Average Living Expenses in Malaysia for International Students

Malaysia is one of the most popular destinations for international students who seek high-quality education at an affordable cost. According to the latest statistics, Malaysia hosts more than 200,000 international students from over 160 countries, making it the 12th preferred education hub in the world. Malaysia offers a wide range of academic programs, from foundation to postgraduate levels, accredited by international bodies and recognized globally. Malaysia’s higher education system is ranked 25th in the world and 2nd in Southeast Asia by the QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings 2020. Moreover, Malaysia is an attractive destination for international students who want to pursue high-quality education at a low cost. Unlike other popular destinations such as the UK, the US, Australia, and Canada, tuition fees and living expenses in Malaysia are much lower, making it quite affordable for the average international student. The average tuition fee for an undergraduate course in Malaysia ranges from 25,176 MYR to 73,377 MYR per year, depending on the type of university and program. The average tuition fee for a postgraduate course ranges from 27,000 MYR to 47,297 MYR per year. Additionally, the average monthly cost of living in Malaysia for international students is estimated to range from 1,200 to 2,500 MYR, which includes accommodation, food, transportation, entertainment, and health care. However, the cost of living can vary depending on the location, lifestyle, and accommodation choices of the student. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of living costs for international students in Malaysia, such as accommodation, food, transportation, entertainment, and health care. We will also compare the costs by major cities, and provide some budgeting tips to help you manage your finances effectively.

Living Expenses in Malaysia: Highlights 

Living Expenses in Malaysia: Breakdown  

The estimated yearly living cost for international students in Malaysia is around 18,000 MYR. This includes the expenses for accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, entertainment, and other miscellaneous items. However, this is only an average estimate and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on the individual situation.

Accommodation

Accommodation is one of the major expenses for international students in Malaysia. The cost of accommodation depends on the type, location, and quality of the housing. Generally, there are three types of accommodation options for international students: on-campus, off-campus, and homestay.

• On-campus accommodation is usually the cheapest and most convenient option, as it is located within the university premises and provides easy access to facilities and services. The average cost of on-campus accommodation ranges from 200 MYR to 600 MYR per month.
• Off-campus accommodation is more expensive and requires more travel time, but it offers more privacy and independence. The average cost of off-campus accommodation ranges from 500 to 1,500 MYR per month. The cost may vary depending on the location, size, and condition of the apartment or house.
• Homestay is another option for international students who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle. Homestay is a type of accommodation where the student lives with a Malaysian family and pays a monthly fee for the room and meals. The average cost of homestay ranges from 800 to 1,200 MYR per month.

Food 

Food is another essential expense for international students in Malaysia. The cost of food depends on the type, quality, and quantity of the food. Self-catering is the cheapest and most flexible option, as it allows the student to cook their own meals and control their budget. The average cost of self-catering ranges from 600 to 900 MYR per month. The cost may vary depending on the type and quantity of groceries purchased. Eating out is more expensive and less healthy, but it offers more variety and convenience. The average cost of eating out ranges from 900 to 1,500 MYR per month. The cost may vary depending on the type and frequency of the restaurants visited.

Transportation 

The cost of transportation depends on the mode, distance, and frequency of travel. Generally, there are three types of transportation options for international students: public transport, taxi, and bicycle.

• Public transport is the most economical and eco-friendly option, as it covers most areas of the country and offers discounted fares for students. The average cost of public transport ranges from 80 to 150 MYR per month. The cost may vary depending on the type and frequency of the buses, trains, or metro used.
• Taxi is the most convenient and comfortable option, but it is also the most expensive and unreliable. The average cost of a taxi ranges from 100 to 300 MYR  per month. 
• Bicycle is the cheapest and healthiest option, but it is also the most limited and unsafe. The average cost of a bicycle ranges from 50 to 100 MYR per month. 

Utilities

Utilities are another essential expense for international students in Malaysia. The cost of utilities depends on the type, usage, and provider of the services. 

Electricity is the most expensive and variable utility, as it depends on the consumption and tariff of the electricity. The average cost of electricity ranges from 100 to 300 MYR  per month. The cost may vary depending on the type and number of appliances used, the duration and frequency of usage, and the peak and off-peak hours of the electricity.

Water is the cheapest and most stable utility, as it depends on the usage and supply of the water. The average cost of water ranges from 20 to 50 MYR per month. The cost may vary depending on the amount and quality of water used, the type and number of faucets and showers used, and the availability and regulation of the water.

Internet costs depend on availability, speed, and coverage. The average cost of the internet ranges from 50 to 150 MYR  per month. The cost may vary depending on the type and provider of the internet service, the bandwidth and data limit of the internet plan, and the usage and demand of the internet.

Entertainment

Entertainment is an optional expense for international students in Malaysia. The cost of entertainment depends on the type, quality, and frequency of the activities. Generally, there are many types of entertainment options for international students, such as movies, nightlife, and travel.

