There are many reasons why international students are choosing Malaysia as their top choice for a college university or post-graduate education. First, English is the primary medium of instruction here. Obtaining a student visa for full-time study is also an easy, simple and fast process. The most obvious reason is the affordability of education here vs. universities in the other popular study destinations like Australia, UK and US.
One distinguishing strong point is that Kuala Lumpur (KL) ranks #1 in QS Top Universities’ “Most Affordable Cities for Students” which has been awarded in 2016. The winning combination of low living costs and pretty low tuition fees makes KL one of the most sought-after cities to study. Affordable living costs means there are quite a number of student accommodations available in KL. If you plan to study in KL, there are even student-preferred properties for rent or lease.
Of course, before you decide to stay in any of these properties, there are a number of things you need to know. Once you feel that this accommodation is the perfect one for you, then, top of mind is to check important issues like who your flatmates will be, what the rent includes and the house rules you need to follow. Living in another city can be tough – but you can adjust well enough as long as you put your heart to what your goal is which is to study and get an undergraduate (or postgraduate) degree. Living with another person who is a complete stranger poses another concern, but just relax – everything will work out in the end. We will guide you on what to do next.
- Search property listings by “student preferred” option.
Students have the option of sharing an apartment or any property for rent with fellow students. This would mean that you would be sharing the house with one or more people you may or may not know. Some rental properties would not automatically suggest that you would be obliged to share the accommodation. But most students go for sharing the house with others to save up on costs. Most of the time what happens is that groups of students who study in the same school or university are fairly comfortable sharing the house and splitting the rent. One helpful link is by checking student-preferred accommodations online if you are budget-conscious. You may check Roomz website and choose “Student Preferred” listing with the Filter on the top right.
- Know who are staying inside the accommodation.
International students value the community. The sense of belongingness and companionship in a different environment like KL makes studying abroad worthwhile. It pays if you would check first the people who are actually staying in the accommodation you are eyeing. It will give you a sense of security to know that the people who live in the same apartment are of your same age, religion, school or country perhaps –it could be that most of the tenants are students and young professionals. Security is a real deal-breaker so it will help if you choose a property where security is tight and you know that the renters are well protected. If you prefer this type of environment – then go for it. Some would really prefer friends or classmates from your home country as flatmates – this is ideal so there is less adjustment on your part. Living with long-time friends sounds too much exciting!
- Determine what is included in the rent.
Apartment and condominium amenities are usually part of the monthly rent you’ll be paying so it is essential to determine if they’re really worth your money. Or maybe you need to choose a place with just the basic features and amenities. Let’s admit it – we seem to choose a place with a pocket garden, a gym or a swimming pool perhaps. If the landlord seems to charge you exorbitantly because of the amenities, then it might be better off if you go to the next listing. Also, check if the unit you’re renting is fully furnished – does it have the essentials like a bed, fridge, stove, microwave oven, washing machine, dining tables and chairs, a couch, TV? Does it have a phone line and Netflix? Does it have Internet or WIFI connection? If you are not into cooking and TV or Netflix watching – then maybe a semi-furnished apartment or condo makes more sense.
- Know everything about the “House Rules” of the property.
From whether smoking is allowed or is there quiet hours plus particular hours for visitors to enter – it is important to know such information before you even sign the rental contract. This ensures that you are getting the ideal property for you. All the policies, terms and provisions should be taken into consideration as you read your rental contract. We all know that renting a condo, apartment or house is a big commitment. It will cost you so much if you have signed a contract that you don’t agree within the first place.
Before you sign a Lease or Rental Agreement, the landlord or property owner should give you a copy of the “House Rules”. As a tenant in student accommodation or property – once you sign the agreement, it means that you agree with the “House Rules.” Once you break the rules, you are also breaking the agreement. You should also be able to see these “House Rules” on the property’s wall or board so you will always be reminded.
As a student, you and your visitors should not hinder with the normal peace, comfort and privacy of other tenants or flatmates. One house rule that landlords usually strictly implement is that the student-tenants must keep noise to a minimum level for this period of time: 11pm-6am where others are expectedly resting. Landlords can discuss this further with their tenants, as they may want to mutually decide on what specific time should their quiet hours be.
Overall, Kuala Lumpur is a safe city. Living conditions are very good and comfortable, especially for students. The key is to find a student preferred accommodation within your budget that’s strategically located near your educational institution. Follow all the tips we’ve shared here before finally settling in your choice.
