Study abroad in Malta for students
Malta Country Covid Updates 2021 which International Students wants to Know
Malta has open the visas and boarders for the students who wants to study at the Malta Universities
Malta is a highly populated small sovereign island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea. The small country, in fact, is situated in the south of the Italian island of Sicily, right between Europe and North Africa. This small European nation comprises an archipelago of seven islands. Only three of these islands are inhabited. They are Gozo, Camino and the Malta. The country enjoys a warm, Mediterranean climate and is popular as a Sun and Sea Destination. Christianity is the dominating religion in the island.
Being an island, Malta is economically developed as an important trading post, and today it is one of the major centres for container and cargo transhipment. Malta’s history is culturally very rich. The country has been occupied by, Greeks, Romans, Arabs, the Knights of Malta. The capital of Malta is Valletta which is said to establish in the 16th century. Malta is a favourite holiday destination. Thus tourism is the nation’s chief earning industry.
Study Abroad in Malta for Students 2021
Despite the dense population and limited resources, the Maltese government has been keenly working on the growth of the education sector. Worlds high ranked and reputed universities are located in Malta. Moreover many international highly reputed universities have built their campuses in Malta.
The country is always open to welcome international students. In fact, currently, new education policy is launched for non-EU immigrants with flexible conditions. This step is taken to make Malta more competitive as an education authority and to upgrade the reputation of the local education sector.
The best Universities in Malta for Students 2021 are:
University of Malta
EEC-ITIS Malta Tourism and Language Institute
American University of Malta
Institute of Tourism Studies
London School of Commerce
International Student Life in Malta:
International students in Malta enjoy vibrant student life while studying at Maltese universities. In Malta, students are free to choose the type of accommodation like on-campus university-owned accommodation or home stays as paying guests. They get discounts on transport, meals and leisure activities. There is a lot of richness to explore in Maltese culture and history for newly arrived overseas students. The study abroad consultant can help you to find a proper accommodation in Malta
Tourist Destination
Malta is a tourist destination and offers uncounted attractions to visitors. Some of these attractions include The Valletta Waterfront, Mosta Rotunda, St. John’s Co-Cathedral Azure Window, and Casa Rocca Piccola etc. Moreover, Valletta and Sliema offer you the location for an exclusive shopping extravaganza
Maltese Food:
Every Country has its remarkable cuisine which in a sense is an attraction for tourists. Malta’s cuisine is a mixture of many foreign dishes. The local iconic Maltese food consists of Pastizz (pastry), Maltese Bread (sourdough), Imqaret (a sweet dish consisting date filling in a pastry), Maltese Ravioli (pasta) whereas the traditional Maltese food is stuffat tal-fenek which is a rabbit stew.
Student Jobs in Malta 2021
Many students who study abroad find it difficult to sustain a normal lifestyle due to the shortage of money and lack of jobs. International students are allowed to work in Malta during their study period. However, the working hours for non-EU students are limited. Still, these Students in Malta can easily apply for jobs which demand no experience such as Market Research Interviewer, Customer Service Agent, Cafeteria Assistant, Accounts Administrator, Delivery Person, Compliance Officer, Sales Clerk, Administrative Assistant etc.
Language:
English is the medium of instruction at Malta higher education institutes. In fact, English is widely spoken and understood throughout the country. English is spoken in almost every Maltese University due to which Asian and especially third-country students, who study English as a second language, can easily adjust in Malta without getting familiar with their native Maltese Language. However, if a foreign student is fluent in Maltese, he/she can enjoy a wide horizon of the Maltese job market.
Member of the European Union:
Malta is the member of the European Union; therefore if you enter Malta, you do not require any other visa to travel the other 27 member states of the European Union. Moreover, The Maltese services industry has grown significantly in recent years especially after joining the EU membership. This brings Malta fast growth in the economy. The country now offers a highly-skilled workforce, matchless services, techno-based infrastructure, and effective legal frameworks like taxation, investment etc. Hence, study abroad in Malta can gain you the opportunity of working in a European atmosphere.
