Study in Malta
Ultimate Guide to Universities, Fees, Visas, Scholarships & Student Life
By: StudyAbroadly
Last updated: December 2025 for 2026–2027 admissions.
Dreaming of moving to Europe in 2026 for affordable education, faster visa approval, and a peaceful life? Malta is one of the fastest-growing destinations for Nigerian students, and the numbers speak for themselves.
Malta welcomed over 8,200 international students in 2025 (a 27% increase), “with Nigeria now one of the fastest-growing source countries.”
Malta may be small geographically, but it’s packed with opportunities. It offers 100% English-taught programs, high-quality education, easy visa pathways, and a growing Nigerian community that makes relocation much smoother. “Unlike the UK, Canada, or Australia — where tuition and living costs have skyrocketed — Malta remains affordable, safe, and career-focused.”
This guide was prepared by StudyAbroadly advisors who support Nigerian students with admissions, scholarships, and student visa guidance 2026-2027.
Before diving deeper, let’s give you a quick snapshot of what you need to budget for 2026–2027:
Quick Wins Table (For Nigerian Students)
| Item | Cost (Naira) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees (per year) | ₦13M – ₦22M |
| Living Costs (per year) | ₦12M – ₦18M |
| Proof of Funds Required | ₦18M – ₦25M |
| Visa Approval Rate | Overall >90%; Nigerian approvals ~80% with strong docs (up to 95% success in 2025 cases) |
| Average Part-Time Earnings | €10–€14/hour |
Malta offers the perfect combination of affordability, safety, and post-study opportunities, making it a top destination for Nigerians in 2026–2027. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly:
- Which universities accept Nigerian students
- How to budget in Naira
- The full visa process with insider tips
- Scholarships you can actually win
- Where Nigerians live in Malta
- Best courses with fast ROI
Why Malta is Now the #1 Choice for Nigerian Students in 2026–2027
Malta has emerged as the fastest growing study destination for Nigerians. Here’s why it’s climbing the charts compared to the UK, Canada, or Australia.
1. Cheaper Than Other Popular Destinations
| Country | Tuition / Year | Living Costs / Year | Total 1-Year Budget (Naira) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🇬🇧 UK | ₦17M – ₦30M | ₦15M – ₦22M | ₦32M – ₦52M |
| 🇨🇦 Canada | ₦18M – ₦32M | ₦12M – ₦20M | ₦30M – ₦52M |
| 🇮🇪 Ireland | ₦15M – ₦28M | ₦14M – ₦21M | ₦29M – ₦49M |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | ₦20M – ₦34M | ₦17M – ₦25M | ₦37M – ₦59M |
| 🇲🇹 Malta | ₦13M – ₦22M | ₦12M – ₦18M | ₦25M – ₦40M |
Choosing Malta can save you ₦7M – ₦15M per year, money that can go toward internships, travel, or emergency funds.
2. 100% English Taught Degrees
Malta’s universities teach entirely in English. You often don’t need IELTS, especially if you have WAEC/NECO with good grades.
Courses include:
- Medicine & Health Sciences
- Engineering & IT
- Business & Finance
- Hospitality & Tourism
This makes it easy for Nigerian students to transition without language barriers.
3. Direct Acceptance with WAEC/NECO
Most universities accept Nigerian students directly if you meet:
- WAEC minimum 5 credits (including Maths & English)
- NECO equivalent
- NABTEB or A-Level where applicable
- HND/BSc for master’s programs
No foundation year is needed unless grades are low.
Internal link suggestion: See full list of universities in Malta for Nigerians
4. EU / Schengen Travel Advantage
Studying in Malta gives you visa free or low hassle access to Schengen countries like:
- Italy
- Spain
- France
- Greece
- Germany
Weekend trips, cultural experiences, and networking opportunities are all within easy reach.
5. Post-Study Work Opportunities
- One year post study stay with work permit
- Pathway to EU residence with employer sponsorship
- High demand in health, IT, engineering, and hospitality sectors
Nigerians who study in Malta can often start earning in euros immediately after graduation.
6. Growing Nigerian Community
Malta is now home to a vibrant Nigerian diaspora, including:
- Churches and student groups
- Naija shops and restaurants
- African salons and grocery stores
- Social and cultural events
Most Nigerian students live in Gzira, St Julian’s, Msida, and Sliema, making it comfortable for new arrivals.
