordable International University
High-quality Chinese + Malaysian education at low tuition fees.
2. Globally Recognized Degrees
Accredited by Malaysian and Chinese regulators.
3. Strong Engineering & Business Programmes
Highly respected in Southeast Asia.
4. Multicultural Campus Environment
Local & international students from diverse backgrounds.
5. Research-Focused University
Backed by Xiamen University China’s strong academic foundation.
6. Modern Campus Infrastructure
Smart campus, large library, sports complex, auditoriums & labs.
7. Excellent Academic Pathways
Foundation → Degree → Postgraduate opportunities.
Final Thoughts
For students seeking a high-quality education in engineering, business, science, humanities, or IT, XMUM is an excellent choice.
Whether you’re exploring foundation, undergraduate, or scholarship opportunities, Xiamen University Malaysia provides a promising and fulfilling academic pathway.