Study Abroad – Study in Malta for Indian Students
Malta, a picturesque island nation in Southern Europe, has rapidly emerged as one of the most attractive study-abroad destinations for Indian students. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Malta offers the perfect combination of world-class European education, a safe lifestyle, and an affordable cost of living.
For students who want to pursue an international degree in an English-speaking environment without spending as much as in the UK or Ireland, Malta provides the perfect balance. It is part of both the European Union (EU) and the Schengen Zone, meaning that students not only gain globally recognized degrees but also enjoy the freedom to travel, study, and work across Europe.
This guide covers everything you need to know about studying in Malta – from universities and courses to scholarships, visa requirements, costs, and career opportunities.
Why Choose Malta for Higher Education?
Malta offers several unique benefits that make it stand out among other study destinations:
Key Advantages
- English as an Official Language – One of the biggest advantages for Indian students is that Malta is officially bilingual (Maltese and English). All universities offer programs in English, making it easy to adapt academically and socially.
- Affordable Education – Tuition fees in Malta are significantly lower compared to other popular European countries like Ireland, France, or the Netherlands.
- Globally Recognized Degrees – Since Malta is part of the EU, degrees awarded here are internationally recognized and carry strong academic value worldwide.
- Safe and Student-Friendly Environment – Malta consistently ranks as one of the safest countries in Europe with a low crime rate, warm hospitality, and a welcoming culture.
- Work Opportunities While Studying – Students can work part-time up to 20 hours per week, which helps in covering living costs.
- Gateway to Europe – With a Schengen student visa, you can easily travel across 27 European countries.
- Post-Study Work and PR Options – Malta provides post-study work opportunities and the option to apply for permanent residency after five years of work and stay.
Challenges to Keep in Mind
- Malta has a limited number of universities, so competition for popular programs can be high.
- The job market is competitive, especially for non-EU citizens.
- While affordable compared to Western Europe, the cost of living in cities like Valletta or Sliema can be moderate to high depending on lifestyle.
Top Universities in Malta
Malta may be a small country, but its higher education institutions provide a wide range of academic programs. Here are the most popular options:
- University of Malta (UM)
- Established in 1592, it is the oldest and most reputed university in Malta.
- Offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across diverse fields.
- Known for medicine, engineering, IT, and business courses.
- Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology (MCAST)
- Specialized in vocational and technical education.
- Popular for applied sciences, hospitality, maritime studies, and business programs.
- American University of Malta (AUM)
- Provides American-style education with English as the medium of instruction.
- Strong in business, management, and technology.
- Global College Malta
- Well-known for business and management degrees.
- Offers foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs.
- St. Martin’s Institute of Higher Education
- Offers IT, computing, and business programs in partnership with UK universities.
Popular Courses for Indian Students in Malta
Many Indian students choose Malta because it offers degrees that align with global demand. The most sought-after courses include:
- Hospitality & Tourism Management – Malta is a tourism hub with booming career opportunities.
- Business & Management – Popular for MBA and related programs.
- Medicine & Health Sciences – MBBS from the University of Malta is recognized by India’s National Medical Commission (NMC).
- Information Technology (IT) & Computer Science – Growing demand for skilled IT professionals across Europe.
- Maritime Studies & Logistics – Malta is strategically located in the Mediterranean, making it a leader in shipping and logistics studies.
- Finance & Accounting – Global demand for professionals with EU-recognized qualifications.
Admission Requirements for Indian Students
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s Programs)
- Completion of 10+2 with minimum 55–60% marks.
- English proficiency proof: IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 72+ (waivers possible if schooling was in English).
Postgraduate (Master’s Programs)
- Bachelor’s degree with at least 55–60% marks.
- IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 80+.
- Work experience may be required for MBA or professional management programs.
Documents Required
- Valid passport.
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP).
- Letters of Recommendation.
- English proficiency proof.
- Financial documents.
- Medical insurance.
