As of 2026, Malta hosts over 12,000 international students, with annual tuition fees ranging from EUR 5,000–16,000 for non-EU students and free tuition for EU citizens at the University of Malta, all taught in English.
Malta is one of Europe’s most underrated study destinations. As the EU’s smallest member state, it punches well above its weight in higher education — offering English-medium instruction at all levels (English is an official language alongside Maltese), EU membership with Schengen travel rights, a Mediterranean climate, and a booming economy driven by iGaming, fintech, blockchain, and tourism. The University of Malta, founded in 1768, is one of Europe’s oldest and provides internationally recognised degrees at affordable prices.
This guide covers tuition costs at the University of Malta and private institutions, the student visa process, scholarship opportunities, work rights (20 hours/week for non-EU students), living costs across the island, and Malta’s increasingly attractive post-study work options in niche but high-paying sectors.
Malta’s higher education landscape is compact but diverse. The University of Malta (UM) is the flagship public institution, offering over 300 programmes across 14 faculties. MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology) focuses on vocational and technical education. Private institutions include the American University of Malta (AUM), the London School of Commerce Malta, and various English language schools. The Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) accredits all programmes, ensuring quality standards aligned with the European Qualifications Framework.
What makes Malta distinctive is its position as a genuine English-speaking EU country — one of only two in the EU (alongside Ireland). This means students can obtain an English-medium EU degree, gain Schengen zone access, and benefit from the EU labour market, all in a warm Mediterranean setting. Malta’s compact size (316 km², smaller than most cities) means the entire island is your campus, with everything accessible within 30–45 minutes by bus.
At a Glance
Tuition Costs
Malta offers one of Europe’s best deals for EU students: free tuition at the University of Malta for undergraduate programmes, plus a monthly maintenance grant of approximately €150. This makes Malta one of only a handful of EU countries where citizens of other EU states study entirely free with a stipend. Non-EU students pay moderate fees that remain well below UK, Netherlands, or Irish equivalents for English-taught programmes.
The University of Malta sets fees based on programme and student nationality. Undergraduate fees for non-EU students typically range from €10,000–7,500 per year for arts and social sciences to €7,500–11,500 for science and engineering. Medical programmes are the most expensive at €14,000–16,000 per year. Master’s programmes range from €10,000 to €12,000. MCAST offers more affordable vocational programmes, while private institutions charge €9,000–12,000 per year.
Tuition by Institution and Level
| Institution | Undergrad (€/yr) | Postgrad (€/yr) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Malta (EU) | Free + stipend | Free or €400 fee | Monthly stipend ~€150 for undergrads |
| University of Malta (non-EU) | 5,000 – 11,500 | 5,000 – 16,000 | Medicine highest at €14,000–16,000 |
| MCAST (non-EU) | 3,000 – 5,000 | 4,000 – 6,000 | Technical and vocational focus |
| American University of Malta | 9,000 – 12,000 | 10,000 – 14,000 | American-style curriculum; Cospicua |
| London School of Commerce Malta | 6,000 – 8,000 | 7,000 – 10,000 | Business focus; UK-style programmes |
Tuition by Field of Study (University of Malta, Non-EU)
| Field | Undergrad (€/yr) | Postgrad (€/yr) |
|---|---|---|
| Arts & Humanities | 5,000 – 6,500 | 5,000 – 8,000 |
| Business & Economics | 5,500 – 7,000 | 6,000 – 10,000 |
| Engineering & ICT | 7,500 – 11,500 | 7,000 – 12,000 |
| Science | 7,000 – 10,000 | 6,500 – 11,000 |
| Law | 5,500 – 7,000 | 6,000 – 9,000 |
| Medicine & Surgery | 14,000 – 16,000 | 12,000 – 16,000 |
Living Costs
Living costs in Malta have risen significantly over the past five years, driven by the influx of foreign workers in the iGaming and fintech sectors. However, they remain moderate by Western European standards. The biggest expense is accommodation, which varies by location — the central and northern areas (Sliema, St Julian’s, Gzira) are most expensive, while the south and Gozo offer better value. Student budgets typically range from €800 to €1,300 per month.
Food costs are reasonable, with local restaurants offering daily lunch specials for €8–12 and a full grocery shop costing €40–60 per week. Public transport is excellent value — the Tallinja bus system offers a student monthly pass for just €21, covering the entire island. Malta’s small size means you never need a car. Mobile phone plans start at €10–15/month for prepaid data SIMs from GO, Melita, or Epic.
