Malta is one of those countries most Indian students don’t think about first. UK, Canada, Australia usually come to mind. Malta appears later in the conversation, often after someone says, “I want Europe, but I don’t want to go broke.”
And honestly, that’s where Malta quietly makes sense.
It’s small. You can drive across the country in under an hour. But don’t confuse size with opportunity.
Over the years, I’ve seen Malta grow into a steady, practical option for Indian students who want an English-speaking European education without the overwhelming costs or pressure of bigger destinations.
Let me break it down the way I usually explain it in counselling sessions.
First, what kind of place is Malta really?
Malta sits right in the middle of the Mediterranean. It’s warm, coastal, and historically layered – Roman ruins, medieval streets, modern offices, all mixed together.
English is not just widely spoken; it’s an official language. That alone removes a lot of stress for Indian students who worry about classroom communication or daily life.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Universities | 10+ public and private institutions |
| Top Universities for Indian Students | University of Malta, MCAST, American University of Malta, St. Martin’s Institute of Higher Education |
| Average Living Expenses | €7,000 – €12,000 per year |
| Popular Courses | MBA, Engineering, Hospitality & Tourism, Medicine, Computer Science |
| Part-time Work Allowance | 20 hours per week (with work permit) |
| Post-study Work Permit | Up to 9-12 months (extendable with a job offer) |
| Malta Study Visa Cost | € 70 |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Schengen Access | Yes |
In 2024, around 600 Indian students were studying across Maltese institutions.
That number isn’t massive, but that’s actually a good thing.
You don’t feel lost. Universities notice you. Professors know your name. Support systems feel more personal.
Universities in Malta : Not Many, But Focused
Malta doesn’t have hundreds of universities, and that’s fine. What it offers is recognised, regulated institutions aligned with European education standards.
Some names you’ll hear often:
- University of Malta – the oldest and most established public university
- Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology (MCAST) – very practical, skill-oriented
- American University of Malta – newer, but structured on the US education model
St. Martin’s Institute of Higher Education – business and management-focused
Degrees here follow the Bologna system, meaning they’re recognised across Europe and beyond.
Courses Indian Students Usually Choose (and why)
I’ve noticed Indian students in Malta are rarely random about course selection. Most come with a practical mindset.
Common choices include :
- MBA / BBA – small cohorts, strong industry exposure
- Hospitality & Tourism – Malta lives this industry daily
- Computer Science & IT – especially networking, data, systems
- Engineering – applied, not overly theoretical
Health & Nursing-related programs
Malta works best if you’re someone who values applied learning over brand obsession.
Costs : One of Malta’s Biggest Strengths
Let’s be honest – Europe is expensive. Malta is one of the few places where that pressure eases.
Living expenses usually fall between €7,000 to €12,000 per year, depending on how you live and where you stay. Shared accommodation, home cooking, and public transport keep things manageable.
Tuition fees are also noticeably lower than the UK or Ireland, especially at public institutions.
This is often why students with a tight but realistic budget end up choosing Malta.
Working While Studying : What’s Allowed
International students in Malta can work up to 20 hours per week, but only after getting a valid work permit and residence card.
Most students find part-time roles in :
- Hospitality
- Customer service
- Retail
Campus-related jobs
It’s not instant money. It takes effort. But it helps cover day-to-day expenses and builds European work exposure.
Post-Study Work : Don’t Expect Magic, Expect Opportunity
Malta offers a post-study work period of up to 9-12 months, depending on your situation. You don’t need a job offer to apply initially.
That said, Malta is not a “sit and wait” country. Students who network early, take internships seriously, and adapt well usually find something relevant. Others struggle. It’s very effort-driven.
Minimum salary expectations usually start around €1,200 per month for work permit conversions.
Visa Process : Straightforward, But Slow
The Malta student visa is Schengen-based, meaning you can travel across much of Europe during your studies.
Key things to know :
- Visa processing can take 8–12 weeks
- Financial proof, accommodation details, and health insurance matter
Visa fee is usually split during processing
Once in Malta, students receive a Temporary Residence Certificate (TRC) that covers their study period.
Early application matters here. Last-minute planning causes most rejections.
Scholarships : Modest, But Helpful
Malta isn’t big on full scholarships, but partial fee reductions and merit-based support exist. Some institutions also offer early-bird or academic discounts.
Think of scholarships here as support, not total funding.
Placements & Jobs After Graduation
There’s no campus placement culture like India. Job hunting is mostly self-driven. Universities help with CVs, interviews, and employer connections, but initiative matters more than reputation.
Industries that usually absorb graduates:
- IT & tech services
- Tourism & hospitality
- Finance and administration
Logistics and maritime sectors
Malta rewards students who adapt fast and stay realistic.
Is Malta for everyone?
No. And that’s important to say.
Malta suits Indian students who:
- Want Europe without overwhelming costs
- Are comfortable in smaller cities
- Prefer practical learning
Are willing to hustle for part-time work
If you’re chasing elite university rankings or massive job markets, look elsewhere. If you want balance, access, and affordability, Malta deserves attention.
Want guidance that’s realistic, not sales-driven?
If you’re seriously considering Malta – or confused between Malta, the UK, or other European countries – talk to someone who will tell you both sides.
Contact FlyersVisas study abroad counsellors today to get honest course mapping, cost breakdowns, and visa clarity – without pressure, without false promises.
Students Also Ask
Yes, especially for students looking for affordable European education in English. Malta offers recognised degrees, lower living costs, and access to the Schengen area.
On average, Indian students spend between €7,000 and €12,000 per year on living expenses. Tuition fees vary by university and course but are generally lower than most Western European countries.
Yes. Students can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions, provided they have a valid residence card and work permit.
Yes. Graduates can stay for 9-12 months to look for work. A job offer is not required initially, but it’s needed to extend stay long-term.
Yes. Maltese universities follow European education standards, and degrees are recognised across the EU and in many other countries.
Malta is considered one of the safer countries in Europe. Crime rates are low, and international students generally report a welcoming, calm environment.
