The Ultimate Guide to Studying in Malta: Erasmus+, Full Degrees, and Non-EU Pathways

Thinking about studying in Malta? This guide explains how Erasmus+ operates on the islands and what international students can expect — from credit recognition and mobility options to visas, living costs and daily life. You’ll find clear overviews of the University of Malta, MCAST and the Institute of Tourism Studies, plus practical advice on accommodation, healthcare and public transport. Whether you’re an EU student planning a semester abroad or a non-EU applicant pursuing a full degree, here is everything you need to organise your study experience in Malta.

Introduction: Why Study in Malta

Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean with a long academic tradition and a rapidly growing international student community. Its location at the crossroads of Europe and North Africa, combined with English as an official language and membership in the European Union, makes it a highly attractive destination for study and professional mobility. Every year, students and teachers from across Europe and beyond choose Malta to broaden their academic and cultural horizons.

Among the many opportunities available, the Erasmus+ programme is the most prominent. It allows students, recent graduates, and staff to take part in exchanges, traineeships, and professional development across Europe and partner countries worldwide. Malta participates fully in Erasmus+ as a member state of the European Union, and its universities and colleges are active partners in hundreds of international agreements.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of how Erasmus+ works in Malta, what opportunities exist for both EU and non-EU students, and what practical aspects you should consider if you are thinking about studying or working on this island. We will also look at life in Malta, costs, visas, scholarships, and how Malta compares with other European destinations.

Erasmus+ in Malta: How Student Mobility Works

Erasmus+ is the European Union’s flagship education and training programme. It funds academic mobility, traineeships, language courses, and staff exchanges across participating countries. As an EU member state, Malta is fully integrated into the programme, which means students and educators can move to or from Maltese institutions under the same framework as in larger European countries.

In practice, this means that students from Europe can spend a semester or full academic year at a Maltese university or college with full credit recognition under the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Maltese students likewise have access to more than 400 partner universities across Europe. According to official programme reports, the number of participants coming to Malta under Erasmus+ has been steadily growing, reflecting the country’s rising popularity as a study destination (European Commission).

For participants from outside the EU, Erasmus+ is accessible through International Credit Mobility (ICM), a scheme that enables exchanges with universities in partner countries worldwide. However, such opportunities depend on whether your home institution has an active Erasmus+ ICM agreement with a Maltese university. Places are limited and vary each year, so prospective applicants must check with their home university’s international office and the Maltese host institution’s Erasmus+ office.

Overall, Erasmus+ in Malta offers a broad platform: from traditional academic study abroad to practical internships, staff training, and even intensive language or cultural courses. Its flexibility ensures that students and educators at different stages of their careers can find suitable opportunities on the islands.

Types of Mobility Opportunities in Malta

Malta offers a wide range of mobility options under Erasmus+ and related programmes. These cover not only semester-long academic exchanges but also practical traineeships, intensive language and culture courses, and staff development for teachers and administrators. Below are the most common types of mobility available.

Semester and Year-Long Exchanges

Students from European universities can spend between three and twelve months studying at a Maltese institution, typically for one semester. Courses are taught in English and are recognised through the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS). Learning agreements signed before departure ensure that credits earned in Malta count toward the student’s home degree. Maltese students enjoy the same privilege when they go abroad to one of more than 400 partner universities.

Traineeships and Internships

Erasmus+ also supports work placements and professional internships. These usually last from two to six months and allow students or recent graduates to gain practical experience in companies, research laboratories, NGOs, or other organisations. In Malta, popular areas for Erasmus+ traineeships include tourism and hospitality, information technology, design, and engineering. Traineeships not only improve professional skills but also enhance language ability and intercultural competence.

Intensive Language and Cultural Courses

Malta is well known for its language schools, which attract thousands of international learners each year. While English is the main language of study, some Erasmus+ projects also offer intensive courses in Maltese language and culture. A typical programme may include around 60 hours of classroom instruction combined with guided cultural excursions. These opportunities are particularly valuable for participants who want to understand the local context more deeply.

Teacher and Staff Mobility

Erasmus+ is not limited to students. Academic staff, teachers, and administrative personnel can also participate in mobility. This may take the form of short teaching assignments, job-shadowing, or professional training. For example, lecturers can teach courses at a partner institution in Malta for a few weeks, while administrators may visit to exchange best practices. At the University of Malta, these opportunities are coordinated through the International Office and are open to both incoming and outgoing staff. The minimum duration is typically two working days, with a maximum of two months.

Overall, the variety of Erasmus+ mobilities in Malta ensures that there are opportunities for students, recent graduates, teachers, and education professionals alike. Whether you are aiming for academic credits, practical work experience, or professional development, Malta provides a flexible framework within the Erasmus+ programme.