Top 8 Universities in Malta Accepting Nigerian Students (2026 Intakes)
Malta has become a hotspot for Nigerian students because of its affordable tuition, English-taught programs, and friendly visa policies. Here’s a breakdown of the top universities Nigerians typically apply to:
| University | Tuition per Year (₦) | WAEC Requirement | Popular Courses | 2026 Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Malta (UM) | ₦15M – ₦22M | 5 credits incl. Maths & English | Medicine, IT, Engineering, Law, Business | May 2026 |
| American University of Malta (AUM) | ₦13M – ₦18M | WAEC/NECO | Business, IT, Cybersecurity, Engineering | Rolling (apply early) |
| Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology (MCAST) | ₦12M – ₦16M | WAEC/NECO | Engineering, Health Sciences, Hospitality | June 2026 |
| Global College Malta (GCM) | ₦13M – ₦20M | WAEC | MBA, Business, Finance, Marketing | Rolling |
| GBS Malta | ₦14M – ₦18M | WAEC/NECO | Business, HR, IT | July 2026 |
| Middlesex University Malta | ₦13M – ₦19M | WAEC | IT, Computing, Cybersecurity | May 2026 |
| LearnKey Institute Malta | ₦12M – ₦15M | WAEC | IT, Networking, Software | Rolling |
| European Graduate School Malta | ₦15M – ₦18M | HND/BSc for master's | Media, Arts, Philosophy | Rolling |
Spotlight on Key Universities
University of Malta (UM)
- Overview: Oldest and most respected university in Malta.
- Popular with Nigerians: Medicine, Engineering, IT, Pharmacy, Law.
- Why Nigerians choose UM:
- Strong international reputation
- Easy WAEC/NECO acceptance
- Campus life and student support
American University of Malta (AUM)
- Overview: Modern US-style campus.
- Popular with Nigerians: Business, IT, Cybersecurity, Engineering.
- Highlights:
- Affordable tuition
- Rolling admissions
- Fast visa processing with proper documents
MCAST – Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology
- Popular fields: Engineering, Hospitality, Health Sciences
- Advantages for Nigerians:
- Lower tuition fees
- Practical skills programs
- Strong internship opportunities
Global College Malta (GCM)
- Focus: Business and management programs, including MBA
- Why Nigerians apply:
- Shorter programs (1–2 years)
- International networking
Middlesex University Malta
- Specialization: IT, Computing, Cybersecurity
- Key appeal: UK-accredited degrees, recognised in Europe and Nigeria
Popular Programmes
Choosing the right course in Malta can maximize your ROI, especially if you plan to work in Europe after graduation. Here’s what Nigerians typically pursue:
Medicine & Health Sciences
- Demand: Very high in Malta and EU
- Average starting salary: €28,000–€45,000/year
Universities: UM, MCAST
Business, Accounting & Finance
- Why popular: Quick ROI, globally recognized
- Salary: €20,000–€35,000/year
Universities: UM, AUM, GBS Malta
IT & Computer Science
- Specializations: Software development, cybersecurity, AI
- Salary: €25,000–€40,000/year
Universities: UM, Middlesex, AUM, LearnKey
Engineering
- Focus: Business and management programs, including MBA
- Why Nigerians apply:
- Shorter programs (1–2 years)
- International networking
Nursing & Pharmacy
- Fields: Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Robotics
- Salary: €25,000–€38,000/year
Universities: UM, MCAST
Tourism & Hospitality
- Reason to choose: Shortage of professionals in EU
- Salary: €24,000–€32,000/year
Universities: UM, MCAST
Want to study in Malta? Check out the scholarships we’ve listed on our search page.
Malta Student Visa from Nigeria Full 2026–2027 Process
Studying in Malta from Nigeria requires a student visa, and getting it right the first time is crucial. Overall student visa success rate exceeds 90%, and properly prepared Nigerian applications are approved in 3–5 weeks. This section covers everything you need, step by step.
Malta Student Visa Requirements for Nigerians
To apply for a Malta student visa from Nigeria, you’ll need the following:
| Document | Details / Nigerian Reference |
|---|---|
| International Passport | Valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay |
| Admission Letter | From a recognized Maltese university |
| Proof of Tuition Payment | Deposit or full payment receipt |
| Bank Statement | ₦3–₦4M monthly inflow OR ₦18–₦25M total balance |
| Sponsorship Letter | From parent or guardian, if applicable |
| Sponsor's ID | National ID or International Passport |
| Academic Certificates | WAEC/NECO with scratch cards |
| Medical Insurance | Coverage for at least one year |
| Flight Reservation | Return or onward travel optional |
| Accommodation Proof | University dorm or private lease |
| Visa Application Form | Fully filled |
| Passport Photographs | 2 recent passport-size photos |
Make sure to use official documents, fake bank statements or altered admission letters can lead to rejection.
Step-by-Step Malta Student Visa Process (9 Steps)
Follow these steps carefully to avoid delays:
- Get Admission: Secure a confirmed letter from a Maltese university.
- Pay Tuition Deposit: Most universities require at least 20–50% upfront.
- Gather Documents: Use the checklist above; double-check translations if needed.
- Book Embassy Appointment: Italian Embassy Abuja is preferred; VFS Lagos is a submission-only option.
- Submit Documents: Bring originals + copies. VFS Lagos handles submissions but not interviews.