• Movies are one of the most popular and affordable entertainment options, as they offer a wide range of genres and languages. The average cost of movie tickets ranges from 10 to 20 MYR. The cost may vary depending on the type and location of the cinema, the time and day of the show, and the availability and demand of the tickets.
• Nightlife is another exciting and fun entertainment option, as it offers an opportunity to socialize and relax. The average cost of nightlife ranges from 50 to 200 MYR per night. The cost may vary depending on the type and location of the bars, clubs, or pubs, the drinks and food consumed, and the entrance and cover charges applied.
• Travel is another adventurous and educational entertainment option, as it offers a chance to discover the natural and historical attractions of the country. The average cost of travel ranges from 500 to 2,000 MYR per trip. 

Health 

Health insurance is mandatory for international students in Malaysia, and it is a prerequisite for obtaining a student pass. Depending on the level of coverage of the policy, most if not all of the medical expenses would be covered accordingly. Students between 16 and 60 years of age can expect to pay around 500 to 1,000 MYR annually for health insurance, although cheaper alternatives are available. Medical expenses are affordable for everyone and you can easily find government hospitals, private medical centers, or GP clinics in any housing area. A typical visit to the doctor along with the purchase of the relevant medication would cost you approximately 50 MYR. Alternatively, you can tap on-campus medical services as dedicated nurses and sometimes even doctors would usually be on standby to provide services including treating minor illnesses and injuries, and dispensing over-the-counter, one-off medication. 

Suggested Reading: Cost of Medical Studies in Malaysia

City-Wise Living Expenses in Malaysia 

The cost of living in Malaysia varies depending on the city, lifestyle, and personal preferences of the students. Generally, the capital city of Kuala Lumpur is the most expensive, followed by other urban areas such as Penang, Johor Bahru, and Ipoh. For instance, According to Numbeo, the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from 1,000 MYR in Ipoh to 1,600 MYR in Kuala Lumpur.  Rural areas and smaller towns tend to have lower living costs, but they may also have fewer facilities and opportunities for students. Here is a detailed breakdown of the general living costs across major cities in Malaysia. 

Suggested Reading: Scholarships to Study Medicine in Malaysia for International Students

Budgeting Tips for Living Expenses in Malaysia 

Even though the cost of living in Malaysia for international students is relatively low compared to some other major destinations, the costs can still put a hole in your pocket. Many students prefer to work while studying in Malaysia to cover many of the living costs, besides applying for scholarships and other financial aid options. Additionally, here are some factors to consider to reduce your living costs in Malaysia. 

• Research Cost of Living: Before arriving in Malaysia, research the cost of living in different cities and regions where universities are located. Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru, for example, may have varying expenses for accommodation, transportation, and daily necessities.
• Create a Budget Plan: Develop a comprehensive budget plan that outlines your expected income, such as scholarships, part-time work, or financial aid, and anticipated expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and leisure activities. Consider using budgeting apps or spreadsheets to track expenses effectively.
• Opt for Affordable Accommodation: Explore various accommodation options, such as university dormitories, shared apartments, or homestays, to find affordable and suitable living arrangements. Sharing accommodation with roommates can help reduce rental costs significantly.
• Utilize Student Discounts: Take advantage of student discounts offered by universities, public transportation services, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Always carry your student identification card to avail of discounts wherever applicable.
• Cook Meals at Home: Save money by cooking meals at home instead of eating out regularly. Purchase groceries from local markets or supermarkets and prepare homemade meals, which are not only cost-effective but also healthier.
• Use Public Transportation: Malaysia has an extensive network of buses, trains, and LRT (Light Rapid Transit) systems, offering affordable transportation options for students. Consider purchasing monthly or weekly transportation passes to save on commuting costs.
• Limit Non-Essential Expenses: Identify non-essential expenses, such as shopping, entertainment, or travel, and allocate a reasonable amount of your budget for leisure activities. However, exercise moderation to avoid overspending and prioritize essential needs.
• Plan for Emergencies: Set aside a portion of your budget for unexpected expenses or emergencies, such as medical emergencies or unforeseen travel costs. Having a financial safety net can provide peace of mind during challenging situations.
• Stay Informed about Financial Aid: Stay informed about scholarships, grants, or financial aid programs offered by universities, government agencies, or private organizations. Research and apply for relevant opportunities to supplement your finances and reduce the financial burden of studying abroad.

Suggested Reading: Job Opportunities After Medical Studies in Malaysia

Conclusion 

In conclusion, the average living expenses in Malaysia are quite affordable. However, this does not mean that one should choose a university in Malaysia without doing proper research and planning their financial plans carefully. Many factors can affect the cost of living and studying in Malaysia, such as the location, the type and quality of accommodation, the transportation options, the food and entertainment expenses, the tuition fees, and the availability of scholarships and financial aid. Different universities in Malaysia may have different tuition fees and admission requirements, as well as different academic programs and facilities. Therefore, it is important to compare and contrast the various options and choose the one that best suits your academic goals, interests, and budget. By doing proper research and planning your financial plans carefully, you can make a balanced and informed decision. For more information and guidance regarding budgeting and educational options in Malaysia, contact our admission experts at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!