Malta is a small island country in Southern Europe. Visitors are drawn to its Mediterranean climate, culture, cuisine, historic buildings, and landscapes. For students considering a longer stay, Malta offers a range of higher education options. In this article, we will look at the top universities and higher education institutions in Malta for international students.
Top Universities in Malta for International Students
1. University of Malta (UM)
The University of Malta is a publicly funded university based in Msida. It offers a broad range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research courses. UM traces its origins to the Collegium Melitense, which was established in 1592 and run by the Jesuits. Its Valletta Campus is housed in the Old University Building, which dates back to that foundation. Students can access sports facilities, including five-a-side football pitches and a sports hall, and receive special rates for the Olympic-size swimming pool and fitness center at the National Pool Complex.
There are around 12,000 students registered at UM, including approximately 2,800 international students from more than 144 countries. UM participates in international higher education networks, including the European University Association, the Compostela Group of Universities, and the Utrecht Network.
2. American University of Malta (AUM)
The American University of Malta is a private, American-style university with its campus in Cospicua, also known as Bormla. It received its university license in 2016 and welcomed its first cohort of students in fall 2017. AUM states that all of its programs are taught in English. Current undergraduate options include Accounting, Business and Finance, Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communications Engineering, Game Development, Graphic Design and Animation, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, and Computer Science. Graduate options include Cyber Security, Engineering Management, an MBA, an MBA in Tourism and Hospitality Management, an MBA in Healthcare Management, Computer Science, and Advanced Mechanical Engineering. AUM also lists a Doctorate of Business Administration.
AUM describes its model as American-style education with European accreditation. It holds an MFHEA university license (No. 2016-002), and its degrees are offered at MQF Levels 6, 7, and 8.
3. Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)
The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology is a vocational and professional education and training institution in Malta. It offers full-time and part-time courses, master’s courses, and a doctoral program, with progression pathways up to MQF Level 8. Its programs span applied sciences, business management and commerce, creative arts, community services, engineering and transport, information and communication technology, and trades.
The MCAST ERASMUS+ Projects and Mobility Office coordinates international opportunities under Erasmus+. It works with partners across Europe and has agreements with colleges, universities, and companies abroad to provide study mobility, work placements, and staff training opportunities.
FAQs about Studying in Malta
Is Malta Good for International Students to Study In?
Malta can be an attractive destination for international students. The Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) maintains a register of licensed providers and accredited programs. Accredited programs are assessed by MFHEA and pegged to the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF), helping students verify a program’s status and level before applying.
English is one of Malta’s official languages. The language of instruction and tuition fees vary by institution and program, so applicants should check the relevant official course and fees pages before applying. Living costs also vary. For reference, the University of Malta currently estimates shared accommodation at €550–€700 per month and single accommodation at €800–€1,600 per month, before other expenses. Students can also review affordable universities in Malta while confirming current fees on each institution’s official website.
Can International Students Work in Malta While Studying?
EU nationals may reside and work in Malta, although their employment must be registered with Jobsplus; those staying for longer than three months must register their residence. Rules for third-country nationals depend on the course. Students pursuing a full-time higher education qualification recognized by MQRIC may work for up to 20 hours per week from their first year of study after obtaining the required residence permit and employment license. Other students following courses longer than 90 days may be allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week after their first three months of study, subject to Jobsplus conditions.
Can International Students Stay in Malta After Graduation?
Non-EU graduates who completed an MQF Level 5 or higher course in Malta and held a study residence permit at the time of completion may apply for a post-study residence permit. This permit allows them to remain in Malta for up to nine months after graduation to look for a job or start a business related to their field of study. Graduates who find employment must meet the applicable employment-permit requirements.
We hope that this article on universities and higher education institutions in Malta for international students was helpful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs in Europe!