- Attend Biometrics & Submission: Fingerprints and photographs are collected at submission.
- Visa Interview (if required): Be ready to answer questions clearly.
- Wait for Processing: Average processing time: 3–5 weeks.
Collect Visa & Travel: Once approved, make flight arrangements.
Italian Embassy Abuja vs VFS Lagos – Which is Faster?
| Option | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Embassy Abuja | Direct interviews, faster approval | Needs in-person visit, limited slots |
| VFS Lagos | Submission only, convenient in Lagos | Interview scheduled separately, slightly longer processing |
Nigerians in Abuja and surrounding states use Embassy Abuja; Lagos students can submit via VFS Lagos, but allow extra processing time.
Common Interview Questions Nigerians Are Asked
- Why did you choose Malta?
- Who is sponsoring your studies?
- Can you show your sponsor’s bank statement or business?
- What course are you taking and why?
- What are your plans after graduation?
Answer confidently, truthfully, and highlight your ties to Nigeria or your career plan.
Visa Processing Times & Success Stories (2025 Data)
- Average processing time: 3–5 weeks
- Success rate for Nigerians: Overall >90%; Nigerian approvals ~80% with strong docs (up to 95% success in 2025 cases)
- Real success examples:
- Tolu, Lagos — Bachelor’s in IT at UM, visa approved 4 weeks
- Amaka, Abuja — Nursing at MCAST, visa approved 3 weeks
Tips for First Time Nigerian Applicants
- Apply early: Start at least 4–5 months before intended travel
- Complete documents: Missing documents = automatic rejection
- Sponsor credibility: Bank statements, IDs, and business proofs must be authentic
Interview preparation: Practice questions in advance
Total Costs & Budget (2026–2027 Updated)
Studying in Malta is more affordable than other European destinations, but Nigerian students still need a clear budget plan. Here’s a full breakdown.
| University Level | Tuition (₦) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor | ₦13M – ₦22M | Depending on university & course |
| Master's | ₦14M – ₦20M | Usually includes fewer courses |
| Diploma / Short Courses | ₦9M – ₦14M | MCAST and private colleges |
Medicine, Engineering, and MBA programs are on the higher end.
Living Expenses (Monthly in Naira)
| Category | Budget Option 1 (Low) | Option 2 (Mid) | Option 3 (High) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₦450k | ₦600k | ₦900k |
| Feeding | ₦250k | ₦350k | ₦450k |
| Transport | ₦80k | ₦120k | ₦150k |
| Utilities & Internet | ₦70k | ₦100k | ₦150k |
| Miscellaneous | ₦100k | ₦150k | ₦200k |
| Total / Month | ₦950k | ₦1.32M | ₦1.85M |
| Total / Year | ₦11.4M | ₦15.8M | ₦22.2M |
Proof of Funds Requirement
Nigerian students must demonstrate ₦18M – ₦25M for one academic year, depending on tuition and lifestyle. This can be shown via:
- Bank statements
- Parent/guardian sponsorship letters
- Scholarships (partial or full)
Scholarships & Funding for Nigerian Students
Getting a scholarship can cut tuition fees by 50–100%. Here’s a list of scholarships Nigerian students can realistically apply for in 2026:
Malta Government Endeavour Scholarship
- Coverage: Up to 100% tuition + €800/month stipend
- Eligibility: International students with excellent grades
- Deadline: Usually March – April 2026
University of Malta Scholarships
- Merit-based awards for African students
- Partial tuition reduction or full tuition
- Application is internal after admission
Nigerian Government Scholarships
- PTDF (Petroleum Technology Development Fund): For STEM courses
- BEA (Bureau of Education Abroad): Partial funding for high-performing students
- Usually require Nigerian passport + WAEC/NECO transcripts
Private Scholarships
- Many Nigerian students received awards from foundations or private donors in 2025
- Examples:
- ₦3M from African Diaspora Scholarship Fund
- ₦2M from private education trusts
Accommodation & Cost of Living in Malta for Nigerians
Nigerian students have several housing options:
University Dormitories
- Located on-campus or nearby
- Monthly cost: ₦500k – ₦750k
- Pros: Secure, close to classes, includes utilities
Private Apartments
- Cost: ₦600k – ₦1M/month
- Pros: More privacy, choose location
- Tips: Share with 2–3 Nigerians to reduce cost
Nigerian-Shared Flats
- Most popular among Nigerians
- Cost: ₦450k – ₦700k/month per student
- Easy access to African stores, churches, and halal food
Where Nigerians Typically Live
- St Julian’s: Vibrant nightlife, near universities
- Gzira: Affordable, central location
- Msida: Close to University of Malta & public transport
- Sliema: Popular for private apartments & shopping
Student Life in Malta: Real Nigerian Experiences
Malta isn't just about studying; it's about life, culture, and networking.
