The Maltese islands are home to a remarkable cultural mixture between the ancient and the modern. Although the country harbours one of the oldest universities in the Mediterranean, the higher education system is future-oriented and blends tradition with innovation.

Due to the size of Malta, there is only one university and one vocational college made up of a number of individual institutions. However, they both have a good international reputation. About 600 full-time international students and about 500 exchange and transfer students come every year to Malta from about 80 different countries. The country maintains partnerships and links with education institutions all over the world.

Why study in Malta?

1. It's free for EU/EEA students

If you're from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) and want to study at the University of Malta — the only public education institution — you don't have to pay any tuition fees for most academic programmes. However, there are exceptions (some courses in Business, Culinary Arts, and others).

2. English is an official language

If you're worried about language barriers or you wouldn't feel comfortable learning another language, rejoice! You don't have to! English is an official language in Malta, being widely spoken by almost all citizens.

So, whether you want to ask for directions, find a missing item on your grocery list at the supermarket, or travel around, you'll always be able to ask for help and communicate with ease.

3. Malta is a paradise for sports and outdoor enthusiasts

Malta offers an incredibly wide range of activities for people who enjoy being active, travelling, and pushing themselves. In your spare time, feel free to try any of the following adrenaline-spiking activities: hiking, water sports, rock climbing, scuba diving, flyboarding, etc.

Not interested in any of these? Then, simply relax on the beach, enjoy the warmth of the sun, and the breeze of the sea.

Study programmes in Malta

Degrees are awarded in subjects like Arts, Science and Technology, Health Sciences, Economics, Management, Education, Engineering, Law and more. The students enrol in full-time or part-time study programmes. The courses offered are relevant and up to date with the needs of the country. The courses are offered at diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate level. Most Bachelor degree courses run for three years, while most Masters may be completed in 2 years. In order to maximize course efficiency, some courses are held once every two years.

Vocational and professional training is also available. Different institutes teach full-time students or part-time students who also hold a job and require specialized training.

Basic Foundation Study Courses enable international high school students who do not have the necessary entry requirements, to qualify for admission to an undergraduate degree course in Malta.

General application procedure

• Find the academic programme you want to study
• Check if you meet the minimum entry requirements
• Pay the application fee (if applicable)
• Submit your documents (translated into English)
• The Students’ Advisory Services are available for advice and information to prospective students
• Attend information meeting for Prospective Applicants
• Apply for scholarships, if available

English language preparation for studying in Malta

Develop your academic English language skills in order to meet the English language requirements at Maltese universities offering degree studies for international students. Choose an English language school anywhere in the world and pick your preferred English exam preparation course from diverse language course options.

Universities in Malta will want to see proof that you have good English-language skills, so that you can easily succeed in their English-taught courses. Universities accept these official English exams:

• PTE Academic
• IELTS
• TOEFL
• C1 Advanced