City Cost Comparison
| Area | Rent (€/mo) | Food (€/mo) | Transport (€/mo) | Total (€/mo) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sliema / St Julian’s | 400 – 600 | 200 – 300 | 21 | 900 – 1,300 |
| Msida / Gzira | 350 – 500 | 180 – 280 | 21 | 800 – 1,100 |
| Valletta / Three Cities | 300 – 450 | 180 – 280 | 21 | 750 – 1,050 |
| Mosta / Naxxar (central) | 280 – 420 | 170 – 270 | 21 | 720 – 1,000 |
| Gozo | 250 – 400 | 170 – 260 | 40 | 650 – 950 |
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Get Student Report — €29Student Visa Requirements
EU/EEA students do not need a visa to study in Malta — simply register with Identity Malta after 3 months. Non-EU students require a National Visa D (student visa) obtained from the nearest Maltese embassy or VFS Global centre before arrival. Malta is part of the Schengen Area, so your student residence permit allows travel to all 27 Schengen countries.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Visa Type | National Visa D (Student) — Schengen long-stay visa |
| University Admission | Acceptance letter from a licensed Maltese institution |
| Financial Proof | €5,000 – 10,000 in bank account + tuition payment receipt |
| Health Insurance | Comprehensive health insurance covering Malta/Schengen |
| Accommodation Proof | Rental agreement or university accommodation confirmation |
| Criminal Record | Police clearance from home country (recent, typically <6 months) |
| Processing Time | 4 – 8 weeks |
| Visa Fee | €150 (short-stay) / varies for national visa |
Identity Malta registration: After arrival, apply for a residence permit at Identity Malta (the government agency handling immigration) within 3 months. Bring your passport, visa, enrolment confirmation, proof of health insurance, proof of accommodation, and proof of financial means. The permit is typically issued for one academic year and is renewable.
Schengen travel: Your Maltese student residence permit allows visa-free travel to all Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This means easy access to Italy (just 1 hour by plane), France, Spain, Germany, and the rest of mainland Europe. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air offer cheap flights from Malta International Airport.
Health insurance: EU students should bring the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to Malta’s public healthcare system. Non-EU students must purchase comprehensive private health insurance. University of Malta students can access the university health centre for basic services.
Scholarships for International Students
Malta offers several scholarship programmes, though the funding landscape is smaller than in larger EU countries. The most significant government-funded scholarship is the Malta Government Scholarship Scheme (MGSS), which targets postgraduate students in fields aligned with Malta’s economic priorities. EU students benefit from the free tuition and stipend system at the University of Malta.
Full tuition + €8,000 – 12,000/yr living allowance
Government-funded scholarships for international master’s and doctoral students in fields aligned with Malta’s strategic priorities (ICT, fintech, health, maritime, environmental science). Covers tuition fees and a monthly living stipend. Limited places available — apply early. Administered by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority.
Full funding for postgraduate research
EU-funded scholarship programme supporting master’s and doctoral research in Malta. Part-funded by the European Social Fund. Covers tuition, a monthly maintenance allowance, and research expenses. Available across all fields of study. Particularly strong in marine science, AI, and sustainable development. Administered by MFHEA.
Free tuition + ~€150/month maintenance grant
All EU/EEA students studying at the University of Malta receive free tuition for undergraduate programmes plus a monthly maintenance grant of approximately €150. Some master’s programmes also waive fees for EU students. This is not competitive — all qualifying EU students receive it automatically upon enrolment.
25% – 50% tuition reduction
AUM offers merit-based scholarships of 25% to 50% tuition for international students with strong academic records. Need-based assistance is also available. Apply through the AUM admissions office alongside your programme application. Scholarships are renewable annually based on maintaining a minimum GPA.
Work While Studying
Malta offers good work rights for international students compared to many European countries. Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time without needing a separate work permit, as long as the employment does not interfere with their studies. During vacation periods (summer, Christmas, Easter), full-time work is permitted. EU students have unrestricted work rights.
Malta’s low unemployment rate (approximately 3% in 2025) means student jobs are readily available. The iGaming sector is the island’s largest employer of foreign workers and frequently hires students for customer support, content moderation, and translation roles. Hospitality and tourism provide year-round work, particularly in Sliema, St Julian’s, and Valletta. English tutoring is in high demand. The University of Malta campus has a career advisory service that helps students find part-time employment.
Post-Study Work & Career Prospects
Malta offers a one-year post-study residence permit for non-EU graduates to seek employment on the island. During this period, you can work while searching for a career-relevant position. Malta’s economy has several booming sectors that actively recruit international graduates, making post-study employment prospects stronger than in many larger EU countries.
Student Housing
The University of Malta campus is located in Msida, making Msida, Gzira, and Santa Venera the most popular areas for students. These areas offer a balance of proximity to campus, reasonable rents, and access to amenities. Sliema and St Julian’s are more expensive but offer a livelier social scene. The main rental platforms are maltapark.com and Facebook housing groups. Expect to pay a one-month deposit plus one month’s rent in advance.
The University of Malta has limited on-campus accommodation, so most students rent privately. Housing quality varies — Malta has older building stock, and many apartments lack central heating (rarely needed) but may feel cold in the mild winter months (December–February). Air conditioning is common and important for the hot summer months (June–September). When renting, check if utilities (water, electricity) are included, as Malta has some of the highest electricity costs in southern Europe.
