Hidden Costs at Network School: Transport, Food Extras, and Day Trips

Transportation is the biggest additional expense at Network School. Forest City is not walkable to much of anything outside the development. Grab rides to Johor Bahru's city center cost approximately $10 to $15 each way. Trips to Singapore are more expensive, ranging from $20 to $50 depending on mode of transport and traffic at the causeway. If you go to JB twice a week and Singapore once a month, budget around $150 to $200 per month for transport alone. Some members split Grab rides to reduce costs. Having the Grab app is essential because taxis are not readily available in Forest City.

While three meals per day are included, many members eat out occasionally for variety. Johor Bahru has excellent and affordable food, with meals at local hawker stalls costing $2 to $5 and restaurants ranging from $5 to $20 per person. Singapore dining is more expensive, with meals starting around $5 to $10 at hawker centres and going up significantly at restaurants. If you eat out two to three times per week, expect to spend an additional $50 to $100 per month on food beyond what NS provides. Some members also purchase snacks, supplements, or specialty drinks not available at the NS Cafe.

Many members take day trips to Singapore, Johor Bahru, or other nearby destinations on weekends. A day trip to Singapore might cost $30 to $100 depending on activities, food, and transport. Weekend outings to JB malls, restaurants, or attractions are cheaper, typically $20 to $50 per trip. Some members organize group activities like hiking, beach trips, or visits to Legoland Malaysia, which have their own admission and transport costs. Monthly entertainment spending varies widely, from nearly nothing for members who stay on campus to $200 or more for those who explore regularly.

Other costs to consider include travel insurance, which you should arrange independently. Laundry is included but dry cleaning is not. If you need any medications, you should bring an adequate supply or be prepared to visit a pharmacy in JB. Toiletries and personal care items can be purchased at nearby convenience stores or during JB trips. If you plan to do a visa run to renew your 90-day Malaysian visa, that trip has its own costs. In total, a realistic additional monthly budget on top of your NS membership is $300 to $500 for a typical member. You can apply at ns.com and plan your budget accordingly.