💬 Hear From Nigerian Students
"I love studying in Malta — everything is in English and life is peaceful."
— Tolu, Lagos
"The Nigerian community makes settling in very easy."
— Amaka, Abuja
"I work part-time and earn €12/hour while studying."
— Chinedu, Enugu
Part-Time Jobs
- ✓ Earn €10–€14/hour
- ✓ Jobs: Cafes, retail, tutoring, IT projects
- ✓ Can cover living expenses partially or fully
Nigerian Societies & Churches
- ✓ Community support and cultural familiarity
- ✓ Weekly meetings and Naija food events
- ✓ Mentoring sessions for new students
Safety & Lifestyle
- ✓ Very safe for African students
- ✓ Low crime rates in student areas
- ✓ Friendly locals, multicultural environment
Travel Opportunities
- ✓ Weekend trips to Italy, Spain, Greece, France
- ✓ Low-cost flights available
- ✓ Gateway to European exploration
Application Timeline & Deadlines for 2026–2027 Intakes
Planning ahead is crucial for Nigerian students. Malta universities usually have two main intakes:
| Intake | Application Start | Application Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 📅 September 2026 | Jan 2026 | May 2026 | Main intake, ideal for all programs |
| 📅 February 2027 | Aug 2026 | Nov 2026 | Late intake, fewer seats, mainly postgraduate courses |
Tips for Nigerian Students:
- Start Early: Apply at least 4–5 months before intake
- Documents Ready: Admission letter, WAEC/NECO certificates, bank statements
Visa Application: Apply immediately after admission to avoid delays
Common Mistakes Nigerian Students Make & How to Avoid Them
Avoid these pitfalls when applying to Malta:
- Fake Bank Statements
- Consequence: Automatic visa rejection
- Fix: Use real, verifiable documents
- Wrong Visa Category
- Mistake: Applying for short stay tourist visa instead of student visa
- Fix: Ensure you select the student visa (type D)
- Applying Too Late
- Consequence: Missed seats in popular courses
- Fix: Start 4–5 months in advance
- Not Booking Accommodation Early
- Consequence: Expensive or unavailable rooms
- Fix: Reserve university dorms or shared flats immediately
- Ignoring Scholarships
- Many Nigerians miss partial or full tuition funding
- Fix: Use the Scholarship Eligibility Checker
FAQs Everything Nigerians Ask About Malta (2026 Edition)
Below are the most common questions Nigerian students ask when planning to study in Malta.
Can I use WAEC alone to apply?
Yes, most universities accept WAEC + NECO; some prefer A-levels for competitive courses
Is Malta better than Cyprus for Nigerians?
Malta is safer, cheaper, fully English-taught, and closer to EU travel
Can my spouse join me?
Yes, if you have a dependent visa and meet income requirements
How much is tuition in Malta for Nigerians?
₦13M–₦22M per year depending on the university and course
Can I work part-time?
Is IELTS required?
Not always; many universities accept WAEC/NECO certificates if English-taught courses
Are there Nigerian communities in Malta?
Yes, especially in St Julian’s, Gzira, Msida, and Sliema
How long does the visa take?
3–5 weeks on average; Overall >90%; Nigerian approvals ~80% with strong docs (up to 95% success in 2025 cases)
Can I travel to Italy or Spain on weekends?
Do I need medical insurance?
Yes, coverage for at least one academic year is mandatory
How early should I apply?
Are there scholarships for Nigerians?
Yes, including Malta Government Endeavour, University of Malta, PTDF, BEA
Which universities are cheap?
MCAST, LearnKey, GCM offer lower tuition rates
Can I study medicine as a Nigerian?
Yes, at UM, with competitive grades and WAEC requirements
How much living allowance do I need?
₦12M–₦18M per year depending on lifestyle
Can I do online registration?
Yes, most universities allow online applications
Are part-time jobs enough to cover expenses?
They can partially cover living costs
What’s the accommodation cost?
₦450k–₦1M/month depending on dorm or shared apartment
Can I extend my visa after graduation?
Yes, one-year post-study work permit available
Is Malta safe for African students?
Ready to Study in Malta from Nigeria in 2026–2027?
Congratulations by now you know everything about studying in Malta: universities, costs, visas, scholarships, accommodation, and student life.
Next Steps for Nigerian Students:
- Check Eligibility: Use the Free Malta Acceptance Score
- Apply for Universities: Use our detailed universities guide
- Prepare Visa Documents: Download the Visa Checklist PDF
- Plan Your Budget: Use our monthly budget templates
Book Your Strategy Call: Speak with a Nigerian expert to optimize your pathway
This guide is intended to provide general information and helpful guidance for Nigerian students planning to study in Malta in 2026–2027. All details, including visa requirements, proof of funds, processing times, tuition fees, and immigration policies, are based on information available as of December 2025.