Cost of Living in Malaysia for Indian Students 2025

Over time, Malaysia has become a popular choice for international students due to its advanced education system. Additionally, the relatively low cost of living is a key factor attracting a growing number of students to its renowned universities each year.

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Cost of Living in Malaysia

Looking to study abroad without breaking the bank? Malaysia might be the ideal destination for you! With its prestigious universities and affordable living costs, Malaysia is drawing many international students. According to the QS Best Student Cities 2024, cities like Kuala Lumpur, Subang Jaya, and Shah Alam are among the top in Malaysia.

To give you an idea of living expenses, an Indian student would need an average of INR 39,308 (2,256.9RM) per month, excluding rent. It’s important to understand the overall cost of living at your chosen study destination so that you can plan your finances for the duration of your time in Malaysia.

If you have made up your mind to go abroad for a career, check out this guide to studying abroad after 12th standard. It will help you target a few exams and universities to achieve your dreams. 

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Cost of Living in Malaysia for Indian Students 

Although living expenses in Malaysia tend to be higher for Indian students than in India, they are still more affordable than in developed countries like the USA, UK, and Canada. The total cost of living in Malaysia largely depends on the student’s lifestyle and spending habits.

According to Numbeo, a budget of INR 39,308 per month is typically enough for a single student to live in Malaysia. This budget does not cover accommodation, with rent options available outside the city starting at INR 19,000 per month and within the city at INR 26,000 per month.

Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia, is particularly known for being a cost-effective city for students. According to US News, Malaysia ranks as the sixth most affordable country in the world, following Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and India.

If you're considering studying in Malaysia, understanding the cost of living in Malaysia and planning your budget accordingly is crucial to ensure you can manage your expenses efficiently.

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Tuition Fees for Courses in Malaysia 

Tuition fees are one of the significant expenses when planning to study abroad in Malaysia. Below is an overview of the typical tuition fee range for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

• Undergraduate Courses: INR 2 lakhs to INR 9 lakhs per year
• Postgraduate Courses: INR 2 lakhs to INR 13 lakhs per year

The exact tuition fees vary based on the specific program and the university. The following table provides a general idea of the tuition fees across different universities. Please note that these are average estimates, and actual fees can vary depending on the course and institution.By considering these fees, you can better plan your education budget while studying in Malaysia.Here is a list of universities in Malaysia, along with the average tuition fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses:

These are average tuition fees and may vary depending on the specific course and program you choose. Always check with the university for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

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Cost of Living in Malaysia: Accommodation Cost

For international students, finding a secure and comfortable place to live is a top priority during their studies. However, accommodation can be a significant expense, especially if you choose to live near the centre. The rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Malaysia typically ranges between 1,500 RM and 1,600 RM (INR 26,155 to INR 27,900). Opting for accommodation outside the urban area can help lower your rent.

If you want to save money on accommodation, sharing an apartment with other students is a great option. Below is a breakdown of the average rent costs for different types of accommodation in Malaysia:

These rent costs can vary depending on the location, type of apartment, and additional amenities. Sharing your accommodation can be a great way to keep your living expenses lower while studying in Malaysia.

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Living Cost of Malaysia: Groceries Rate 

The cost of living in Malaysia is very student-friendly, with food items being reasonably priced. This makes it easier for international students to manage their daily expenses. Below is a list of common grocery items and their average costs in Malaysia:

The prices are affordable, and with a range of budget-friendly options, students can manage their grocery expenses efficiently while studying in Malaysia.

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Transportation Cost in Malaysia 

As a student in Malaysia, using the public transport system is an excellent way to save money and get around conveniently. Here's an overview of the typical transportation costs in Malaysia:

Public transport, including buses, trains, and taxis, is generally affordable, making it easier for students to get around Malaysia without breaking the bank.

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Other Living Expenses in Malaysia 

In addition to essential expenses like rent and groceries, students should also plan for miscellaneous costs such as clothing, entertainment, dining out, and utilities. Here's a breakdown of some common additional expenses in Malaysia:

Living in Malaysia offers international students numerous opportunities. The country’s extensive use of the English language in educational institutions makes it an attractive destination for students worldwide. Additionally, Malaysia allows students to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks or holidays longer than seven days, which can help cover living expenses.

