Table of Contents
Introduction of Putra Business School
Putra Business School Malaysia is a premier business school offering postgraduate-level education with a strong emphasis on leadership, innovation, and real-world business application. The institution is particularly well-known for its MBA and executive programmes
What Makes Putra Business School Unique for International Students?
- Strong focus on leadership and management education
- Industry-oriented curriculum with real case studies
- International academic exposure and global faculty
- Strategic location with excellent connectivity
- Supportive environment for international students
Quick Facts about Putra Business School
| Category | Details |
| Institution Type | Graduate Business School |
| Location | Malaysia |
| Campus Style | Modern, professional campus |
| Academic Focus | Business, Management, Leadership |
| Language of Instruction | English |
History & Background
Putra Business School (PBS) is an autonomous private business school located within Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in Serdang, Selangor. It was formerly known as the UPM Graduate School of Management (GSM). Following a Cabinet decision to elevate the status of business schools in Malaysia, PBS was renamed from GSM at the UPM Board of Directors meeting on 6 July 2011.
The Yayasan Putra Business School was established as a not-for-profit foundation on 23 August 2011 to bring PBS into existence and manage the school. The Ministry of Higher Education invited the foundation to establish PBS on 19 December 2011, and its education licence was issued on 9 October 2012. PBS subsequently became an autonomous institution of higher learning under the Private Higher Educational Institutions Act 1996 (Act 555).
A Memorandum of Agreement between UPM and Yayasan Putra Business School was signed on 31 December 2012. Through this arrangement, UPM granted the foundation a licence to offer and conduct postgraduate programmes to UPM's established standards, including MBA, Master of Science and PhD programmes, while also allowing PBS to use UPM facilities.
Mission and Vision
The vision of Putra Business School is “To be a leading business school in the region, fulfilling global expectations.” Its mission focuses on producing business graduates who meet the needs of the business community while developing innovative and socially responsible leaders capable of responding to changes in the global environment.
The school also aims to contribute to the advancement of relevant knowledge in business management by leveraging respected experts and to foster long-term relationships with industries and communities to create sustainable impact.
Human Governance Philosophy
A distinctive part of Putra Business School Malaysia is its founding philosophy of Human Governance. PBS describes human governance as an approach that places human behaviour, ethical conduct, values, and principles at the centre of governance. The school believes that responsible corporate governance develops from responsible human behaviour within organisations.
PBS's charter states that the school was established to provide higher education with the aim of nurturing human leaders who subscribe to human governance and are developed as “whole persons.” Its core values are Wholeness, Oneness, and Excellence, which form the philosophical pillars of its Human Governance concept.
Campus Environment & Facilities
Putra Business School Malaysia is located within the Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) campus in Serdang, Selangor. The school describes its setting as a tranquil academic environment situated between Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. Students have access to dedicated PBS facilities as well as selected facilities and services provided by UPM.
Key Facilities at Putra Business School
Putra Business School provides dedicated facilities designed to support teaching, independent study, and student activities. These include:
- Lecture and Tutorial Rooms: Dedicated spaces for classroom teaching and academic sessions.
- Resource Centre: The PBS Resource Centre provides basic library facilities, while students and staff can also access the UPM Library through the school's affiliation with UPM.
- Computer Room: A dedicated computer facility is available to support students' academic and learning requirements.
- Carrel Rooms: PBS provides reservable carrel rooms for enrolled students who require a quiet space for individual study.
- Student Lounge: A designated student lounge is available on campus, with access subject to classes and facility arrangements.
Library & Academic Resources
Students at Putra Business School can access both the PBS Resource Centre and the wider UPM Library. The UPM Library has a collection of approximately 670,000 volumes of books and bound journals, along with other academic materials. Students can also use the EZaccess system to access subscribed online databases and journals.
The PBS Carrel Room provides an additional study facility for active students. Reservations are handled by the PBS Facilities Department and are subject to the school's usage guidelines.
