Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is Malaysia’s premier APEX university and consistently ranks among the top institutions in Asia and globally for its research excellence, sustainability leadership, and academic reputation. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, USM continues its upward momentum, highlighting its strong focus on impactful research, innovation, and community engagement.
Universiti Sains Malaysia Global Ranking 2026
Listed below are the top global rankings for the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) from the year 2023 to 2026:
|
Ranking Type |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
2026 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
143 |
137 |
146 |
134 |
|
THE World University Rankings |
601–800 |
401–500 |
401–500 |
NA |
|
US News & World Report- Best Global Universities |
NA |
NA |
416 |
NA |
Universiti Sains Malaysia Course Rankings 2026
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is widely recognised for its excellence in niche research areas and impactful academic programs. Its standout strengths include Engineering, Environmental Sciences, and Chemistry, disciplines where USM consistently ranks among the best in the world.
What is Universiti Sains Malaysia's QS Ranking 2026?
According to the QS World University Rankings, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) improved its global position from 146th in 2025 to 134th in 2026, reflecting steady progress in research output, academic reputation, and sustainability impact.
|
Subject |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Life Sciences and Medicine |
268 |
239 |
213 |
|
Art and Humanities |
340 |
218 |
207 |
|
Engineering and Technology |
208 |
186 |
177 |
|
Chemistry |
151–200 |
151–200 |
170 |
|
Education and Training |
97 |
89 |
101–150 |
What is Universiti Sains Malaysia's THE Ranking 2026?
According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) maintained its position in the 401–500 band for 2024 and 2025. As of 2026, the updated ranking is yet to be officially released, but USM remains recognised globally for its research impact, citations, and sustainability efforts under Malaysia’s APEX university status.
|
Subject Area |
2023 |
2024 |
2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Art and Humanities |
251–300 |
301–400 |
301–400 |
|
Business and Economics |
176-200 |
151–175 |
176–200 |
|
Computer Sciences |
301–400 |
251–300 |
201–250 |
|
Engineering |
601–800 |
301–400 |
301–400 |
What is Universiti Sains Malaysia's US News Ranking 2026?
In the US News & World Report Best Global Universities Rankings, Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has steadily strengthened its standing and is the 3rd best global university in Malaysia. The 2026 ranking will be updated once officially published, but USM’s continuous progress highlights its growing research influence and international academic collaborations.
|
Subject Area |
2025 |
|---|---|
|
Computer Sciences |
206 |
|
Economics and Business |
246 |
|
Engineering |
132 |
|
Civil Engineering |
97 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Universiti Sains Malaysia’s overall QS World University Ranking in 2026?
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) ranks 134th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, improving from 146th in 2025.
2. Which courses are highly ranked for USM in the QS Subject Rankings 2026?
USM’s strong subjects include Life Sciences and Medicine (213th), Arts and Humanities (207th), Engineering and Technology (177th), Chemistry (170th), and Education and Training (101–150 band).
3. How does Universiti Sains Malaysia perform in the THE Rankings 2026?
USM remains in the 401–500 band globally. By subject, it ranks in Arts and Humanities (301–400), Business and Economics (176–200), Computer Sciences (201–250), and Engineering (301–400).
4. What are USM’s best-performing subjects according to the US News Rankings 2026?
USM ranks well for Computer Sciences (206th), Economics and Business (246th), Engineering (132nd), and Civil Engineering (97th).
5. Why is Universiti Sains Malaysia popular among international students?
USM is known for its APEX status, sustainability leadership, strong research, and affordable living in Penang.