Malta Study Guide 2026
Masters & MBA in Malta 2026 — Long-Stay Visa & English-Medium EU Degree
Masters & MBA in Malta 2026: this guide compiles current tuition fees, top universities, student visa requirements, scholarships and post-study work rights for international students applying for Malta's next intake. Updated for 2026 with the latest visa rules and tuition figures.
Quick Facts — Study in Malta 2026
Why Choose Malta for Masters or MBA?
English is an official language — all teaching, admin and daily life run in English, unique in southern Europe.
The University of Malta (est. 1592) is the island's internationally recognised flagship with 11,000+ students.
Malta hosts Europe's iGaming capital plus strong fintech and maritime sectors — industries that actively hire international graduates.
300 days of sunshine, low crime and Schengen access — a soft landing for first-time international students.
Top Universities in Malta for International Students
These institutions consistently rank in QS, Times Higher Education and ARWU global tables and actively admit international Masters and MBA students.
- University of MaltaEst. 1592
The national university — Business, ICT, Engineering, Law and Medicine.
- MCASTApplied Sciences
Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology — vocational Master's and applied degrees.
- American University of MaltaUS-Style (Private)
American-model degrees in Business and Engineering at Cospicua campus.
- GBSB Global Business School MaltaDigital Business
English-taught MBA and MSc in Digital Business and Innovation.
- London School of Commerce MaltaUK-Linked (Private)
UK-affiliated MBA and business Master's at Malta prices.
- Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)Hospitality Specialist
Tourism and hospitality degrees with paid industry placements.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Malta (2026)
| Category | Indicative Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| University of Malta Master's | €8,000 – €13,600/year | Non-EU rate, program-dependent |
| MCAST / Applied Master's | €6,000 – €10,000/year | Vocational and applied tracks |
| MBA (UM / GBSB / LSC) | €10,000 – €20,000 (full program) | English-taught, 12–18 months |
| Tourism & Hospitality (ITS) | €7,000 – €12,000/year | Includes industry placement |
| Cost of Living | €700 – €1,000/month | Shared flats €400–€600; buses cheap with student card |
| Health Insurance | €150 – €300/year | Required for the visa |
Most Popular Courses for International Students in Malta
The highest-demand Master's and MBA programs at top Malta universities, ranked by international enrolment volume.
- iGaming & Digital Business
- Tourism & Hospitality
- Finance & Banking
- ICT & Software
- Maritime Studies
- Business Administration
- English Studies
- Public Health
- Accounting
- Marketing
- Law
- Data Analytics
Step-by-Step Application Process for Malta
The standard timeline runs 9–14 months from shortlisting to landing in Malta. Start at least one intake cycle ahead of your target start date.
- Shortlist universitiesResearch English-medium Master's and MBA programs at top Malta institutions and identify 4–6 target universities by fit and ranking.
- Take English language testIELTS Academic or TOEFL iBT as required. Many universities accept PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test.
- Prepare and submit applicationSubmit transcripts, CV, Statement of Purpose, recommendation letters, and any GRE/GMAT scores required.
- Receive admission letter and pay depositUniversities issue an admission/offer letter after evaluation. Pay the tuition deposit to confirm your seat.
- Apply for the student visaFile the Malta student visa application with the embassy/consulate; bring admission letter, financial proof, accommodation proof, health insurance and passport.
- Travel and register on arrivalWithin the first weeks of arrival, register your address with local authorities and apply for a residence permit if required.
Student Visa Requirements for Malta
Non-EU students need Malta's national long-stay (D) visa: admission letter, proof of funds (about €9,600/year — 75% of minimum wage rule), accommodation proof, health insurance (€30,000+ coverage), return-ticket ability and passport, filed via Identità/VFS. On arrival you receive a residence permit tied to your course; renew annually with proof of academic progress.
Top Scholarships for International Students in Malta
Government and university scholarships open to international applicants — most are merit-based and require a separate application alongside admission.
- Endeavour II Scholarships Scheme (Malta/EU funds)
- University of Malta Merit Awards
- Erasmus+ Mobility
- Commonwealth-linked bursaries (selected programs)
Post-Study Work and PR Pathway from Malta
International students in Malta may work up to 20 hours/week after the first 90 days of their stay. After graduating, Malta allows a 6-month stay to seek employment; iGaming, financial services, maritime and tourism companies sponsor work permits (single permit system) for graduates, and English-speaking workplaces make the transition easy.
FAQs — Study in Malta for International Students
What language do I need to study in Malta?
How much does a Master's in Malta cost?
Can I work while studying in Malta?
What is the post-study work option in Malta?
Is Malta good for Indian students?
How do I apply to universities in Malta?
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