Malta is rapidly becoming one of the most preferred European destinations for higher education. If you are planning to study in Malta, you are choosing a country that offers affordable tuition fees, EU-recognized degrees, English-taught programs, strong job opportunities, and stay-back options after graduation.
Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a member of the European Union (EU) and follows European education standards. With a safe environment, growing economy, and strong tourism industry, Malta provides students with both academic excellence and high quality of life.
In this complete guide, we will cover everything about studying in Malta including education system, university rankings, cost of study, no IELTS options, tourism lifestyle, stay-back opportunities, and job benefits.
Why Study in Malta?
There are many reasons why international students, especially Indian students, are choosing Malta as their study abroad destination:
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Affordable tuition fees compared to UK, Ireland, and Canada
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English-speaking country
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EU-recognized degrees
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Safe and peaceful environment
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Work while studying option
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Growing job market
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Stay-back and work permit opportunities
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Mediterranean climate and tourism lifestyle
Malta offers the perfect balance between academic growth and international exposure.
Education System in Malta
The Maltese education system follows the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). This ensures that degrees earned in Malta are recognized across Europe and internationally.
Structure of Higher Education in Malta
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Bachelor’s Degree – 3 to 4 years
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Master’s Degree – 1 to 2 years
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PhD Programs – 3 to 5 years
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Diploma & Certificate Courses – 6 months to 2 years
Key Features of Malta’s Education System:
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Research-based curriculum
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Practical and industry-focused learning
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International faculty
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Modern campus facilities
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Internship opportunities
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Globally accepted qualifications
The education system emphasizes real-world skills, innovation, and employability.
University Ranking in Malta
Malta may be a small country, but its institutions maintain strong academic standards.
1. University of Malta
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Established in 1592
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Public research university
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Offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs
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Recognized across Europe
Popular courses include:
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Medicine
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Engineering
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IT & Computer Science
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Business & Economics
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Law
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Arts & Humanities
2. American University of Malta (AUM)
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US-style education system
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International faculty
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Business and Engineering programs
3. MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology)
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Strong focus on technical and vocational education
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Industry-aligned programs
While Maltese universities may not rank alongside large UK or US universities globally, they provide high-quality European education at a much lower cost.
Affordable Tuition Fees in Malta
One of the biggest advantages of choosing to study in Malta is affordability.
Average Tuition Fees
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Bachelor’s Programs: €6,000 – €12,000 per year
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Master’s Programs: €7,000 – €15,000 per year
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MBA Programs: €10,000 – €18,000 per year
Compared to countries like the UK, where tuition can exceed €20,000 per year, Malta offers significant cost savings.
Cost of Living in Malta
Malta offers a relatively affordable European lifestyle.
Monthly Living Expenses
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Accommodation: €300 – €700
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Food & groceries: €200 – €300
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Transportation: €30 – €50
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Utilities & internet: €80 – €120
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Miscellaneous: €100 – €200
Average total monthly expenses: €700 – €1,000
Students can reduce expenses by sharing accommodation and working part-time.
Study in Malta Without IELTS
Many students search for options to study in Malta without IELTS.
Several universities allow admission without IELTS if:
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Your previous education was in English medium
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You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate
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You clear an internal English assessment or interview
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You submit alternative test scores like PTE
This flexibility makes Malta an attractive destination for students who want to study in Europe without strict IELTS requirements.
However, English proficiency requirements vary by university and program.
Tourism & Student Lifestyle in Malta
Malta is one of Europe’s top tourist destinations. Studying here means enjoying a beautiful Mediterranean lifestyle.
Why Students Love Malta:
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Stunning beaches and coastline
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Historic architecture and ancient cities
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
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Pleasant climate throughout the year
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Safe and low crime rate
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Multicultural student community
The tourism industry also creates part-time job opportunities for students.
Work While Studying in Malta
International students are allowed to work:
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Up to 20 hours per week
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After completing 90 days in Malta
Popular Part-Time Job Sectors:
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Hospitality & Tourism
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Restaurants & Hotels
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Retail stores
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Customer service
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IT support
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Administrative assistance
Part-time jobs help students manage living expenses and gain international work experience.
Stay Back Option After Study in Malta
One of the most important factors for students is the stay-back option.
After completing your degree:
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You can apply for a work permit
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Convert your student residence permit into employment residence
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Continue staying legally if you secure a job
Malta has skill shortages in several industries, which increases employment chances for graduates.
Job Opportunities in Malta
Malta’s economy is one of the fastest-growing in Europe.
High-Demand Sectors:
1. iGaming Industry
Malta is known as the “iGaming Capital of Europe.”
2. Information Technology
Software development, cybersecurity, data science.
3. Blockchain & FinTech
Malta is often called “Blockchain Island.”
4. Tourism & Hospitality
Hotels, resorts, travel management.
5. Financial Services
Banking, accounting, financial management.
6. Maritime & Aviation
Shipping and logistics industries.
Benefits of Job Opportunities in Malta
Choosing to study in Malta offers strong career advantages:
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English-speaking work environment
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EU job market exposure
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Growing industries
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International networking opportunities
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Work-life balance
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Pathway to long-term residence
Experience gained in Malta can help you explore opportunities across Europe.
Scholarships in Malta
Although limited compared to large countries, scholarships are available:
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Government of Malta scholarships
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Erasmus+ programs
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University-specific merit scholarships
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Research grants
Scholarships are typically merit-based and competitive.
Malta Student Visa Process
To study in Malta, Indian students must apply for a National Long Stay Visa (D Visa).
Required Documents:
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University offer letter
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Valid passport
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Proof of funds
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Accommodation confirmation
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Health insurance
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Academic transcripts
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English proficiency proof (if required)
Visa Processing Time:
4–8 weeks (may vary).
Proper documentation increases visa approval chances.
Intakes in Malta
Most universities offer:
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October Intake (Main Intake)
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February Intake (Limited Courses)
Students should apply at least 6–8 months in advance.
Popular Courses to Study in Malta
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Business & Management
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MBA
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Computer Science
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Artificial Intelligence
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Data Science
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Tourism & Hospitality Management
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Engineering
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Finance & Accounting
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Maritime Studies
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Blockchain Technology
These programs align with Malta’s growing industries.
PR & Long-Term Residence in Malta
Malta offers pathways toward long-term residence based on employment.
After:
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Securing a full-time job
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Maintaining legal residence
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Meeting required employment duration
Graduates may apply for long-term residence permits.
Immigration policies may change, so students should always check updated regulations.
Advantages of Studying in Malta for Indian Students
Here is a quick summary of why Malta is a smart choice:
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Affordable European education
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English-speaking country
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No IELTS options available
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Safe and student-friendly environment
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Work while studying
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Stay-back and job opportunities
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EU-recognized degrees
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Strong tourism and tech industry
Malta combines education, career growth, and lifestyle benefits.
Is Malta Worth It in 2026?
Yes. If you are looking for:
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Budget-friendly European study option
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Flexible English requirements
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Growing job market
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Beautiful and safe environment
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Stay-back opportunities
Then choosing to study in Malta can be a practical and strategic decision.
Malta is ideal for students who want European exposure without extremely high tuition fees.
Conclusion – Study in Malta
Studying in Malta offers more than just a degree. It provides:
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International exposure
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European academic standards
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Career growth opportunities
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Affordable education
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Tourism-friendly lifestyle
With affordable tuition fees, stay-back options, job opportunities, and no IELTS pathways, Malta is emerging as one of the top European study destinations in 2026.
If planned correctly, studying in Malta can open doors to global career opportunities and long-term professional success.