Study in Malta for International Students: The Complete 2026 Guide

Why International Students Choose Malta

Malta stands out as a study destination for international students because it combines English-language education, EU-recognised qualifications, and Mediterranean living at a cost far below comparable European countries. More than 11,000 international students were enrolled in Maltese institutions in 2024, a figure that has grown by over 40% in five years.

Here are the six reasons students from India, Morocco, Nigeria, Libya, and across the world consistently choose Malta:

1. English Is an Official Language

Malta is one of only two EU member states with English as an official language — the other is Ireland. Every university programme, diploma, and professional course is taught entirely in English. Students arrive without a language barrier and graduate with a credential that communicates globally.

2. EU-Recognised Degrees at Affordable Prices

All accredited programmes in Malta are certified under the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF), which aligns directly with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). A Maltese degree is recognised across all 27 EU member states for employment, further study, and professional licensing — at tuition fees that start from €5,000 per year, compared to €12,000–€28,000 in the UK or Ireland.

3. Safe, Small, and Easy to Navigate

Malta consistently ranks among Europe's top 5 safest countries. Its total area of 316 km² means students are never more than 45 minutes from any point on the island by bus. The public transport system covers the entire island and is free for students enrolled at accredited institutions — a Tallinja card is issued on registration.

4. Mediterranean Climate with 300+ Days of Sunshine

Average temperatures range from 15°C in winter to 32°C in summer. Students combine academic life with year-round outdoor living — beaches, historical sites (Malta has more UNESCO heritage sites per km² than anywhere in Europe), and a vibrant social scene in Valletta, Sliema, and St Julian's.

5. Work Rights While Studying

International students in Malta with a valid student visa can legally work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official academic holidays. This allows students to offset living costs and gain EU work experience while completing their degree.

6. Gateway to the Schengen Area

Malta is a full Schengen member. A Maltese student residence permit grants free movement across 26 Schengen countries — giving students access to work placements, internships, and travel throughout Europe during their studies.

Study Programmes Available in Malta for International Students

International students in Malta can choose from four main types of programmes. All are taught in English and lead to MQF-certified qualifications recognised across the European Union.

Subject areas available include: Accountancy & Finance, Business Administration, Health & Social Care, Information Technology, Tourism & Hospitality, Logistics & Supply Chain, Digital Marketing, and English Language Teaching.

Browse all available study programmes in Malta →

How to Apply to Study in Malta as an International Student (Step-by-Step)

The application process for international students studying in Malta takes between 4 and 12 weeks depending on your country of origin and programme. Here is the complete step-by-step process.

Step 1: Choose Your Programme

Start by identifying the type of programme that matches your goals — an English language course, a diploma, a bachelor's degree, or a master's programme. Use the complete guide to studying in Malta to compare schools, qualifications, and costs.

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Confirm that your academic background meets the entry requirements for your chosen programme. Most diploma programmes require secondary school completion. Bachelor's programmes typically require a diploma or equivalent. Master's programmes require a bachelor's degree. A minimum English level of B1–B2 is required for most programmes.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Apply through Outreach Recruitment Agency Malta. Submit your documents — passport copy, academic transcripts, and English proficiency evidence. Outreach Recruitment verifies your eligibility, submits your application to the school, and sends you a formal offer letter when accepted.

Step 4: Apply for Your Student Visa (Non-EU Students)

With your offer letter, apply for a Type D (National) Long-Stay Visa at the nearest Maltese embassy or consulate in your home country. Required documents include: valid passport (minimum 18 months validity), offer letter from a Maltese institution, proof of financial means (minimum €9,000 in savings), travel health insurance, and accommodation proof. Visa processing takes 4–8 weeks.

Step 5: Arrange Accommodation

Book your accommodation before you arrive in Malta. Options include shared apartments (€300–€550/month), student residences, and homestays. Outreach Recruitment provides accommodation referrals as part of the enrolment process. Popular student areas include Msida, Gzira, and St Julian's.

Step 6: Arrive and Register Your Residence Permit

Within 30 days of arrival in Malta, non-EU students must visit Identity Malta and apply for a Student Residence Permit. This permit is valid for the duration of your course and allows you to remain and study legally in Malta.

Malta Student Visa Requirements for International Students

Non-EU international students need a Type D (National) Long-Stay Visa to study in Malta for more than 90 days. EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals do not need a visa and can enrol directly.

Outreach Recruitment Agency Malta prepares your complete visa documentation package as part of its free enrolment service. Read the full Malta student visa guide →

How Much Does It Cost to Study in Malta?

Tuition fees in Malta depend on the programme level and institution. Costs are significantly lower than equivalent programmes in the UK, Ireland, or the Netherlands, making Malta one of the most cost-effective English-language study destinations in Europe.

Several schools offer scholarships of 20–25% for students who pay tuition fees upfront or in advance. Outreach Recruitment informs all students about available scholarship discounts at the time of application.

