Skip to main content Skip to footer

MBA in Europe vs other countries: Why Malta is a smart choice

An MBA in Europe can be a strategic career move. Discover how Malta's unique benefits and accredited MBA programmes gives you a competitive edge.

MBA in Europe. 

Say it aloud, and you will hear authority, diversity and history. 

From the classic prestige of the US to the relaxed lifestyle of Australia, the world is full of choices. But what if you could find a place that combines top-tier education with affordability and a fast track to a global career? 

An MBA in Europe offers a fresh twist with its rich history and economic power. It is a place where you can receive a world-class education without incurring the heavy debt that comes with it. Here you will find compact, career-shaping courses, cultural exploration and international business links that last. 

Think job access post-graduation – no visa hassles in linked markets – and cultures that build wide nets. Europe's setup lets you dip into varied economies, from technology booms to finance strongholds. 

Yet for the ambitious, cost-conscious student, there is one more “aha!”: Malta. 

Not only is it English-speaking and an EU member, but it also posts the lowest unemployment in the EU (2.5%), offers lower tuition and friendlier living costs, and a tax-back scheme worth up to 70% of fees. 

Malta, located in the heart of Europe, draws savvy students from every continent. 

Diving deeper, Malta pops as a gem in this scene, with its MBA programmes tailored for go-getters. Read on to know why MBA in Malta for international students is not just a good idea – it is often the smartest one. 

MBA in Europe: The big picture 

Ever wondered where the smartest minds go for their MBA? 

Deciding where to get your MBA is important, and a great place to start is by looking at what an MBA in Europe offers compared to other popular spots like the US and Australia. 

It is not about cost. It is about the total experience, from the shorter, more focused curriculum to unparalleled international exposure. The one-year programme length is a key advantage over the two-year US standard, allowing for a quicker return on your investment. 

MBA in Europe grabs attention for a reason. Let us map out why, with clear comparison to the US and Australia. 

Comparing MBA destinations: The value of an MBA in Europe 

 In plain terms, factors like fees, life costs and job hunts matter most. MBA in Europe often edges out with shorter terms and border-free work opportunities, unlike visa snags elsewhere. Malta amplifies this, blending low tabs with sun-filled benefits. 

For an MBA in Malta for international students, the setup feels just right. 

Destination Tuition costs (average) Living expenses Job market access Program length Key benefits
U.S. $20,000–$40,000+ per year $2,000–$3,500 per month Strong, visa issues Two years Top-ranked schools, huge networks
Australia AUD 20,000–45,000 per year AUD 2,000–3,000 per month Work for migrants 1.5–2 years Work-life balance, English-speaking
Europe (General) Varied, often less than US Affordable in many cities Broad EU options One year Diversity, international mobility
Malta (Specific) €10,000 per year €300–€700 per month EU and Malta One year EU access, low unemployment, scholarship opportunities and reimbursement schemes

Deeper insights—

  • US: Big names, big cost, longer time. 
  • Australia: Smooth for skilled graduates, but geographically distant from many hubs. 
  • Europe: Fast-track years, lots of international students and jobs. 
  • Malta: Compact one-year MBA, English everywhere, up to 70% return on investment through Get Qualified scheme. 

Secure your future with an MBA in Malta

Why MBA in Europe stands out as your path 

Europe is not just sights – it is a boost for business minds, with economies tied to each other and histories that shape sharp minds. An MBA in Europe packs in diversity, fostering teams that think global from day one. Shorter one-year runs save time compared to two-year drags elsewhere. 

For an MBA in Malta for international students, this means quick gains without skimping. 

A mix of history, culture, and economic strength 

  • Study in multicultural settings where you are surrounded by ambition. 
  • Tap internships that cross borders easily. 
  • Tie business theory to thriving EU industries – gaming, technology, tourism. 

International exposure sets you apart 

  • Network with peers from 27+ EU member states. 
  • Master cross-cultural leadership – a must in global firms. 
  • Develop practical skills for recruiting, collaborating, even crunching start-up data. 

Exposure here's key – networks link you to 27+ countries, building cross-border leads. Unlike standalone spots in the US or Australia, MBA programmes in Malta amplify the connections. In this way, Malta for MBA in Europe offers international students many advantages.   

Spotlight on Malta: The smart, cost-effective choice for international students 

Why focus on this island? 

Malta's English flow cuts barriers, and its job market boasts the lowest idle rate in the EU at just 2.5%. Costs dip 30-50% below US norms, yet quality holds. 

So, why choose Malta for MBA? The numbers make the decision easier: 

  1. English is the primary language – communication will not be a problem. 
  2. EU’s lowest unemployment at just 2.5% as of June 2025. 
  3. Work rights EU-wide post-graduation. 
  4. Several growing sectors. 
  5. Safe, warm and low cost of living spot to focus on your studies. 

Benefits of pursuing an MBA from Malta 

Malta MBA Perks Details
Tuition €10,000–15,000
Living costs 30–50% below US/Australia
EU job access Automatic, no extra hurdles
Tax scheme Up to 70% tuition refund with Get Qualified scheme

An MBA in Malta for international students means smart spending, high returns – and sun, sand and safety thrown in for free.

