Cost of Living in Malaysia for International Students 2025

Did you know that Malaysia ranks 7th in Asia and 33rd globally in the QS World Future Skills Index 2025, making it a popular study destination for international students due to its affordable cost of living.  

With top universities students have access to world-class programs in diverse fields, from engineering to business and medicine. Also, the country’s vibrant cultural scene, modern infrastructure, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal place for students to study, explore, and have fun!

But what about the cost? 

How affordable is it to study and live in Malaysia? Let’s take a closer look at the cost of living for international students in 2025. 

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Malaysia for International Students?

Living in Malaysia is relatively affordable for international students, offering a good balance between cost and quality of life. While accommodation, food, and transportation make up the majority of expenses, living expenses in Malaysia for students are significantly lower compared to many Western countries.

Monthly Expenses for Students in Malaysia

Living in Malaysia is relatively affordable while still offering a high quality of life. Your budget mainly depends on your lifestyle and location.

• Frugal student life: Around RM 1,500/month (~USD 320)
• Comfortable student life: RM 2,000–2,500/month (~USD 430–540)

This includes accommodation, meals, transport, and basic leisure activities.

Students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with access to modern amenities without overspending. This makes Malaysia an excellent choice for students seeking affordable living in Malaysia for international students.

Everyday Essentials with Latest Prices in Malaysia

Getting your daily essentials sorted is a big part of settling into student life. From your morning coffee fix to groceries for a quick meal, here’s what you can expect to spend on some common items in Malaysia.

Lifestyle Expenses in Malaysia

Living Expenses for Students in Malaysia

Malaysia provides an affordable lifestyle for students, making it easier to balance expenses while studying. With various options for housing, food, and essentials, you can plan your budget to suit your needs (affordable accommodation options)

1. Accommodation 

Types of Student Housing:

• On-Campus Accommodation: Ideal for convenience and proximity to classes. 
• Off-Campus Housing: Offers more independence but requires managing utilities separately. 
• Shared Rentals: A popular choice among international students to split costs. 

Accommodation Costs for Students in Malaysia

Costs vary depending on the type of housing and the city you live in. Below is a comparison of average rental costs in Malaysia across major cities:

Want to explore more? Read: Student Accommodation Options in Malaysia

2. Food and Dining Expenses in Malaysia

Cooking at Home

• Monthly grocery expenses range from MYR 200 - MYR 400 (~USD 45–85).

Eating Out:

• Hawker stalls & food courts: RM 5–15 (~USD 1–3)
• Mid-range restaurants: RM 25–50 (~USD 5–10)

Popular Cheap Food Options for Students:

• Nasi lemak (Malaysia’s iconic dish) for MYR 5-7 (USD 1-3)
• Street food at places like Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur or Penang's hawker centers.
• International fast-food chains (e.g., McDonald’s) offer meals for MYR 10-20 (USD 2-5)

Also Read: A Foodie’s Guide to Malaysian Campus Life

3. Utilities and Internet

• Electricity and Water: Monthly utility bills average MYR 100 - 250 (~USD 22–54) for shared apartments, depending on usage and location. Air conditioning can significantly increase costs, especially in hotter months.

• Internet and Phone Plans: High-speed internet costs around MYR 100 - 150 (~USD 22–32) per month for unlimited plans. Prepaid mobile plans start at MYR 30 - 60 (~USD 6–13) per month, including internet and calls. Popular providers: Digi, Celcom, Maxis.

Transportation Costs for Students in Malaysia

Public Transport

Public transportation in Malaysia is affordable with options like buses, MRT, LRT, and KTM connecting major cities.

• Monthly transportation pass: MYR 50 - 150 (~USD 11–32), depending on travel frequency.
• Single MRT or bus rides cost MYR 1 - MYR 5 (~USD 0.20–1).
• Students can apply for a Concession Card, which provides a 50% discount on Rapid KL services, including buses, MRT, LRT, Monorail, and BRT. The card costs MYR 15 (~USD 3) and can be reloaded at various locations.
• Kuala Lumpur offers a free Go KL City Bus service with four routes and 89 stops, covering attractions like KLCC, Pasar Seni, and the National Mosque.