Key Institutions for Study in Malta: University of Malta, MCAST, and ITS

Several major higher-education institutions in Malta are active participants in Erasmus+ and regularly host international students and staff. Each of them offers a different focus, ensuring that a wide spectrum of academic and vocational fields is represented.

University of Malta

The University of Malta, founded in 1769, is the country’s oldest and largest university. It offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in humanities, sciences, engineering, education, health, and social sciences. With more than 11,000 students, including around 1,700 full-degree international students from over 100 countries, and approximately 1,000 visiting exchange students every year, it is the main hub for Erasmus+ in Malta.

All courses are taught in English, which is an official language of Malta. Incoming Erasmus+ students are usually required to demonstrate proficiency at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), while language-focused or advanced programmes may require C1. The university’s English Language Requirements page outlines accepted tests and minimum scores.

The University of Malta maintains over 400 active Erasmus+ and bilateral agreements. Popular fields among exchange students include information technology, archaeology, medicine (limited capacity), and education. The International Office coordinates applications, while the Erasmus Student Network (ESN Malta) helps visiting students integrate into campus and social life through events and support programmes.

MCAST — Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology

MCAST is Malta’s leading vocational and polytechnic institution, focusing on applied degrees and technical training. It participates actively in Erasmus+, particularly through traineeships and staff exchanges. Students in fields such as engineering, ICT, creative media, and design frequently undertake Erasmus+ internships in Europe, while international students are welcomed for study or work placements in Malta.

The MCAST Erasmus+ Projects & Mobility Office manages student and staff mobility, ensuring that participants benefit from both academic instruction and industry placements. Strong links with local companies make it an attractive choice for those seeking practical, career-oriented experience alongside academic study.

Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)

The Institute of Tourism Studies specialises in hospitality, gastronomy, and event management. As tourism is one of Malta’s main economic sectors, ITS offers students a unique opportunity to combine academic study with hands-on experience in hotels, restaurants, and event companies. Many programmes include mandatory internships abroad, often funded through Erasmus+.

ITS holds the Erasmus Charter for Higher Education and is an active partner in mobility projects. Its Erasmus+ Department supports incoming and outgoing students and staff, facilitating practical training placements and academic exchanges with hospitality schools across Europe.

Together, the University of Malta, MCAST, and ITS represent the backbone of Erasmus+ participation in Malta. They cover academic, vocational, and professional fields, making the island attractive to a broad range of students and educators.

EU Students in Malta: Erasmus+ Benefits and Opportunities

For students from the European Union and associated Erasmus+ countries, Malta offers one of the most straightforward study-abroad options within the programme. As an EU member state, Malta applies the same rules and benefits as larger Erasmus destinations, but with the added advantage of an English-speaking environment and a smaller, more personal academic setting.

Language and Academic Accessibility

All higher education in Malta is taught in English, which is an official language of the country. This eliminates the need to learn an additional language for academic purposes and makes Malta especially attractive for EU students seeking to study in English without travelling outside Europe. The common use of English also makes integration into everyday life much easier compared with destinations where the local language dominates university teaching.

Simplified Administration

EU students benefit from freedom of movement within the European Union, which means that no student visa or residence permit is required for stays in Malta. Health coverage is accessible with the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which entitles EU citizens to necessary public healthcare under the same conditions as Maltese residents. This reduces paperwork and costs compared to non-EU destinations.

Strong Academic Partnerships

The University of Malta maintains over 400 Erasmus+ partnerships across Europe, covering nearly every discipline. MCAST and ITS also host large numbers of vocational students under Erasmus+, ensuring that both academic and applied fields are well represented. This network makes it easy for EU students to find a matching programme or traineeship.

Unique Learning Environment

Unlike larger Erasmus destinations such as Germany, Spain, or Italy, Malta offers a more compact and accessible environment. Campuses are smaller, class sizes are often reduced, and international students form a significant portion of the student body. This creates a close-knit community and allows for stronger interaction with lecturers and peers.

For EU students, Malta combines academic credibility with the climate and lifestyle of the Mediterranean. It is therefore not just a place to earn credits, but also a destination where students can experience cultural immersion, personal growth, and lasting friendships, all within the secure framework of the Erasmus+ programme.

Non-EU Students: Pathways to Study in Malta

While Erasmus+ primarily serves students and staff from the European Union and associated countries, Malta also welcomes students from outside Europe. Non-EU students can come to Malta through selected Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility projects, bilateral exchange agreements, or as full-degree students. Below is an overview of the main pathways, requirements, and practical considerations for students from outside the EU.

