Affordable Universities in Malaysia 2024: Study Without Breaking the Bank

Are you thinking about studying at one of the affordable universities in Malaysia?

Great choice! 

In Malaysia, you can get a good education that is both high-quality and low-cost.

Let's dive into the details!

Understanding Tuition Fees in Malaysia

Malaysia is home to both public and private universities with a wide range of tuition fees. 

Generally, tuition fees vary based on the university, programme, duration, and the student's nationality. 

For international undergraduate students, the average annual tuition cost ranges from $2,000 to $6,000.

But wait..

There's more to consider! 

In addition to tuition, students need to budget for living costs. They also need to budget for health insurance, visa fees, and other expenses.

Got that point?

Let's come to the important part.

Top Affordable Universities in Malaysia

To help you out, here’s a list of low-cost universities in Malaysia. It includes their tuition fees, rankings, locations and programmes. 

First: Top Affordable Private Universities

# City University (City U)

Overview

City University offers quality education at the cheapest cost. Students can find their perfect fit  from Foundation to PhD. 

City U also serves as a gateway to the US. It prepares students for success at American universities.

Campus Location  

• Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
• Cyberjaya, Selangor.
• Johor Bahru, Johor. 

Programmes 

• Computer Science & IT.
• Natural Sciences.
• Business & Management.
• Engineering & Applied Sciences.
• Communication & Media.
• Art & Design.

# Lincoln University College (LUC) 

Overview

LUC is one of the affordable universities in Malaysia. The learning environment is supportive and professional, ensuring students receive the necessary guidance.

Lincoln students can gain real experience. It will prepare them for their future careers.

 Campus Location  

• Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

 Programmes 

• Computer Science & IT.
• Business & Management.
• Engineering & Applied Sciences.
• Health & Medicine. 
• Natural Sciences.
• Social Sciences & Humanities.
• Art & Design.

# University of Selangor (UNISEL) 

Overview

UNISEL takes a balanced approach to theory and practice. It offers the cheapest learning experience. 

It has a strong academic team with a high number of PhD holders. The learning environment at UNISEL is very conducive.

Campus Location  

• Bestari Jaya, Selangor.
• Shah Alam, Selangor.

 Programmes

• Engineering. 
• Computer Science. 
• Information Technology.
• Nursing.
• Business Economics.
• Art Management.

# Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR)

Overview

Established in 2002, UTAR is a leading low-cost university in Malaysia. It focuses on teaching technical knowledge. 

UTAR also encourages students to develop their soft skills. 

They do this through various activities such as soft skills training, community projects, sports, and more. 

 Campus Location  

• Kajang, Selangor.
• Kampar, Perak.

 Programmes

• Health Science.
• Engineering. 
• Computer Science.
• Business & Management.
• Software Engineering.
• Science. 

Second: Top Affordable Public Universities

# Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)

Overview

UMS is a low-cost university that focuses on producing high-quality graduates in various fields. The university values the personal growth of its students.

This growth leads to more innovation and productivity for the benefit of society and the nation.

Campus Location  

• Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. 

 Programmes  

• Science.
• Engineering.
• Medical.
• Food Science.
• Agriculture.
• Forestry.
• Humanities.

# Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) 

Overview

UniMAP is one of the top young universities globally. It is one of the affordable universities in Malaysia. 

More than 85% of UniMAP graduates secure employment before graduation. It is recognised as one of the technical universities in Malaysia.  

Campus Location  

• Arau, Perlis.

 Programmes 

• Business Communication.
• Chemical Engineering.
• Engineering Technology.
• Computer Science.
• Civil Engineering.
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

# Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) 

Overview

UMK is one of the most affordable universities in Malaysia. It offers a wide range of programmes  from diploma to postgraduate levels.

UMK was established to enhance human capital development in higher education as part of the Ninth Malaysia Plan. 

Campus Location  

• Bachok, Kelantan.
• Kota Bharu, Kelantan.
• Jeli, Kelantan.

Programmes    

• Business Administration.
• Business Communication.
• Entrepreneurship.
• Creative Technology.
• Applied Science.
• Information Technology.

# Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) 

Overview

UTHM is a low-cost public university in Malaysia. It focuses mainly on engineering and technology. UTHM is a member of the Malaysia Technical University Network (MTUN).

It is known for producing engineers, technologists, and future professionals.

Campus Location  

• Batu Pahat, Johor.
• Hub Pendidikan Tinggi Pagoh, Johor.

 Programmes 

• Civil Engineering & Built Environment.
• Electrical & Electronic Engineering.
• Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering.
• Technology Management & Business.
• Technical & Vocational Education.
• Computer Science & Information Technology.

To be clear:

All these universities, both public and private, are inexpensive.

But they have accreditation from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). This ensures the quality of education. They have experienced faculty and modern facilities.

đź’ˇBonus tip: if you notice that "university" translated to "universiti" in Malay.

Need Tips for Studying at a Lower Cost in Malaysia?

You've got them!

Beyond choosing an affordable university..

There are several ways to further reduce your study expenses in Malaysia:

• Explore Scholarship & Discounts Opportunities

 Malaysia offers various scholarships and discounts options to help international students.

• Consider Working Part-Time

International students can work part-time. They can work for up to 20 hours per week during semester breaks.

• Choose Cost-Effective Accommodation

Malaysia has many affordable housing options. They fit different budgets and lifestyles.

• Use Public Transportation

Students enjoy a 50% discount on public transport, making it a cost-effective way to explore the country.

• Embrace a Smart Lifestyle

Manage your expenses by cooking your meals. Avoid unnecessary things. And enjoy free or low-cost entertainment.

Hungry for more?

Malaysia is full of great opportunities! You can get a degree from an affordable university without breaking the bank. 

If you're hungry for more information about studying in Malaysia, we'd be happy to help you!

Warmest wishes:)