Study in Malaysia: The Complete Guide to Affordable Living and Tuition Fee

18 June 2025

While traveling abroad to pursue studies, having a nation which provides quality education at a reasonable price is the dream of every student. Malaysia is in the list of most affordable study abroad countries on earth. It combines good study prospects with low tuition fees and minimum cost of living, hence making it a highly appealing and affordable destination to pursue studies for foreign students, particularly Indians.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we know that studying abroad isn’t all about the classroom, it’s about managing your finances, living well, and thriving with your future stress-free. That is why Malaysia is quickly becoming the destination of choice for Indian students seeking quality education at not the high cost.

Tuition Fees in Malaysia – Quality Education Without the High Price Tag

The low cost of tuition is one of the biggest advantages of studying in Malaysia. Tuition costs in Malaysia are significantly lower than in the UK, USA, or Australia, regardless of the course level—diploma, bachelor’s, or postgraduate.

An approximate estimate of what you might have to pay is as follows:

  • Diploma Programs: MYR 10,000 to 20,000 annually (approximately ₹1.8 to 3.6 lakhs)
  • Undergraduate degrees cost between MYR 15,000 and 40,000 annually, or roughly ₹2.7 and 7.3 lakhs.
  • Master’s or MBA postgraduate qualifications: MYR 20,000 to 50,000 annually (roughly ₹3.6 to 9.1 lakhs)

Some Malaysian institutions have twinning schemes or collaborations with UK/Australian institutions for almost half the cost price, helping students save a great deal of money.

Cost of Living in Malaysia – Comfort and Affordability in One Place

Malaysia provides an amazing standard of living at absurdly low prices. Although living expenses vary by location and way of life, it is still among the most affordable cities in Asia for students.

An overview of the typical student’s monthly spending is provided below:

  • Lodging: 300–1,000 MYR (₹5,500–18,000).
  • Food & Grocery: 400–600 MYR (₹7,300–11,000).
  • Transportation: 1,800 to 3,600 (MYR 100 to 200)
  • Internet/mobile: MYR 50–100 (₹900–1,800).
  • Entertainment/leisure: MYR 100–200 (₹1,800–3,600).
  • The entire estimated monthly cost is between MYR 950 and 2,100 (₹17,000 and 38,000).

Students can survive on a monthly allowance of less than ₹40,000 if they are careful with their budgeting, which is significantly less than what is typically given in the Western world.

Perks & Benefits: Scholarships & Discounts

A number of Malaysian private and public universities provide international student scholarships, particularly students who have top academic grades. These will lower your tuition fee by 20% to 100%, depending on the program and institution. We help students at BCES Admissions Abroad apply for the appropriate scholarship programs to minimize the cost further. For further assistance Call us at 9319996328 or you can email us at enq@bces.in.

Selecting Malaysia gives you a globally accepted degree, intercultural exposure, and lifestyle of tomorrow—all at reasonable expense. It’s the smart and exciting option for Indian students seeking the best on their education investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, living and studying expenses in Malaysia are usually 50–70% lower than, for example, the US, UK, or Canada.

Yes, following authorization by the concerned authorities, international students can do up to 20 hours of part-time work per week during holiday or semester breaks.

Yes. Scholarships are provided by most Malaysian universities on merit of leadership and academic excellence. BCES Admissions Abroad assists students in locating and applying for them.

Students spend usually between MYR 950 and 2,100 (17,000 and 38,000) per month on accommodation, food, and transportation.

The best cities for students to go to are Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru; living in Johor and Penang is slightly more affordable than living in the capital.