Medical Insurance for Students to Study in Malta:
Malta health care system has a good reputation. As health is the most important factor. To get admitted in Malta university you must have a health insurance. So in any case you can easily manage your health emergency.
This ‘Sun and Sea destination’ is located right in the middle of the Mediterranean. The coastal country experiences a tropical climate of warm summers and rainy winters. The country is a favourite tourist destination for its breezy beaches and cultural richness. Moreover, this small European nation is popularly growing as a preferred study abroad destination. The tertiary education rendered in Malta is parallel with those offered at the other big European Destination. Malta is also a member of Schengen countries.
Students from European nations as well as from non-EU countries are constantly flying Malta to complete their higher education programs in Maltese universities. The reasons for this sudden changeability are in fact multiple.
Let’s explore why Malta is chosen as a study abroad destination.
Higher Education in Malta 2021 for Internatioal Students
The educational system of Malta is pretty similar to the British one, therefore students who have completed their 12 years+ of GCCE or O/A level studies in Pakistan and other developing countries can easily get adapted with the academic atmosphere. Malta would be a preferred study abroad country for students from other European countries as undergraduate courses are completely free for Maltese and all European students. However, students from Non –European countries have to pay the tuition fees at all degree level and other courses. The degrees are completely recognized and the curriculum taught at the Maltese higher education institute is the same as in other European countries. Malta being a small city entails only one public university, The University of Malta. This is a very old institution. It is founded in 1592.
Around 11,500 students, including 1,000 international students from 92 different countries are currently studying at the University of Malta. Moreover, these students have the liberty to study in a full-time or part-time degree and diploma courses. Some universities also takes admission of students who take gap years between their study courses.
English Taught Study Courses
Pakistani students generally hesitate to apply in a European university because of the language barrier. Most European universities are conducting degree programs in their native language like German, French, and Italian etc. Malta is one of those European nations where English dominates as the medium of instruction. Maltese and English, in fact, are the nation’s official languages and most of the courses conducted at Maltese universities are English taught. This has favoured overseas students especially from South Asian countries as these students can fluently speak, write and understand the English language.
Member of the European Union
Malta is a member of the European Union. This small island is in fact associated with Commonwealth also. The country enjoys close ties with the UK. It is a Schengen state as well as the part of the European Higher Education Area. Students from Schengen countries do not need any visa to enter Malta.
Malta Work While Study Policy
Recently Malta government has announced changes to its student visa policy. The new policy is quite impressive for Non –EU students. According to the current law, Non-EU students who are enrolled in a higher education course for more than 90 days can now work 20 hours a week. Moreover, international graduates are allowed to extend their stay in Malta for six months. These students can stay in Malta after graduation to hunt some appropriate job in the country. The policy further states that English language students on courses longer than three months can work in Malta. These students only apply for a residence permit if they extend their stay for more than one year.
The Maltese degrees are completely recognized.
The Malta Qualifications Recognition Information Centre (MQRIC) is the official degree recognition body that recognizes qualifications. It recognizes both academic and vocational qualifications. It also helps to recognize the Maltese qualifications abroad.
Exceptional Study Courses
Diverse numbers of courses are being taught at Malta higher education institutes. There are around 200 courses offered in Malta. Along with the conventional study courses, the Malta universities also render courses that are unique and are taught in very few universities abroad. These include courses in forestry, fishery, Social and behavioral sciences, and tourism and hospitality etc.
Work While Study
Maltese education system allows both part-time and full-time study programs this will help the students who are working part-time and are paying for their studies. Moreover, not only degree courses are taught in Malta, in fact, but there are also many higher education institutes which offers highly recognized vocational and diploma courses for International students. These institutes are
Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology
Institute of Tourism Studies
St. Martin’s Higher Education Institute
This small island has become a study hub for part-time working students. International students from European countries do not require any permission to work while studying in Malta. However, Non-EU students like form Pakistan has to apply for a working license to take part-time jobs while studying. With the current Maltese education policy, international students can now work for 20 hours a week. Malta is a tourist destination; therefore, many part-time jobs are available for students in the tourism industry.
