College tuition in the U.S. has gone up more than 150% over the last two decades. Families are feeling the pressure, and a lot of students are starting to ask the same question: is the traditional college path really the only option?

Here’s what most families don’t realize.

What many people don’t realize is that you can earn a fully accredited bachelor’s or master’s degree abroad often in English, often for much less money, and usually through a simpler admissions process. Malta is one of the countries getting more attention for exactly those reasons.

Why Study in Malta?

Here’s the short version: Malta offers accredited degrees taught in English, lower tuition compared to many U.S. schools, and access to the European job market all in a small, safe, student-friendly country.

And honestly, that combination is hard to ignore.

Malta isn’t trying to compete with huge higher education systems like the U.S. or UK. Instead, it offers something more focused and accessible, especially for international students who want a simpler path.

Key Advantages

• English is an official language, so there’s no major language barrier
• Degrees are recognized across the EU and beyond
• Tuition and living costs are lower than in many Western countries
• Admissions are more direct and less complicated
• There’s growing demand for international talent in several industries

Why Malta Is Becoming a Top Study Abroad Destination

This shift didn’t happen by accident. Student priorities are changing, and Malta happens to check a lot of the right boxes.

1. English-Taught Degrees by Default

In many European countries, English-language programs can be limited. Malta is different. A wide range of degrees are taught fully in English, which removes one of the biggest concerns for U.S. students studying abroad.

2. Smaller, More Accessible Universities

Admissions in Malta are usually more transparent and criteria-based. Instead of trying to navigate an unpredictable “holistic” system, students are evaluated on mostly on whether they meet the academic requirements.

That makes the process feel a lot more straightforward.

3. EU Membership Benefits

Because Malta is part of the European Union:

• Degrees are recognized across EU countries
• Graduates can explore wider job opportunities in Europe
• Students have more options for future study throughout the EU

4. Strategic Location

Malta sits in the Mediterranean and connects Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. That location has helped industries like these grow:

• Finance
• Technology
• Gaming
• Tourism and hospitality

Best Universities in Malta for International Students

Malta’s higher education system is smaller than what you’d find in the U.S., but that can actually make things easier. There are fewer schools to sort through, and programs tend to be more focused.

University of Malta

Best for: Traditional university experience, research, and academic depth

• Founded in 1592, making it one of Europe’s oldest universities
• Public institution with strong EU recognition
• Offers programs in:
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Medicine
  • Arts and humanities
• Larger campus environment compared to most Maltese schools

Tuition:

• Approximately $9,000 – $14,000 per year for non-EU students

Why it stands out:
It’s the most established university in Malta and carries strong recognition, especially for students thinking about graduate school later.

Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)

Best for: Hands-on, career-focused learning

• Strong focus on applied education
• Programs designed around workforce needs
• Popular fields include:
  • Information technology
  • Engineering
  • Creative arts
  • Business and management

Learning style:
More practical than theoretical. Expect projects, labs, and industry exposure.

Tuition:

• Approximately $8,000 – $12,000 per year depending on the program

Why it stands out:
It’s a strong option for students who want practical skills and a direct route into the workforce.

American University of Malta

Best for: A U.S.-style education in Europe

• Smaller private university
• Liberal arts approach
• All programs taught in English
• Focus areas include:
  • Business administration
  • Game development
  • Engineering
  • International relations

Class environment:
Smaller classes with more discussion-based learning

Tuition:

• Approximately $10,000 – $18,000 per year

Why it stands out:
It feels more familiar to U.S. students, while still offering international experience.

Global College Malta

Best for: Business and leadership-focused degrees

• Focused on business, entrepreneurship, and management
• Built with international students in mind
• Emphasizes real-world application and global perspective

Tuition:

• Approximately $12,000 – $16,000 per year

Why it stands out:
Strong career focus, especially in business-related fields.

Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS)

Best for: Hospitality and tourism careers

• Closely connected to Malta’s tourism industry
• Programs include:
  • Hospitality management
  • Culinary arts
  • Tourism operations

Tuition:

• Approximately $7,000 – $11,000 per year

Why it stands out:
It offers a direct path into one of Malta’s biggest indust

Cost of Studying in Malta for International Students

Cost is one of the main reasons students start looking at Malta in the first place.

Tuition Overview

Type of Institution	Annual Tuition (USD)
Public (University of Malta)	$9,000 – $14,000
Private Universities	$10,000 – $20,000

Living Costs

Expense	Monthly Estimate
Housing	$500 – $900
Food	$250 – $400
Transportation	$30 – $60
Miscellaneous	$150 – $300

Estimated total annual cost: $16,000 – $28,000 (all-in)

And here’s what stands out: in many cases, that total cost is still lower than tuition alone at private universities in the U.S.

How to Apply to Universities in Malta

The admissions process in Malta is usually much simpler than what students are used to in the U.S.

There’s less guesswork, fewer subjective requirements, and more focus on whether you meet the stated criteria.

In other words, if you’re academically qualified, you have a solid chance of getting in. It’s less about building the “perfect” application and more about meeting the requirements.

Typical Requirements

Most universities ask for:

• High school diploma (for bachelor’s programs)
• Official transcripts showing your grades and coursework
• Proof of English proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS (often waived for U.S. students)
• Personal statement or motivation letter (varies by program)
• Copy of your passport
• Application form (online or through the university portal)

Some programs especially medicine, engineering, or design, may also require:

• Entrance exams
• Portfolios
• Interviews

But those are usually exceptions, not standard requirements.

What You Usually Don’t Need

This is where Malta looks very different from the U.S. system.

