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  • Universiti Sains Malaysia campus at night
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APEX USM Foundation Program

Your First Step Towards a USM Degree

Build a strong academic foundation, prepare for university life, and begin your journey towards selected undergraduate programmes at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

  • University Preparation
  • Selected USM Progression Pathways
  • Comprehensive Academic Support
  • A Strong Start for Your Future
    USM rankings: QS World University Rankings 2027 #128; Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 #5 in the world, #1 in Asia and #1 in the world for SDG 17; ShanghaiRanking #1 in Malaysia

    About the Programme

    Welcome to APEX USM Foundation Program

    The APEX USM Foundation Program is a one-year preparatory programme designed to build a strong academic foundation and prepare students for undergraduate studies at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

    Develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to take your next step towards university.

    USM students smiling and waving flags at a university event

    Programme Streams

    Two Streams, One Destination

    Researcher working in a USM science laboratory
    Stream 01

    Science Stream

    For students aspiring to pursue undergraduate studies in Engineering and the Natural Sciences.

    Arts and culture at the USM main campus
    Stream 02

    Social Science Stream

    For students aspiring to pursue undergraduate studies in Arts, Business, Communication and the Social Sciences.

    Programme Highlights

    Why Choose our Foundation Programme?

    One-Year Preparation

    A structured one-year programme designed to prepare students for undergraduate studies.

    Priority USM Pathway

    Priority consideration for eligible students applying to selected USM undergraduate programmes, subject to relevant requirements.

    Structured Academic Support

    Learn in a supportive environment designed to help you transition into university-level studies.

    Begin Your USM Journey

    Take the first step towards becoming part of the USM academic community.

    How to Apply

    Ready to Begin Your Journey?

    Start your journey with the APEX USM Foundation Program and prepare for your future undergraduate studies.

    Apply Now
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    1. 01

      Step 1

      Check Your Eligibility

      Check whether you meet the entry requirements for the Foundation Program.

      Check Your Eligibility
    2. 02

      Step 2

      Prepare Your Documents

      Ensure that you have the required supporting documents ready.

    3. 03

      Step 3

      Submit Your Application

      Complete and submit your application during the application period.

    4. 04

      Step 4

      Begin Your Foundation Journey

      Start preparing for your future undergraduate studies.

    Your Pathway

    Your Pathway to USM

    Your Foundation journey can be the first step towards selected undergraduate programmes at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM).

    Discover the programmes available to eligible Foundation students and explore where your academic journey can take you.

    1

    APEX USM Foundation Program

    2

    Complete Foundation Program

    3

    Meet Relevant Requirements

    4

    Selected USM Undergraduate Programmes

    USM Recognitions

    Recognised for Excellence

    Universiti Sains Malaysia is recognised nationally and internationally for excellence in education, research and sustainability.

    • ARWU 2026: USM ranked #1 in Malaysia
    • USM ranked #1 in Malaysia for Archaeology
    • USM ranked #1 in Malaysia for Pharmacy and Pharmacology
    • USM ranked #1 in Malaysia for Chemistry
    • USM in the top 10% of universities in the world
    • THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026: #1 in the world for SDG 17
    • THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026: #1 in Asia
    • THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026: #5 in the world
    • CWTS Leiden Ranking: USM #1 in Malaysia
    • USM subject ranking improvements
    • 19 USM subjects listed in the subject rankings