5.3 – Student access measures

5.3.2 – Policy for Women Applications and Entry

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) provides women’s access schemes and has a policy that ensures fair treatment regarding women’s applications, acceptance and participation at the university. UKM publishes an annual Undergraduate Admission Requirements Booklet for each academic session, serving as a comprehensive guide for prospective applicants. This booklet outlines clear, inclusive policies for all student admissions, specifically emphasizing equitable access and opportunities for women. By providing transparent admission criteria and guidelines, UKM demonstrates its commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, supporting fair access to higher education for all applicants. This initiative underscores UKM’s dedication to reducing inequalities and promoting equal entry opportunities in line with sustainable development goals.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements Booklet UKM Academic Session 2024/2025
Link: Admission Requirement Booklet

• Policy Created: 2023
• Policy Review: 2024

In 2024, UKM recorded 20,679 total applications, with 13,872 from female students, marking a notable increase of over 15% compared to 2023. The proportion of female applicants rose to 67.08%, reflecting growing interest among women in pursuing academic programs at UKM. Out of 6,181 total students accepted, 4,059 were female, translating to a 65.67% female acceptance rate, a steady level that aligns with previous years.

The data demonstrates UKM’s strong commitment to gender inclusivity and equitable access to higher education. From 2022 to 2024, the proportion of female applicants and accepted students consistently represented more than 60% of total applications and admissions, indicating a sustained trend of women’s active participation in higher education.

The table below shows the women’s admission applications and acceptance rate for the year 2022-2024.

Table: Women’s Admission Applications and Acceptance Rate (2022–2024)

Year	Total Student Applications	Total Female Student  Applications	Percentage of Female Student  Application	Total Student Accepted	Total Female Student Accepted	Percentage of Female Student  Accepted
2022	14872	9040	60.79%	6244	4121	66.00%
2023	17958	11110	61.87%	6021	3931	65.29%
2024	20,679	13,872	67.08%	6181	4059	65.67%

In 2024, UKM recorded 20,739 total enrolled students, of which 14,031 were female, representing 67.66% of the total student population. This marks a notable increase from 63.87% in 2022 and reinforces the university’s success in maintaining gender balance in enrollment. The upward trend highlights women’s growing representation and leadership in academia, aligning with UKM’s mission to foster diversity, inclusivity and empowerment through education.

The data reflects UKM’s strong commitment to gender equality and inclusive access to higher education. Over the three-year period, the percentage of female student enrollment consistently exceeded 63%, showing a steady rise in women’s participation across all academic programs.

Table: Yearly Female Student Enrollment in UKM (2022-2024)

Year	Total Number of Students	Total Number of Female Students	Percentage of Female Students
2022	19655	12554	63.87%
2023	20341	13867	68.17%
2024	20739	14031	67.66%

Bar Chart: Yearly Growth of Female Student Enrollment in UKM (2023–2024)

The bar chart illustrates the steady growth of female student enrollment at UKM between 2022 and 2024. The number of female students increased from 12,554 in 2022 to 13,867 in 2023 and further to 14,031 in 2024, reflecting a consistent upward trend. This growth highlights UKM’s ongoing success in promoting gender equality and inclusive access to higher education, aligning with SDG 5 (Gender Equality). The positive trajectory demonstrates the university’s commitment to empowering women through academic opportunities and fostering a balanced, diverse learning environment.