Student Services & Support
The PBS Student Service Centre operates as a one-stop centre for students and provides administrative support throughout their studies. Its services include admission and registration assistance, class scheduling, academic record management, examination administration, graduation requirement guidance, and the issuance of transcripts and certificates.
For research students, PBS also provides administrative assistance related to supervisory committees, thesis or project paper supervision, examinations, and other academic procedures.
Facilities Available Through Universiti Putra Malaysia
Through its close affiliation with Universiti Putra Malaysia, Putra Business School Malaysia students can access selected UPM facilities and services. These include the UPM Library, Health Centre, and Sports Complex. This affiliation provides students with access to resources beyond the dedicated PBS campus facilities.
International Student Environment
Putra Business School has an international student community. According to the school's international student handbook, PBS hosts students from multiple countries, while its current student handbook continues to provide dedicated information for international students. The school also provides international student guidance covering areas related to studying and living in Malaysia.
Location & Nearby Amenities
The PBS campus is located in Serdang, Selangor, between Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The surrounding area provides access to healthcare facilities, shopping centres, supermarkets, and other everyday amenities. PBS specifically highlights nearby destinations such as Serdang Hospital, IOI City Mall, The Mines, and AEON.
Faculties & Academic Programmes
Putra Business School Malaysia focuses on postgraduate business education, research, and executive development. Its current academic portfolio includes MBA programmes, a Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration, Master of Science programmes, PhD programmes, and a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) offered through Open and Distance Learning. The school also provides executive development and micro-credential programmes for professional learners.
Academic Focus Areas
The academic programmes at Putra Business School cover a range of business and management disciplines, including:
- General Management and Leadership – The MBA develops managerial and leadership skills and focuses on helping students drive organisational change and achieve business objectives as value-driven leaders.
- Corporate Governance – The MBA in Corporate Governance focuses on corporate governance practices and navigating ethical and regulatory frameworks in public and private corporate settings.
- Human Potential Management – This specialisation focuses on managing and optimising talent to support long-term organisational growth and productivity.
- Marketing – The MBA in Marketing covers knowledge and skills for developing and delivering marketing campaigns that support business objectives.
- Finance – The MBA in Finance develops knowledge of financial management together with analytical and practical skills for strategic financial decision-making.
- International Business – This programme covers international business practices, cross-cultural management, multinational logistics, and global strategy.
- Research and Business Analytics – PBS's programmes include business research methods, business intelligence and analytics systems, and research-based master's and doctoral study.
Major Programmes Offered at Putra Business School
Putra Business School currently offers several postgraduate and professional study options.
Coursework Programmes
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- MBA in Corporate Governance
- MBA in Human Potential Management
- MBA in Marketing
- MBA in Finance
- MBA in International Business
- MBA – Open and Distance Learning (ODL)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration
Research Programmes
- Master of Science
- PhD in Management
- PhD in Marketing
- PhD in Accounting
- PhD in Finance
Mixed-Mode Programme
- Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – Open and Distance Learning (ODL)
Executive & Professional Development
- Executive Development Programmes
- Micro-Credential Programmes
Executive Development & Micro-Credentials
Beyond its postgraduate qualifications, Putra Business School Malaysia operates executive development programmes through its training arm. Its offerings include management and leadership programmes, in-house training, intervarsity student engagement, micro-credential courses, and executive programmes.
PBS states that its executive development programmes are supported by industry partnerships, professional trainers, and learning materials designed around real-world business practices. Its micro-credential programmes consist of bite-sized modules that can either form part of an accredited programme or be taken as standalone courses.
Teaching, Learning & International Exposure
The teaching approach at Putra Business School combines business knowledge with practical and research-oriented learning. For example, the MBA curriculum includes subjects such as Strategic Management, Business Research Method, Business Intelligence and Analytics Systems, Sustainable Supply Chain Management, International Business Management and Policy, and Leadership Theories and Practices.
The school also provides international exposure through its Student Mobility Programme, which enables students to participate in cultural and academic activities with partner universities around the world and develop cross-cultural competencies.