Student Life & Culture
Malta offers a unique student experience that blends Mediterranean island life with a cosmopolitan, English-speaking environment. The island’s compact size means you can be at the beach, in the capital Valletta, or at a medieval walled city (Mdina) all within the same afternoon. Nightlife is centred in Paceville (St Julian’s), one of the most concentrated entertainment districts in Europe, with bars, clubs, and restaurants packed into a few blocks.
The University of Malta has an active student union (KSU — Kunsill Studenti Universitarji) that organises social events, orientation programmes, and student advocacy. Sports facilities include a swimming pool, gym, and outdoor courts. Cultural attractions are abundant: Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage city with stunning Baroque architecture, the Hypogeum (an underground prehistoric temple) is unique globally, and the island hosts frequent festivals including Carnival (February), Notte Bianca (October), and dozens of village festas throughout the summer.
Malta’s position in the central Mediterranean makes it an excellent base for travel. Budget flights to Rome, Barcelona, London, and other European cities are plentiful and cheap (often under €30 one-way with Ryanair). The Gozo ferry runs daily and costs just €4.65 per trip, offering access to the quieter sister island with its spectacular diving sites and rural charm. Sicily is reachable by a short catamaran ride from Valletta.
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Get Student Report — €29Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malta a good place to study abroad?
Malta offers English-medium instruction (official language), EU membership with Schengen travel, affordable tuition (€5,000–16,000/year for non-EU), and a booming iGaming/fintech job market. The Mediterranean climate and safety are additional draws. The main limitation is limited university choice (University of Malta dominates). Best for students wanting an English-taught EU degree with career prospects in tech, gaming, or finance.
How much does it cost to study at the University of Malta?
EU students study free with a ~€150/month stipend. Non-EU undergrads pay €5,000–11,500/year depending on the programme. Postgrad fees are €5,000–16,000/year. Medicine is highest at €14,000–16,000. MCAST charges €3,000–5,000 for non-EU students. The American University of Malta charges €9,000–12,000. All programmes are taught in English.
Can I work while studying in Malta?
Non-EU students can work 20 hours/week during term and full-time during vacations. EU students have unrestricted work rights. The minimum wage is €835/month. Common student jobs pay €7–12/hour. Malta’s ~3% unemployment means jobs are readily available, especially in iGaming customer support, hospitality, and tourism. The iGaming sector frequently hires multilingual students.
What is the student visa process for Malta?
Non-EU students need a National Visa D from the Maltese embassy or VFS Global. Requirements: acceptance letter, proof of funds (€5,000–10,000), health insurance, accommodation proof, and criminal record. Processing: 4–8 weeks. After arrival, register with Identity Malta within 3 months for a residence permit. The permit grants Schengen zone travel rights.
What post-study work options exist in Malta?
Malta offers a one-year post-study job search permit. The booming iGaming, fintech, and blockchain sectors create strong demand for English-speaking graduates. The Key Employee Initiative fast-tracks work permits for targeted sectors. EU graduates have unrestricted work rights. Malta’s low unemployment and high demand for skilled workers make graduate employment prospects favourable.
How does Malta compare to other study destinations?
Malta combines English instruction with EU membership (like Ireland but cheaper). Tuition is lower than UK/Netherlands but higher than Germany/France. Living costs are moderate — lower than London but higher than Eastern Europe. The main limitation is university choice. Strong advantages in iGaming, fintech, and blockchain careers. Mediterranean climate and Schengen travel are bonuses.
What is student life like in Malta?
Island lifestyle with Mediterranean beaches, Paceville nightlife, and Valletta culture. Everything is within 30–45 minutes by bus (€21/month student pass). English spoken everywhere. Diverse international community. Budget flights to European cities. UNESCO heritage sites. Safe and compact. Hot summers (30°C+) and mild winters (15°C). Weekend trips to Gozo, Sicily, and beyond.
What scholarships are available for studying in Malta?
Malta Government Scholarship Scheme (MGSS) offers full tuition plus €8,000–12,000/year for postgrad students in strategic fields. Endeavour Scheme funds postgraduate research. EU students get free tuition plus ~€150/month stipend. AUM offers 25–50% merit scholarships. Commonwealth Scholarships available for some students. Apply 6–12 months before programme start.
Related Guides
Considering other destinations alongside Malta? These guides provide detailed comparisons on tuition, visa requirements, and career outcomes.
- Study in Ireland — another English-speaking EU destination
- Study in Italy — nearby Mediterranean alternative
- Study in Greece — affordable EU Mediterranean option
- Study in the UK — English-taught but outside the EU
- Study in the Netherlands — English-taught EU programmes
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Get Student Report — €29Last updated: 9 March 2026. Tuition data from University of Malta, MCAST, and institutional websites. Scholarship details from MFHEA and programme pages. Living costs based on Numbeo and student surveys. All figures in EUR. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration or financial advice.