Scholarship Programs in Malta 2021 for Students
Maltese Government, as well as the universities in Malta, offer a number of scholarship programs for both European and non-European international students. Some of these are in fact fully funded and an eligible foreign student can complete his degree in Malta remaining in a budget. You can check these scholarship offers at the given link.
Affordable Living and Study
Both the study and living cost is quite affordable in Malta as compared to other European countries. The tuition fees, dorm rent, food, entertainment and general living is quite economical plus the country allows the international graduate to stay in Malta and look for work if he wants to stay longer at the island.
Malta, the Island
In short, this is a small yet safe destination to study and live. The crime rate is comparably low. People are hospitable. English is spoken and understood everywhere. The scenic beaches and mild Mediterranean climate has made Malta a perfect destination to reside. A foreign student can enjoy all sorts of recreational activities especially related to marine life is offered in the country. Students can experience the Mediterranean flavours while living in Malta. Students can view the life of 16th century through historic heritages. There are Prehistoric temples underground Roman cemeteries and much more for a Malta visitor. Valletta is the capital of Malta, it has all components of modern living as well as the city is abundantly rich in historical sites to see and explore.
Good news for Game of Thrones fans as Malta is a mini-Hollywood and a grand location to film Game of Thrones episodes
Malta is one of the world’s smallest yet over-populated countries. Malta, in fact, comprises a group of islands in the Mediterranean Sea to the south of Italy. With the growing trend of studying abroad, students now choose some unconventional destinations to complete their degree programs. Malta is one of these exceptional options.
Higher Education System of Malta 2021 for Students
The country has established a reputed educational system and is becoming a popular study abroad destination for a few years. The higher education in Malta offers degree programs in nearly all subjects like Arts, Business, Law, Education, Science and Technology, Health Sciences, Economics, Management, Engineering etc. The students can take admission in both full-time and part-time study programs. The academic courses render the most up-to-date curriculum. The courses are offered at every level including diploma courses, undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs. Moreover vocational and similar training is also available at these institutes. The Maltese institutes cater both full-time and part-time students to provide maximum flexibility for working students.
Top Universities in Malta 2021:
American University of Malta
European Graduate School
Higher Education Institutes in Malta
Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology
Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)
Admission Intakes and Requirement for Undergraduate Programs at Malta Universities 2021
The undergraduate program or Bachelor degree courses take three years to complete. The academic year comprises two semesters that generally begins in October. However individual university has set its own academic schedule, therefore it is better to check the institute’s official website for authentic and latest updates. Generally Maltese Universities conduct English Taught courses. However, a limited number of Maltese language courses also take international admissions.Students can apply throughout the year.
How Students can Apply at A Maltese University 2021
Primarily the prospective student has to apply online at the university website
The application process also demands some processing fee; therefore, the student has to pay the application fee as directed before the submission deadline. It is, however, not the case with every university. There are universities in Malta which receive applications free of charge
Eligible students can also apply for scholarship programs if applicable
The correctly filled and signed applications along with the required academic documents are then submitted online at the university’s admission site.
The Admissions & Records Office will receive and evaluates the applications and related documents.
Once the evaluation is completed, the Office of the Registrar issues the decision letter to all applicants.
Business studies sometimes demand work experience certificates.
Maltese Educational system accepts the A-level certificate for undergraduate admission, however, students who have completed their 12 years of studies with some certification or intermediate certificate can also apply for a bachelor’s degree program in Malta. Higher School Certificate of Matriculation of approved overseas and EU authorities are also accepted or any equivalent qualification.
Higher education institutes generally accept the International Baccalaureate and the European Baccalaureate.
However, an overseas applicant can submit the documents according to the entry requirements of the course.
