University of Tsukuba, Malaysia

Home Admissions Application Guide > Aptitude-based Scheme

Introduction

The University of Tsukuba, a Japanese national university, will open 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).

Important note for foreign nationals

If you are a foreign national (including those who are currently residing in Malaysia) and are considering applying for our programme, please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp BEFORE you proceed with the application process.

Online Application

Online Application Opens: from 10:00 am, Tuesday, 30 April 2024 

Online Application Closes: 5:00 pm, Friday, 17 May 2024 

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 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 

Key Schedule

◆Payment of Application Fee and Online Application◆ 

10:00 am, Tuesday, 30 April 2024 ~ 5:00 pm, Friday, 17 May 2024 

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◆Notification of Examinee Number◆ 

Friday, 24 May 2024 

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◆Announcement of First Stage Screening Results◆ 

(individually notified via the Online Application System) 

10:00 am, Thursday, 6 June 2024  

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◆Group Interview◆ 

Wednesday, 19 June 2024 & Thursday, 20 June 2024  

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◆Announcement of Final Results◆ 

(individually notified via the Online Application System) 

10:00 am, Friday, 28 June 2024 

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◆Enrolment Procedures◆ 

Must be completed before Friday, 12 July 2024 

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Entrance Ceremony 

Monday, 2 September 2024 

 

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 by Friday, 26 April 2024.

 

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 remains valid for at least 24 months when applying Student Pass.

 
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, Abitur (Germany), Baccalauréat (France), or GCE (General Certificate of Education) Advanced 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:
  5. Applicants whose qualifications are not listed in categories 1 to 4 in Point 4, but who are deemed to have eligibility equivalent to at least one of the four criteria after individual eligibility screening conducted by the University by Friday, 26 April 2024.
Note 1:
Please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp by Friday, 26 April 2024 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 4 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 by Friday, 26 April 2024 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 in STPM with a minimum of Grade C (GP 2.33) in any 3 subjects including Mathematics.
    UEC
    A pass in UEC with a minimum of Grade B in any 5 subjects including Mathematics.
    A Levels
    At least Grade C in any 3 subjects including Mathematics.
    EJU (Examination for Japanese University Admission for International Students)
    The total score of the 3 subjects including Mathematics must be above the average for the EJU candidate's examination cohort. Likewise, an individual's mathematics score must also be above the cohort average.
    Foundation / Matriculation
    A pass in Foundation / Matriculation with a minimum CGPA of 2.3 out of 4.0 or its equivalent.
    Diploma
    A Diploma (Level 4, MQF) with a minimum CGPA of 2.3 out of 4.0 or its equivalent.
    Note: Applicants with other Year 12 qualifications or equivalent will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
     
  2. English language proficiency (either of the following qualifications)
    MUET
    Band 3 or higher
    IELTS (Academic)
    5.0 or higher
    TOEFL iBT
    61 or higher
    Note 1:
    IELTS or TOEFL test results must be less than two years old 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.

  3. 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.

 
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, 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 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, Wednesday, 19 June 2024
Onsite (KL Campus)
Day 2
9:00 am – 5:00pm, Thursday, 20 June 2024
Onsite (KL Campus)
Note:
The University of Tsukuba will not respond to any individual request regarding the interview schedule under any circumstances.
 
Application Fee Payment

Application Fee: RM100 (non-refundable)

Payment Period: 10:00 am, Tuesday, 30 April 2024 ~ 5:00pm, Friday, 17 May 2024

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: For applicants under category 5) on their eligibility, please DO NOT pay the application fee until the eligibility is confirmed.

Online Application and Documents

Online Application Opens: from 10:00 am, Tuesday, 30 April 2024

Online Application Closes: 5:00 pm, Friday, 17 May 2024

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, 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
  1. Profile
  2. Contacts
  3. Education
  4. Employment (if applicable)
  5. Languages
  6. Activities (if applicable)
2.
Formal photograph
  1. Your photo must not contain other objects or people.
  2. Your photo must be taken against a plain light coloured background.
  3. Your photo must be at least 480 pixels wide and 640 pixels tall.
  4. Your photo must be at least 100KB and no more than 15MB.
  5. Your photo needs to be saved in either JPEG/JPG format.
  6. In your photo you must:
    • be facing forwards and looking straight at the camera.
    • have a neutral expression with 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 / 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 describing (1) your study plan at the University of Tsukuba, Malaysia; and (2) your inerest in the Japanese language and Japanese culture.
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 and essay question in the upper right corner of each page (using header)
8.
Proof of Application Fee Payment
Announcement of Results and Enrolment Procedures

1.Results Announcement

Day & Time of Announcement (First stage): 10:00 am, Thursday, 6 June 2024

Day & Time of Announcement (Final): 10:00 am, Friday, 28 June 2024

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 Friday, 12 July 2024

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 in end of February. Further details will be given to successful applicants.

Semester
Semester 1 (Fall) (Sep - Jan)
Semester 2 (Spring) (Feb - Aug)
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
Mid-September
End of February
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Disclosure of Information about Admission

The university will disclose admission information to applicants upon request from Monday, 2 September 2024 to Thursday, 31 October 2024. For further details please contact the Academic Service Office at utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp

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, by Friday, 26 April 2024.
  4. Application documents and application fees are non-refundable.
  5. If you fail to meet the eligibility requirements by 31 August 2024, 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 of 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

      Academic Service Office for Malaysia Overseas Education Hub

      1-1-1 Tennodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577 Japan

      utmy-kyomu@un.tsukuba.ac.jp