Full-Degree Study

International students from around the world can enrol in full undergraduate or postgraduate programmes at Maltese institutions. The University of Malta and MCAST both offer degree programmes in English, while the Institute of Tourism Studies provides specialised programmes in hospitality and gastronomy. Admission is based on recognised international qualifications such as A-levels, IB diplomas, or bachelor’s degrees, depending on the level of entry.

Applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency. Typical requirements are in the range of IELTS 6.0–6.5 or an equivalent TOEFL score, although some postgraduate or language-intensive courses may ask for higher levels. Detailed and up-to-date requirements can be found on the University of Malta’s English language requirements page.

Tuition fees for non-EU students vary by programme. A realistic estimate is between €5,000 and €12,000 per year for undergraduate programmes and €7,000 to €16,000 per year for postgraduate programmes, with higher fees for clinical or laboratory-intensive courses. Official fee schedules are published by each institution and should always be consulted before applying.

Scholarships

Malta operates several public scholarship schemes, such as the Endeavour Scholarship Scheme and the Tertiary Education Scholarships Scheme (TESS). However, these are primarily aimed at Maltese nationals and long-term residents. International applicants may only be eligible in specific calls or under exceptional circumstances. It is therefore crucial to read the eligibility criteria of each scholarship carefully.

Visas and Residence Permits

Non-EU students planning to study in Malta for more than 90 days require a long-stay student visa (National D Visa). Applications are submitted through Maltese embassies or visa centres and typically require an admission letter, proof of sufficient funds, comprehensive health insurance, and proof of accommodation. Detailed information is provided by Identità (Identity Malta Agency).

Once in Malta, students must apply for an e-Residence card. This card serves as proof of legal stay and is often required for opening a bank account, signing a rental contract, or applying for a work permit. Applications must be submitted promptly after arrival with the support of the host institution’s international office.

Working While Studying

International students from outside the EU are permitted to work part-time in Malta, but only under specific conditions. Students may work up to 20 hours per week, and only after completing the first 90 days of their studies. Employment requires an Employment Licence issued by Jobsplus, which is usually arranged by the employer once the student holds a valid e-Residence card.

It is important to note that the primary purpose of the student visa and residence permit is academic study. Work should be treated as supplementary income, not as the main means of financial support.

In summary, Malta provides realistic pathways for non-EU students to pursue higher education. With careful attention to visa requirements, tuition fees, and limited scholarship options, international students can access high-quality programmes in a safe and welcoming environment.

Life in Malta for International Students: Costs, Housing, Healthcare, and Transport

Studying abroad is not only about academics — everyday life plays a crucial role in the overall experience. Malta offers a safe and welcoming environment for international students, but the cost of living and certain practicalities differ from other European countries. Below is a detailed overview to help students prepare.

Cost of Living

According to the University of Malta’s cost estimates, students should budget approximately €800–€1,600 per month for accommodation, depending on whether they live in shared apartments, private rentals, or university residences. Additional monthly expenses include around €450 for food, €50 for utilities, €30 for internet and mobile services, and €200–€300 for personal expenses. Shared housing can significantly reduce costs, while living alone in central areas like Sliema or St. Julian’s tends to be more expensive.

Accommodation

International students typically live in private rentals, shared flats, or dedicated student residences. The most popular areas are close to main campuses, including Msida, Gżira, San Ġwann, and Sliema. The University of Malta also provides on-campus and affiliated residences, though demand is high. A formal rental contract is essential, as it will be required when applying for an e-Residence card.

Healthcare and Insurance

Malta has a high standard of healthcare and several modern hospitals, including Mater Dei Hospital near the University of Malta. Students from the EU and EEA can access public healthcare with their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Non-EU students must have comprehensive private health insurance that meets visa requirements. As of 2024, Identità requires most non-EU students to show proof of insurance covering at least €100,000 for the full study period, though exemptions apply to those enrolled at the University of Malta, MCAST, or ITS.

Safety

Malta is generally considered one of the safest countries in Europe. Violent crime rates are low according to Eurostat and local police reports. Students should still take standard precautions against petty theft, especially in tourist areas, but most find the islands a secure and friendly environment for daily life.

Public Transport

Since October 2022, public transport in Malta has been free of charge for all holders of a personalised Tallinja Card. Anyone can apply for the card online – you simply upload a copy of your passport and choose a delivery address (in Malta or abroad). In practice, this means that free travel is available not only to Maltese citizens and residents but also to international students and long-term visitors.

There are special versions such as the Student Tallinja Card, but even the standard personalised card works the same way on the bus – no fare is deducted when you tap in.

For short-term visitors, products like the Explore Card or 12 Journeys are available, but most students prefer the personalised card because it is practical and allows unlimited free travel across the islands.

