Living Expenses:

A foreign student would require US$4,000 per year for food, accommodation, books and other expenses, exclusive of tuition fees.

Transportation in Campus:

Most of the academic places in the campus are within 10 to 15 minutes walking distance. Many students do walk but some students would prefer to have their own mode of transport which would normally be a motorcycle. Foreign students who want to use their own transport must make sure that they have a valid International license that should be obtained in their own country, before proceeding to Malaysia. Driving in Malaysia is on the left hand side of the road. A student who has his/her own transport in the campus needs to register it with the Security Office of USM. A form is provided for the purpose of registration and the student needs to show his/her student card, driving license, the vehicle's registration card and insurance policy. Once registered, the student will be given a university sticker for the vehicle.

Medical Care:

A student is eligible for treatment at the University Health Center and is required to pay RM80 for self and RM40 each for spouse and children per  semester. The service is only available during office hours. Mondays through Fridays: 8.30am to 4.15pm and Saturdays: 8.30am - 12.45pm. Health service is also available from appointed Panel Doctors within proximity to the campus. The service is available with and after office hours. Emergency or serious cases are normally referred to the government hospital or to private hospitals (on request). Overseas student is also advised to acquire health insurance from his own country to cover medical charges provided by hospitals especially the private hospitals.

Employment Opportunities:

Visa restrictions make it almost impossible for an overseas student to work. Do not rely on funds from working whilst you study and please make sure that you have enough funds to support yourself through your study period in USM. If you plan to apply for work experience in Malaysia at the end of your studies at USM, please inquire about the rules and  regulations of working in Malaysia at the nearest Malaysian Diplomatic Mission in your country.

Climate:

Malaysia has an equatorial climate which is quite uniform throughout the year. The climate is warm and humid. The maximum average temperature is 32.2 degrees centigrade. The mean annual rainfall is approximately 267cam and is evenly distributed throughout the year, though September to November may be considered the wettest months with heavy showers. When it is humid, it can be quite unpleasant due to the excessive amount of sweating. To avoid any complications, students are advised to drink a lot of water, at least for the first few days.

Light clothing will be best suited for Malaysia's climate. The university has its own dress etiquette that needs to be observed by all students especially during lectures, at the library, in exam halls and when dealing with academic matters during office hours. Students are not allowed to wear collarless T-shirt, short pants (inclusive of bermudas), sleeveless shirt and slippers. For ladies, skirts should be of knee length and below.