The Maltese education system consistently ranks among the world's best. According to the Global Education Futures Readiness Index (GEFRI) 2026, Malta ranks 40th globally (78th percentile) and 4th in the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan region. In the CGGI education category, Malta ranks 26th. But its main advantage isn't the numbers. It's the only country in Europe where the British education system, English as an official language, and a mild Mediterranean climate come together. For students who want British‑quality education in a warm and affordable setting, Malta is an excellent choice.

Structure of Education

Schooling in Malta includes 11 years of compulsory education — from age 5 to 16. The system has two cycles: primary school (ages 5 to 11) and secondary school (ages 11 to 16). After 16, students can take two optional years of upper secondary school (ages 16 to 18), which prepare them for university. The system is based on the British model: students take GCSE and A‑Level exams, which are recognised worldwide. Many private and international schools offer programmes in English, as well as the IB programme.

Higher education follows the Bologna system: a bachelor's degree takes 3 years, and a master's takes 1–2 years. The University of Malta — the oldest in the Commonwealth outside the UK — offers English‑taught programmes in medicine, business, engineering, and the humanities.

Admission: What Is Required

International students are admitted to private and international schools based on academic transcripts and an interview. English proficiency is important, but many schools offer language support for new students.

For university admission, you'll need a school‑leaving certificate recognised in Malta and proof of English proficiency — IELTS or TOEFL. For some specialisations, entrance exams or interviews may be required.

Cost of Tuition

Malta remains one of the most affordable English‑speaking countries for education.
 

• A year at a private international school costs €6,000–17,100, depending on the school and the pupil's age. For example, at Chiswick House School and St Martin's College, fees range from €6,000 to €7,110 per year; at QSI International School of Malta — €270–17,100 per year; and at Malta Crown — from €17,460 per year. The average cost at international schools is approximately €8,685 per year.
• At universities, tuition for international students from non‑EU countries ranges from €4,250 to €13,400 per year, depending on the programme and institution. For EU students, tuition at the state‑funded University of Malta is free — only an annual fee of around €400 applies.

These figures cover tuition only. Accommodation, meals, insurance, study materials, and transport are all extra. However, the cost of living in Malta is lower than in the UK or Ireland, especially compared to major British cities.

Why Choose Malta

English is the main draw. It's one of the few countries in Europe where English is an official language. Students are immersed in an English‑speaking environment 24/7, delivering results that are hard to achieve elsewhere. At the same time, Malta is in Europe, which simplifies transport and visa matters.

The climate is another strong draw. Malta offers over 300 sunny days a year, warm seas, and mild winters. For students who want to combine study with a comfortable climate, Malta is an excellent choice. The sun and sea create an atmosphere where studying feels easier and more enjoyable.

Safety and affordability are important factors for many families. Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe, with a low crime rate. At the same time, the cost of living is significantly lower than in the UK or Ireland, while the quality of education remains at British standards.

Malta isn't just about study — it's a unique cultural environment. An island with a thousand‑year history, where influences from different civilisations — Phoenician, Roman, Arab, British — have blended. For students in history, architecture, or international relations, Malta offers an advantage you can't get from textbooks.

Language Requirements

For admission to Maltese schools and universities, you'll need proof of English proficiency. For bachelor's programmes at the University of Malta, IELTS Academic 6.0 is required, and for master's programmes — 6.5. For competitive fields like medicine or law, individual component requirements may be higher. TOEFL is also accepted. In international schools, instruction is in English, with Maltese as a second language.

How We Help

We work with Maltese schools and universities — from selection to enrolment. We help with choosing the programme, language, and study format. We check documents, advise on requirements, and support you through the visa process.

If you're considering Malta and don't know where to start — just get in touch. We'll tell you which schools and universities are open for applications, how the programmes differ, what a year actually costs, and what deadlines to keep in mind. Even if it's just a question for now.