Study in Malta – higher education, costs and application
Tuition fees and living costs
Tuition fees
Fees vary by institution, degree level, and whether you are an EU/EEA or non-EU/EEA student.
On average, tuition fees are:
- Bachelor’s degrees: €1 000 - €9 000/year
- Master's degrees: €2 000 - €12 000/year
- Doctoral (PhD) studies:
- EU/EEA: from €600 - €2 000/year
- Non-EU/EEA: €5 000 - €11 000/year
Living costs
Living costs in Malta are estimated at €900 - €1 400 per month covering accommodation, food, utilities, transport, and personal expenses.
Some institutions, such as the University of Malta (University of Malta fees and funding) and the Institute of Tourism Studies (Institute of Tourism Studies tariffs and fees), give a detailed breakdown of fees.
Visa requirements
EU/EEA students
No visa is required. Students staying longer than three months need to register their residence.
Non-EU/EEA students
A long-stay Student Visa (D-visa) is required before travelling to Malta. Students studying for one academic year or longer must also apply for an e-Residence Permit after arrival.
More information on visas and residence permits in Malta
Education system
Malta’s higher education system follows the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) English is the primary language of instruction across most institutions. Tertiary education in Malta includes public universities and private universities.
Degree options
- Bachelor’s degree (3 - 4 years)
- Master’s degree (1 - 2 years)
- Doctorate (PhD) (3 - 4 years)
Other study opportunities
- Short-term studies and exchange programmes (including Erasmus+)
- Language and summer courses
Application procedure
Application deadlines vary by institution and programme. For programmes starting in autumn (October), deadlines usually fall between June and July.
In general, applying to study in Malta involves:
- searching for recognised study programmes
- checking academic and English-language requirements
- submitting an online application and paying the application fee
- receiving a letter of acceptance
- completing visa or residence procedures (if required)
- preparing accommodation, insurance, and arrival arrangements
Scholarship opportunities
Malta offers access to national, institutional and European funding schemes, depending on eligibility.
Funding opportunities may include:
- Government-administered scholarships
- Erasmus+ mobility grants
- Research and doctoral funding
- Student Maintenance Grants (for eligible students at institutions such as the Institute of Tourism Studies)
Student life in Malta
Malta offers a safe, English-speaking and international student environment with a Mediterranean lifestyle. Students benefit from year-round cultural events, beaches, and historic sites in the country.
Read what the University of Malta has to say about student life in Malta
Frequently asked questions
Are programmes taught in English?
Yes, most higher education programmes in Malta are fully taught in English.
Browse the study programmes available
Can I work while studying in Malta?
Yes, EU/EEA students may work without restrictions. Non-EU/EEA students may work up to 20 hours per week after obtaining an e-Residence Permit.
Is health insurance required?
Yes, EU/EEA students can use the European Higher Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU/EEA students must have private health insurance covering their stay.
How can I find housing in Malta?
Students may choose between student residences and private rentals. Due to demand, early securing your accommodation is strongly recommended. Find more information on the website of your preferred host university.
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