Cost of Living in Malta for International Students

Malta is one of the most affordable countries in the EU for international students. Monthly living costs typically range from €700 to €1,100, depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

• Shared accommodation: €300–€550/month (Msida, Gzira, Birkirkara)
• Student residence: €500–€800/month (all-inclusive)
• Food & groceries: €150–€280/month
• Public transport: Free — Tallinja student card is issued on enrolment (accredited institutions)
• Mobile & internet: €20–€40/month
• Social & entertainment: €80–€200/month
• Total estimate: €700–€1,100/month

Students who work part-time (20 hours/week at minimum wage) can earn approximately €700–€900/month, covering a significant portion of their living costs. Read our full guide to cost of living in Malta as a student.

Can International Students Work While Studying in Malta?

Yes. International students studying in Malta with a valid student visa and residence permit are legally entitled to work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during official academic holidays. EU students have unrestricted work rights from the moment they enrol.

Popular student jobs in Malta include: hospitality (waiter, barista, hotel reception), customer service, retail, administration, and IT support. Malta's strong iGaming and finance sectors also offer intern and junior roles for students in related programmes.

Read our full guide on working while studying in Malta for details on minimum wage, tax registration, and the best student job sectors.

Where Do International Students Live in Malta?

Finding accommodation in Malta before arrival is strongly recommended. The most popular areas for international students are Msida (close to the University of Malta), Gzira, Sliema, St Julian's, and Birkirkara. Outreach Recruitment provides accommodation referrals to all enrolled students at no extra cost.

Types of accommodation available to international students in Malta:

• Shared apartment: Most affordable option. Students typically share with 2–4 others. Cost: €300–€550/month per person.
• Student residence: Managed buildings with study rooms, wi-fi, and security. Cost: €500–€800/month all-inclusive.
• Homestay: Living with a Maltese family — ideal for English language students. Cost: €600–€900/month including meals.
• Private studio: For students seeking more independence. Cost: €650–€950/month.

Read the full guide to student accommodation in Malta for area-by-area advice and tips.

Are Degrees from Malta Recognised Internationally?

Yes. Malta is a full EU member state and all accredited degree programmes are certified under the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF), which maps directly to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). This means Maltese degrees are legally recognised across all 27 EU member states for employment, further study, and professional licensing.

For students from outside the EU, Maltese degrees are widely accepted globally because of Malta's EU membership and the Bologna Process alignment. Many employers in India, Nigeria, and the Gulf recognise Maltese degrees precisely because they are EU-certified and taught in English.

Key accrediting bodies in Malta:

• MFHEA (Malta Further & Higher Education Authority) — accredits all degree programmes
• MTA (Malta Tourism Authority) — accredits hospitality and tourism programmes
• MCAST — Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (vocational qualifications)

EU Students vs. Non-EU Students: Key Differences

The experience of studying in Malta differs significantly depending on whether you hold an EU/EEA passport or a non-EU passport. Here is a direct comparison.

Scholarships for International Students in Malta

Several Maltese institutions offer scholarship discounts to international students — particularly for early payment of tuition fees. While Malta does not have a centralised national scholarship fund for international students, individual schools and the Maltese government offer the following:

• GBS Malta: 25% scholarship for full upfront payment; 20% for 50% upfront. Available on MBA, MSc, and diploma programmes.
• LSC Malta: Country-specific discounts for students from selected countries — contact Outreach Recruitment for details.
• SBA Malta: Early application discounts on OTHM diploma programmes.
• Erasmus+ Programme: EU-funded grants for students from partner countries — check if your home university has an agreement with a Maltese institution.
• Malta Government Scholarship Scheme (MGSS): Scholarships for post-graduate students from EU and selected non-EU countries via scholarships.gov.mt.

Outreach Recruitment Agency Malta informs every student of available scholarship discounts at the time of application — at no extra cost.

Data Sources

• NSO Malta (National Statistics Office) — International student enrolment figures, 2024.
• Identity Malta Agency — Student residence permit requirements and fees, 2025.
• MFHEA — Malta Further & Higher Education Authority — MQF framework and programme accreditation, 2025.
• Malta Government Scholarship Scheme — Scholarship availability and eligibility criteria, 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions — Study in Malta for International Students

Conclusion: Is Malta the Right Study Destination for International Students?

Studying in Malta as an international student offers a rare combination: English-language instruction, EU-recognised qualifications, the right to work while studying, and a Mediterranean lifestyle — at a cost significantly lower than comparable destinations in northern Europe.

Whether you are coming from India, Nigeria, Morocco, Libya, or anywhere else in the world, the path to studying in Malta is straightforward when you have the right support. Outreach Recruitment Agency Malta handles every step — from programme selection to visa documentation to accommodation.

Explore all study programmes in Malta or read our complete Malta Study Guide to continue your research.