Pathway Program for Students
For Pakistani students holding an Intermediate / Higher Secondary Certificate, Malta universities offer pathway programs to help develop the skills you need to acquire to study an undergraduate course. These foundation courses are conducted in
Medical, Dental & Health Sciences
Business
Science, Engineering & ICT and
A Pakistani applicant requires at least 60% in his/her Intermediate Certificate/Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC) to get enrolled in a foundation or pathway program.The students, who complete the pathway program successfully, become eligible for direct entry into the undergraduate degree courses.
Students who want to take admission in year 1 of undergraduate degree programs, should submit their academic records and transcripts to the university The academic council has set criteria of grades and points for each course and subject like some institute to measure your academic qualification according to the standard IB Diploma.
It is, however, better to contact the International student office at the university for more information about entry requirements.
The Admissions team carries out an initial check of your application for accuracy and determines your tuition fee and residential status.
The university will send a formal letter of admission to the student. The letter also defines how to pay the fees and register at the university.
In the acceptance letter, applicants requiring visas will be duly informed and supplied with the necessary information they require in connection with the visa application process.
The student has to pay the tuition fees as directed by the University authorities.
Malta universities also offer accommodation to new full-time undergraduate students enrolled in the first year of study, if you confirm your admission and have applied for on-campus accommodation.
Since the language of instruction and communication at most Maltese universities is English, therefore an overseas applicant has to provide his/her competency according to the University’s English Language Requirement. Generally,IELTS 6.5 overall score with at least 6.0 in reading and writing is acceptable.
Moreover, students who are not able to meet the English language proficiency criteria can enrol into the Pre-Sessional English courses offered by the university.
Remember that some specific departments especially a professional study have set slightly different entry criteria.
The age limit to take admission in an undergraduate course is generally at least 17 years in the year you begin your course.
Documents Required for Students 2021 for Admisison in Malta Top Universities
Two recent Passport size coloured photographs with white background (3.5cm x 4.5cm).
Original and photocopy of Passport with a validity of at least 3 months after the arrival in Malta and All previous Passports
Travel Medical Insurance valid for all Schengen Countries.
Bank statements or other financial proofs (signed and stamped) for the last 3 months
Proof of Accommodation
Originals and 1 copy of all the academic Certificates.
Acceptance Letter from the Educational Institute in Malta.
Notarized parents consent letter if applicable.
Once your admission is accepted at a Malta university, the student has to apply for a Malta student visa. This is basically a Schengen visa as Malta is a Schengen country and to apply for a Malta study visa Pakistani citizens have to approach the Italian embassy in Islamabad.
Postgraduate or Master’s Admission Requirements and Intakes 2021 for Students
Master’s or a postgraduate study program generally takes two years to complete depending upon the subject and research. Classes for a postgraduate or Masters Programs generally begin in September although some institutions have their own schedule times of the year.
For international students, the deadline for applications generally falls in July.
How to Apply for a Master’s Program 2021 in Malt Universiteis
The prospective international student has to apply online at the institute’s website.
In the application form, the student has to explain his/her reasons for study/ research and provide details of your qualifications
Pakistani students are required to complete a 4-year Bachelor or Professional Bachelor degree from an HEC accredited university. The requirements will also depend on the postgraduate degree the student is applying for.
The student has to pay the tuition fees as directed by the University authorities.
Some postgraduate programs require the undergraduate degree in a major subject. However, there are postgraduate programs that require work experience in a relevant field.
Postgraduate applicant’s, who have completed their Bachelor’s degree via English taught program or who have previously worked in an English speaking environment may be exempted from the standard English language requirements on a case-by-case criterion. For such an exemption, a confirmation letter about the English medium previous study will be required.
The IELTS score of 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in R&W and 5.5 in S&L is mostly acceptable.
Masters programs consist of taught modules as well as a dissertation or project of a specified number of words. Both the taught classes and the research project will complete the total credit hours needed for a full master’s degree approval.