GBS Malta’s MBA: A strategic and affordable pick

Let us get specific: why do we think this is the smart move? 

When you look at all the MBA programmes in Malta, the Master of Business Administration at GBS Malta stands out for its blend of academic rigour and financial accessibility. 

It is an Malta Further and Higher Education Authority or MFHEA-accredited qualification designed to launch you into a thriving career without saddling you with a mountain of debt. It is a financially savvy decision that minimises your initial outlay and accelerates your path to a return on investment. 

Low costs and the 'Get Qualified' scheme 

The price tag for an MBA can be daunting, but GBS Malta makes it much more manageable. The Master of Business Administration fee is €10,000, which is a fraction of the cost in other countries. 

On top of that, the Maltese government’s ‘Get Qualified’ scheme can reimburse you for up to 70% of your tuition fees as a tax credit after you graduate. This scheme is still in effect for 2025, offering a huge financial advantage. 

  • The scheme turns a large portion of your tuition into a tax credit. 
  • You can apply for the refund after completing your course, terms and conditions apply. 

A booming job market 

An affordable degree is great, but a job afterwards is even better. Malta’s economy is booming, and the National Statistics Office reported a monthly unemployment rate of just 2.5% as of June 2025, one of the lowest in the EU. 

This shows a direct link between the government’s investment in education and the robust demand for skilled workers on the local job market. 

  • The low unemployment rate means more job openings. 
  • A strong economy provides more growth opportunities. 

GBS Malta’s MBA shines within the MBA in Europe crowd. 

Specialised pathways to global careers 

GBS Malta's Master of Business Administration is not a one-size-fits-all degree. It is an MBA in Malta for international students that understands a global career needs specialisation. 

The curriculum blends core business theory with focused pathways in areas like marketing management and project management, ensuring you get the skills you need for your specific goals. 

By offering these specialised tracks, GBS Malta tailors the learning experience to current market demands, making graduates immediately valuable to potential employers. 

GBS Malta MBA pathways 

  • MBA in Marketing Management 
  • MBA Management Consulting 
  • MBA Project Management 
  • MBA Entrepreneurship 
  • MBA in Global Investment Banking 

Unlocking European opportunities 

Choosing to study in Malta also means you are choosing to study in the European Union. This single fact opens doors that other destinations, like the US or Australia, simply cannot match. 

As an EU member, Malta offers excellent career opportunities, where growth depends on talent and skills rather than restrictions. This makes Malta a smart choice for pursuing an MBA.  

  • Strong career prospects for talented students. 
  • High return on educational investment with lower tuition costs and diverse career opportunities 
  • Networking events with peers from 27+ EU countries. 
  • High employability without massive debt. 

Career benefits: Unlocking opportunities in Malta and the EU 

Post-graduation, you are primed for EU hunts, dodging US visa waits. Low unemployment means fast starts in growth areas. GBS Malta generates events and alumni links, pushing ROI high. 

MBA in Malta for international students leads to management spots, with debt low and prospects wide. These doors swing open: 

  • Access to key growth sectors: finance, technology, consulting, tourism. 
  • Ample alumni support and networking events to give you a springboard. 
  • Lower debt means faster ROI and more career freedom. 

An MBA in Malta for international students is more than a credential – it is an open pass to EU opportunity. 

Choose Malta as your MBA in Europe launchpad 

When you weigh your options, from the costs and curriculum to job prospects and lifestyle, it becomes clear why many people choose Malta for MBA. It combines the global appeal and quality of an MBA in Europe with a distinct set of advantages, like lower costs and direct access to a booming job market. 

GBS Malta’s Master of Business Administration is designed to make your journey affordable and successful. This programme is designed to provide a low-risk, high-reward career path. 

This is not just an MBA – it is the smartest move for business-ready minds. 

Apply now. 

FAQs

1. Is the GBS Malta MBA recognised outside Europe?

The Master of Business Administration is MFHEA-accredited, a framework aligned with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). This ensures a high standard of quality that is widely respected internationally. 

2. How long do I have to be a resident to qualify for the 'Get Qualified' scheme?

To be eligible for the tax credit from the 'Get Qualified' scheme, you must reside and work in Malta for a minimum of two years after graduating with your qualification.

3. Can I work while studying for my MBA in Malta?

Yes, international students in Malta are permitted to work a certain number of hours per week to support themselves during their studies. 

4. What is the average class size for the MBA programme?

GBS Malta is committed to providing personal attention to all students, which is why it maintains small class sizes for its programmes.

5. Does the GBS Malta MBA require a GMAT score for admission?

GBS Malta's admission process is comprehensive but does not rely solely on GMAT scores. Professional experience and strong application are highly valued as part of the holistic evaluation.

6. Are scholarships available for the GBS Malta MBA?

Yes, GBS Malta offers scholarships to support students in financing their studies. Contact us to know more- our team is here to guide you through the process and help you explore the best options available. 

Browse our courses

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