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University of Tsukuba, Malaysia

Home Admissions Application Guide > Aptitude-based Scheme

Introduction

The University of Tsukuba, a Japanese national university, opened its Malaysia Branch Campus (School of Transdisciplinary Science and Design) in September 2024. Two types of entrance examinations, an “Aptitude-based Scheme” and a “School Recommendation Scheme”, are available for those who meet the prescribed requirements and wish to enrol at the Malaysia Branch Campus of the University of Tsukuba. These are the application guidelines for the “Aptitude-based Scheme”.

*All dates and times given in these guidelines are based on Malaysian Time (MYT).

Online Application

Online Application Opens: Tuesday, 18 March 2025 

Online Application Closes: 5:00 pm, Tuesday, 158 April 2025 

I. Key Details

[Educational Purpose] 

The programme aims to develop individuals with data science literacy who can apply ideas and technologies from the natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences to a broad range of environmental and social issues. By utilising design thinking, our students can creatively contribute to solving global issues. 

 

[Prospective Students] 

  1. Strongly interested in and motivated to study global issues and their resolutions in Malaysia and South-East Asia 
  2. Clearly enthusiastic about using interesting knowledge from the natural sciences, humanities and social sciences to solve complex global issues 
  3. Keenly determined in judging information applicability based on objective data and materials, and who can logically communicate their ideas  
  4. Genuinely interested in the Japanese language and culture, and who can respect different values and ways of thinking 

 

[Admission Policy] 

Applicants will be comprehensively evaluated based on their basic academic competence, advanced comprehension skills required for learning data science, critical thinking skills, and interest and expressiveness to global issues.  

 

[Duration] 

4 years (full-time) 

 

[Medium of Instruction] 

Mainly English and Japanese, partially Bahasa Melayu 

 

[Student Acceptance] 

From the first year (No advanced standing or transfer options to upper years) 

 

[Enrolment Capacity] 

40 students / year 

 

[Aptitude-based Scheme Quota] 

30 students  

 

[Degree Conferred] 

Bachelor of Arts and Science 

II. Key Dates

â—†Payment of Application Fee and Online Applicationâ—† 

Tuesday, 18 March 2025 ~ 5:00 pm, Tuesday, 158 April 2025 

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â—†Notification of Examinee Numberâ—† 

Thursday, 2417 April 2025 

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â—†Announcement of First Stage Screening Resultsâ—† 

(individually notified via the Online Application System) 

10:00 am, Tuesday, 13 May29 April 2025  

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â—†Group Interviewâ—† 

Tuesday, 2713 May 2025 & Wednesday, 2814 May 2025  

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â—†Announcement of Final Resultsâ—† 

(individually notified via the Online Application System) 

10:00 am, Wednesday, 11 June28 May 2025 

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â—†Enrolment Proceduresâ—† 

Must be completed before Wednesday, 18 June 2025 

 

 

For Applicants with Disabilities

The University of Tsukuba reviews applications from applicants with disabilities on the same basis as other applicants. According to the published screening criteria, all applications are assessed based on academic merit and potential. If you have problems with the application process and need special consideration, please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp in advance.

 

For International Applicants

All international students planning to study in Malaysia MUST apply for the Student Pass (visa) approval to study BEFORE entering Malaysia and the approval process can take up to three months. Successful applicants will be notified of the details. Please make sure that your passport is valid for at least 24 months when applying for the Student Pass.

 
III. Requirements for Application

1.Eligibility

To be eligible for admission to this programme, applicants must fulfill ONE of the following criteria.

  1. Have completed a 12-year curriculum of formal education in their country of residence, or who are expected to complete it by the end of the month prior to the month of enrolment.
  2. Have completed a curriculum of formal education less than 12 years and have subsequently completed or are expected to complete a preparatory education course designated by the Japanese Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) by the end of the month prior to enrolment.
  3. Hold or who are expected to hold an International Baccalaureate, European Baccalaureate, Abitur (Germany), Baccalauréat (France), or GCE A Level/International A Level (United Kingdom) by the end of the month prior to enrolment.
  4. Have completed or are expected to complete a 12-year curriculum at a school accredited by any of the following international accrediting groups by the end of the month prior to enrolment:
    • WASC
    • CIS
    • ASCI
    • NEASC
    • COGNIA (), or
    • COBIS ()
  5. Applicants whose qualifications are not listed in categories 1 to 4 in Point 1, but who are deemed to have eligibility equivalent to at least one of the four criteria after individual eligibility screening conducted by the University.
Note 1:
Please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp BEFORE you proceed with the application process if you are uncertain about your eligibility and/or would like to request individual eligibility screening.
Note 2:
It is possible that categories 1 to 4 in Point 1 may not be applicable to all applicants from certain international schools. If this is the case, please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp BEFORE you proceed with the application process to confirm eligibility.
 

2.Entry Requirements

To apply for the Aptitude-based Scheme, applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry requirements.