Taught Modules generally take nine months to complete. Students are then are assessed by written coursework, examinations and relevant presentations. Once the student has passed all the taught modules, he/she can proceed to the research project or dissertation. Those students, who couldn’t complete the dissertation, can apply for a postgraduate diploma.
The accepted student has to apply for a Malta study visa at specified consulate in his/her home country
Required Documents for Master’s Program
Graduate 4-year degree or Professional degree from an HEC accredited university or a one or two year Master’s degree from an HEC accredited university/a
Two recent Passport size coloured photographs with white background (3.5cm x 4.5cm).
Original and photocopy of Passport with a validity of at least 3 months after the arrival in Malta and All previous Passports
Health Insurance valid for all Schengen Countries.
Bank statements or other financial proofs (signed and stamped) for the last 3 months
Proof of Accommodation
Originals and 1 copy of all the academic Certificates
Acceptance Letter from the Educational Institute in Malta
All previous academic record attested
Scholarship documents if applied
Statement of Purpose
Admission and Intakes in PhD programs at Malta Universites for Students
Malta universities also offer research-based doctoral studies. Students can pursue substantial independent research under the guidance of their PhD supervisors, who are experts in their field. Applicants who wish to pursue doctoral research at the University should possess a Master’s degree. It is however recommended to visit the relevant department website to check the supervisors for your research and thesis.
Studies for the PhD Degree take at least three years of full-time study or six years of part-time study to complete. However, if the research work prolongs then the Committee may recommend granting a longer period to the prospective student.
If you are an eligible PhD candidate, you will be asked to submit a written research proposal for your PhD.
How to apply for a PhD program 202 in Malta Universiteis
The student then fills and completes the online postgraduate application form.
If the university accept you,it will send an acceptance letter
The student has to pay the tuition fees as directed by the University authorities.
The student has to apply for a Malta student visa
Proficiency in the English language is mandatory. Generally, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in reading and writing is acceptable
PhD admissions are open to candidates who possess a Master degree from the University of Malta or another university in the field of studies which is relevant to the degree, or has an equivalent or higher qualification.
All accepted Doctor of Philosophy candidates is primarily enrolled as Master of Philosophy students. The status will change within twelve months (full-time) or twenty-four months (part-time). The submitted written work will be assessed by an ad hoc board set up specifically for this work.
Research Supervisor
For a PhD student, the Board and the Committee appoint a Supervisor to the individual student. This supervisor is selected from the academic staff of the University. The supervisor possesses relevant qualifications and research experience in the subject area of the student. He/she also has all knowledge about the current research methodologies. If you have consulted any professional for this admission, then your study abroad consultant will brief you in this regard
The process for admission and documents required are similar to that of the Master’s degree admission
Studying abroad at a European destination means high living cost. Malta however is a small island therefore the cost of studies as well as living is quite low as compared to other European countries. The international student admitted in Maltese Universities has to bear the study as well as the living cost in Malta. The cumulative study cost at Maltese higher education institutes covers all the pre-departure and post-departure expenses.
Pre –Departure expenses
The student who wants to take admission at Malta universities has to first apply at the universities. Generally, this application process does not charge anything but it might be possible that some private universities take application process fees. The documents that you prepare, scan or photocopy to submit with your application or visa form also take some cash out of your pocket. Moreover once the admission is confirmed the prospective student has to apply for a Malta visa. The Malta visa fee in Pakistan is around 66 Euros.
The language courses that you attend to get admission in Malta plus the language exam fees itself draw around 60 thousand PRs, from your account. Then there is the airfare ticket. A one-way ticket to Malta via an economical airline is around 60 thousand PRs. There are some miscellaneous charges which a student has to bear before travelling to Malta like, buying stuff to take abroad, Airport taxes, fuel charges etc.
