Study abroad in Malta for students

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:

• University of Malta

• 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 

1. Two recent Passport size coloured photographs with white background (3.5cm x 4.5cm).

2. Original and photocopy of Passport with a validity of at least 3 months after the arrival in Malta and All previous Passports

3. Travel Medical Insurance valid for all Schengen Countries.

4. Bank statements or other financial proofs (signed and stamped) for the last 3 months

5. Proof of Accommodation

6. Originals and 1 copy of all the academic Certificates.

7.  Acceptance Letter from the Educational Institute in Malta.

8. 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

Study In Malta Questions