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English-language Degrees • EU Lifestyle • Visa Support

Study in Malta

Malta higher education guide for international students

Overview

Malta, a Mediterranean EU member state, offers English-language higher education in a safe, sunny environment. Its strategic location between Europe and North Africa makes it an ideal study destination for students seeking an international lifestyle with access to European career pathways.

The University of Malta, MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology), and private institutions such as the Mediterranean Institute of Management offer degrees in technology, health, business, maritime studies, tourism, and arts. Malta’s gaming, finance, and aviation sectors create internship and employment opportunities for students.

The country’s Schengen status allows easy travel across Europe. Tuition fees remain competitive, and Malta issues long-term residence permits for students, with pathways to work permits after graduation.

Why Choose Malta

Mediterranean Lifestyle

Enjoy 300+ days of sunshine, historic architecture, beaches, and a multicultural community of international students and expatriates.

English-Medium Instruction

Malta is officially bilingual. Degrees are taught in English, so students do not need to learn a new language to study or work.

EU & Schengen Access

Study visas provide Schengen mobility, and graduates can pursue work permits or the Malta Start-Up Residence Programme.

Growing Industries

Business ManagementMBAHospitality

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Many private institutes partner with UK universities, enabling dual degrees and flexible entry points.

Popular Programs & Entry Pathways

Malta’s strengths lie in technology, maritime, tourism, health sciences, and creative industries. Foundation courses and English language programmes support students who need additional preparation.

Universities collaborate with industry through internships, apprenticeships, and applied research centres.

Information Technology & iGaming

Focus on software development, cybersecurity, blockchain, and digital game design supporting Malta’s online gaming sector.

Featured: University of Malta, MCAST, American University of Malta

Maritime & Logistics

Marine engineering, naval architecture, logistics, and aviation management degrees leverage Malta’s strategic port and aviation registry.

Featured: MCAST Maritime Institute, University of Malta Faculty of Engineering

Tourism & Hospitality Management

Programmes integrate internships with Malta’s resorts, cruise industry, and Mediterranean tourism initiatives.

Featured: Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS), London School of Commerce Malta

Health Sciences & Allied Professions

Nursing, physiotherapy, and public health programmes with placements in Maltese hospitals and clinics.

Featured: University of Malta, MCAST Institute of Applied Sciences

Admission Requirements

Admission criteria depend on the study level and institution. Undergraduate entry typically requires secondary school completion with specific subject passes. English proficiency must be documented for non-native speakers.

Postgraduate programmes seek relevant bachelor’s degrees, professional experience (for business/management), and strong academic references.

undergraduate

Matriculation certificate or equivalent high school diploma with passes in English, mathematics, and relevant subjects.
English proficiency: IELTS 5.5-6.5 (programme dependent) or TOEFL iBT 61-79.
Personal statement and CV outlining motivations, extracurriculars, and career goals.
Portfolio/audition for creative programmes (art, design, music).

postgraduate

Bachelor’s degree with minimum second-class honours (2:2 equivalent ≈ GPA 2.7/4.0).
English proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 79, or equivalent.
Two references (academic/professional), CV, and motivation letter.
Professional experience for MBA and specialised master’s programmes.

Language test benchmarks

IELTS Academic
5.5-6.5 depending on programme
TOEFL iBT
61-79
PTE Academic
46-58

Application Steps

Applications can be submitted directly to universities or via partner agencies. Plan at least 6-8 months ahead to secure a residence permit in time for enrolment.

1. Choose Institution & Programme
Review entry requirements, tuition fees, and available scholarships or instalment plans.
2. Prepare Application Documents
Compile transcripts, passport copy, language certificates, CV, personal statement, and references.
3. Submit Application
Apply online via university portals or partner representatives. Pay application fee (if applicable).
4. Attend Interview (if required)
Some programmes conduct online interviews or request portfolios.
5. Receive Offer & Pay Deposit
Confirm acceptance, pay tuition deposit (EUR 1,000-3,000), and request official acceptance letter for visa.
6. Arrange Accommodation & Insurance
Book university residence or private housing. Purchase international health insurance as required by Maltese authorities.
7. Apply for Maltese Residence Permit
Submit visa/residence application with Malta’s Identity Malta Agency through Maltese embassy/VFS.

February - April

May - July

July - August

August - September

Cost of Studying in Malta

Malta’s tuition fees are competitive compared with many Western European destinations. Living costs are moderate; expect higher rent in central Valletta/Sliema and lower costs in the southern or central parts of the island.

public

EUR 6,000-9,000 (≈ 65,400-98,200 MAD)

private

EUR 7,000-12,500 (≈ 76,300-136,500 MAD)

specialized

EUR 14,000-20,000 (≈ 152,700-218,000 MAD) for medicine, MBA

Valletta/Sliema

EUR 900-1,200 (≈ 9,800-13,100 MAD)

Includes shared apartment, utilities, transport pass, and groceries.

Birkirkara/Gzira

EUR 800-1,050 (≈ 8,700-11,500 MAD)

Close to University of Malta with access to bus routes.

Southern Malta

EUR 700-950 (≈ 7,600-10,400 MAD)

Lower rent and living costs; longer commute to campus.

Expense	EUR	MAD
Tuition (yearly)	EUR 6,000-12,000	65,400-130,800 MAD
Accommodation	EUR 3,600-5,400	39,200-58,800 MAD
Food & groceries	EUR 2,400-3,000	26,200-32,700 MAD
Transport	EUR 400-500	4,400-5,400 MAD
Insurance	EUR 150-250	1,600-2,700 MAD
Books & supplies	EUR 300-500	3,300-5,400 MAD
Personal expenses	EUR 1,000-1,500	10,900-16,300 MAD

Scholarships & Funding

While Malta has fewer national scholarships than larger countries, students can access institutional grants, EU funding, and work-study opportunities. Some Maltese universities offer tuition discounts for early payment or high academic achievement.

