English: Description of Medan State University Logo

The basic shape of the Medan State University (UNIMED) symbol is a circle with five pointed corners, a pentagon, depicting the State Philosophy, namely Pancasila. The stylized green UNIMED symbol is taken from the North Sumatra Flora symbol, namely Kenanga Flower ( Cananga Odorata ) with a philosophical meaning "Wherever it grows, it will always bring fragrance to the environment" in the sense of the word wherever the academic community / alumni are located, they will always bring meaning to their environment. The six ylang flower petals on the outside are interpreted when the IKIP changed into a university consisting of six faculties which will always be responsive to changes according to the demands of the times in the process of educating the nation as mandated by the 1945 Constitution. The shape of the sun in the upper center depicts UNIMED as a center of enlightenment or a source of knowledge in North Sumatra in the formation of the nation's character. The three red flower petals under the sun mean that UNIMED in carrying out its mission is always guided by the Tri Dharma of Higher Education.

The shape of a pen that develops dynamically in white on the green ylang flower depicts the sincerity and determination of the academic community in carrying out its mission.