English-language study
English is an official language in Malta and the main language of higher education, so no separate local-language study is usually needed.
Study in Malta
EU degrees in English on a Mediterranean island
Malta is an EU member state where English is an official language, offering EU-recognised programmes, a warm climate, and a compact, international study environment.
Match me with programmes- Main intakes
- 1–2Main intakes
- Status
- EU member stateStatus
- Teaching language
- English official languageTeaching language
- Setting
- Mediterranean islandSetting
Country overview
Studying in Malta
Malta is a small EU member state in the Mediterranean where English is an official language and widely used in education. It offers EU-recognised bachelor's and master's programmes following the Bologna structure, with a compact higher-education sector.
Malta's English-language environment, warm climate, and island setting attract international students, though the number of institutions and programmes is smaller than in larger countries. Requirements and availability vary, so always confirm details directly with the institution.
- Capital
- Valletta
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Popular areas
- Valletta, Msida, Sliema
- Main intakes
- October (some February)
- Teaching languages
- English (official) and Maltese
- EU status
- Member state — simplified entry for EU/EEA citizens
Why study here
Reasons students choose Malta
EU-recognised degrees
Maltese qualifications follow the Bologna Process and are recognised across the EU.
Compact, international setting
A small, walkable country with an international community and a Mediterranean lifestyle.
Warm climate
Malta's mild, sunny climate appeals to students seeking a Mediterranean base in the EU.
Education system
How the system is structured
Maltese higher education follows the Bologna three-cycle structure (bachelor's, master's, doctoral) and uses the ECTS credit system, delivered through public and licensed private institutions.
Public and private institutions
Higher education is delivered by the main public university and a number of licensed private institutions.
English-language delivery
Most programmes are taught in English, reflecting its official status in Malta.
ECTS credits
Programmes use ECTS, supporting transfer and recognition within the EU.
Application routes
Pathways by study level
Requirements differ by level. Use the tabs to see typical entry expectations for each pathway.
Undergraduate degree
Bachelor's
Bachelor's programmes are taught in English across a range of fields, with a smaller overall selection than in larger countries.
Typical duration: 3–4 years
Typical entry requirements
- Completed secondary education comparable to the Maltese requirement
- English language proof where required
- Programme-specific prerequisites for some fields
Graduate degree
Master's
Master's programmes are taught in English and build on a relevant bachelor's degree.
Typical duration: 1–2 years
Typical entry requirements
- A relevant bachelor's degree with competitive grades
- English language proof where required
- Programme-specific prerequisites; some require a motivation letter
Qualification requirements
What qualifications you typically need
| Study level | Typical requirement |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's | Secondary education assessed as comparable to the Maltese standard, plus English proof where required. |
| Master's | A relevant bachelor's degree with competitive grades and English proof where required. |
Language requirements
Proving your language ability
Most programmes are taught in English, so English-language proof is the main requirement for international students. Confirm accepted tests and scores with the institution.
English-taught programmes
IELTS Academic
Widely accepted; minimum bands vary by programme and level.
TOEFL iBT
Commonly accepted as an alternative to IELTS.
- Some applicants may be exempt from English tests based on prior English-medium study; confirm with the institution.
- Maltese is an official language but is not usually required for English-taught programmes.
Application process
A typical application, step by step
Shortlist programmes
Identify programmes at the public university or licensed private institutions that match your goals.
Check requirements and deadlines
Confirm academic prerequisites, English proof, and deadlines for your chosen programme.
Prepare and submit documents
Gather transcripts, English results, and identification, then apply directly to the institution.
Receive an offer
Await the institution's decision and any conditions before accepting.
Arrange visa/residence steps
Non-EU applicants should begin the visa/residence process promptly once admitted.
Visa process
Student visa overview
Check your citizenship status
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens generally do not need a student visa or residence permit in the same way as non-EU applicants, though registration formalities may still apply.
