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Cost of living

Monthly cost of living for students in Malaysia

Monthly budget

CostTypical range
AccommodationRM 500 to RM 1,200
Food and groceriesRM 500 to RM 800
TransportRM 100 to RM 200
Utilities and phoneRM 150 to RM 250
Health insuranceAbout RM 500 to RM 800 a year, arranged through the university

Total: RM 1,500 to RM 2,500 a month.

By city

CityRoom rentNotes
Kuala LumpurRM 600 to RM 1,200 for a roomLRT, MRT and monorail with student concessions.

Offsetting costs with part-time work

20 hours a week during semester breaks and holidays of more than 7 days, in approved sectors. At RM 8.17 an hour minimum wage (2025), twelve to fifteen hours a week covers a meaningful share of living costs but never tuition.

Practical tips

  • Malay is the national language but English is the language of higher education.
  • Kuala Lumpur consistently ranks among the world's cheapest cities for students.
  • Malaysia is a halal-friendly, multi-faith society with Chinese and Indian communities.
  • Branch campuses include Nottingham, Monash, Southampton, Heriot-Watt, Reading, Swinburne and Curtin.
  • The Grab app covers taxis, food and payments.

Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.

Get this checked for your case

Rules change and every application is different. A counsellor confirms the current position for your country and course. Free.

Talk to a counsellor

More about Malaysia

Questions

Related questions

Is a Malaysian branch campus degree the same as the UK one?

Yes. The certificate is issued by the home university. Check that the programme is approved by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency.

Can I work part time in Malaysia as a student?

Only during semester breaks and holidays longer than seven days, up to 20 hours a week, in approved sectors.

How much does it cost to live in Kuala Lumpur?

RM 1,500 to RM 2,500 a month including rent, one of the lowest figures of any major study destination.