Scholarships & Financial Support
Putra Business School provides scholarships and financial-aid options to support eligible students pursuing postgraduate business education. The current PBS scholarship is designed for deserving students and provides a tuition-fee waiver subject to eligibility and scholarship conditions. PBS also lists several external financial-aid and education-financing options for eligible students.
Putra Business School Scholarship
The Putra Business School scholarship provides a 50% waiver of tuition fees for the duration of the student's programme at PBS. According to the current scholarship information, the scholarship is available to Malaysian students who meet the specified requirements for the eligible programmes.
The scholarship currently covers students enrolled in:
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- MBA – Open and Distance Learning (MBA-ODL)
- Doctor of Business Administration – Open and Distance Learning (DBA-ODL)
Scholarship Eligibility and Selection
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the relevant PBS programme and satisfy the scholarship conditions. The selection process considers factors including:
- Professional experience
- Leadership and extracurricular activities
- Financial need
- English communication and interpersonal abilities
- Self-motivation and ambition
- Potential impact
Scholarship recipients must maintain a minimum CGPA of 3.50 throughout their programme and participate in activities required by PBS. The scholarship is awarded at the discretion of the PBS Scholarship Committee.
Financial Aid Options at Putra Business School
In addition to its scholarship, Putra Business School Malaysia lists several financial-support options on its official website:
- EPF Education Withdrawal Scheme: Eligible individuals may withdraw savings from EPF Account 2 to finance programme fees, subject to EPF requirements.
- Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp): Eligible Malaysian applicants may seek employer approval to apply for applicable HRD Corp grants.
- MARA Education Loan Scheme: Malaysian graduates may apply for financing for postgraduate studies at recognised institutions, subject to MARA requirements.
- Khazanah Scholarship Programme: Eligible Malaysian citizens and citizens of other Asian countries may explore the relevant Yayasan Khazanah scholarship programmes.
Financial Support for International Students
The current PBS FAQ states that the PBS scholarship is currently offered to local students. Therefore, international students should not be described as eligible for the PBS scholarship unless PBS confirms otherwise. International applicants can explore other funding arrangements applicable to their circumstances.
Scholarship Conditions
The scholarship does not cover every cost associated with studying at PBS. According to the official scholarship terms, application, registration, resource, assessment, moderation and applicable partner-university fees are excluded. The scholarship also cannot be combined with another fee discount such as the Alumni Discount.
PBS states that scholarship information and conditions may be changed without prior notice, so applicants should check the latest requirements and deadlines directly with the school before applying.
Putra Business School Fees
The fees at Putra Business School Malaysia vary by programme, study mode and student status. The university notes that displayed fees for international students do not include visa fees, while a 6% SST applies to higher education services for non-Malaysian citizens. PBS also states that its fees are subject to change.
MBA Programme Fees
| Programme | Local Full-Time | Local Part-Time | International |
|---|---|---|---|
| MBA (Marketing) | RM33,750 | RM35,750 | RM38,450 |
| MBA (Human Potential Management) | RM33,750 | RM35,750 | RM38,450 |
| MBA (Corporate Governance) | RM29,250 | RM31,250 | RM33,950 |
| MBA | RM29,250 | RM31,250 | RM33,950 |
| MBA (International Business) | RM29,250 | RM31,250 | RM33,950 |
| MBA (Finance) | RM29,250 | RM31,250 | RM33,950 |
Source: Official PBS MBA programme brochure. These figures are from the official brochure currently indexed by PBS, dated 2023, so they should be treated as brochure figures rather than guaranteed 2026 fees.
MBA – Open and Distance Learning Fees
| Programme | Fee |
|---|---|
| MBA – Open and Distance Learning (ODL) | RM26,600 |
The official PBS ODL brochure lists the programme fee as RM26,600, with a study duration of 1 year 8 months.
Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration Fees
PBS currently lists the Postgraduate Certificate in Business Administration as a programme offered in full-time, part-time and international formats. However, the current official programme page displays the fee breakdown as images rather than searchable text.
An older official PBS Student Handbook gives the following full-time local fee breakdown:
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Fee | RM300 |
| Registration Fee | RM150 |
| Alumni Fee | RM100 |
| Administration Fee | RM1,000 |
| Tuition Fee | RM10,500 |
| Convocation Fee | RM700 |
| Grand Total | RM12,750 |
Because this breakdown comes from an older PBS handbook, it should not be presented as the current 2026 fee without confirmation from PBS.
Master of Science Fees
The current PBS Master of Science page includes a fee section, but the actual fee figures are displayed as images and are not available as searchable text in the official page. The university states that fees exclude visa fees for international students and that 6% SST applies to higher education services for non-Malaysian citizens.
Current fee: Contact PBS / verify the fee displayed on the official programme page before publishing.
PhD Programme Fees
PBS currently offers PhD programmes in:
- PhD in Accounting
- PhD in Finance
- PhD in Management
- PhD in Marketing
The official PBS admissions page confirms these programmes, but the current fee figures are displayed through programme-page images rather than searchable text.
Current fee: Contact PBS / verify the fee displayed on the official programme page before publishing.
Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) – ODL Fees
The Doctor of Business Administration – Open and Distance Learning Mode is currently offered by PBS with March and September intakes. Its current programme page contains a fee section, but the fee figures are presented as images rather than searchable text.
Current fee: Contact PBS / verify the fee displayed on the official programme page before publishing.
Additional Fees
For applicants without a business or management background, PBS states that a Pre-Requisite Course (PRC) is compulsory and costs RM500. This requirement is listed on the current MBA, MSc and DBA programme pages.
PBS also lists:
- Local application processing fee: RM60
- International application processing fee: RM150
- International student fees: Visa fees are excluded.
- International students: 6% SST applies to higher education services.
- MBA Digital Marketing certification: Additional RM1,200 if the student chooses the certification.
- MBA ISCEA certification: Additional USD500/RM2,500 payable directly to the relevant certification provider before the examination.
Note: Putra Business School reserves the right to change programme fees and other information without prior notice. Always verify the latest fee with PBS before final publication.
Student Life & International Community
Student life at Putra Business School extends beyond classroom learning through student activities, industry visits, knowledge-sharing sessions, business competitions, alumni engagement and international mobility opportunities. PBS also provides opportunities for students to interact with peers, academics, industry professionals and partner universities.
International Student Community
Putra Business School Malaysia has an international student and academic community. PBS welcomes international students and has hosted international delegations involving students and academics from countries including India, Indonesia and China. The school also provides international mobility opportunities through its partner universities.
Student Mobility Programme
The PBS Student Mobility Programme provides opportunities for students to study abroad for one or two semesters at international partner universities and earn credits towards their PBS degree. The programme is designed to provide cultural immersion, international academic experience and cross-cultural learning.
PBS lists partner institutions from countries and regions including Bangladesh, China, France, Indonesia, Japan, Pakistan, Thailand, Uzbekistan and other locations. Outbound students must normally have completed at least one trimester at PBS and have a minimum CGPA of 3.00 out of 4.00.
Industry Visits and Business Activities
Students at Putra Business School can participate in industry visits and business-related activities. Recent activities listed by PBS include visits to Bursa Malaysia, Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), Northport (Malaysia) Berhad, Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and iCapital Investor Day.
PBS also records student participation in business competitions, including the SCG Bangkok Business School Challenge and SGC Bangkok Business Challenge.
Knowledge-Sharing Sessions and Talks
PBS organises sharing sessions where students and members of the wider PBS community can learn about industry knowledge, perspectives and professional experience while connecting with professionals and organisations. Topics featured by PBS include beneficial ownership, workplace management, corporate governance, organisational behaviour and strategic operational risk management.