Post Departure Study Cost
Upon arriving in Malta the student has to face different sort of study cost. The basic cost includes the Tuition fees at the Maltese university. This cost, however, belongs to both pre-departure and upon arrival categories. Malta public universities charge tuition fees to Non-EU students. Though the sum is quite low as compared to the private universities tuition fees in Malta, yet for a third country student still the amount is very high. The tuition fees for every course is also revised every year, therefore, it is better to check at the course menu of the Malta Universities to get the updated charges. The figure varies with courses and universities.
As a matter of fact, for Masters Program, the tuition costs for 8 credit hours for international students enrolled in the Arts and Business courses ranges around 1,080 EUROS for undergraduate students and 1,400 EUROS for Science subjects. In addition to tuition fees, Students also have to pay some annual registration charges. Full-time undergraduate courses are, however, free of charge for locals and students from the European Union.
The Scholarship Facilitation
Most of the developing countries’ students prefer to study in Malta on scholarships. This is a very sensible decision as these universities generally cover the tuition expenses and sometimes also provide extra grants to eligible candidates.
Moreover, students also have to pay some fee to obtain and renew their residence permit. The fee for the residence permit is around €23.29 per year.
Stationary, books and other material cost you around 150 Euros. Research based studies also demand some extra charges for thesis and dissertation
Living Cost in Malta 2021 for Students
Though living in Malta is expensive for Non –EU students but it is still affordable as compared to the other European destinations. The living cost also depends on a student’s lifestyle. If the student is accommodating in a shared dwelling and working part-time in the designated hours, he/she can manage to live an average life in Malta while studying.
Accommodation Cost
The basic living cost, in fact, involves the Accommodation. According to a recent estimation
Apartment rent will cost around Euro700 per month.
Paying guest option will cost around Euro 500 (with food) per month
Student’s residence will cost around Euro 400per month
Transport Cost
To travel in Malta students can use their Tallinja cards to get a journey cheaper fares the original cost of bust tickets. .In fact, 75c per journey will be deducted from the student’s travel card which has a monthly maximum limit of €21. Private taxis and other options are expensive. Students can also avail discounts on cinema tickets, museum entries, concerts etc.
The Average Living Cost in Malta
On average, the cost of living in Malta would lie anywhere between Euros 400 to Euros 600 per month. This would cover travelling, food, entertainment and utilities. Students are advised to get health insurance coverage in Malta that would cover the health-care expenses of the student. This health insurance policy also charges some good amount as the premium.
Hence studying in Malta is a good option for the international student as you can avail the opportunity to live in A Schengen country in the most affordable budget.
Study In Malta Questions
What are the top 5 reasons to study in Malta?
English is an official language.
Country is the member of European union.
Peaceful and safest place.
High quality education.
Economical country
What is the General undergrad/postgrad admission requirements for study abroad in Malta?
Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
FA/Fsc or A levels certificate | FA/Fsc or A levels certificate |
English language proficiency. | Undergraduate degree for graduate admission and Graduate degree in an appropriate subject |
Photocopy of your passport or id card | English language proficiency. |
Proof that you can pay all of your expenses while studying | Statement of purpose |
— | references |
— | Photocopy of your passport or id card Proof that you can pay all of your expenses while studying |
What are the general visa requirements for Malta study visa?
Visa application form.
2 photos.
Passport.
A copy of return ticket.
Travel medical insurance.
Purpose to visit Malta.
Proof of civil status.
Proof of accommodation.
Proof of bank statement.
How costly is study in Malta?
8 credit hours for international student charge roundabout 1200 EURO to 16,00 EURO.
What are typical accommodation options while studying in Malta?
Malta provide both the accommodation option to student located near or in the campus.Students are free to choose the option of living which suits them best.
Can a student work during study abroad in Malta?
Yes, a student is free to work while studying but after 90 days of living in Malta.
How long anyone can stay in Malta without visa?
3 months
Can an International student get a permanent PR in Malta after completion of higher studies?
Yes, you can apply for permanent residence after continuous living of 5 years.