Malta: A Rising Study Destination with a Unique Tuition Rebate Scheme

Malta, a small island nation in the Mediterranean, is becoming a top choice for international students, thanks to affordable education and a generous tuition rebate scheme. With a population of around 500,000, Malta offers a high-quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to traditional study destinations like the UK, US, Canada, and Australia.

Affordable Education in Malta

One of the primary attractions for international students is the affordability of education in Malta. For example, Global Banking School (GBS) Malta, a leading institution on the island, offers undergraduate degrees for just €6,000 per year. This is significantly less than the fees charged by universities in more established study destinations. For many students, this affordability is crucial, making Malta an attractive option for those looking to minimize educational expenses while receiving a high-quality education.

GBS Malta is set to graduate its first cohort of Master’s students in September, highlighting the institution’s growth and the increasing interest in Maltese education from around the globe. Raj Kapoor, the Head of International Student Recruitment at GBS, emphasizes that Malta provides significant benefits for students, particularly those seeking a cost-effective qualification.

Tuition Rebate Scheme for Graduates

Malta stands out with its Post Study Work Visa scheme, which offers a substantial financial incentive for students to remain in the country after graduation. Graduates who secure employment within nine months of completing a full-time university course can claim back up to 70% of their tuition fees through tax credits, with a maximum rebate of €12,500. This scheme is designed to encourage graduates to contribute to Malta’s economy.

Kapoor highlights the appeal of this rebate: “Not only is it just €18,000 to earn your bachelor’s degree at GBS Malta, but if you stay in Malta – which they want you to do after you graduate – and start working, you’re going to be paying tax. There’s income tax to pay, and you get 70% of your tuition back through tax credit.”

This financial incentive is particularly appealing to students looking to maximize the value of their education. By working in Malta after graduation, they gain valuable international work experience and significantly reduce the overall cost of their education.

Growing Popularity Among International Students

Malta’s appeal as a study destination is reflected in the increasing number of international students choosing to study on the island. According to new figures from Malta’s English Language School Association (FELTOM), the country has seen a substantial increase in student numbers. In 2023, international student numbers in Malta grew by more than 20,000 compared to the previous year, with Latin America being the dominant sending region. This surge brings the total close to 2019’s record of 83,610 students, highlighting Malta’s rising profile in the global education market.

Shifting Preferences in Study Destinations

The growing interest in Malta reflects a broader trend of international students looking beyond the traditional “big four” study destinations – the UK, the US, Canada, and Australia. As countries like Australia and Canada grapple with more restrictive immigration policies, students are increasingly exploring alternative options in Europe, with Malta emerging as a favorable choice. Its affordable education, welcoming immigration policies, and the opportunity to reclaim a significant portion of tuition fees make it an attractive option for students from regions such as Latin America and India.

In conclusion, Malta’s combination of affordable education, a generous tuition rebate scheme, and a welcoming environment for international students is making it an increasingly popular choice for those seeking a high-quality education without the hefty price tag. With its unique offerings, Malta is well-positioned to continue attracting students from around the world, cementing its place as a rising star in the global education landscape.