Non-EU: apply for a national visa/residence permit
Non-EU/international students typically apply for a national (long-stay) visa and/or residence permit for study through the relevant Maltese authority or consulate.
Prepare supporting documents
Commonly includes the acceptance letter, passport, proof of funds, accommodation evidence, and health insurance, though exact lists vary.
Complete residence formalities after arrival
Non-EU students generally finalise residence formalities with local authorities after arriving in Malta.
Verify current rules officially
Visa and residence requirements change — always confirm the current process with the official Maltese authorities or consulate.
This is general guidance, not legal or admissions advice. Immigration rules, financial requirements, deadlines, and admission criteria for Malta can change at any time and vary by university. Always verify the current requirements with the official government authorities and the specific university before you apply.
Required documents
Documents you are likely to need
Academic transcripts
Certified copies of secondary or prior higher-education records.
English test results
IELTS/TOEFL where required by the programme.
Passport
Valid for the duration of study and travel.
Acceptance letter
Official confirmation of admission from the institution.
Proof of funds
Evidence you can support tuition and living costs.
Health insuranceIf applicable
Required for the visa/residence process for non-EU applicants.
Study categories
Popular fields of study
Business & management
- Business Administration
- Finance
- Marketing
- Tourism Management
IT & digital
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Digital Media
Health & life sciences
- Nursing
- Public Health
- Biology
- Health Sciences
Arts & humanities
- English
- International Relations
- Media
- Education
Costs and funding
Budgeting your studies
Tuition and living costs vary by institution and citizenship; EU/EEA students may pay lower fees at public institutions. The figures below are qualitative — confirm current amounts with the institution.
Tuition
- Public university
- Varies by citizenship
- Private institutions
- Varies
EU/EEA students may pay lower or subsidised fees; non-EU rates differ.
Private providers set their own tuition.
Living costs
- Accommodation
- Largest monthly cost
- Food & transport
- Moderate
- Health insurance
- Required
Costs can rise in tourist-heavy coastal areas.
The island is compact, keeping travel distances short.
Requirements depend on your status.
Funding & scholarships
Institutional scholarships
Some institutions offer scholarships or fee reductions; availability varies and should be checked directly.
EU/exchange programmes
EU mobility schemes may support eligible students; verify eligibility officially.
Part-time work
Eligible students may work limited hours; rules depend on citizenship and must be verified officially.
Application timeline
Planning your year
10–12 months before
Research
- Shortlist programmes and institutions
- Check requirements and deadlines
- Plan your budget
8–10 months before
Prepare
- Sit English tests if required
- Gather transcripts and documents
- Draft a motivation letter if needed
5–8 months before
Apply
- Submit applications
- Track offers and conditions
2–5 months before
Visa & arrival
- Accept an offer
- Complete visa/residence steps if non-EU
- Arrange accommodation and travel
Avoid these
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming the range of programmes is as broad as in larger countries.
- Underestimating accommodation costs in popular coastal areas.
- Leaving the non-EU visa/residence process too late.
- Not confirming that a private institution and programme are properly licensed.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Malta an English-speaking study destination?
Yes — English is an official language in Malta and the main language of higher education, so most programmes are taught in English.
Do EU citizens need a visa to study in Malta?
EU/EEA/Swiss citizens generally do not need a student visa in the same way as non-EU applicants, though local registration formalities may still apply.
How wide is the choice of programmes?
Malta's higher-education sector is compact, so the overall selection is smaller than in larger countries — check that your specific field is offered.
How long does the non-EU visa process take?
Processing times vary and are not fixed — always confirm current timelines with the official Maltese authorities or consulate well before your intended start date.
See which Maltese programmes fit your profile
Upload your transcript and MeetMentora will interpret your academic background and surface programmes that match your level and interests.
This is general guidance, not legal or admissions advice. Immigration rules, financial requirements, deadlines, and admission criteria for Malta can change at any time and vary by university. Always verify the current requirements with the official government authorities and the specific university before you apply.