Malta is a small island country in southern Europe. Despite its size, it remains a popular destination for visitors and an attractive option for international students. English and Maltese are official languages used in Malta, and many higher education programs, including programs at the University of Malta, are taught in English. Studying in Malta for free is not always possible for every applicant, especially for non-EU/non-EEA students, but students may be able to reduce or cover costs through public tuition rules, scholarships, tuition fee waivers, stipends, external funding, and careful budgeting. So, let’s get started on how you can study for free in Malta.
How to Study in Malta for Free
1. Work on Your Application
Entry requirements at Maltese colleges and universities vary by institution and program. Applicants usually need to prove their academic qualifications and may also need to prove their English language ability. For example, the University of Malta requires applicants who completed secondary education overseas to satisfy its English language requirement through a recognized Secure English Language Test, such as TOEFL iBT, Academic IELTS, Cambridge, Pearson PTE Academic, Trinity College London ISE, or the University of Malta’s International Student English Test.
Applicants with overseas qualifications who receive an unconditional acceptance may also need to present original documents, such as identification, diplomas, transcripts, and English test results, when requested by the institution. Therefore, to improve your chances of admission and funding, prepare your application early, keep your academic records organized, check the exact document and language requirements for your chosen program, and aim for strong grades and test results.
2. Research the Employment Opportunities
Depending on the student’s financial situation, finding a part-time job may help with living costs. It is better to research visa rules, residence requirements, work limits, and employment opportunities before arriving in Malta.
EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals can generally live, study, and work in Malta under free-movement rules, although they must apply for an eResidence document if they stay for more than three months and are exercising treaty rights such as study or employment. Malta’s normal working week is usually based on 40 hours, with limits on average weekly working time including overtime. Non-EU students have different rules. Students on courses longer than 90 days may be allowed to work up to 20 hours per week, subject to conditions and the required authorization.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Scholarships offered in Malta
Scholarships are one of the main ways for international students to reduce the cost of studying in Malta. The Government of Malta lists several scholarship calls through the MyScholarship portal, including schemes for arts, sport, postgraduate study, and foreign languages. Current calls change by year, so applicants should always check the latest open calls and eligibility rules before applying.
Educational institutions in Malta may also offer scholarships or tuition fee waivers. The University of Malta, for example, offers tuition fee waivers of 40% to 100% for eligible non-EU/non-EEA students accepted unconditionally to a Master by research or Ph.D. program. Professional doctorates and MBA-type programs are not eligible under that scheme. The University of Malta also offers specific scholarships for eligible nationals of Small Island Developing States through Official Development Assistance for selected postgraduate programs. The best way to confirm whether suitable financial aid is available is to consult the institution directly.
4. Enquire if the Students Receive a Stipend
A stipend is another option to consider, but eligibility is not automatic for all international students. Malta’s Students’ Maintenance Grants include stipends and grants for eligible students in higher education, and eligibility is governed by regulations. In general, students must meet rules related to nationality or residence status, residence in Malta, regular attendance, academic progress, and employment status. Students should not assume they qualify simply because they have a strong academic application.
Applicants who may be eligible should apply through the official Students’ Maintenance Grants system and confirm the current requirements with their institution. Some students facing proven hardship may also be able to apply for supplementary grants, depending on their circumstances and the scheme rules.
5. Contact Your Government
The applicant’s home government may also provide financial support in select cases. Non-EU/non-EEA students normally pay higher tuition fees than EU students at public higher education institutions in Malta, and fees vary by institution and program. At the University of Malta, tuition fees are listed on each course page where applicable. For doctoral students, the current annual fee is €11,000 for non-EU/non-EEA full-time students and €5,500 for non-EU/non-EEA part-time students, which is roughly $12,850 and $6,425 respectively using the European Central Bank’s recent euro-to-US dollar reference rate. Because tuition and exchange rates can change, students should always check the current course fee and ask their home government whether they can apply for grants, loans, or sponsorships.
6. Take a Look at the External Funding Solutions
Another funding option is support from international organizations. For example, the Rotary Peace Fellowship is a fully funded fellowship for eligible peace and development professionals to pursue a master’s degree or professional development certificate at one of Rotary’s Peace Centers. It covers tuition and fees, room and board, round-trip transportation, and internship or field-study expenses. It is not a general funding source for any master’s or doctoral degree, so applicants should check whether their planned study fits the fellowship’s purpose and partner institutions. Other external funding programs may also support undergraduate or postgraduate students, but they often require strong academic records, leadership experience, or additional application materials.
7. Apply to Universities in Malta as Soon as You Are Ready
The final stage of the application process, the actual submission of the paperwork to the university of choice, is typically easier if the applicant has prepared in advance. If you have gathered all required information and documentation early, you are less likely to face issues with this part of the process.
There are still important points to consider. Applicants should maintain consistent communication with the university and try to avoid delays in later stages of the application. Requirements, deadlines, and fees differ from institution to institution. In addition, students should research affordable universities in Malta to improve their chances of studying in Malta for free or at a lower cost. If you are interested, learn about cheap universities in Malta for international students.
8. Take Language Classes
Malta’s main official spoken languages are Maltese and English. While English is widely used in higher education, learning some Maltese can help students settle into daily life, communicate more comfortably, and understand the local culture. Maltese language courses can be taken online, in the student’s home country, or after arrival in Malta.
9. Live in the Dorm
Living costs in Malta depend heavily on lifestyle and accommodation choices. The University of Malta estimates monthly student expenses at approximately €550 to €700 for shared accommodation, €800 to €1,600 for single accommodation, €450 for food and beverages, €30 for mobile or Wi-Fi, €80 to €100 for laundry, €50 for basic electricity and water, and €200 to €300 for other living expenses. Accommodation is often one of the largest costs, so living in a student residence or shared accommodation can make a major difference.
For University of Malta students, Campus Hub accommodation rates for the 2026-2027 academic year start at €3,080 per semester for certain twin-room shared options and €4,200 to €4,620 per semester for selected single-room shared options, plus applicable booking fees and eco contributions. These rates are higher than older estimates, so students should check the latest accommodation prices before budgeting.
I hope that this article was helpful. If you are interested, visit the Europe Scholarships Page and Available Courses in Europe for International Students!
