Where Can You Stay in Malaysia? International Students’ Guide to Accommodation

Landing in a new country is exciting, but let’s be real, nothing beats the comfort of knowing exactly where you’ll sleep after your flight lands. If you're heading to Malaysia for your studies, finding the right student accommodation can make your life smoother and way more enjoyable. 

After all, your new home is where you’ll study, relax, cook your favorite comfort food, and maybe even host a few friends. The country currently hosts over 130,000 international students from across the globe. Whether you’re staying for a semester or a full degree program, this guide will help you figure out how to find the best student accommodation in Malaysia that suits your budget, lifestyle, and comfort level.

The All-in-one Student Accommodation Guide

Finding a perfect accommodation for you is really a hassle if you don’t know what to do to find an apartment in a country. Luckily, in Malaysia, there are many affordable options for you, and to see those, you don’t need to be so tense. One by one, we will try to learn about those processes to find a suitable accommodation for you.  

Know Your Options First

Malaysia offers a variety of accommodation types to suit all kinds of student needs and budgets. In Malaysia, there are five types of accommodations available. Obviously, the universities offer dormitories to the students, but you can also look for private hostels, shared apartments, homestays, or studio apartments. Studio apartments’ rent costs the most, around 1400 MYR, and the cheapest option in the off-campus accommodation category is private hostels, which cost around 650 MYR. 

Depending on whether you prefer living alone or in shared apartments, you can choose your options. Apart from the two options above, you can also consider homestays (staying with a local family) and shared apartments. These cost around  1000 MYR and 750 MYR consecutively. 

Each of these comes with its benefits. For instance, dorms offer convenience and safety, while studio apartments give you privacy and freedom.

Start Searching Early

One of the golden rules of finding the right student housing in Malaysia is: start early. The demand for good student housing in cities like Kuala Lumpur, Cyberjaya, and Penang can be high, especially during intake seasons like January and September.

Try to begin your search at least 2–3 months before your course starts. This gives you enough time to browse, compare options, and talk to landlords or agents.

Check with Your University

Before turning to external sources, check what your university offers. Many universities in Malaysia provide on-campus residences, especially for first-year international students. 

Some universities even collaborate with private hostels and apartment complexes, offering discounted or priority placements for students. Reach out to the International Office or the Student Affairs Department for options. Some universities also help students with visa applications, airport pickups, and initial check-ins. It's worth asking if these services are bundled with their housing.

Use Online Platforms

If you prefer living off-campus, use verified housing platforms instead of random classifieds. This ensures your payment and contract terms are safe. Some reliable websites for student accommodation in Malaysia are:

• iBilik.my

• HostelHunting.com

• Speedhome

• Mudah.my
  
   

These platforms allow you to filter listings based on budget, amenities, location, and even roommate preferences.

Budget Smartly

Apart from rent, factor in your monthly living expenses. Look for rooms with utilities included. This is common in shared housing or private hostels. It makes managing your finances easier and helps avoid surprise bills. Here's a breakdown to help you plan better:

Think About Location

Where you live in Malaysia can impact your daily routine and social life. Choose a neighborhood that is:

• Close to your university

• Near supermarkets, cafes, and medical clinics

• Well-connected by public transport (like LRT or KTM)

• Safe, especially if you come home late from classes
  
   

Average Living Costs in Different Cities

Read the Terms and Conditions 

Before committing to any property, always ask for a tenancy agreement. It should include:

• The monthly rent and payment terms

• Refundable deposit (usually equal to 1–2 months’ rent)

• Any house rules (e.g., no smoking, no guests)

• Maintenance responsibilities
   

Make sure the contract is in English or has a translated version. Don’t be shy to ask questions. It’s better to be clear upfront than regret later.
 

What Makes a Great Student Accommodation in Malaysia?

Your ideal place should go beyond just affordability. Think of features that enhance your student life:

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• Air-conditioning (necessary in Malaysia’s tropical climate)

• Study desk and chair

• Kitchen access (or nearby food courts)

• 24/7 security

• Access to laundry

Living in a space where you feel comfortable and secure will help you focus better on your academics and make the most of your time abroad.

Finding the best student accommodation in Malaysia may seem overwhelming at first, but with the proper research and timing, it becomes a manageable and even exciting part of your journey. Remember, your home isn't just a place to sleep. It's where memories are made, friendships are built, and late-night exam preps happen. So, explore your options, stick to your budget, and most importantly, listen to your gut feeling when choosing your future space.