Enquire Now
Apply Now
Download Brochure
Get In Touch
Virtual Tour

Cost of Living in Malta vs UK: 5 Things Every Student Should Consider

When deciding to study abroad, what is the first thing that you consider? Is it the cost of living, the destination, or both?  What if we tell you that studying in Malta is more cost-effective than the UK?

According to the latest survey conducted by ICEF Agent Voice, more than 75% of students consider the cost of studying and living as the key factors in choosing their international study destination. They prioritise affordability above everything else.

Choosing where to pursue your higher education is an important decision for any student. While academic reputation and career opportunities are crucial, understanding the expenses is equally important.

Malta and the United Kingdom are both popular study destinations, but they differ greatly in terms of everyday expenses. In this blog, we compare the cost of living in Malta and the UK, showing how choosing Malta as a study destination can be both economical and beneficial for your career.

Living in Malta vs UK: Key Cost Differences for Students

Table of Contents

When considering studying abroad, it is useful to compare the living expenses to decide which destination is more economical in terms of living costs, transportation, healthcare, tuition fees, etc. Here is a breakdown of key expenses in Malta and the UK:

Affordable studying: Tuition fees comparison

Tuition fees vary depending on the country and institution. In the UK, international students often face higher costs, which can differ based on the course and university.

In Malta, tuition fees tend to be more pocket-friendly while still maintaining a high standard of education. Institutions like GBS Malta provide a cost-effective option for students looking for quality education at a lower price point.

Additionally, living costs in Malta are generally lower, making it a budget-friendly alternative for many international students.

Country Tuition Fees Additional benefits
UK £10,000 – £38,000 per year (public universities) Higher costs, even more for private universities
Malta €6,000 – €12,000 per year (undergraduate)
€10,000 – €15,000 per year (postgraduate)		 Get Qualified Scheme – Students can get up to 70% of tuition fees back after graduation

Key takeaway: The Get Qualified Scheme in Malta allows students to get up to 70% of tuition fees back after graduation.

Student housing in Malta vs the UK

Accommodation is a major expense for students studying abroad. On average, living in Malta is considerably cheaper than in the UK.

Country Monthly Rent Cost of Living Comparison
UK £600 – £1,500 (varies by location, higher in London) Higher living costs, especially in major cities
Malta €300 – €700 More affordable accommodation compared to many other countries

Key Takeaway: Malta’s accommodation costs are significantly lower than in the UK, helping students save money while enjoying quality living spaces.

Want to study in Malta?

Apply Now

Student travel costs: Which one is more economical?

Public transport is a necessity for most students, and therefore it is important to understand the transportation cost in Malta and the UK to know which one is more affordable.

Country Monthly Transportation Cost Student Benefit
UK £60 – £150 (higher in London) Expensive, varies by location
Malta Free for all students Significant savings on transport costs

Key Takeaway: Student transport is free in Malta, making daily travel extremely convenient compared to higher UK transport fares.

Healthcare costs in Malta vs the UK

Access to healthcare is crucial for international students. While some countries offer free or subsidised healthcare, others require private insurance.

Country Healthcare Cost Student Benefit
UK £776 per year (Immigration Health Surcharge) Mandatory for international students
Malta £40 – £100 per year (private insurance) More affordable healthcare options

Key Takeaway: Malta offers low-cost healthcare options for students, unlike the UK, which requires an annual health surcharge.

Other costs comparison: Malta vs the UK

Daily expenses such as food, leisure and study materials also contribute to the overall cost of living.

Country Average Monthly Living Costs Affordability
UK £600 – £1,000 Higher daily expenses
Malta €500 – €800 More affordable living costs

Key Takeaway: Overall, Malta’s cost of living is lower than in the UK, allowing students to enjoy a pocket-friendly lifestyle while studying.

Comparing Cost of Living: Why is Malta an ideal destination for students?

Malta is quickly becoming a top choice for international students seeking quality education in a welcoming environment. With its English-speaking culture, affordable tuition fees, and globally recognised degrees, it offers the perfect mix of academics and lifestyle.

From top universities to exciting career opportunities, studying in Malta can be a rewarding experience.

UK vs Malta cost comparison: Benefits of studying in Malta:

Studying in Malta comes with several advantages, including affordable living costs, scholarship opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Think about it: why pay more for your education when you could enjoy the same quality at a fraction of the cost?

Now, let's have a look at the top benefits.

  1. Lower tuition fees than the UK: Get a quality education at a more affordable cost. With competitive tuition fees, you can pursue your academic goals without the high financial burden often associated with studying abroad.
  2. Affordable accommodation and living costs: Malta offers budget-friendly housing options, from shared student apartments to private rentals. Lower daily expenses make it easier to focus on your studies without financial stress.
  3. Access to quality healthcare at a reasonable price: Malta has a well-established healthcare system with affordable services, ensuring international students receive quality medical care without high costs.
  4.  A safe and student-friendly environment: Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe, with a lower crime rate compared to the UK and other countries.
  5. Quality education with globally recognised degrees: Malta’s universities offer accredited degrees, modern facilities, and industry-relevant programmes.

Institutions like GBS Malta provide scholarships and affordable fees, making it an excellent place to study and grow your career.

Affordable learning with GBS Malta

Choosing the right university is a big decision. At GBS Malta, we provide a supportive and welcoming environment where students can focus on their studies and career goals.

Our team assists with visa applications and settling into life in Malta, ensuring a smooth transition. With experienced faculty, modern facilities, and a diverse student community, you get a high-quality education at a much more affordable cost than in the UK.

FAQs about cost of living in Malta vs UK

Yes, studying in Malta is generally more affordable than in the UK. Tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses are significantly lower.

On average, students in Malta spend between €500 and €800 per month on living expenses, including accommodation, food and transport.

GBS Malta provide scholarships, for eligible international students. Contact the admissions office for more details. We are currently offering scholarships of up to 25% for our MBA programme.

You can access free public transport with a monthly pass costing about €26, providing an economical way to navigate the island.

GBS Malta not only offers cost-effective education but also prepares students for real-world success. It has small class sizes, ensuring each student gets focused attention from expert faculty who have years of professional experience in the industry.

Browse our courses

We offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses that deliver the business skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.