Frequently Asked Questions

The distinction between UPNM and other higher education institutions in Malaysia lies in its status as a ’Boutique University’ with a specialized focus on national defence and security. UPNM is also committed to becoming a premier defence university in leadership and professional development, as well as in the creation of knowledge, the dissemination of knowledge, and the application of defence science and technology, including policy research.

(i) High graduate employability:

(ii) Highly sought after by both the private and public sectors due to strong competencies, professionalism, and exemplary personal character.

(iii) The uniqueness of UPNM’s student categories, namely ALK Cadet Officers, PALAPES students, and Civilian students, making it the only public university in Malaysia with such a diverse student structure.

The challenge of being a Cadet Officer at the Military Training Academy (ALK) lies in the need for strong mental and physical resilience, as ALK aims to produce Cadet Officers who excel in both academic and military training. In addition, civilian students have the option to join the Reserve Officers Training Unit (PALAPES) if they are interested.

Holistic in nature, with a balanced emphasis on academic excellence and physical strength, resilient in sports, and capable of effectively managing time between academic responsibilities and military training. Students must be adept at time management, with discipline being the key foundation for success at UPNM.

Civilian students at UPNM are required to attend lectures from 8.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. If additional classes are scheduled from 8.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m., attendance is mandatory. Outside lecture hours, civilian students are free to engage in activities in accordance with campus regulations and guidelines set by HEPA. Civilian students who have matters to attend to off campus are permitted to leave the campus, provided they return before 10.00 p.m.

The lifestyle of ALK Cadet Officers is significantly different when compared to students at other public universities. ALK Cadet Officers attend lectures from 8.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m., followed by a break for rest, meals, and prayers from 1.00 p.m. to 2.00 p.m. Lectures then resume from 2.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. Beyond these hours, Cadet Officers are required to participate in activities organized by ALK. In the evening, Cadet Officers who are scheduled for additional or replacement classes must attend sessions from 8.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. On other days, Cadet Officers are required to engage in self-study and revision, in addition to undergoing ALK military training. ALK Cadet Officers are not permitted to leave the campus freely and may only do so with the approval of ALK and HEPA.

For ALK Cadet Officers, they must graduate with a CGPA of 2.70 or above to be commissioned as a Junior Lieutenant in the Malaysian Armed Forces. Civilian students, on the other hand, are eligible to join the public sector or the corporate sector.

ALK Cadet Officer (including allowance)

Year 1: RM 2,305.00

Year 2: RM 2,655.00

Year 3: RM 2,780.00

Year 4: RM 2,340.00

Year 5: RM 3,030.00

Year 6: RM 3,155.00