Student Accommodation in Malaysia
Most Malaysian universities, such as Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) and Universiti Malaya (UM), have rooms on campus for international students. Here is what rooms cost and how to find one safely. Amounts are in Malaysian ringgit (MYR).
Housing Options
Most students choose between university housing and a room or flat off campus.
| Accommodation Type | Average Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
University housing Rooms on campus run by the university. | MYR 300 to MYR 600 a month at UTM Usually comes with a bed and desk, and bills are included. |
|
|
Room or flat off campus Rented from a private owner. | MYR 700 to MYR 1,500 a month for a whole flat near UM Deposit of about 3 months' rent. Water and electricity cost extra. |
|
|
Private university residence On-campus rooms at private universities such as Taylor's University. | MYR 2,200 to MYR 3,200 a month at Taylor's MYR 3,500 deposit and 6 months' rent before you move in. |
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|
Beware of Scams
Finding and Securing Housing
After you accept your offer
- Ask your university about on-campus rooms.
- Apply early.
Before you fly
- Book somewhere to stay for your first few nights if you have no room yet.
After you arrive
- See any off-campus room before you pay.
- Sign the agreement and keep a copy.
Reliable Platforms
Your university's housing office
The safest place to start.
iProperty, Speedhome and PropertyGuru
Websites where you can find rooms off campus.
Avoiding Scams
The Malaysia rental market has its share of scams targeting international students. To protect yourself:
- Do not pay rent before you arrive or see the room.
- Use your university's housing office or well-known property websites.
Costs and Things to Consider
Rent depends on the university, the city and the room type.
Regional Cost Comparison
Higher Cost Regions
- Kuala Lumpur (UM area)
Average studio: MYR 700 to MYR 1,500 a month for a 2 or 3 bedroom flat
Shared apartment: About MYR 400 to MYR 800 a month for one student
Lower Cost Regions
- Johor Bahru (UTM)
Average studio: MYR 480 to MYR 1,100 a month for UTM housing (not a hostel)
Shared apartment: MYR 300 to MYR 600 a month in a hostel
Additional Costs to Consider
Deposit off campus
Near UM. Water and electricity cost extra.
Usually 3 months' rent
Taylor's residence first payment
You also pay 6 months' rent before you move in.
MYR 500 application fee (not refunded) and MYR 3,500 deposit
Location Considerations
Transport
Off campus, pick a place near public transport to reach campus easily.
Safety
On-campus housing has security around the clock.
Important Tip
Housing Tips
Apply early for both on-campus and off-campus rooms.
Ask your university's international or housing office for advice.
Choose a room near public transport if you live off campus.
Read reviews and talk to students who live there before you book.
Check the rental agreement carefully and pick a safe area.
Share a room or flat to save money.
Accommodation FAQs
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