Malta, a sun‑soaked archipelago in the central Mediterranean, is emerging as a top study destination for international students seeking a blend of English‑taught programs, affordable living, and a safe, enriching environment. With a rich history under the British Empire (1814–1964), Malta boasts English as an official language alongside Maltese—making it uniquely accessible to learners worldwide.
In this comprehensive, guide, you’ll discover why study in Malta should be on your radar, learn about its top universities, understand admission requirements, explore tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and get insider tips on student visas, work, and post‑study pathways.
Why Study in Malta?
English‑Medium Education: Approximately 90% of Maltese speak English fluently. Most degree programs are delivered entirely in English, eliminating the language barrier for international students.
Affordable Tuition & Living: Non‑EU tuition fees start at around €2,000–€8,500 per year—far below UK or US levels. Monthly living costs average €1,000, excluding rent.
Safe & Welcoming: Malta ranks among the world’s safest countries, with a low crime rate, warm climate, and hospitable culture.
Strategic Location: Located between Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, Malta offers easy travel and rich cultural exchange.
EU Recognition: Degrees from Maltese institutions are recognized across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA).
Vibrant Student Life: Festivals, historic sites, beaches, and a lively nightlife make for an unforgettable international student experience.
Overview of Malta’s Higher Education System
Malta’s higher education sector includes:
University of Malta (UM) – Established in 1592, the largest and oldest institution, offering Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs across 14 faculties.
Malta College of Arts, Sciences & Technology (MCAST) – A leading vocational and academic college in Paola, with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in engineering, IT, health sciences, design, and business.
American University of Malta (AUM) – A private liberal arts university in Cospicua, offering Business, Hospitality, and Arts programs from €2,500 per year.
Saint Martin’s Institute of Higher Education – Affiliated with the University of London, specializing in Computing, Commerce, and Business.
In addition, several private and specialized colleges offer niche programs in tourism, maritime studies, and language teaching.
Top Universities in Malta for International Students
University of Malta (UM)
- Location: Msida, central Malta
- Students: ~11,000 (including 2,000+ international students)
- Programs: Arts & Humanities, Sciences, Medicine, Engineering, Law, Education, Psychology, Social Sciences, ICT, and more
- Tuition Fees:
- EU/EEA/Swiss: Free (capped registration fee ~€175/semester)
- Non‑EU: From €8,500 per year
- Highlights: Member of the EUA, strong research output, modern campuses
Malta College of Arts, Sciences & Technology (MCAST)
- Location: Paola
- Students: ~8,000
- Programs: Applied Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Business & Management, Health & Social Care, Art & Design
- Tuition Fees: From €5,000 per year for non‑EU students
- Highlights: Emphasis on practical training, industry placements, small class sizes
American University of Malta (AUM)
- Location: Cospicua
- Foundation: 2016
- Programs: Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Digital Arts, Information Technology
- Tuition Fees: From €2,500 per year (undergraduate)
- Highlights: American model of education, small cohorts, liberal arts curriculum
Saint Martin’s Institute of Higher Education
- Location: Floriana
- Affiliation: University of London International Programmes
- Programs: BSc Computing, BSc Business & Management
- Tuition Fees: From €3,500 per year
- Highlights: British‑validated degrees, flexible study modes
Admission Requirements & How to Apply
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Requirements
- High school diploma equivalent to Maltese Matriculation Certificate
- Minimum grades typically 60–70% average in relevant subjects
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 80, or equivalent
- Application documents:
- Completed online application form
- Certified transcripts and diploma
- Passport‑sized photos
- Copy of passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) (some programs)
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR) (if required)
- Deadline: Varies by institution—typically April–June for Fall intake
Postgraduate (Master’s & PhD) Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:1 or GPA 3.0/4.0) in a related field
- Proof of English proficiency: IELTS 6.5, TOEFL iBT 88+
- Additional requirements:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal (for PhD)
- GMAT/GRE scores (for certain business/engineering programs)
- Work experience (1–2 years, for some MBA or professional master’s)
- Deadline: Rolling or fixed—check each department
Tuition Fees & Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fee Ranges
| Institution | Undergraduate (Non‑EU) | Postgraduate (Non‑EU) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Malta | €8,500+ | €9,000+ |
| MCAST | €5,000+ | €6,000+ |
| AUM | €2,500+ | €3,500+ |
| St. Martin’s | €3,500+ | NA |
Scholarships & Financial Aid
MQRIC Scholarships: For students from MQRIC member states (Morocco, Qatar, Russia, Iraq, Cyprus)
University‑specific awards: Merit‑based tuition waivers up to 50–100%
Government scholarships: Limited programs under Malta’s Ministry of Education
External grants: EU’s Erasmus+, Commonwealth scholarships, Fulbright (for U.S. students)
Cost of Living in Malta for International Students
| Expense | Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared flat) | €350–€550 |
| Utilities & Internet | €60–€100 |
| Food & Groceries | €200–€300 |
| Transportation (bus) | €30–€40 |
| Health Insurance | €20–€30 |
| Miscellaneous (entertainment) | €100–€150 |
| Total (excluding tuition) | €760–€1,170 |
On‑campus dormitories: €250–€400/month
Private studios/one‑bedroom: €600–€900/month
Student discounts: Available for public transport, museums, and cinemas
Student Visa & Residence Permit
Who Needs a Malta Student Visa?
- EU/EEA/Swiss nationals: No visa; register residence within three months.
- Non‑EU nationals: Must apply for a Type D student visa and residence permit.
Required Documents
Letter of acceptance from a Maltese institution
Valid passport (6+ months validity) + copies
Completed visa application form (from Maltese consulate website)
Passport photos (2)
Proof of financial means (€4,500+ bank balance or scholarship letter)
Health insurance coverage for Malta (€20–€30/month)
Accommodation proof (dorm booking or rental contract)
Police conduct certificate (no criminal record)
Application Process & Timeline
- Apply at your nearest Maltese Embassy or Consulate
- Processing time: 4–6 weeks (submit at least 3 months before arrival)
- Upon arrival, register for a residence permit at Identity Malta within 8 days
Working & Post‑Study Opportunities
Working While Studying
- EU/EEA students: Full work rights
- Non‑EU students: Up to 20 hours/week during term, full‑time during holidays
- Minimum wage: Approx. €4.62/hour
Post‑Study Residence Options
Graduate Trainee Permit: Up to 6 months to find employment after graduation
Employment license: If you secure a job, apply to extend your residence permit as a worker
Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR)
- After five years of continuous legal residence, you may apply for PR
- EU/EEA nationals: Register certified copy rights
- Non‑EU: Must maintain valid residence permit, no absences over 6 months/year
10. Student Life & Cultural Highlights
- Language schools: Intensive English & Maltese courses
- Clubs & societies: University sports, drama, debate, cultural associations
- Festivals: Isle of MTV, Valletta Film Festival, local festas
- Travel: Explore Gozo, Comino, Sicilian day‑trips
Conclusion
Malta offers a distinctive study abroad experience: English‑medium programs, affordable tuition, safe environment, and a vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle. By choosing the University of Malta, MCAST, AUM, or Saint Martin’s, you’ll join a global community of international students in a compact yet culturally rich setting.
Whether you pursue a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD, Malta’s scholarships, work options, and post‑study pathways make it an excellent choice for your academic journey.