Cost of Studying in Malta
Tuition Fees (Annual Average)
- Medicine / MBBS: €10,000 – €20,000
- Business / Management: €6,000 – €12,000
- Engineering / IT: €6,000 – €10,000
- Hospitality / Tourism: €5,000 – €8,000
(Equivalent in Indian Rupees: ₹4.5 lakh – ₹18 lakh per year depending on program)
Living Costs (Monthly Average)
- Accommodation: €300 – €600
- Food: €200 – €300
- Transport: €30 – €50
- Miscellaneous: €100 – €150
Total monthly cost: €650 – €1,100 (approx. ₹58,000 – ₹1 lakh).
Annual cost of living: Around ₹7 – ₹10 lakh.
Scholarships for Indian Students in Malta
Several scholarships are available to help Indian students reduce financial burden:
- University of Malta Scholarships – Merit-based tuition fee waivers.
- Malta Government Scholarships Scheme (MGSS) – For postgraduate and research students.
- Erasmus+ Program – Offers exchange and funding opportunities across EU universities.
- Institutional Scholarships – Private universities provide their own financial aid options.
Student Visa for Malta
Indian students require a National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) to study in Malta.
Required Documents:
- Admission/acceptance letter from a Maltese institution.
- Valid passport.
- Proof of sufficient funds (around €12,000 per year).
- Health insurance.
- Proof of accommodation.
- Visa application form and biometrics.
Visa Processing Time: Usually 4–6 weeks.
Part-Time Work Opportunities in Malta
- Students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays.
- Average wages range from €5 – €7 per hour (₹450 – ₹650).
- Common jobs: Restaurants, hotels, supermarkets, IT support, English tutoring.
- Monthly income: €400 – €600, which helps cover living expenses.
Career Opportunities After Studies
Malta offers excellent career pathways in growing sectors:
- IT & Technology
- Finance & Banking
- Healthcare & Medicine
- Hospitality & Tourism
- Maritime & Logistics
Graduates can either:
- Work in Malta (companies often sponsor work permits).
- Work in other EU countries (degrees are EU-recognized).
- Return to India with international exposure and valuable skills.
Permanent Residency (PR): After 5 years of legal stay and work, international graduates can apply for PR in Malta.
Student Life in Malta
- Climate: Mediterranean weather – mild winters and warm summers.
- Food: Indian restaurants and grocery stores are widely available in Valletta, Sliema, and St. Julian’s.
- Safety: Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe.
- Travel: Easy access to Italy, France, Spain, and other EU countries.
- Indian Community: A growing Indian diaspora with cultural associations and student groups.
Malta vs. Other European Study Destinations
| Country | Tuition Fees | Living Cost | Work Rights | PR Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malta | €5k – €12k | Moderate | 20 hrs/week | After 5 years |
| Italy | €2k – €6k | Moderate | 20 hrs/week | After 5 years |
| Germany | Free (public) | High | 20 hrs/week | After 5 years |
| Ireland | €10k – €20k | High | 20 hrs/week | After 5 years |
| Poland | €2.5k – €6k | Low | 20 hrs/week | After 5 years |
Malta is especially attractive for students who prefer English-medium education at an affordable cost in the EU.
FAQs – Study in Malta for Indian Students
Q1. Is Malta good for Indian students?
Yes, Malta offers EU-recognized degrees, affordable living, and an English-speaking environment.
Q2. Is MBBS from Malta recognized in India?
Yes, MBBS from the University of Malta is approved by the National Medical Commission (NMC).
Q3. Can Indian students work while studying in Malta?
Yes, they can work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during holidays.
Q4. What is the total cost of studying in Malta?
On average, tuition plus living expenses come to around ₹12 – 18 lakh per year.
Q5. Can students get permanent residency in Malta?
Yes, after staying and working for 5 years, students can apply for PR.
Studying in Malta is an excellent choice for Indian students who want quality education, European exposure, and affordable living. With globally recognized degrees, part-time job opportunities, and pathways to permanent residency, Malta stands out as one of the most student-friendly destinations in Europe.
For those interested in hospitality, medicine, IT, maritime studies, or business management, Malta offers not only strong academic programs but also a welcoming culture and a safe environment to grow both personally and professionally.