Ride-Hailing Apps

Services like Grab are popular for convenient commuting.

• Short trips typically cost MYR 8 - MYR 20.(USD 2-5)
• Keep an eye out for student discounts or promo codes to save on rides.

Alternatives

• Bicycles: A sustainable and cost-effective option, especially for getting around campuses.
• Walking: Ideal for students living close to their universities.

Average Tuition Fees for International Students in Malaysia (2025)

Tuition fees in Malaysia vary depending on the institution type, program, and additional factors like visa fees. Here’s an overview:

Program-Specific Fees

• Medicine: Up to USD 35,490  per year (public) or USD 26,200 per year (private).
• Engineering: USD 4,000 – USD 7,000 per year.
• Business Management: USD 3,000 – USD 6,000 per year.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

International students can benefit from various scholarships to offset tuition costs. Many universities provide scholarships covering 10%–50% of tuition fees. External programs, such as the Malaysian International Scholarship (MIS) and the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan (CSFP), offer comprehensive support, including tuition fees, living expenses, and allowances.

7 Tips to Save Money as International Student in Malaysia

As an international student in Malaysia, it’s important to manage your budget wisely. These practical tips will help you reduce living expenses in Malaysia for students and enjoy your time without stressing over finances.

1. Share Accommodation: Team up with a few friends or classmates and split the rent! It’s a great way to save and have fun living together.

2. Cook Your Own Meals: Skip eating out every day! Buy fresh ingredients and cook at home. It’s healthier, cheaper, and you get to show off your cooking skills!

3. Use Student Transport Passes: Most universities offer affordable transport passes. Hop on the bus or train instead of taxis and save those Ringgit!

4. Grab Second-Hand Books: Why buy new textbooks when you can score second-hand ones? Check online marketplaces or your campus bulletin board for affordable options.

5. Flash That Student ID: Always carry your student ID—it unlocks discounts everywhere, from food to shopping, and even on entertainment like movies!

6. Enjoy Free/Low-Cost Activities: Explore parks, street markets, or free university events. You’d be surprised how much fun you can have without spending much!

7. Get a Part-Time Job: A little extra cash never hurts! Find a part-time job on or off-campus and earn while you study. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How much money do I need to live comfortably in Malaysia?

As a student, you should prepare between 1500 and 2500 MYR per month to cover your living costs in Malaysia. Your living expenses in Malaysia will vary based on lifestyle and location. By budgeting wisely, you can easily manage the affordable cost of living in Malaysia for students.

2. What is the best city for international students in Malaysia?

Kuala Lumpur is one of the best cities to study in Malaysia. It hosts many top universities and offers a more developed environment, despite a higher living cost compared to other cities. Other noteworthy cities for students include Penang, Johor Bahru, and Selangor.

3. What are the top universities in Malaysia for international students? 

Some of the top universities in Malaysia for international students include APU, Sunway University, Monash University Malaysia, and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). These afforadable universities in Malaysia offer a wide range of courses in English, providing quality education at an affordable cost for international students.

4. Can international students get a job in Malaysia?

Yes, international students in Malaysia can work part-time during their studies. There are part-time jobs in Malaysia for students available in various sectors, which can help manage the cost of living in Malaysia for international students. To be eligible, students must hold a valid student visa and work no more than 20 hours per week during semester breaks. Working part-time is a great way to gain experience and earn extra income while studying in Malaysia.

What’s Next?

With Malaysia's rising reputation as an education hub and its affordable living costs, it’s no wonder international students are flocking here. In 2025, Malaysia is set to host 250,000 international students. So, it's clear why this country is a top destination for affordable and quality education.

However, choosing the right university and planning your finances carefully is key to making the most of your experience. The cost of living in Malaysia for international students including accommodation, transportation, and tuition fees can vary widely. Researching and planning ahead will ensure you manage your expenses effectively.

Still thinking about studying in Malaysia? Talk to our advisors at EasyUni today to find the best program and university that fits your budget.