Stipends from government schemes support specific fields, especially maritime, aviation, teaching, and healthcare.

Institutional Scholarships

University of Malta Bursaries

EUR 1,000-2,500 tuition reduction

Merit- or need-based; apply through student funding office.

MCAST Student Allowance

Monthly stipend for vocational programmes

Subject to attendance and academic performance.

Government & EU Funding

Malta Enterprise Tertiary Education Grant

Partial tuition support for strategic sectors

Available for programmes aligned with national workforce needs.

Erasmus+ Mobility Grants

Monthly stipend for exchange within EU

Eligible for degree students participating in Erasmus exchanges.

Student Life & Support

Malta’s small size fosters close-knit campus communities. Students enjoy outdoor lifestyles, coastal sports, cultural festivals, and Mediterranean cuisine.

Universities offer orientation sessions, English language support, academic advising, mental health services, and career workshops. International student societies organise trips to Gozo, Comino, and neighbouring countries.

Campus Experience

Interactive lectures, project-based learning, and collaborative labs. Small class sizes encourage faculty mentoring.

Housing Options

University residences (limited availability), private apartments, and homestays. Early booking recommended due to high rental demand in Sliema and St. Julian’s.

Cultural & Community Support

Student organisations, religious communities, and volunteer groups provide social engagement and community service opportunities.

Health & Wellbeing

Students purchase private health insurance; public healthcare is accessible once residence permit is issued. Universities offer counselling and fitness facilities.

Working During Studies

Non-EU students can apply for an employment licence after 90 days of study, allowing 20 hours per week during term and full-time during holidays. Employers must register students with JobsPlus and pay social security contributions.

Popular part-time roles include hospitality, retail, customer service, and tutoring. Internship programmes connect students to Malta’s digital gaming, financial services, and aviation sectors.

Work hours: 20 hours/week during term once employment licence is approved.

Minimum wage: EUR 5.72/hour (≈ 62 MAD) national minimum wage (2025).

Popular roles: Hospitality & restaurants, Call centres, Tourism services, English language schools, Gaming support

Internships: Paid placements with iGaming companies, fintech firms, maritime services, and tourism operators.

Post-Graduation Options

Graduates may apply for a Maltese work permit if they secure employment meeting salary thresholds and employer sponsorship. Malta’s Start-Up Residence Programme and Highly Qualified Persons scheme target specialists in finance, aviation, ICT, and gaming.

Experience gained in Malta can support wider EU career mobility.

Single Permit for Employment

Duration: 1 year renewable

Job offer, labour market test (exempt for certain sectors), and proof of qualifications.

Application window: Submit through JobsPlus and Identity Malta; processing takes 2-3 months.

Malta Start-Up Residence Programme

Supports entrepreneurs and key employees launching innovative ventures.

Highly Qualified Persons (HQP) Rules

Tax incentive for professionals in financial, gaming, and aviation sectors meeting salary thresholds.

Visa Pathway

Non-EU/EEA students require a national long-stay visa and residence permit. Applications are lodged through Malta’s diplomatic mission or VFS Global, then finalised with Identity Malta upon arrival.

Step 1
Receive acceptance letter and pay tuition deposit.
Step 2
Gather documents: application form, passport, proof of funds (EUR 28 per day ≈ EUR 8,400 per year), accommodation letter, health insurance, and police clearance.
Step 3
Submit visa/residence application at Maltese embassy/VFS, provide biometrics, and pay fees.
Step 4
Travel to Malta, attend Identity Malta appointment within 90 days to obtain e-residence card.

Read the Malta visa guide

Learn more →

Essential Documents Checklist

Academic Records

High school or bachelor’s transcripts in English or accompanied by certified translations.
Language proficiency certificates.

Financial Evidence

Bank statements showing EUR 8,400 (≈ 91,600 MAD) for one year of living expenses.
Proof of tuition payment and scholarship letters (if applicable).

Supporting Documents

Valid passport (minimum two blank pages).
Health insurance covering the study period.
Accommodation letter or rental contract.
Police conduct certificate (issued within the last 6 months).
Visa application form, passport photos, and motivation letter.

Application Timeline

8-6 months before intake

Research programmes, gather transcripts, and take English tests if needed.

6-4 months before intake

Submit applications, attend interviews, and receive offers.

4-2 months before intake

Pay deposits, secure accommodation, and collect visa documents.

2-0 months before intake

Submit visa application, arrange travel, and join orientation programmes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is English widely spoken in Malta?

Yes. English is an official language. Degrees, daily life, and government services are available in English.

How long does it take to obtain a student residence permit?

Visa processing takes 4-6 weeks. After arrival, you must apply for the e-residence card within 90 days; processing takes approximately 4 weeks.

Can I work part-time while studying?

Yes, after 90 days of study you may work up to 20 hours per week with an employment licence issued by JobsPlus.

Are there scholarships?

Funding is limited but includes University of Malta bursaries, MCAST allowances, and sector-specific grants from Malta Enterprise.

Is health insurance required?

Yes. Provide evidence of private health insurance covering the full duration of studies when applying for the visa.

Can I transfer to another EU university later?

Yes. Maltese degrees follow the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS), allowing credit transfer across EU institutions.

What’s the climate like?

Malta has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters (10-16°C) and hot summers (25-32°C), ideal for year-round outdoor activities.

Do I need to know Maltese?

No, but learning basic Maltese phrases or Italian can enhance your cultural experience and job prospects.