Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is defined by the World Health Organization as the most aggressive form of grade IV glioma, characterized by unrestrained cellular proliferation. microRNAs (miRs) serve important roles in the pathogenesis of GBM. However, the function of miR‑194‑5p in GBM remains unknown. In the present study, the miR‑194‑5p levels in GBM tissues and cells were evaluated using the reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Cellular proliferation was tested by MTT analysis. Cellular apoptosis was analyzed by fluorescence‑activated cell sorting. The protein level of insulin‑like growth factor 1 receptor, the target gene of miR‑194‑5p, was evaluated by western blotting. The interaction between miR‑194‑5p and the target gene was confirmed by the dual‑luciferase reporter assay. It was demonstrated that miR‑194‑5p inhibited cell growth and promoted apoptosis. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated the tumor suppressive role of miR‑194‑5p.