Various scholarships are available at universities, further reducing international students' financial burden. Despite some challenges, Malaysia offers a wealth of opportunities and is often described as a "student’s paradise."

Now that you have all the information regarding the cost of living in Malaysia, let's start the necessary financial planning to bear the cost of living in Malaysia. 

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FAQs on Cost of Living in Malaysia

What is the cost of living in Malaysia for international students?

The cost of living in Malaysia is quite affordable compared to many Western countries. It varies depending on the city, but Malaysia is considered student-friendly. Kuala Lumpur and other major cities offer budget options for accommodation, food, and transportation.

How much does it cost to live in Malaysia as a student?

On average, students can expect to spend between INR 39,308 (2,256.9 RM) and INR 39,308 (2,256.9 RM) per month, excluding accommodation. This includes food, utilities, transportation, and other personal expenses, making the cost of living in Malaysia manageable for most international students.

What is the average cost of living in Malaysia per month?

The average cost of living in Malaysia per month can range from 2,000 RM to 3,500 RM, depending on lifestyle choices. Students living outside major cities may find the living cost of Malaysia to be lower.

How much does it cost to live in Malaysia compared to other countries?

The cost of living in Malaysia is much lower than in countries like the USA, UK, and Australia. Malaysia is one of the most affordable countries in Southeast Asia, offering great value for money on education and living expenses.

What are the main expenses that contribute to the cost of living in Malaysia?

The cost of living in Malaysia primarily consists of accommodation, food, utilities, and transportation. However, these can vary greatly depending on your location and lifestyle.

What is the cost of rent in Malaysia?

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the centre typically costs around 1,500 RM to 1,600 RM. Rent outside the centre can be more affordable, with prices starting at 1,100 RM for a similar apartment.

Is Malaysia an expensive place to live?

No, the cost of living in Malaysia is generally lower than in many other developed nations. Compared to places like the USA or Europe, it is particularly affordable for international students.

What is the cost of food in Malaysia?

Malaysia's living costs include food, which is quite affordable. A litre of milk costs around 7.18 RM, and a loaf of bread costs about 3.80 RM. Eating out is also reasonably priced, with meals at inexpensive restaurants costing around 10 RM.

How much does transportation cost in Malaysia?

Public transportation in Malaysia is cost-effective. A one-way ticket for local transport costs around 4 RM, and a monthly pass costs about 50 RM. Taxi fares are also relatively low, starting at 4 RM.

What is the cost of utilities in Malaysia?

The average cost of utilities, including electricity and water, is around 200 RM per month. However, this can vary depending on the size of the accommodation and personal usage.

What is the cost of living in Malaysia per month for a student in Kuala Lumpur?

The cost of living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, can range from 2,500 RM to 3,500 RM per month, including rent, food, transportation, and other expenses.

How do I manage my budget while living in Malaysia?

To manage Malaysia's high living costs, you can reduce expenses by renting shared accommodation, cooking at home, and using public transport. It's also helpful to track monthly expenses and stick to a budget.

What are some tips to reduce the cost of living in Malaysia?

To reduce the cost of living in Malaysia, consider sharing accommodation with fellow students, cooking meals at home, and using student discounts for transportation and entertainment.

How much does it cost to live in Malaysia if I live outside the centre?

The cost of living in Malaysia outside the centre is generally lower. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in suburban areas can be around 1,100 RM, making it more affordable compared to living in the heart of the city.

What is the average cost of living in Malaysia for a family?

The average cost of living in Malaysia for a family can range from 4,000 RM to 7,000 RM per month, depending on the family's size, location, and lifestyle. This includes rent, groceries, transportation, and other family-related expenses.

What factors affect the cost of living in Malaysia?

The cost of living in Malaysia is influenced by factors such as location, lifestyle, accommodation type, and personal spending habits. Cities like Kuala Lumpur tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas.