Malta is a sun-soaked European Union (EU) member country in the heart of the Mediterranean. English is the official language of instruction, degrees from its institutions are internationally recognized, and tuition is much more affordable than other popular destinations.
Malta is a sun-soaked European Union (EU) member country in the heart of the Mediterranean. English is the official language of instruction, degrees from its institutions are internationally recognized, and tuition is much more affordable than other popular destinations.
Malta’s higher education system is modelled on the British academic tradition and aligned with the Bologna Process, placing it firmly within the European Higher Education Area. That means your degree is structured for quality and comparability from day one.
With English as an official language, lectures, seminars, and assessments all happen in a language you already know. Popular fields of study include business, information technology, health sciences, tourism management, and finance.
The country’s universities and colleges are regulated by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA), giving you the confidence that your qualification meets international standards.
As a full EU member state, Malta’s qualifications are aligned with both the national Malta Qualifications Framework and the broader European Qualifications Framework. That alignment means your degree is respected not only in Malta, but across all 27 EU countries and worldwide.
In the 2023/24 academic year, over 8,000 international students were enrolled in Maltese higher education, up by 27% year-over-year. More students are making Malta their first choice because their academic credentials travel well.
And, as Malta is a Schengen Area member, your student residence permit allows you to travel freely across Europe during your studies, turning term breaks into true cultural experiences.
Malta gives international students practical pathways to build their careers, both during and after their studies. While classes are in session, non-EU students on a student residence permit can work up to 20 hours per week. This allows you to gain local work experience and support your living costs.
After completing your program, eligible non-EU graduates may apply for a nine-month post-study permit to search for skilled employment or start a business in Malta. If you do so within that timeframe, you may be eligible for a tax credit of up to 70% of your tuition fees. Additional support may also be available to STEM graduates, or those with higher education qualifications.
Malta’s growing gaming, fintech, tourism, healthcare, and financial services sectors actively hire English-speaking international graduates, giving you strong footing from the moment you finish your studies.
One of Malta’s most compelling advantages for international students is how far your budget goes. Tuition fees for non-EU students typically range from €4,000 to €16,000 per year, well below tuition at comparable institutions in many popular study destinations.
Day-to-day living costs are equally manageable. Malta offers a more affordable cost of living without sacrificing quality of life: you get a Mediterranean climate, excellent public infrastructure, and a welcoming community at a price that makes studying abroad genuinely accessible.
Malta’s Tuition Rebate
Eligible non-EU graduates from full-time programs who secure a job within their nine-month post-study period may be eligible for a tax refund of up to 70% of their tuition fees. This means the real cost of your degree could be significantly lower than the sticker price suggests.
Malta's Tuition Rebate
Eligible non-EU graduates from full-time programs who secure a job within their nine-month post-study period may be eligible for a tax refund of up to 70% of their tuition fees. This means the real cost of your degree could be significantly lower than the sticker price suggests.
Malta consistently ranks among the safest countries in Europe. In the 2024 Global Peace Index, Malta placed 18th globally, with violent crime being extremely rare.
The Maltese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, and the country’s small size means you’re never far from support, whether from your university, the local community, or fellow international students.
Beyond the classroom, Malta offers over 300 days of sunshine per year, a UNESCO-listed capital in Valletta, ancient history at every corner, and crystal-clear Mediterranean waters minutes from campus. Whether you’re exploring the historic walled city of Mdina, swimming along the Blue Lagoon, or hopping on an affordable flight to another European city, life in Malta offers experiences that go well beyond your program.
Malta operates a clear two-stage process for non-EU international students: first a National Visa (Type D) to enter the country, then a Student Residence Permit issued by Identità after arrival. The process has a strong track record, with approximately 95% of student visa applications approved.
EU and EEA students do not need a visa, but must register with local authorities after their arrival.
All international students must be enrolled at an academic institution which is recognized by the MFHEA.
Study in Malta and Achieve Your Dreams
Ready to launch your study abroad journey? It can feel like a big step, but we’re here for you. Follow in the footsteps of over 1.5 million other students, and trust ApplyBoard’s team of experts to guide your way.
Study in Malta and Achieve Your Dreams
Ready to launch your study abroad journey? It can feel like a big step, but we’re here for you. Follow in the footsteps of over 1.5 million other students, and trust ApplyBoard’s team of experts to guide your way.
