When students think about study abroad in Malta, they usually picture sun-soaked beaches, medieval fortress cities, and turquoise waters. But beyond the postcard-perfect scenery, Malta has quietly become one of Europe's most attractive destinations for international education. Compact, English-speaking, and steeped in history, this Mediterranean island nation offers a rare combination of academic quality, cultural richness, and affordability that is hard to match anywhere else in Europe.
If you're weighing your options for higher education overseas, here's why Malta deserves a serious look — and which programs can help you get started.
An English-Speaking Gateway to Europe
One of the biggest advantages of choosing Malta is that English is an official language, spoken fluently by nearly the entire population. This makes the transition into academic life far smoother than in many other European countries, where a language barrier can slow down both learning and daily living. Students can focus on their studies and career development from day one, without spending months adjusting to a new language just to follow lectures or complete assignments.
At the same time, Malta's location — right in the heart of the Mediterranean, a short flight from Italy, France, Spain, and North Africa — makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of Europe during holidays and long weekends.
Affordable Living, World-Class Experience
Compared to studying in the UK, Germany, or other major European hubs, the cost of living in Malta is significantly lower, while the quality of life remains high. Accommodation, food, and transport are all more budget-friendly, which means students and their families can invest more in the actual education and less in day-to-day survival costs. For international students working with organizations like the Global University Group, this affordability factor is often a deciding one — Malta allows access to internationally recognized qualifications without the financial strain associated with other popular study destinations.
A Thriving, Multicultural Student Community
Malta's education institutes host students from dozens of nationalities, creating a genuinely international classroom experience. This diversity isn't just a nice-to-have — it's a practical advantage. Students build cross-cultural communication skills, professional networks, and friendships that span the globe, all of which are increasingly valuable in today's interconnected job market, particularly in fields like tourism, hospitality, and international business.
Practical, Career-Focused Education
Malta's tourism industry is one of the most developed in the Mediterranean, making it a natural training ground for students pursuing careers in international tourism and hospitality management. Institutes on the island combine classroom theory with real-world exposure, ensuring graduates leave not just with a qualification, but with practical, industry-ready skills.
Programs Available at EEC-ITIS Malta Tourism & Languages Institute
For students specifically interested in tourism and hospitality, EEC-ITIS Malta Tourism & Languages Institute, based in San Gwann, Malta, offers a clear academic pathway with three progressive levels:
Level 5 Diploma in International Tourism and Hospitality & Management – a 1-year course that builds a strong foundation in industry essentials, communication, and operational knowledge.
Level 6 Higher Diploma in International Tourism and Hospitality & Management – a 2-year program that deepens expertise in the socio-cultural, technological, and strategic dimensions of the tourism sector.
BA Degree with Honors in International Tourism & Hospitality Management – a 3-year degree that combines academic theory with advanced management practice, culminating in an independent research project.
Each of these programs is priced at a course fee of €6,500 per year, offering a transparent and manageable investment for students planning their study abroad journey.
Support Every Step of the Way
Choosing to study abroad is a major life decision, and having the right guidance matters. This is where organizations like the Global University Group play a crucial role — helping students navigate course selection, visa regulations, accommodation, and the overall transition into life on a new island. With the right support system, moving to Malta for education becomes far less daunting and far more exciting.
Malta also offers structured student accommodation and host family options, along with visa guidance for non-EU students, making the logistics of relocating simpler than students often expect.
Final Thoughts
Malta may be small in size, but it delivers big when it comes to international education. English-medium instruction, affordable living, a multicultural environment, and career-focused programs — particularly in tourism and hospitality — make it a compelling choice for students who want a genuinely global education experience without the extreme costs often associated with studying in Europe.
Whether you're drawn by the Mediterranean lifestyle, the practical tourism and hospitality courses, or the chance to build an international network, Malta offers a well-rounded, career-ready path forward. With the right guidance from experienced partners in international education, your journey to study abroad in Malta can be the first step toward a genuinely global career.
