Europe · English / Maltese
Study in Malta
English-speaking EU member with year-round sunshine and low costs
University intakes
October (main)
Official languages
Maltese and English
EU membership
Yes
Population
~530,000 (smallest EU country)
Climate
Mediterranean — over 300 sunny days/year
Currency
Euro
Overview: studying in Malta
Malta is a small island EU member state in the Mediterranean with a unique proposition: it is English-speaking, part of the EU, and offers a very affordable cost of living. The University of Malta is the main public institution, supplemented by a growing private higher education sector. Malta is particularly attractive to students seeking an English-medium EU education at lower cost than Ireland, or those interested in IELTS preparation, English language courses, or professional programmes in a Mediterranean environment.
Pros and cons
Advantages of studying in Malta
- ✓English-speaking EU country — rare combination
- ✓Very affordable cost of living compared to Ireland, UK, or Germany
- ✓Mediterranean climate with year-round sunshine
- ✓EU qualification and potential EU residency pathway
- ✓Strong gaming, iGaming, and fintech sectors
- ✓Very safe country with low crime rates
Things to consider
- –Very small island — limited job market outside specific sectors
- –University of Malta is not in global top rankings
- –Small social and cultural scene compared to major European cities
- –Some professional qualifications may carry less international weight
- –Fewer programmes available than larger European countries
Tuition fees
Undergraduate
€3,000–€12,000EUR/yr
Per year. University of Malta charges approximately €3,000–€5,000/year for non-EU international students in most programmes. Private institutions charge more, typically €6,000–€12,000/year.
Postgraduate / Master's
€4,000–€15,000EUR/yr
Per year. University of Malta master's programmes: €4,000–€8,000 for non-EU students. Private institutions charge up to €12,000–€15,000.
MBA (total programme)
€10,000–€25,000EUR
Total programme cost for MBA at Malta-based institutions.
Cost of living in Malta
Estimated monthly costs — Valletta
€700–€1,100EUR/month
Includes: Accommodation, food, transport, utilities, and personal costs
Malta is significantly more affordable than other EU English-speaking destinations (Ireland). Rental costs have risen in recent years but remain lower than northern Europe.
Malta student visa: National Student Visa (Type D)
Processing time
4–8 weeks
Key requirements:
Acceptance letter from a Maltese institution
Proof of sufficient financial means
Valid passport
Health insurance
Accommodation proof
Criminal record check
EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa or permit. Non-EU students must apply for a national student visa. On arrival, register with Identity Malta. Always verify current requirements with the Maltese Embassy or Identity Malta.
English language requirements
IELTS Academic
5.5–6.0 for most undergraduate programmes at the University of Malta
TOEFL iBT
60–80 iBT for most programmes
Exemptions
Native English speakers are typically exempt. Malta is also an excellent destination for students who want to improve their English before moving to a more competitive destination.
The University of Malta uses English as its primary medium of instruction. Language school sector in Malta also offers English language courses for pre-university preparation.
Work rights
During study
Up to 20 hours per week for registered students
After graduation
Graduates can apply to extend their residence in Malta to seek employment. As an EU member state, securing a job opens EU Blue Card eligibility.
Malta's labour market is small. EU Blue Card and other EU work routes are available once employment is secured, but the job market in Malta itself is limited compared to larger EU economies.
Top student cities in Malta
Valletta
Capital, historic UNESCO World Heritage city; close to University of Malta
Msida / Gżira
Areas near the University of Malta campus — most student accommodation
St Julian's / Sliema
Tourist and expat hub, tech companies, more expensive
Popular subjects
Practical information
iGaming and tech sector
Malta has positioned itself as a hub for iGaming, blockchain, and fintech companies. Students in IT, finance, law, and business-related fields may find relevant internship and graduate opportunities in these sectors. Several major gaming companies have their European operations in Malta.
Accommodation
Student accommodation in Malta is available but limited. Private rental is common — shared apartments typically €350–€600/month per person. The island is small, so most locations are within 30 minutes of the University of Malta by bus.
How to apply to study in Malta
Apply directly to the University of Malta or a Maltese private higher education institution
Receive acceptance letter
Apply for National Student Visa at the nearest Maltese Embassy or Consulate
On arrival, register with Identity Malta for a residence permit
Arrange accommodation and health insurance
Scholarships for international students in Malta
University of Malta Scholarships
The University of Malta offers some merit-based scholarships for international students
Eligibility: Varies. Check um.edu.mt for current scholarship opportunities.
Visit official website →Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to study in Malta?
Undergraduate tuition typically ranges €3,000–€12,000 EUR per year. Per year. University of Malta charges approximately €3,000–€5,000/year for non-EU international students in most programmes. Private institutions charge more, typically €6,000–€12,000/year.
What is the visa process for studying in Malta?
You will need a National Student Visa (Type D). Processing typically takes 4–8 weeks. Key requirements include: Acceptance letter from a Maltese institution; Proof of sufficient financial means; Valid passport. EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa or permit. Non-EU students must apply for a national student visa. On arrival, register with Identity Malta. Always verify current requirements with the Maltese Embassy or Identity Malta.
Can I work while studying in Malta?
Up to 20 hours per week for registered students
What are the post-study work options in Malta?
Graduates can apply to extend their residence in Malta to seek employment. As an EU member state, securing a job opens EU Blue Card eligibility.
What IELTS score do I need to study in Malta?
5.5–6.0 for most undergraduate programmes at the University of Malta. The University of Malta uses English as its primary medium of instruction. Language school sector in Malta also offers English language courses for pre-university preparation.
Also considering the UK?
The UK has 3-year degrees, a 2-year post-study work visa (Graduate Route), and 90+ universities. Co Lab Education returns 50%+ of agent commission back to you as an education grant.