Verified Facts

Official NameRepublic of Malta
CapitalValletta
Population574,250
Area316.0 km²
LanguagesEnglish, Maltese
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionEurope / Southern Europe
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API

The education system in Malta is well-regarded and highly accessible, with a strong emphasis on bilingualism and a wide range of educational opportunities available to both local and international students.

Quick Facts

Literacy Rate94.5%
School System11 years of compulsory education
Language of InstructionMaltese and English
Academic CalendarSeptember to June
International Schoolsavailable
Top University Rankingranked among the top 500 universities globally

Education System Overview

The education system in Malta is divided into three main stages: primary education, which lasts for six years, secondary education, which lasts for five years, and tertiary education, which includes university and vocational training. The system is generally of high quality, with a strong focus on academic achievement and bilingualism. Both public and private schools are available, with the majority of students attending public schools. The public education system is free for all students, including foreigners, and is generally considered to be of high quality.

The Maltese education system is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Employment, which is responsible for setting educational policies and standards. The system is also influenced by the European Union, which provides funding and support for educational initiatives. The education system in Malta is highly regarded, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects, as well as languages and humanities.

The quality of education in Malta is high, with a strong focus on academic achievement and personal development. The system is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education, preparing them for higher education and the workforce. Both public and private schools offer a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and art, which are designed to promote personal development and social skills.

Top Universities

UniversityLocationKnown ForEst. Tuition (USD/year)
University of MaltaMsidaLaw, Medicine, Engineering12,000
Malta College of Arts, Science and TechnologyPaolaVocational training, Technical subjects8,000
American University of MaltaCospicuaBusiness, Management, International Relations15,000
Middlesex University MaltaPembrokeBusiness, Law, Health and Social Sciences10,000
Institute of Tourism StudiesLuqaHospitality, Tourism, Culinary Arts9,000
European Institute of EducationVallettaTeacher training, Education6,000

International Schools

  • International schools are widely available in Malta, offering a range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB), British curriculum, and American curriculum.
  • These schools cater to the needs of expatriate families and international students, providing a global education and a multicultural environment.
  • The cost of attending an international school in Malta can vary, with tuition fees ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 per year.
  • International schools are located throughout Malta, with many situated in urban areas, such as Valletta and Sliema.
  • Some international schools also offer boarding facilities, providing accommodation for students from overseas.

Studying as a Foreigner

  • To study in Malta, international students must obtain a student visa, which requires a valid passport, proof of acceptance from a Maltese university, and proof of financial support.
  • English is widely spoken in Malta, but international students may also need to demonstrate proficiency in Maltese, depending on the course of study.
  • Scholarships are available to international students, including the Malta Government Scholarship Scheme, which provides financial support to students from developing countries.
  • The cost of living in Malta is relatively high, with accommodation and food being the main expenses for students.
  • International students can work part-time while studying in Malta, with many opportunities available in the service sector, such as hotels and restaurants.
  • [CALLOUT] It is essential to research the specific requirements for studying in Malta, as these can vary depending on the country of origin and the course of study.

Education Quality & Challenges

  • The education system in Malta is highly regarded, with a strong emphasis on academic achievement and personal development.
  • One of the main challenges facing the education system in Malta is overcrowding, with many schools experiencing high student-to-teacher ratios.
  • The system is also facing funding challenges, with a lack of resources affecting the quality of education in some schools.
  • [RATING] Education Quality: 4/5
  • The education system in Malta is also evolving, with a focus on innovation and technology, including the introduction of online learning platforms and digital resources.
  • Recent reforms have aimed to improve the quality of education in Malta, including the introduction of new curricula and assessment methods.