  1. Entry requirements (either of the following qualifications)
    STPM A pass with at least Grade C+ (GP 2.33) in any 3 subjects including Mathematics.
    UEC A pass with at least Grade B in any 5 subjects including Mathematics.
    A Levels A pass with at least Grade C in any 3 subjects including Mathematics.
    International Baccalaureate (IB)

    A pass with at least  total 27 points including Mathematics. An individual's mathematics score must also must be above 4 points.

    *Applicants who have not yet received their IB Diploma may submit official transcripts of IB predicted scores, endorsed by the principal or a guidance counselor at their school. Please consult the Academic Service Office before applying. 

    EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students) Must be above the average for the EJU candidate's examination cohort in any 3 subjects including Mathematics.
    Foundation / Matriculation A pass with at least CGPA of 2.3 out of 4.0 or its equivalent including Mathematics.
    Diploma (Level 4, MQF) A pass with at least CGPA of 2.3 out of 4.0 or its equivalent including Mathematics.

Note 1: Applicants with other Year 12 qualifications or equivalent will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Note 2: Our educational programme aims to develop individuals who can apply data science techniques and methods to solve global issues. Therefore, we expect applicants to have a good understanding of a basic level of mathematics equivalent to the Cambridge International A-Level Mathematics.

 

  1. English language proficiency (either of the following qualifications)
MUET Band 3 or higher
IELTS (Academic) 5.0 or higher
TOEFL iBT (DI Code: D815) 61 or higher
Note 1:
IELTS or TOEFL test results must have been taken within the past two years at the time of application. MUET results are valid for five years from their release date.
Note 2:
Applicants with other English qualifications (except qualifications valid only in one country or area) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Note 3:
Applicants can meet the English-language requirements if they have completed or are expected to complete their at least their upper-secondary education at an institution that teaches entirely in English. Please submit any documentary evidence that the institution teaches entirely in English.
  1. Japanese language proficiency

    If applicants have studied Japanese and/or have taken any Japanese-language test, please include the details on the online application form and attach proof. Applicants who have not studied Japanese are still eligible to apply if they meet other entry requirements. The University of Tsukuba, Malaysia will offer Japanese-language education through a system of level-based classes.

 
IV. Screening Criteria

The screening process is conducted through a two-stage screening system. Only those who have successfully passed the first-stage screening will be invited to proceed to the second-stage screening.

1. First Stage Screening

Approximately 60 applicants (roughly twice the number of available places) will be selected for first-stage screening based on the evaluation of their submitted application documents. This comprehensive evaluation will assess their broad academic skills, language proficiency, and interest in global issues, and motivation to contribute to their solutions, all of which are essential for successful participation in this programme.

2. Second Stage Screening

Successful applicants from the first-stage screening will be invited to the group interview, where a comprehensive assessment will take place. This assessment will consider the content of their submitted documents and other relevant information.

Interview Method Group discussion
Medium English
Content Form groups of approximately five applicants each to actively engage in collaborative discussions in English on designated themes. The groups will identify issues and collectively work towards developing effective solutions. The solutions then will be presented to the selection panel to demonstrate how the group has addressed the identified concerns.
Evaluation Assesses interest in global issues; motivation for finding solutions; critical thinking, communication and expression; aptitude and ability to work with others.

 

Interview Schedule
 

  Schedule Location
Day 1 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Tuesday, 13 May 2025 University of Tsukuba, Malaysia
Day 2 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Wednesday 14 May 2025 University of Tsukuba, Malaysia

Note: The University of Tsukuba will not respond to any individual requests regarding the interview schedule under any circumstances.

 
V. Application Fee Payment

Application Fee: RM100 (non-refundable)

Payment Period: Tuesday, 18 March 2025 ~ 5:00 pm, Tuesday, 158 April 2025

A non-refundable application fee is payable by direct bank-in or telegraphic transfer to:

  • Beneficiary Name: UNIVERSITY OF TSUKUBA MALAYSIA
  • Name of Bank: Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Malaysia Berhad
  • Bank Address : Suite 22-03 Level 22 Integra Tower The Intermark 348 Jalan Tun Razak Kuala Lumpur Malaysia
  • Account No.: 10127301
  • Swift Code: SMBCMYKLXXX

Applicants should upload a copy or proof of the transaction together with the other application documents. The application fee is payable in Malaysian Ringgit and any shortfall or excess from any transfer of foreign currencies to Malaysian Ringgit or bank charges must be borne by the applicant.

Note 1: For applicants with Category 5 eligibility, please DO NOT pay the application fee until eligibility is confirmed.

Note 2: Using "WISE" would be an option to pay the application fee from overseas. For details, please refer to their website at .〶Ä

VI. Online Application and Documents

Online Application Opens: Tuesday, 18 March 2025

Online Application Closes: 5:00 pm, Tuesday, 158 April 2025

Applicants can submit the completed application with copies of relevant documents via the online application system. Then online application should take between 20 to 30 minutes if applicants have all their details and documentation scanned and ready to upload prior to starting the online application process.

When applying, applicants should attach copies of all relevant supporting documents. These include the secondary school results certificate, official academic records/transcripts, English test results, and Japanese test results.

Originals or certified copies of applicants’ academic documents must be provided to the University upon request. If applicants do not provide them, their enrolment may be cancelled. This may occur at course enrolment or any time after commencing study.

