Southeast Asia is becoming one of the most exciting places in the world to study at university. With strong QS rankings, modern campuses and international programmes, students from around the globe are now choosing this region for high‑quality higher education.
In this guide, we’ll look at 14 of the best universities in Southeast Asia, based on QS‑linked rankings for 2025–2026, and why they are popular choices for local and international students.
Why study in Southeast Asia?
World‑class universities that appear in global rankings, especially in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia.
- More affordable living costs compared with many Western countries.
- Strong English‑taught programmes in areas like engineering, business, IT and medicine.
- Diverse cultures, languages and travel opportunities across ASEAN countries.
For students, this means you can get a high‑quality degree while experiencing fast‑growing, innovative cities.
For international students planning campus visits, interviews, or relocation, comparing flight routes and seasonal prices early can help keep overall study costs under control.
1. Singapore’s leading universities
National University of Singapore (NUS)
NUS is consistently ranked as one of the very top universities in Asia and the world. It is especially strong in engineering, computer science, business, law and medicine. The campus offers modern facilities, strong research opportunities and a very international student community.
Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU)
NTU shares the top spot in South‑East Asia in many QS‑based lists and is highly ranked globally. It is known for engineering, technology, science and design, with a beautiful “eco‑campus” and strong links to industry. For students interested in innovation and research, NTU is an excellent choice.
2. Malaysia’s top public and private universities
Malaysia has become a major higher‑education hub, with several universities appearing in the top tier of Southeast Asian rankings.
Universiti Malaya (UM)
UM is Malaysia’s oldest university and regularly appears among the top universities in Asia. It offers a wide range of programmes, including engineering, medicine, social sciences and humanities, and is located in Kuala Lumpur, a lively and student‑friendly city.
Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM)
UPM started as an agricultural university but is now strong in many areas including agriculture, environmental science, engineering and education. Its green campus environment is popular with students who enjoy a mix of nature and modern facilities.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
UKM, also known as the National University of Malaysia, is recognised for research in science, health, social sciences and language studies. It plays an important role in national development and offers many opportunities for community engagement.
Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
UTM specialises in engineering, technology and built environment programmes and is highly regarded in QS regional rankings. Students interested in civil, mechanical, electrical or chemical engineering often consider UTM as a top option.
Taylor’s University
Taylor’s is one of Malaysia’s best‑known private universities and appears in the upper band of Southeast Asia rankings. It is especially strong in hospitality, business, architecture and design, and is known for its modern lakeside campus and industry‑linked teaching.
Students planning to study in Malaysia should also understand how registration, visas, and post-arrival formalities work before finalising their choice.
3. More leading Malaysian universities
UCSI University
UCSI is a fast‑rising private university in Malaysia that now appears in QS regional rankings. It is recognised for programmes in pharmacy, engineering, music and business, and has a strong focus on employability and internships.
Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM)
USM, based in Penang, is known for research in science, engineering, medicine and the humanities. It has been designated as an “Apex” university in Malaysia, meaning it receives extra support to reach world‑class standards.
Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS (UTP)
UTP is owned by Malaysia’s national oil company PETRONAS and focuses on engineering and technology. Its strong industry connections make it attractive for students who want careers in energy, engineering and related fields.
4. Top universities in Indonesia and Thailand
Universitas Indonesia (UI) – Indonesia
UI is one of Indonesia’s oldest and most prestigious universities and appears regularly in the top group of Southeast Asian rankings. It offers programmes in medicine, law, engineering, social sciences and more, with campuses in Depok and Jakarta.
Chulalongkorn University – Thailand
Chulalongkorn University is Thailand’s leading public university and is well‑ranked in Asia. It is respected for its research, international programmes and strong alumni network, especially in business, engineering, medicine and political science.
Universitas Airlangga – Indonesia
Universitas Airlangga, located in Surabaya, is known for its strengths in health sciences, social sciences and law. It has grown rapidly in international rankings and attracts students from across Indonesia and beyond.
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) – Indonesia
UGM in Yogyakarta is another top Indonesian university frequently listed among the best in Southeast Asia. It offers a wide range of programmes and is popular for its vibrant student life and strong community engagement.
How to choose the right Southeast Asian university
When comparing these top 14 universities, students should think about:
Course fit: Does the university offer your preferred programme (for example, engineering, business, medicine, IT or social sciences)?
Language of instruction: Many programmes are taught in English, especially at NUS, NTU and leading Malaysian universities.
Location and lifestyle: Big city campuses like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur feel very different from student‑focused cities like Yogyakarta or Penang.
Budget: Tuition fees and living costs vary by country and by whether the university is public or private.
It’s a good idea to shortlist a few universities, check their official websites for entry requirements and scholarships, and then compare them carefully.
The latest QS‑linked rankings show that Southeast Asia is now home to several universities that compete on a global level.
From cutting‑edge research in Singapore to growing innovation hubs in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, the region offers exciting options for international students.
