Malaysia is an increasingly popular destination for international students due to its high-quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and relatively low living costs compared to other countries in the region. The country boasts a wide range of public and private universities offering affordable tuition fees, making it an attractive option for students from all over the world. In this article, we’ll explore the Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Malaysia for International Students in 2026, providing detailed information about tuition fees, programs offered, and general living costs.
Cheapest universities in Malaysia for international students
| University | Average Annual Tuition Fees (USD) | Programs Offered | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Malaysia Sarawak (UniMaS) | $3,400 | Engineering, Arts, Social Sciences | Kuching, Sarawak |
| University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS) | $2,000 | Sciences, Engineering, Business | Kota Kinabalu |
| University of Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP) | $2,400 | Engineering, Business | Arau, Perlis |
| International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM) | $2,000 | Islamic Studies, Law, Engineering | Gombak, Selangor |
| University of Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) | $2,900 | Business, Engineering, Social Sciences | Kota Bharu, Kelantan |
| University of Science Malaysia (USM) | $2,700 | Sciences, Technology, Business | Penang |
| Tun Hussein Onn University of Malaysia (UTHM) | $1,600 | Engineering, Technology, Business | Batu Pahat, Johor |
| Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) | $2,300 | Engineering, Technology | Pekan, Pahang |
| University of Malaya (UM) | $1,300 – $2,600 | Sciences, Engineering, Business | Kuala Lumpur |
| Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) | $1,600 – $2,000 | Arts, Sciences, Engineering | Kota Kinabalu |
1. University of Malaysia Sarawak (UniMaS)
Tuition Fees: $3,400 per year
Located in Kuching, Sarawak, UniMaS is an affordable university offering a wide range of programs, including engineering, arts, and social sciences. The institution has strong regional influence and provides opportunities for students to engage in research and community development. Its tuition fees are among the lowest for international students, making it a desirable option for budget-conscious learners seeking diverse educational pathways.
2. University of Malaysia Sabah (UMS)
Tuition Fees: $2,000 per year
UMS, located in Kota Kinabalu, is one of the most affordable universities in Malaysia. Recognised for its research initiatives and student support services, UMS offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of fields, including science, engineering, and business. The affordable tuition makes it a solid option for international students looking to pursue an education in Malaysia without incurring heavy costs.
3. University of Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP)
Tuition Fees: $2,400 per year
UniMAP is known for its strong emphasis on engineering and technology programs. Located in Arau, Perlis, it offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in various engineering disciplines, as well as business studies. With a tuition rate of $2,400, it provides high-quality education at an affordable price, particularly for students interested in pursuing careers in technology or engineering.
4. International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM)
Tuition Fees: $2,000 per year
IIUM, located in Gombak, is one of Malaysia’s leading institutions for Islamic studies, law, and engineering. The university offers a diverse range of academic programs, including Islamic studies, humanities, and social sciences, at very competitive tuition rates for international students. IIUM’s focus on multiculturalism and its inclusive learning environment make it an excellent choice for students interested in a globally recognised education.
5. University of Malaysia Kelantan (UMK)
Tuition Fees: $2,900 per year
UMK is a relatively new university located in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, that offers affordable undergraduate and graduate programs in business, engineering, and social sciences. The university focuses on providing a well-rounded education that combines theory and practical experience, preparing students for the job market in Malaysia and globally. Its tuition fees are moderate, making it a desirable option for students on a budget.
6. University of Science Malaysia (USM)
Tuition Fees: $2,700 per year
USM is one of the oldest and most reputable universities in Malaysia, known for its strong programs in science, technology, and business. Located in Penang, it offers both undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and is well-regarded for its research and development initiatives. Despite its prestige, USM remains affordable, with annual tuition fees averaging around $2,700 for international students.
7. Tun Hussein Onn University of Malaysia (UTHM)
Tuition Fees: $1,600 per semester
UTHM, located in Batu Pahat, Johor, offers affordable tuition rates, with undergraduate programs costing approximately $1,600 per semester. Known for its strong focus on engineering, technology, and business programs, UTHM is an ideal choice for students pursuing technical and vocational education. The university’s reasonable fees make it one of the most affordable options for international students in Malaysia.
8. Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP)
Tuition Fees: $2,300 per year
UMP is a renowned engineering and technology-focused university located in Pekan, Pahang. With a tuition fee of $2,300 per year, UMP is an affordable option for students seeking a high-quality education in fields such as engineering, industrial design, and technology. UMP’s focus on practical learning and industry partnerships makes it an excellent choice for students seeking careers in technical fields.
9. University of Malaya (UM)
Tuition Fees: $1,300 – $2,600 per year
As Malaysia’s highest-ranking university, UM offers a wide range of programs in fields such as business, engineering, science, and the arts. While tuition fees may vary depending on the program, UM remains one of the most affordable top-tier universities in the country, with costs ranging from $1,300 to $2,600 per year for international students. Its reputation for excellence and its diverse academic offerings make it a desirable option for students worldwide.
10. Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)
Tuition Fees: $1,600 – $2,000 per year
UMS offers a wide variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as arts, sciences, and engineering. Located in the tropical paradise of Kota Kinabalu, UMS offers an affordable education alongside an enriching student experience. With tuition fees ranging from $1,600 to $2,000 per year, UMS provides high-quality education at an unbeatable price.
Living Costs in Malaysia
The cost of living in Malaysia is also affordable compared to other study destinations. On average, international students can expect to spend between $450 and $800 per month, depending on their lifestyle and accommodation choices. The following is a breakdown of common living expenses in Malaysia:
- Accommodation: On-campus dormitories typically cost between $150 and $300 per month, while renting a private apartment can cost between $250 and $500 per month, depending on the location and amenities.
- Food: The cost of food in Malaysia is relatively low, with an average monthly food budget of $200 to $350 for students.
- Transportation: Public transportation is affordable, with monthly passes ranging from $10 to $20 for buses and trains.
Conclusion
Malaysia offers a wide range of affordable education options for international students in 2025. Whether you’re interested in business, engineering, arts, or sciences, the universities listed above provide high-quality education at some of the most competitive tuition fees in the region. By choosing one of these top 10 cheapest universities in Malaysia, you can enjoy a rich academic experience without the heavy financial burden. Be sure to explore scholarships and financial aid options available at these institutions to reduce your costs further and make your education in Malaysia even more affordable.
