Proven Steps to Study in Malta from Nigeria

Popular for its temples and fortresses, Malta is an archipelago situated close to the Mediterranean Sea. From Game of Thrones to the Da Vinci Code and the Gladiator, many movies have been shot in the landscapes of Malta. Studying in Malta feels surreal like you’re studying on a movie set. It’s not surprising that several individuals are migrating there for further studies. Whether top-notch education system or a low cost of living, Malta has got it all. Join the bandwagon of international students looking to study at a Maltese university. Want to know more about the application process? Here’s all you need to know about studying in Malta from Nigeria.

Reasons to study in Malta

Each year, many students enroll at Malta universities. A good reason for this move is because of its high-quality educational standard. Here’s why you should consider studying in Malta.

• English is the official language in Malta. As an English-speaking country, you’ll enjoy studying in the country.
• Malta ranks among the cheapest places to live and study in the world. Tuition fees, food, and accommodation are quite affordable.
• The country has a conducive learning environment. The locals are friendly and hospitable. Malta has a low crime rate. Thus it’s a safe study destination.
• Many students look to study in Malta because of its stable economy, weather, and accessible healthcare. The country has the 5th best healthcare in the world.
• Due to its excellent educational system, Malta is named one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students.

Steps to study in Malta

1) Choose a course and suitable university

The first step to studying abroad is finding a course and university. Choose a study program based on your interests, goals, and passion. Conduct online research on universities that offer your course. Also, consider the city where the institution is located. Check travel guides for cities that appeal to you. List your most preferred institutions. Find people studying there and make enquiries about your course and admission requirements. It’s advised to do course selection some months before application opening. This helps as you won’t need to spend so much time choosing a course and institution. Some top universities in Malta include the University of Malta, St Martin’s Institute of Higher Education, the American University of Malta, Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST), etc.

Some top courses to study in Malta

• Engineering
• Medicine
• Arts & Design
• Tourism
• Films & Media
• Law
• Computer science
• Business

2) Check your eligibility and admission requirements

After you’ve chosen your course of study and university, you need to check your eligibility and all that’s required for enrollment. While each institution has its requirements, some common specifics to study at a Maltese university include the following:

• Duly completed application form
• Previous educational certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS)
• Letter of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• CV/resume
• Work experience (if applicable)

You can contact the admission office or check the school’s website for further enquiries.

3) Apply to university

By now, you’ve sorted all your documents. It’s about time to submit your application. Malta doesn’t operate a centralized application process. You’ll need to apply to the school directly. Check the website for the application deadline to make proper preparations and submit your application before the due date. Most Maltese universities enroll students in October and February. The October intake has the highest number of applications. Depending on the admission spaces available, some universities enroll students in April, May, and June.

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4) Obtain your student visa

Your visa application process could be seamless and easy if you have the following requirements:

• Duly signed and completed visa application form
• A valid passport with at least two blank pages issued within the last 10 years.
• Application fee payable at the Maltese embassy or consulate
• Passport-sized photographs
• Proof of funds for the duration of your stay (bank statements, salary slips, etc.)
• Proof of accommodation (hotel reservation, lease, etc.)
• Letter of acceptance from a Maltese university
• Proof of health insurance
• Travel itinerary
• Criminal record certificate (if applicable)

Maltese student visa applications may take up to 2 to 3 months. On arrival and registering at the university, you’ll need to apply for an e-residence permit. In booking an appointment at the consulate, you’ll need to schedule the meeting prior 4 to 6 weeks. Your visa may be processed within 4 weeks if you begin your application early. Ensure you check application deadlines. This will help your visa plans.

5) Study in Malta without IELTS

While some universities require IELTS as admission criteria, others exempt international students from taking English proficiency tests. If you want to apply to an institution without IELTS, you’ll require a Medium of Instruction letter (MOI). MOI is a document confirming your language of instruction or study in your previous educational program. Below are universities that don’t require TOEFL/IELTS for admission.

• American University of Malta
• Global College Malta
• The Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology
• The London School of Commerce Malta
• Learn key Malta

If you don’t want to go through the hassle of doing a proficiency test, you should consider the above-listed schools.

Scholarships to study in Malta for international students

Studying abroad can be pretty expensive; thus, many international students seek a scholarship to study in Malta. Below are some scholarships available for international students.

• Endeavour Scholarships Scheme
• Tertiary Education Scholarship Scheme (TESS)
• Malta Arts Scholarships
• Reach High Post-Doctoral Grants
• Malta Financial Sector Scholarship Scheme
• Malta Sports Scholarships Scheme
• The University of Malta Master by Research and PhD Programs Scholarships
• Malta Scholarship for Doctoral Program European University Institute, Fiesole, Firenze

6) Get prepared for your trip

Now, everything is in place. You’ve secured admission into your preferred institution and obtained your student visa. Start preparing for your trip. Immerse yourself in the Maltese culture. Learn all you need to know about Malta. You can take a class as well. Also, try their cuisine. Connect with people studying in Malta. This will help smooth the transition when you’re finally settled in the country. Research about the city of residence. Read blogs and travel books. This will broaden your knowledge about the city. Read up about the weather. It will enable you to know the right clothes to pack.

We wish you good luck in your endeavors. Also, don’t forget to have fun.