Should You Study in Malaysia or Thailand?

As mentioned, both Thailand and Malaysia are affordable study destinations, but to find out which one’s cheaper we’ve put together the following table of some average costs – bear in mind that your actual costs will vary depending on your lifestyle, spending habits and location (large cities are typically more expensive to live in).

As tuition fees vary between universities, we’ve listed fees at each country’s top ranked university:

You may also need to pay application and/or student union fees. More information on the average tuition fees in Malaysia can be found here.

Living costs

Total needed per month: approximately RM1,000 and RM1,500 in Malaysia (~US$230-350) and 15,000-20,000 Thai Baht in Thailand (~US$450-600). So, although there are differences between Malaysia and Thailand, in both countries you’ll spend no more than US$7,200 on living costs each year.

Aside from just comparing the top universities and their associated costs – what’s it like to actually study in Malaysia or Thailand? Both are far more than simply budget options.

Why study in Thailand?

• You’ll receive a warm welcome from the locals – the country is known for being the ‘land of smiles’.
• You can immerse yourself in Thailand’s rich culture, which blends the old and new. Thailand’s cities host international businesses on the doorstep of Buddhist temples and outdoor markets.
• You can eat delicious, cheap Thai street food, with capital city Bangkok hosting a legendary street food scene. Foodies will be in heaven.
• Thailand has pleasant weather all year round and beautiful natural landscapes.
• The country has one of the strongest economies in the region.
• Thailand will definitely appeal to animal lovers; you can see elephants, tigers and monkeys, among others.
• If city life gets too hectic, you’re never far away from a beach.

Find out what else you should know about studying in Thailand >

Why study in Malaysia?

• Malaysia hosts international branch campuses of prestigious universities such as the UK’s Nottingham University and Australia’s Monash University, allowing you to get the same high quality education for a much lower cost.
• Malaysia has the third-largest economy in Southeast Asia and is also one of the region’s most developed countries.
• The country’s universities are steadily rising in the World University Rankings.
• English is widely spoken in Malaysia, meaning you should be able to study there without facing a language barrier.
• It’s hugely multicultural, meaning you can broaden your horizons.
• It’s also one of the most tolerant Asian countries (although you’re still advised to dress modestly).
• You can explore the country’s beautiful rainforests, beaches and jungles in your spare time, or stick to the fascinating historical sights you can see in the cities. (Here are some must-see places to visit).

Would you rather study in Malaysia or Thailand? Let us know in the comments below!

This article was first published in August 2017 and most recently updated in November 2020