Sultan Idris Education University

Introduction of Sultan Idris Education University

Sultan Idris Education University (commonly referred to as UPSI) is a respected Malaysian public university located in Tanjung Malim, Perak. Historically focused on teacher education, UPSI has expanded into a broad portfolio that includes computing, business, arts, sports science and applied social sciences. UPSI is attractive to international students because of its residential campus model, education-centred strengths, competitive fees and a student support ecosystem tailored for global learners.

Quick facts

• Type: Public university (education university)
• Location: Tanjung Malim, Perak, Malaysia
• Campus style: Fully residential campuses (Sultan Abdul Jalil Shah & Sultan Azlan Shah)
• Academic focus: Education, Computing & Informatics, Business & Social Sciences, Arts & Sports Science

Target audience: International students and those planning to study in Malaysia
 

History & Background

Founded in 1922 as a teacher training institute, Sultan Idris Education University has grown from a national teacher college into a modern public university. UPSI’s mission emphasises quality education, ethical leadership and community service; its vision focuses on inclusivity, social responsibility and preparing graduates for global citizenship. Over the years the university has diversified its academic offerings and strengthened research and international linkages to reflect contemporary workforce needs. 

Campus Environment & Facilities

UPSI’s campuses are designed around a fully residential model that encourages community learning and student engagement. Facilities include modern lecture halls and teaching labs, a central library with digital resources, dedicated computing and science laboratories, sports complexes, student residences and multiple dining halls. Comprehensive student services provide orientation, counselling, international student support and on-campus health services to create a safe, welcoming environment for overseas students.

Faculties & Academic Programmes

UPSI’s faculties cover education and a growing range of disciplines. Core academic units include:

• School of Education & Human Sciences
• School of Computing & Informatics
• School of Business & Social Sciences
• Faculty of Languages & Communication
• Faculty of Music & Performing Arts
• Faculty of Sports Science & Coaching
• Faculty of Science & Mathematics

UPSI Course Degree List 

Level	Major Programmes
Foundation	Foundation in Education; Foundation in Science
Undergraduate	B.Ed. (TESL), B.Ed. Early Childhood, B.Ed. Mathematics, B.Sc. Computer Science, B.Sc. Sports Science, BA Music
Postgraduate	M.Ed., M.Sc., M.A., MPhil, PhD (Education, Sciences, Humanities)

UPSI emphasises a holistic, values-based approach. Teaching blends theory, practicum (especially for education degrees), project work and industry-oriented assignments to ensure graduates acquire practical, employable skills.
 

Scholarships & Financial Support

UPSI offers merit and need-based scholarships oppourtunite , faculty awards and limited international student support. Eligibility typically depends on academic merit, leadership and financial need. Scholarships may cover tuition, on-campus accommodation or living allowances depending on the award. This makes UPSI a practical and affordable option for many international students.

Student Life & International Community

Student life at UPSI is multicultural and activity-rich. Residential living encourages engagement through clubs, societies, cultural events, sports and student governance. The university supports international orientation, peer mentoring and activities that promote cultural exchange and global networking.

Admission Process for International Students

• Check programme entry requirements (academic qualifications, prerequisites).
• Verify language requirement: IELTS/TOEFL or letter confirming English as the medium of instruction (if applicable).
• Prepare documents: certified transcripts, degree certificates, passport copy, passport photos, health clearance, and English test results.
• Apply online via UPSI international admissions portal and upload supporting documents.
• Await offer letter; upon acceptance apply for the Visa Approval Letter (VAL) and student pass with Malaysian immigration (UPSI provides guidance).
• Arrange on-campus accommodation application (if required) and pay required deposits/fees.

The standard admission flow for international students begins with selecting a programme on the UPSI admissions portal, confirming eligibility, and submitting scanned documents. International applicants must demonstrate academic readiness and English proficiency or provide a medium-of-instruction letter. Following a formal offer, UPSI assists with visa procedures and accommodation options; intake windows follow the university academic calendar.

Why Choose this University?

• Fully residential and supportive campus environment conducive to focused study.
• Strong scholarship and financial-aid options for eligible international students.
• Affordable tuition combined with practical, career-aligned programmes.
• Established reputation in education and growing strengths in computing, arts and sports.
• Recognised and accredited programmes with active student support and internship pathways.

Ranking, Accreditation & Language of Instruction

• Ranking: UPSI is listed in global ranking tables (QS and THE). Recent QS listings show UPSI inside global QS bands and improvements in subject rankings for education; THE includes UPSI in its world/university country listings. Please check the latest QS/THE pages for the current band.
• Key affiliations and accreditations: UPSI programmes are registered/accredited with the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the university operates under Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education.
• Language of instruction: The primary language for most undergraduate programmes and postgraduate programmes is English for many courses (especially science/technical and international-facing programmes), while Malay is also used in certain programmes. Applicants sometimes must provide evidence of medium of instruction; UPSI accepts confirmed English-medium transcripts or requires an English test where appropriate.
  
   

Career Prospects & Alumni

UPSI graduates often enter education, public service, IT, business, sports coaching and creative industries. The university runs career services, internship placement support and employer networking to facilitate graduate employment and international opportunities.

Living in Tanjung Malim

Tanjung Malim is a quiet, student-friendly town in Muallim District, Perak, and it is the correct home for Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI). It sits roughly 70–85 km north of Kuala Lumpur by road (about 1–1.5 hours by car or intercity train), making it accessible to Malaysia’s capital while offering a much calmer environment for study than large cities

Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) of Tuition fees

Programme area	Indicative annual tuition (RM)	Indicative annual tuition (USD est.)
Education (B.Ed. streams)	RM 7,600 – RM 8,300	? USD 1,600 – 1,750
Computing & IT	RM 7,600 – RM 8,300	? USD 1,600 – 1,750
Business & Social Sciences	RM 7,600 – RM 8,300	? USD 1,600 – 1,750
Postgraduate (Master by research / taught)	Semester fees vary (see UPSI PG fee schedule)	Varies by programme

Fees differ by faculty and programme type (taught vs research), and UPSI publishes detailed per-programme fee schedules. The figures above are indicative ranges for international students — check UPSI’s official tuition PDF for exact amounts and semester breakdowns before applying.

Conclusion

Sultan Idris Education University (UPSI) is an affordable, fully residential Malaysian university with strong roots in education, growing multidisciplinary offerings, accredited programmes and expanding global recognition. If you are planning to study in Malaysia and want a values-based campus with practical training and scholarship opportunities, consider UPSI. For programme details, official fees and the latest ranking/ accreditation updates, visit UPSI’s admissions pages or request counselling through their international office.