Are you ready to embark on a journey of cultural discovery and personal growth? I’ll guide you through your journey as an International student in Malta. From adjusting to the peaceful lifestyle to understanding the unique culture shocks, you’ll gain valuable insights into life on this beautiful Mediterranean island.
Life in Malta as an International Student
Adapting to Life in Malta:
Malta, a picturesque island nation in the heart of the Mediterranean, has a lot to offer, especially to international students. Malta isn’t just a place to study; it’s an experience to cherish for a lifetime. This captivating island offers not only a high-quality education but also breathtaking landscapes and a vibrant culture to explore. Under the radiant Mediterranean sun, you can relish the charm of hilltop towns, scenic seaports, historic fishing villages, and pristine natural attractions. Besides the captivating scenery, Maltese locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, making international students feel right at home. Malta’s reputation for safety is another feather in its cap, ranking as the second safest country worldwide in the 2019 Global Wealth Migration Review.
Peaceful and Welcoming Environment:
Malta welcomes newcomers with open arms. The Maltese people are known for their warm and friendly nature. Whether you’re a student or a professional, adjusting to life here is relatively easy. It’s a peaceful and safe place to live and study, with a flexible lifestyle that can suit your needs.
Transportation:
The efficiency of the transportation system. Malta offers various options for getting around, including buses and ferries. The best part? As a legal resident, you can enjoy free public transportation after obtaining a transportation card, making it incredibly convenient and cost-effective.
Standard of Living:
The standard of living in Malta is flexible, depending on your income and lifestyle choices. As a student, you will find it quite reasonable to cover your rent and living expenses with around 600 to 700 euros per month. If you’re open to sharing accommodations, it can be even more budget-friendly.
Compared to its European counterparts, Malta is a haven of affordability. According to Numbeo, a reliable source for global cost of living data, Malta offers a cost of living that is 18.67% lower than the United States, 27.29% lower than the United Kingdom, and 13.92% lower than Germany. The primary expenses in Malta encompass housing, transportation, and food. Malta offers an affordable cost of living. While expenses may vary based on your lifestyle and choice of accommodation, the island generally provides affordable options for housing and dining. Special deals are available for students, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Healthcare System:
The healthcare system in Malta is top-notch, providing quality care for residents. To access this, it’s crucial to have the necessary permits and health insurance. This ensures you receive proper medical attention when needed.
While healthcare is primarily free for Maltese citizens, expats and tourists are required to pay for medical services. Hence, it’s advisable for international students to secure private health insurance, with prices ranging from €500 to €1,500 annually.
Cultural Shocks and Adjustments:
Weather:
The Maltese weather is quite different. Be prepared for seasonal changes. Winters are mild, but it can be a bit cold. However, the hot summers are a welcome change. Luckily, most buildings have efficient heating and cooling systems.
One of the highlights of studying in Malta is its year-round pleasant climate, with approximately 300 sunny days a year. Whether you’re into diving, fishing, horseback riding, or simply exploring, Malta’s fine weather ensures that you can enjoy your favorite activities throughout the year.
Tuition Fees:
Tuition fees for international students in Malta vary based on the institution and the chosen program. On average, expect to pay between €7,000 and €15,000 annually for undergraduate degrees and €10,000 to €25,000 for graduate degrees.
Cultural Celebrations:
Malta has its traditions, and some can be surprising to newcomers. For instance, they celebrate with fireworks, which can be startling if you’re not accustomed to them. However, it’s all part of the unique charm of the island.
Accommodation:
One of the most significant expenses in Malta is accommodation. The cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from €500 to €1,000 per month, while a spacious three-bedroom apartment can set you back upwards of €1,500 monthly. Opting for a location outside the bustling city center typically leads to more budget-friendly rates, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from €400 to €700 per month and three-bedroom apartments priced between €1,000 and €1,500 per month.
Food:
Malta has a vibrant culinary scene, and you can find international cuisines. However, eating out frequently can be costly, so learning to cook is a valuable skill.
Malta also offers affordable dining options. An economical meal at a local restaurant ranges from €8 to €15, while indulging in a three-course feast at a mid-range eatery typically costs between €25 to €50. For the thrifty shopper, grocery bills average between €50 and €100 per week for a single person, subject to individual dietary needs and preferences.
Making Friends:
Malta is a melting pot of cultures, making it relatively easy to make friends, especially through communities of people from your home country. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded individuals.
Exploring Malta:
Don’t forget to explore this beautiful island. Malta is a treasure trove of historical sites and breathtaking landscapes. The chance to meet people from all over the world is one of the many things that make Malta special.
English as an Official Language
Overcoming language barriers is often a major concern for international students. However, when you choose to study in Malta, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Malta boasts two official languages: Maltese and English, with the latter being widely spoken. This linguistic heritage, stemming from the British Empire’s influence, positions Malta as a top choice for studying English abroad.
Membership in the European Union
Since its accession in 2004, Malta has been an integral part of the European Union. Remarkably, it hosts the largest number of English speakers outside of Britain and Ireland. This geographical advantage opens the door to low-cost travel throughout the 28 EU member states, including iconic cities like Rome, Milan, Paris, Madrid, and Athens.
A World of Quality Education
Malta’s education system is designed to cater to the diverse needs of international students. Notably, students can stay and work in Malta after completing their studies, offering a wealth of opportunities. The country is home to esteemed institutions for higher learning, including the University of Malta, Malta College of Arts, Science, and Technology, London School of Commerce Malta, Saint Martin’s In
A Global Student Community
Malta’s status as the only English-speaking European Union member outside of the UK and Ireland attracts a diverse international student community. This diversity not only enriches your educational experience but also makes it easier to adapt to your new environment, with the support of fellow students from all corners of the globe.
European Capital of Culture
In 2018, Malta was designated the European Capital of Culture, ushering in a wave of international events and activities, particularly in Valletta. You can look forward to cultural experiences like contemporary arts exhibitions, music festivals, and film screenings.
Explore Malta’s Scenic Splendors
From stunning seascapes to lush valleys, Malta offers a wealth of natural beauty. Its medieval cities and landscapes have even served as backdrops for famous movies such as Gladiator, Troy, and Game of Thrones. Some must-visit attractions include Valletta, Gozo, Mdina, Rabat, and the prehistoric Tarxien Temples.
Tips for Saving Money in Malta as an International Student
As an international student in Malta, managing finances can be challenging. However, there are several strategies to save money and make the most of your experience:
Budgeting: The cornerstone of saving money is budgeting. Prepare a comprehensive list of your expenses, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and entertainment, to identify areas where you can cut back and save.
Cooking at Home: Dining out can be costly, so try your hand at cooking. Not only is it more economical, but it can also be healthier. Seek out budget-friendly supermarkets and buy in bulk to save on groceries.
Public Transportation: Malta’s public transport is budget-friendly, so opt for buses over taxis or car rentals to save over the long term.
Student Discounts: Malta offers various student discounts at museums, cinemas, and restaurants. Take advantage of these whenever possible. learn more
In conclusion, Malta is not just a study destination; it’s a life-changing experience. Whether you’re drawn by its academic excellence, natural beauty, or welcoming community, Malta has something to offer every international student. So, why wait? Choose Malta and make the most of your educational adventure.
