Singapore

Quality of Education

Malaysia’s higher education system is known for its high quality and is increasingly popular with international students. The country has a strong commitment to academic excellence, with many of its universities consistently featured in global rankings.

Accredited and Internationally Recognised Qualifications
Malaysia takes quality assurance very seriously. The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) is a statutory body that oversees and accredits academic programmes to ensure they meet national and international standards. This means that a qualification from a Malaysian university is widely recognised and valued by employers around the world.

Beyond national accreditation, many Malaysian institutions have also secured international accreditations from prestigious professional bodies. For example, business schools may be accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and engineering programmes may be recognised by the Washington Accord, which ensures their graduates can work as engineers in member countries.

Highly Ranked Universities
Malaysian universities are regularly ranked among the best in the world. According to the 2025 QS World University Rankings, several Malaysian universities are in the top tier, Taylor’s University and UCSI University, also rank highly, making them attractive options for students.

Cost of Living in Malaysia for International Students

One of the main advantages of studying in Malaysia is the relatively low cost of living, which is significantly more affordable than in many Western countries. This makes it a great choice for students who are looking for a high-quality education without the high price tag.

Estimated Monthly Expenses

The average monthly living cost for an international student in Malaysia can range from RM 800 to RM 2,000 (Malaysian Ringgit), excluding tuition fees. This can vary depending on your lifestyle, your chosen location, and your spending habits.

Here is a general breakdown of the estimated monthly costs:

Accommodation: This is usually the largest expense.

On-campus accommodation: This is typically the cheapest and most convenient option. Costs can range from RM 200 to RM 800 a month for a single or shared room.

Off-campus accommodation: A room in a shared apartment can cost between RM 250 and RM 800 per month. A private studio apartment would be more expensive, at around RM 700 to RM 1,500 per month.

Food: Malaysia is a food paradise, and you can eat well for very little money.

Eating out: Meals at local food stalls or university canteens are very affordable, often costing just RM 5 to RM 15 per meal.

Groceries: If you prefer to cook at home, you can expect to spend around RM 200 to RM 400 per month on basic groceries.

Transport: Malaysia has an extensive and affordable public transport network, especially in major cities.

Public transport passes: A monthly pass for trains and buses can cost between RM 50 and RM 150.

Ride-sharing: Services like Grab are widely available and can be used for short trips, typically costing RM 8 to RM 20 per ride.

Other Expenses: Don’t forget to budget for other costs.

Utilities: Electricity, water, and internet can cost around RM 100 to RM 200 per month, especially if you live in a shared apartment.

Personal expenses: This includes toiletries, a mobile phone plan, and entertainment, which can range from RM 100 to RM 300 per month.

By budgeting carefully and taking advantage of affordable local options, you can enjoy your time in Malaysia without worrying too much about your finances.

Job Opportunities & Graduate Prospects

Malaysia has a rapidly developing economy with a strong presence in sectors like technology, finance, and tourism. The country is home to many multinational companies, which offers excellent internship and job opportunities for graduates. A Malaysian qualification, particularly from a top university, is highly regarded by employers both within the country and across the region.