The school also conducts a 30-Minute Talk Series, featuring research- and thesis-based sessions led by PBS lecturers and researchers. Topics include business research, literature reviews, questionnaire design, sustainability and research methods.
Student & Alumni Engagement
The PBS Student & Alumni Association (PSAA) contributes to student and alumni engagement through activities such as industry visits, knowledge-sharing initiatives, team-building sessions, dinner events, blood donation drives and the ConnectED Networking Day Series.
Why Choose Putra Business School
Putra Business School offers postgraduate business education with international accreditation, industry connections, a Human Governance philosophy and access to the wider academic environment of Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM). Its programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), while PBS itself holds AACSB accreditation and institutional membership with the Business Graduates Association (BGA).
- AACSB-Accredited Business School: Putra Business School holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). PBS states that it became the first postgraduate business school in Malaysia to receive AACSB accreditation in 2012.
- MQA-Accredited Programmes: PBS states that its programmes are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education.
- Industry-Driven Education: PBS maintains collaborations with professional and industry organisations including the Financial Planning Association of Malaysia (FPAM), Institute of Marketing Malaysia (IMM), International Supply Chain Education Alliance Malaysia (ISCEA MY), Malaysian Institute of Human Resource Management (MIHRM), MAICSA and Digital Marketing Institute (DMI) International.
- Human Governance Philosophy: The school's educational approach is based on Human Governance, with an emphasis on human behaviour, values and ethical conduct. PBS identifies Wholeness, Oneness and Excellence as its core values.
- Learning from Industry Practitioners: Through its PBS Professor of Practice initiative, the school brings experienced industry professionals into the classroom to share practical knowledge and experience with students.
- International Exposure: Through its Student Mobility Programme and international university partnerships, students can gain academic and cultural exposure through study opportunities at partner institutions. PBS also has a diverse international student community.
- Access to UPM Facilities: Located within the Universiti Putra Malaysia campus in Serdang, Putra Business School Malaysia students can access PBS facilities as well as selected UPM facilities, including the university library, health centre and sports complex.
- Putra Business School Ranking: The Putra Business School ranking information published by PBS includes its performance in international business-school rankings. PBS states that its MBA was ranked No. 23 in Asia and No. 1 in Malaysia in the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025. Its MBA (Open and Distance Learning Mode) was ranked No. 1 in Malaysia, No. 9 in Asia-Pacific and in the global Top 100 in the QS Online MBA Rankings 2026, according to PBS. PBS also states that it has received 3 Palmes of Excellence in the Eduniversal Business School Rankings since 2016.
- Professional and Academic Development: Students can benefit from PBS's industry-oriented programmes, professional collaborations and activities such as industry visits, knowledge-sharing sessions and the 30-Minute Talk Series. These activities provide opportunities to engage with academic researchers and professionals beyond regular coursework.
Admission Process for International Students
Putra Business School Malaysia welcomes international students to its postgraduate programmes. Applicants must meet the academic and English-language requirements of their chosen programme and complete the required application and documentation process. PBS publishes separate application deadlines for international applicants across its coursework, research and DBA programmes.
Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility requirements depend on the programme selected. For example, applicants to the MBA are required to meet the programme's specified academic qualification requirements. International applicants must also meet the English-language requirements set by PBS.
| English Competency Test | Type of Examination | Minimum Score |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL | Paper-based Test (PBT) | 550 |
| TOEFL | Internet-based Test (iBT) | 4.5 |
| IELTS | IELTS | Band 6.0 |
| MUET | MUET | Band 4.0 |
| Pearson Test of English (PTE) | PTE Academic / PTE Academic Online | 59 |
| Cambridge English Qualifications and Tests | Linguaskill Online | 169 |
| ELS | Certified Intensive English Programme (CIEP) | Level 109 |
These minimum scores are specified by PBS for international applicants to its graduate programmes.
Important English Language Requirement Conditions
- The English language requirements apply to international applicants.
- An international applicant who scores below the stated minimum may be considered for conditional admission to a graduate programme.
- An international applicant who has obtained a degree from a public university or established private university in Malaysia is exempt from the English language proficiency requirement.
English Language Tests Accepted by Putra Business School
- TOEFL: PBS recognises the Test of English as a Foreign Language, which assesses English skills relevant to academic settings.
- IELTS: The International English Language Testing System evaluates four core skills: listening, reading, writing and speaking.
- MUET: The Malaysian University English Test is administered by the Malaysian Examinations Council and is accepted by universities in Malaysia and Singapore.
- PTE: Pearson Test of English is a computer-based assessment of academic-level speaking, writing, reading and listening skills.
- Cambridge English: PBS recognises Cambridge English qualifications and tests, including Linguaskill Online.
- ELS CIEP: The Certified Intensive English Programme offered by ELS Language Centres is recognised by the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education for university admission and provides an alternative pathway to standardised English tests.
For programmes such as the MBA, applicants without a business or management background must complete the Pre-Requisite Course (PRC) before or while pursuing their studies. PBS currently lists the PRC fee as RM500.
Documents Required for International Students
PBS's official International Student Handbook states that international applicants must complete the application and submit the required supporting documents. The documented requirements include:
- Completed online application
- Four recent passport-size photographs
- Passport with validity of more than one year
- A photocopy of the passport, including all pages and blank pages
- Certified true copies of relevant academic transcripts and examination results
Applicants should ensure that all information and supporting documents are complete before submission to avoid delays.
Additional documents may be required depending on the programme and the applicant's qualifications. Therefore, applicants should follow the document checklist provided during the PBS application process.
Step-by-Step Application Process
1. Choose a programme
Select the appropriate programme from the postgraduate offerings at Putra Business School, such as the MBA, MBA specialisations, MBA-ODL, MSc, PhD or DBA-ODL, depending on your academic background and eligibility.
2. Check the admission requirements
Review the academic and English-language requirements for the selected programme. International applicants should also check any programme-specific requirements before submitting an application.
3. Submit the online application and documents
PBS uses an online application process. Applicants should register an account and complete the application according to the checklist provided by PBS.
4. Pay the application processing fee
PBS currently lists an RM150 processing fee for international applicants. The processing fee is non-refundable.
5. Receive the admission decision
After the application and supporting documents have been assessed, eligible applicants proceed according to PBS's admission process and offer requirements.
6. Complete the student-pass process
International students must complete the applicable Malaysian student-pass and immigration requirements. PBS's international-student information states that student-pass arrangements involve Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS). PBS also states that international students must have insurance throughout their studies, which is organised through EMGS.
7. Complete registration and begin your studies
After fulfilling the admission and student-pass requirements, students complete the required registration procedures and commence their programme at PBS.
Career Prospects & Alumni
Putra Business School supports students' professional development through industry-oriented education, professional-body collaborations and alumni engagement. Its Alumni Unit works on initiatives that provide opportunities for students to develop career and life skills, while also maintaining relationships with graduates after completion of their studies.
Career Development at Putra Business School
The Alumni Unit at Putra Business School Malaysia develops initiatives and programmes aimed at supporting students' career and life skills. It also gathers feedback from students, graduates and alumni to understand their needs and develop relevant programmes with practical outcomes.
PBS also maintains partnerships with professional and industry organisations. The school states that these university-industry linkages expose graduates to employability opportunities and help strengthen their professional recognition.
Industry and Professional Exposure
Students can gain exposure to professionals and industry practitioners through PBS's Professor of Practice initiative. Industry figures are invited to share their knowledge and experience with students, connecting academic learning with professional perspectives.
PBS also works with professional organisations such as the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) and the Institute of Marketing Malaysia (IMM). These collaborations are intended to add value to students' qualifications and professional development.
Alumni Network and Career Connections
The Putra Business School Alumni Unit aims to maintain relationships with graduates and provide opportunities for alumni to connect with former classmates and build networks for personal and career development. PBS describes its alumni community as a global network of people who live and work in different parts of the world.
PBS's alumni stories also document graduates using their education for career advancement, entrepreneurship, professional development and leadership-related roles. For example, its published alumni profiles include an accounting-firm owner, entrepreneurs, managers and professionals working in areas including human resources, marketing, aviation and business management.
Examples of Alumni Career Outcomes
The official PBS alumni stories provide examples of graduates who have:
- Started or managed businesses: Nur Hairani Zainuddin is featured as the owner of an accounting firm, while Jasur Hasanov is profiled for his work in startups, innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Advanced in professional careers: Several PBS alumni describe using their MBA education to strengthen their industry knowledge, professional networks and career development.
- Worked in management and leadership roles: PBS profiles graduates and alumni with experience in general management, human resources, marketing and other professional areas.
- Built international professional connections: International alumni testimonials highlight learning alongside classmates from different countries and developing cross-border friendships and professional connections.
Putra Business School Employability
The Putra Business School ranking ranked best in Malaysia in the categories of Thought Leadership, Return on Investment and Employability. This ranking relate specifically to the MBA and should not be interpreted as a ranking of all PBS programmes or all alumni career outcomes.
Global Alumni Community
Putra Business School Malaysia maintains an alumni community that extends beyond Malaysia. The school describes its alumni network as a global community and publishes individual success stories from Malaysian and international graduates. PBS also maintains international partnerships with institutions in countries including Indonesia, China and other regions, supporting its broader international academic network.
Living in Selangor, Malaysia
Selangor is one of Malaysia’s most developed and well-connected states and surrounds Kuala Lumpur, the country’s capital. It includes major urban areas such as Shah Alam, Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya and Klang, offering students access to universities, shopping centres, healthcare facilities, public transport, restaurants and recreational spaces. Its location within the Klang Valley also makes it convenient for students who want to explore Kuala Lumpur and nearby areas.
Key Highlights
- Well-Connected Location: Selangor surrounds Kuala Lumpur and forms part of the wider Klang Valley urban area. Students living in Selangor can access Kuala Lumpur and other nearby cities for education, shopping, entertainment and social activities.
- Public Transport: Selangor is served by various public transportation options, including MRT, LRT, KTM commuter trains and buses, depending on the area. Students can also use e-hailing services for shorter or less direct journeys.
- Access to Kuala Lumpur: Several parts of Selangor are located close to Kuala Lumpur, making it possible for students to travel into the capital for shopping, dining, entertainment and cultural experiences.
- Major Urban Areas: Students can choose to live in areas such as Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam, Subang Jaya and Klang, depending on their university location, accommodation preferences and daily commute.
- Diverse Food Options: Selangor has a multicultural population and offers a wide variety of Malay, Chinese, Indian and international cuisines. Students can find food at local restaurants, food courts, cafés, markets and shopping malls.
- Shopping & Entertainment: The state has numerous shopping malls, cinemas, restaurants, cafés and recreational facilities. Its Healthcare Facilities: proximity to Kuala Lumpur also gives students access to some of Malaysia's major shopping and entertainment destinations.
- Accommodation Choices: International students can choose from university accommodation, student residences, rented rooms and shared apartments, depending on the location and their budget. Accommodation costs generally vary according to the area, facilities and distance from the university.
- Tropical Climate: Selangor has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures, high humidity and rainfall throughout much of the year. Students should be prepared for hot and humid weather as well as periodic heavy rain.
- Healthcare Facilities: Selangor has access to a wide range of hospitals, clinics and healthcare facilities, particularly around its larger urban centres. Students should check whether their university provides specific healthcare or insurance arrangements for international students.
- Multicultural Environment: Living in Selangor allows international students to experience Malaysia's multicultural environment, with Malay, Chinese, Indian and other communities contributing to the state's food, festivals, languages and everyday culture.
- Convenient Student Lifestyle: With universities, public transport, accommodation, shopping, dining and recreational facilities available across its urban areas, Selangor provides an environment where international students can combine their studies with a convenient city-based lifestyle.
