That's all dependent on where you want to stay. For me, the greatest advantage of staying in hostel is I have no worry if it rains so I will not be holding an umbrella and get myself wet. Moreover, INTI's hostels are not like those apartment units. Although my room is quite small, it is enough for me and is easy to clean up (I don't really get used to staying with others). From what I heard from my friends, staying outside is always cheaper, hostel fee ranges, for a single bedroom with no air-con and bathroom attached, roughly RM325 is needed per month (but you will be asked to pay by a semester after another).

It is better for you to stay in hostel for the first sem, if you find some friends who are willing to seek a unit outside, then only you go. I think this is a safer way plus you know well with the ones who stay with you too.