Depending on the institution and programme, students may find opportunities that support undergraduate, postgraduate or professional studies.
Researching scholarship opportunities early is important, as many schemes have limited places, specific requirements and application deadlines.
Types of funding available to international students
Scholarships are an important source of financial support, but they are only one part of the funding landscape. Many international students use a combination of scholarships, personal savings, family support, education loans and government initiatives to finance their studies.
Understanding the different funding options available can help students build a more realistic and sustainable financial plan before beginning their studies in Malta.
Institution-based scholarships
Many higher education institutions in Malta offer scholarships designed to recognise academic achievement, leadership potential, professional accomplishments or exceptional student performance.
Depending on the institution and programme, scholarship awards may provide partial tuition support, merit-based funding or special assistance for students from specific regions or backgrounds.
Students should research scholarship opportunities early, as eligibility requirements, funding amounts and application deadlines can vary significantly between institutions.
Government initiatives and education incentives
Malta has introduced a number of initiatives designed to encourage investment in education and skills development.
One example is the Malta Get Qualified Scheme, a government-backed initiative that allows eligible graduates of recognised programmes at MQF Level 3 or higher to claim back up to 70% of their tuition fees through tax credits after graduation, subject to applicable terms and conditions.
The scheme reflects Malta's broader commitment to developing a skilled workforce and supporting lifelong learning.
Education loans, sponsorship and family support
Many students also fund their studies through education loans or sponsorship arrangements.
In some cases, employers may sponsor employees pursuing qualifications that support professional development and career progression. Others may combine personal savings, family contributions and education financing options available in their home country.
According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), students across many countries increasingly rely on mixed funding models that combine public support, private investment and personal contributions to access higher education.
Building a diversified funding strategy
Rather than relying on a single source of funding, many successful international students build a diversified financial plan that combines multiple funding streams.
| Funding source |
How it can help |
| Scholarships |
Reduce tuition costs and reward academic or professional achievement |
| Government initiatives |
Provide long-term financial benefits after graduation |
| Education loans |
Help cover tuition fees and study-related expenses |
| Family support |
Assist with living costs and initial settlement expenses |
| Employer sponsorship |
Support professional development and career advancement |
By understanding the full range of student funding opportunities available in Malta, students can make informed financial decisions and focus more confidently on achieving their academic and career goals.
Student funding in Malta: Planning beyond tuition fees
One of the most common mistakes students make is focusing only on tuition fees.
A realistic financial plan should also account for:
- Accommodation
- Food and daily expenses
- Transportation
- Health insurance
- Study materials
- Personal and leisure spending
Creating a detailed budget before arriving in Malta can help students avoid unexpected financial pressures and manage their studies more effectively.
Students exploring student funding opportunities in Malta should also compare funding options available both in Malta and in their home country.
Why early planning matters
Students seeking scholarships for international students often face strong competition. Starting the research process early provides more time to identify suitable opportunities, prepare applications and gather supporting documentation. Early planning can also help students understand the total cost of their education and explore different ways to finance their studies. For many students, the most successful approach combines scholarships, personal savings, family support and long-term financial planning.
