Living Cost - Malaysia

According to available information, the average monthly living cost for international students in Malaysia including accommodation, food, transportation, and utilities, ranges around RM 1,700 to RM 2,600. This cost varies depending on the city you choose to live in.

The following data gives you an average/approximate number of the Cost of Living for International Students in Malaysia.

CategoryMalaysia (Per Month)Remarks
Accommodation CostsRM2500Main cities
 RM1500Other than main cities
Food ExpensesRM270Grocery
 RM40Eating out
Transportation CostRM92Public Transport pass
EntertainmentRM100 
Basic UtilitiesRM268 

Note: The above-mentioned values are approximate and tend to vary based on location, currency conversion rates, lifestyle choices etc.,

City-Specific Costs

Living expenses depends on the location:

Kuala Lumpur: A single person’s monthly expenses, excluding rent,would be approximately RM2600 

Penang: Estimated monthly expenses, excluding rent, are around RM2,400. 

Johor Bahru: Monthly costs, excluding rent, are approximately RM2,390.

High-Quality Education and Internationally Recognized Degrees:

Malaysia hosts prestigious universities, including Universiti Malaya (UM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), and Taylor’s University.

Numerous international universities have set up branch campuses in Malaysia, such as:

  1. Monash University Malaysia (Australia)
  2. University of Nottingham Malaysia (UK)
  3. Heriot-Watt University Malaysia (UK)

This enables students to obtain an international degree at a significantly lower cost in comparison to studying in their home country.

Affordable Tuition Fees and Cost of Living:

In contrast to Western nations, tuition fees in Malaysia are considerably lower, rendering education more attainable.

The living expenses are also budget-friendly, with housing, meals, and transportation being less expensive than in many other educational locations.

Many students are able to live well in Kuala Lumpur or other cities for approximately $400–$800 each month.

Post-Study Work and Career Opportunities:

Malaysia possesses a developing economy with prospects in fields such as business, engineering, IT, and tourism.

International students have the option to seek internships and part-time employment to acquire experience.

Numerous multinational corporations function in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor, offering career opportunities post-graduation.

Scholarships:

Malaysia is a country that is welcoming to students and provides numerous scholarships, donations, and financial assistance programs for international learners. Numerous universities provide Malaysia scholarships for the top selections of applicable subjects. Malaysia ranks among the leading study destinations for international students. Government and University Specific Scholarships are available.

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