Putra Business School Ranking, Affiliations & Recognition
Rankings
- QS Global MBA Rankings: Putra Business School was ranked #1 in Malaysia, #23 in Asia and 151–200 globally in the QS Global MBA Rankings. PBS states that these results were announced in September 2024.
- QS Online MBA Rankings: PBS reports that it was ranked #1 in Malaysia, #9 in Asia-Pacific and 76–100 globally in the QS Online MBA Rankings 2023.
- Eduniversal Business School Ranking: PBS has received 3 Palmes of Excellence in the Eduniversal Business School Rankings since 2016.
Key Affiliations & Recognition
- Relationship with UPM: Putra Business School was established as an autonomous business school with full-fledged university status in 2012. It maintains formal governance links with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), including representation from UPM in PBS governance structures.
- AACSB Accreditation: PBS holds AACSB accreditation, an international accreditation for business schools. PBS and UPM were among the first education entities in Malaysia to receive AACSB accreditation in 2012, with subsequent reaccreditation.
- Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA): PBS programmes are listed in the Malaysian Qualifications Register, including MBA, MSc and PhD qualifications.
- Ministry of Higher Education: PBS states that its programmes are endorsed by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) and the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education.
- Business Graduates Association: PBS holds institutional membership with the Business Graduates Association (BGA), providing connections with an international community of business schools.
Conclusion
Putra Business School Malaysia is an excellent choice for students seeking high-quality business education, leadership development, and global exposure. With strong academic foundations, international recognition, and practical learning, PBS prepares students for impactful careers worldwide.
Interested in studying at Putra Business School?
Explore courses, check admission requirements, and apply today to advance your business career in Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Putra Business School
1. Does Putra Business School offer micro-credential courses?
Yes. Putra Business School offers micro-credential courses for students and working professionals who want to develop specific business and management skills. Depending on the course, these can be completed through online or physical learning formats.
2. Can working professionals study at Putra Business School without enrolling in a full postgraduate programme?
Yes. Putra Business School offers executive development and micro-credential courses that allow working professionals to develop specific skills without immediately enrolling in a full postgraduate degree.
3. Does Putra Business School provide dedicated study spaces for students?
Yes. Putra Business School provides Carrel Rooms that enrolled students can reserve for individual study and academic work, subject to the school's booking and usage guidelines.
4. Can PBS students use the Universiti Putra Malaysia library?
Yes. Through its relationship with Universiti Putra Malaysia, PBS students and staff can access the UPM Library and its academic resources, including books, journals, online databases and other subscribed academic materials.
5. Does Putra Business School recognise academic excellence among graduating students?
Yes. Putra Business School presents Academic Excellence Awards to outstanding graduating students. The awards recognise academic achievement and are presented during the PBS Convocation Ceremony.
6. What research opportunities are available to postgraduate students at Putra Business School?
Postgraduate students can participate in research activities such as the Putra Business School Research (PURE) Colloquium. The event provides students with opportunities to present their research and receive feedback from academic and expert panels.
7. Can students transfer credits from PBS micro-credential courses to a full academic programme?
Yes. Putra Business School states that completed micro-credential courses may provide academic credit that can be transferred towards a relevant academic programme, subject to applicable programme requirements.
8. Can students from other universities study at Putra Business School for a short period?
Yes. Putra Business School offers an inbound student mobility option through which students from other institutions can study at PBS as non-graduating students for one or two semesters.
9. Does Putra Business School have students from different countries?
Yes. Putra Business School has an international student community comprising students from multiple countries. The school provides international student information and mobility opportunities that support a multicultural academic environment.
10. Does the 6% SST apply to international students at Putra Business School?
Yes. Putra Business School states that a 6% Sales and Service Tax (SST) applies to education services provided to non-Malaysian citizens. Applicants should check the latest PBS fee and SST information because applicable charges and regulations may change.





