Kuala Lumpur Ranked 12th in QS Best Student Cities 2026: Why You Should Study here?

What if the best city to study in wasn’t in the US or UK?

Kuala Lumpur is now officially one of the top 15 best student cities globally, and students all over the world are taking notice.

In the QS Best Student Cities 2026 ranking, KL secured the 12th spot worldwide, beating out global favourites like Toronto and NewYork in key categories that matter most to students.

Over 130,000 international students are already studying in Malaysia and it’s easy to see why. Kuala Lumpur has everything students look for: top universities' campuses, affordable living, and a fun, multicultural lifestyle. 

People speak English, the food is amazing, and life here doesn’t cost a fortune. No wonder so many students are choosing KL as their study destination.

If you're planning to study in Malaysia, now is the time to explore what Kuala Lumpur has to offer!

Key Factors Behind Kuala Lumpur’s High Rank in QS Best Student Cities 2025

Kuala Lumpur climbing to 12th place globally isn’t by chance, it checks all the boxes that matter to students. 

The QS Best Student Cities 2026 ranking is based on thorough evaluation of academic quality, student satisfaction, and career prospects. KL continues to stand out to become one of the most attractive study destinations in Asia.

Here’s how it scored across the QS Best Student Cities 2026 criteria:

1. University Rankings

One of the key reasons Kuala Lumpur climbed the list is the strong performance of its universities in global rankings.

• The University of Malaya (UM) is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities in Asia and is gaining international recognition.
• Other KL-based institutions like Taylor’s University, UCSI University, Sunway University, and Asia Pacific University (APU) are also climbing in QS World and Asia University Rankings.
• These universities are known for industry-linked programmes, modern facilities, and offering globally recognised degrees.
• A strong presence of high-ranking universities makes KL more attractive to international students seeking both quality and value.

2. Affordability

KL stands out as one of the most budget-friendly student cities in the world.

• Tuition fees at top private universities in Malaysia range from RM 25,000–60,000 per year (USD $5,300–$12,700), much cheaper than the UK, US, or Australia.
• Monthly living expenses average RM 1,500–2,500 (USD $320–$530), including rent, meals, and transport.
• Plus, international students can work part-time (up to 20 hours/week during breaks), helping offset costs.

3. Student Mix & Diversity

Malaysia’s diverse society is one of its strongest points and KL is at the centre of it all.

• Students from 150+ countries live and study here, creating a lively, inclusive international student scene.
• English is widely spoken, and most courses are taught in English, reducing language barriers.
• The city offers a safe, welcoming environment where students from different backgrounds can easily adjust and feel at home.

4. Employer Activity

QS evaluates how well a city prepares students for the workforce and KL continues to grow in this area.

• It’s a growing business and tech hub in the ASEAN region, with growing industries in IT, fintech, health sciences, media, and engineering.
• Many universities in KL have strong industry ties, helping students land internships, industry projects, and graduate jobs.
• The presence of regional HQs and startups makes KL an exciting place to build a career right after graduation.

5. Desirability

KL is not just a good place to study, it’s a great place to live.

For many international students (and their parents), safety is a top concern.

Kuala Lumpur is one of the safest cities in Southeast Asia. Students often feel safe moving around, even at night.

• University areas are well-guarded with CCTV and campus security.
• You'll never run out of things to do, from night markets and cafes to hiking spots and nearby islands.
• The weather is tropical year-round, and the food? Cheap and delicious.
• Plus, Malaysia’s location means you can travel easily across ASEAN on a student budget.

6. Student View

Student feedback plays a big role in the QS rankings and Kuala Lumpur gets solid reviews.

• Many international students in KL reported a strong sense of belonging, safety, and satisfaction with their university life.
• Many mention how easy it is to make friends, get around, and enjoy life outside of studies.
• The balance of academic quality, lifestyle, and affordability makes the experience feel rewarding and manageable.

Student Life in Kuala Lumpur Malaysia

Over the years, we’ve heard from countless students who’ve shared what makes studying in KL such a great experience. Here's what keeps coming up:

"Getting around is super easy"

• Students say the MRT, LRT, and buses are reliable, affordable, and make daily commutes hassle-free.

"You’ll never go hungry here"

• From RM6 nasi lemak to trendy cafes, the food scene is both budget-friendly and incredibly diverse.

"Every culture is celebrated"

• Students love how Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Eid, and more are all part of campus life, it feels inclusive and vibrant.

"You’ll always find your people"

• Whether through student clubs, international nights, or volunteering events, there’s always a way to connect.

"Study hard, but live a little"

• KL offers parks, malls, co-working cafes, and even hiking trails; so students enjoy a balance beyond just books.

Why are International Students Choosing Malaysia

Malaysia is now one of the top 10 most preferred study destinations in Asia, with students from over 150 countries. Here's what’s driving the demand:

Simple, student-friendly visa system

Student visas are handled through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS), with approval rates consistently around 90–95%, easing concerns about denial or delays

Top global university partnerships

More than 90 Malaysian institutions offer dual or credit-transfer programmes with top universities in the UK, US, Australia, and Europe, delivering recognized international qualifications without Western tuition prices.

Lower cost, higher value

On average, international students save up to 60–70% on tuition fees compared to studying in Western countries. 

Study fully in English

Most private and international programmes are delivered in English, making it a smoother transition for global students.

Growing international student community

With more than 130,000 international students already here, you’ll find ideal student networks, cultural communities, and support systems on and off campus.

Make KL Your Next Study Destination

Kuala Lumpur ranks among the top 15 best cities globally to study (QS Best Student Cities 2026), offering internationally recognised degrees, English-medium instruction, and a multicultural environment that welcomes students from all backgrounds. 

Whether you're looking for affordable universities in Malaysia or globally ranked institutions, KL offers both along with excellent public transport and vibrant campus life.

With growing opportunities for internships and post-study careers, it's no surprise that more students are choosing Malaysia.

FAQs: What Students Are Searching

1. Is Kuala Lumpur good for international students?

Yes, Kuala Lumpur is one of the best cities in Southeast Asia for international students. It offers a mix of top-ranked universities, affordable living, reliable public transport, and a multicultural environment. Students benefit from English-medium instruction and a wide variety of food, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

2. What makes Malaysia affordable for students?

Malaysia is affordable due to low tuition fees, budget-friendly food, and cost-effective transportation and accommodation options. Many student meals cost just RM10–RM15, and local universities offer quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to the UK or Australia. This makes studying in Malaysia ideal for students on a budget.

3. Which is the top university in Kuala Lumpur?

University of Malaya (UM), located in Kuala Lumpur, is the highest-ranked university in Malaysia and consistently features in the QS World University Rankings. It's known for its academic excellence, research output, and global reputation. Private institutions like Taylor’s University and Sunway University are also popular choices among international students.

4. Can international students work part-time in Malaysia?

Yes, international students in Malaysia can work part-time up to 20 hours per week, but only during semester breaks or holidays of 7 days or longer. Jobs must be approved by the Immigration Department and typically include roles in restaurants, hotels, or mini-markets. Part-time work during the academic semester is not allowed.

5. Is Malaysia safe for students?

Yes, Malaysia is considered a safe country for international students, with relatively low crime rates and strong safety measures in place. University campuses in cities like Kuala Lumpur are well-secured, and the country’s political stability and multicultural society provide a welcoming environment for students from around the world.