Student Integration and Social Life

With its international mix of students, Malta provides a vibrant cultural and social environment. Organisations such as Erasmus Student Network (ESN Malta) organise events, trips, and social gatherings to help newcomers integrate quickly. English as a common language reduces barriers to communication, while Malta’s small size makes it easy to travel, meet new people, and explore the islands.

Overall, life in Malta combines Mediterranean culture and climate with practical benefits such as English-medium education, safety, and accessible healthcare. For many students, the experience goes beyond academic study to include cultural immersion and long-lasting international friendships.

Comparison: Study in Malta vs. Other Erasmus Destinations

When considering where to go on Erasmus+ or for full-degree study, many students naturally think of larger countries such as Germany, Spain, France, or Italy. These destinations attract tens of thousands of exchange students each year and offer a wide range of academic options. Malta, by contrast, is smaller in scale but provides a distinctive set of advantages that make it stand out within the European education landscape.

Language Advantage

One of Malta’s strongest advantages is that all higher education programmes are taught in English, which is also an official language of the country. In larger Erasmus destinations, incoming students often need to learn the local language to follow courses or to integrate fully. In Malta, the ability to study entirely in English removes this barrier, making the transition smoother and the academic experience more accessible.

Scale and Accessibility

While universities in countries such as Germany or Spain can be very large and highly competitive, Maltese institutions operate on a smaller scale. This often translates into smaller class sizes, closer contact with professors, and an academic community where international students play a central role. For many, this creates a more personalised and supportive environment.

Costs and Funding

Living costs in Malta are generally comparable to mid-range European cities, though housing can be relatively expensive due to the islands’ size. Tuition fees for non-EU students are typically lower than in the UK or Ireland, but higher than in some Central or Eastern European countries. Erasmus+ grants apply equally to Malta as to other destinations, helping EU students offset living costs during their stay.

Specialised Strengths

Malta has built particular expertise in fields that align with its economy and geography. These include tourism and hospitality, maritime and marine sciences, archaeology and heritage studies, information technology, and digital industries such as gaming and fintech. Students in these fields may find Malta uniquely suited to their academic and career interests, offering opportunities that are harder to access in other EU destinations.

Quality of Life

Malta’s Mediterranean climate, cultural heritage, and welcoming community contribute to a distinctive study-abroad experience. Unlike large metropolitan centres, the islands’ compact size makes it easy to explore and to integrate into the local culture. For many students, this balance of academic seriousness and quality of life sets Malta apart from other Erasmus+ destinations.

In summary, while larger EU countries offer scale and variety, Malta provides accessibility, English-language education, and a unique academic environment. This makes it an increasingly attractive option for both short-term exchanges and full-degree study.

Practical Timeline for Study in Malta

Preparing for a study or traineeship abroad requires time and organisation. Malta offers many opportunities, but to make the most of them, students and staff should start planning early. The following timeline provides a general guide for Erasmus+ participants as well as full-degree international students.

6–12 Months Before Departure

At least half a year in advance, decide which mobility pathway is most suitable for you — an Erasmus+ exchange, a vocational traineeship, or a full-degree programme. Research partner institutions and confirm with your home university’s international office whether agreements with Maltese institutions are in place. If you are a non-EU student, check visa requirements on the Identità website and prepare for language tests such as IELTS or TOEFL if needed.

3–4 Months Before Departure

Secure accommodation, either through university residences or private rentals. Gather required documents, including proof of funds, admission or nomination letters, and insurance certificates. Non-EU students should apply for their long-stay student visa (National D Visa) during this period. EU students can focus instead on finalising their learning agreements and arranging their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Upon Arrival

Attend orientation sessions organised by your host institution and finalise course registration. Apply immediately for your e-Residence card if you are staying longer than 90 days, as this document will be needed for banking, rentals, and free public transport. Non-EU students who wish to work should familiarise themselves with the Jobsplus requirements for the Employment Licence, which permits up to 20 hours of part-time work per week after the first three months of study.

Conclusion: Why Malta is a Unique Place to Study Abroad

Malta stands out as a unique Erasmus+ and study-abroad destination. It combines English-medium higher education, a safe and welcoming society, and strong international networks. For EU students, it offers straightforward mobility with minimal administrative hurdles. For non-EU students, it provides realistic degree pathways, though careful attention must be paid to visa, residence, and scholarship conditions. Across all groups, the islands’ academic institutions, Mediterranean lifestyle, and cultural richness ensure that studying in Malta is not only a valuable educational step but also a transformative personal experience.

Whether you come for a semester exchange, a vocational internship, or a full degree, Malta offers the chance to gain internationally recognised qualifications while living in a country where education, history, and culture meet at the heart of the Mediterranean.