In many cases, students don’t need:

• SAT or ACT scores
• Multiple recommendation letters
• Long extracurricular resumes
• Complex application platforms like the Common App

Admissions are generally criteria-based, not story-based. Schools mostly want to know whether you meet the academic requirements.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Let’s break this down into a simple path:

1. Choose your program
   Start with the degree itself. European programs are often more specialized.
2. Check entry requirements
   Universities clearly list required grades, subjects, and qualifications.
3. Prepare your documents
   Gather transcripts, passport copies, and anything else required.
4. Submit your application
   Most applications are completed directly through the university website.
5. Receive an offer
   Students may receive:
   • A conditional offer
   • An unconditional offer
6. Accept your offer and pay any required deposit
   This secures your place.
7. Apply for your student visa
   After acceptance, you can begin the visa process.

Application Timeline

Malta universities are often more flexible than U.S. schools.

• Fall intake (main intake): Applications usually open between January and June
• Spring intake (limited programs): Applications are often accepted between October and December

Many schools use rolling admissions, meaning they review applications as they arrive.

Still, applying earlier helps with:

• Program availability
• Housing options
• Visa processing time

Admission Decisions: What to Expect

Students usually hear back within a few weeks to a couple of months.

Admissions decisions are commonly based on:

• GPA or academic performance
• Required coursework
• Meeting minimum entry standards

Compared to highly selective U.S. schools, the process tends to feel more predictable.

Visa Requirements

After acceptance, students will typically need a student residence permit for Malta.

Requirements usually include:

• Proof of university acceptance
• Proof of financial means
• Health insurance
• Accommodation details

Processing times vary, so starting early is a good idea.

Student Life in Malta

Student life is one of Malta‘s biggest advantages and probably one of the most overlooked.

Because at the end of the day, you’re not just choosing a university. You’re choosing where and how you’ll live for the next few years.

What Daily Life Looks Like

Malta offers a mix that’s hard to find in many other places in Europe:

• Small, walkable cities
• Coastal living
• A mix of local and international students
• A slower pace compared to major capitals

Classes also tend to be smaller and more structured, which often means more interaction with professors and classmates.

Social and Cultural Experience

Malta is highly international. Students come from across Europe, North Africa, and many other regions.

Popular student activities include:

• Beach outings and water sports
• Cultural festivals and local events
• Weekend travel around European
• Student clubs and university-organized activities

Here’s the upside.

You get an international experience without dealing with the chaos and high costs that often come with major cities like London or Paris.

Cost-Conscious Lifestyle

Living in Malta as a student can also be easier on your budget. Day-to-day costs are generally manageable, especially compared to bigger European destinations.

• Public transportation is affordable
• Many social activities, including beaches and festivals, are free or inexpensive
• Shared housing keeps rent reasonable

Safety and Environment

Malta is considered safe, with low crime rates and a well-developed tourism system. Since English is widely spoken, everyday things like finding housing, going to appointments, or handling paperwork tend to feel less intimidating for international students.

Can International Students Work in Malta?

Yes, but there are a few rules.

Student Work Rules

• Non-EU students can work up to 20 hours per week
• You need a valid student visa
• You also need an employment license

Common Student Jobs

• Hospitality, including restaurants and hotels
• Retail
• Administrative support
• Entry-level tech or gaming roles

Part-time work usually won’t cover all your expenses, but it can help with living costs while giving you practical experience.

Job Opportunities After Studying in Malta

Malta’s job market is smaller than what you’d find in larger EU countries, but some industries are growing quickly.

High-Demand Fields

• Information technology
• Online gaming and iGaming
• Finance and accounting
• Tourism and hospitality
• Blockchain and fintech

Post-Study Pathways

• Graduates can apply for work permits
• Companies in key industries often sponsor international workers
• Experience in Malta can open doors to opportunities across the EU

In other words, Malta can work as both a study destination and a starting point for a broader international career.

Accreditation and Degree Recognition

This is usually one of the first questions families ask.

Degrees from Malta are:

• Accredited within the European Qualifications Framework (EQF)
• Recognized across EU member states
• Generally accepted by U.S. employers and graduate schools

At Beyond The States, we only recommend programs that meet strict accreditation and quality standards. That’s a key part of how we evaluate universities.

Who Is This a Good Fit For?

Studying in Malta won’t be the right choice for everyone. But it can make a lot of sense for students who:

• Want a fully English-taught degree abroad
• Are searching for a more affordable alternative to U.S. colleges
• Prefer straightforward admissions requirements instead of unpredictable holistic admissions
• Are comfortable living in a smaller country
• Want access to career opportunities in Europe

Common Misconceptions About Studying in Malta

“The degree won’t be recognized in the U.S.”

That’s not really true. If the institution is properly accredited, the degree is widely recognized.

“It’s just a study abroad destination.”

Malta offers full degree programs, not only short-term exchange semesters.

“There aren’t enough academic options.”

Malta is smaller, so naturally there are fewer universities. Still, students can find strong programs in business, tech, healthcare, and other fields.

“It’s too far or unfamiliar.”

Malta is well connected to the rest of Europe and has years of experience hosting international students.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Malta isn’t about taking the easy route. For many students, it’s simply a more practical way to earn a globally recognized degree.

That can mean:

• Lower total cost
• More transparent admissions requirements
• International career exposure

For some students, that completely changes what feels possible.

If you’re exploring options, start by comparing programs that match your academic goals and budget. Beyond The States can help you find vetted universities, understand admissions requirements, and build a clear plan..

You can also take our quiz or schedule a free strategy session to see if studying in Malta or elsewhere in Europe is the right fit for you.