For questions that are not relevant to you and are not compulsory, leave the field blank and proceed to the next question.

  Type of Information/Documents
1.

Personal Details

  • Profile
  • Contact information
  • Education (Must include all details of secondary education and above)
  • Employment (if applicable)
  • Languages
  • Activities (if applicable)
2.

Formal Photograph

  • Your photo must not include other objects or people.
  • Your photo must be taken against a plain, light-coloured background.
  • Your photo must be at least 480 pixels wide and 640 pixels high.
  • Your photo must be at least 100KM and no more than 15 MB.
  • Your photo needs to be saved in either JPEG/JPG format.
  • In your photo you must:
    - be facing forward and looking straight at the camera.
    - have a neutral expression with a natural smile.
    - have your eyes open and visible.
    - not have hair covering your eyes.
    - not have a head covering (unless it's for religious or medical reason)
    - not have anything covering your face.
    - not wear sunglasses. 
3.
  • Photocopy of NRIC (for Malaysian students)
  • Photocopy of Passport (for International students)
4.

Academic Qualifications (secondary / post-secondary studies)
Please upload certified true copies of relevant academic transcripts/results for ALL qualifications/academic studies, either currently enroled, completed, or discontinued including failures (if any)

[Form 6 or equivalent]
STPM / UEC (Senior-middle) / A Levels / IB / EJU / Foundation / KPM Matriculation / Diploma or equivalent

5. Proof of English language Proficiency
MUET / IELTS (Academic) / TOEFL iBT or equivalent
6. Proof of Japanese language Proficiency (if applicable)
7.

Personal Essay (MS Word format)
Please write two short essays of 400 to 500 words each (1) describing your study plan at the University of Tsukuba, Malaysia; (2) detailing what features of the Japanese language and culture interest you and how you would describe them to others.

Formatting

  • Page size: A4
  • Margins: 1 inch (2.54cm) on all sides
  • Font: 11 point, Times New Roman
  • Line spacing: 1.5
  • Page numbers: Page numbers on all pages
  • Essay (1) and (2) should begin on a separate page
  • Put your name in the upper right corner of each page (using header)
8. Proof of Application Fee Payment

 

VII. Announcement of Results and Enrolment Procedures

1.Results Announcement

Day & Time of Announcement (First stage): 10:00 am, Tuesday, 13 May29 April 2025

Day & Time of Announcement (Final): 10:00 am, Wednesday, 11 June28 May 2025

Results will be announced directly to the applicants through the online application system. The University will not respond to any inquiries concerning the outcome of applications.

 

2.Enrolment Procedures

Period of Enrolment Procedures: NO LATER than Wednesday, 18 June 2025

Successful applicants will be contacted individually with a placement offer. Please respond within the deadline and follow the enrolment procedures. If a successful applicant does not respond or take the necessary actions for admission within the deadline period, they will be deemed to have declined the placement offer in the programme.

The University will notify successful applicants about details concerning further documents and procedures.

 

3.Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for Semester 1 (Fall semester) and Semester 2 (Spring semester) are as follows. The payment for the Semester 1 tuition fees is due in mid-September, while the payment for the Semester 2 tuition fees is due at the end of February. Further details will be given to successful applicants.

Semester Semeste 1 (Fall) Semester 2 (Spring) Annual total
Malaysian students RM 14,630 RM 20,370 RM 35,000
International students RM 15,880 RM 22,120 RM 38,000
Due 15 September 25 February -

VIII. Disclosure of Information about Admission

The university will disclose admission information to applicants upon request from Monday, 1 September 2025 to Friday, 31 October 2025. For further details please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

IX. Important Notes
  1. Incorrect entries and incomplete applications may result in the voiding of your application.
  2. Any falsification, fabrication, or factual discrepancy found in the information provided in the application documents after enrolment to the University may lead to revocation of enrolment.
  3. If you require any special consideration for your studies due to disabilities or other issues, please contact us before submitting your application.
  4. Application documents and application fees are non-refundable.
  5. If you fail to meet the eligibility requirements by 31 August 2025, your admission will be revoked.
  6. All submitted applications are final and applicants are unable to make any changes to the information provided.
  7. The University of Tsukuba is unable to assist applicants in finding accommodation for the interview.
  8. Concurrent enrolment at another university whilst undertaking this programme is not permitted.

Privacy Policy

  • Personal information obtained by the university from application documents is protected in compliance with the Act on the Protection of Personal Information Held by Independent Administrative Agencies, and pursuant to the University of Tsukuba Regulations on Personal Information.
  • Personal information obtained by the University from application documents and exam results will be used in processes for enrollee selection, admission procedures (including information on university events), and surveys and research conducted as part of the enrollee selection process.
  • Personal information about the person completing the admission procedures will also be used after admission for academic affairs (training and guidance, etc.), student support services (tuition exemption, scholarship applications, health management, etc.), and other related processes.


    • Inquiries

      University of Tsukuba, Malaysia

      Academic Service Office for Malaysia Overseas Education Hub

      Level 14, Wisma R&D, Universiti Malaya, Jalan Pantai Baharu,

      59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

      utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp