How To Study in Malta without IELTS?: Top Universities, Cost and Visa Process

Do you want to study in Malta without IELTS? Malta is a popular study abroad destination with its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture. Malta is a bilingual country and the main attraction is you can study in Malta without IELTS exam. Despite being an English-speaking country, many universities in Malta don’t require the IELTS score rather you can apply to any Maltese university with MOI or other alternatives to the IELTS test.

In this blog, we will discuss the process of studying in Malta without having an IELTS test, popular universities in Malta that don’t require IELTS, the cost of studying in Malta and the visa process for Malta. 

English Language Requirements for Maltese Student Visa

The minimum IELTS requirement for a Maltease student visa for a bachelor’s is an overall 6.0 not less than 5.5 in any band. And for Master is an overall 6.5 not less than 6.0. Also, the Maltese universities accept other English language requirements like TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge etc. The minimum requirement for TOEFL is 80 for bachelor’s and 95 for masters. The PTE Requirement is overall 65-71 for both bachelor and master. If you have a Cambridge certificate you’ll require an overall Grade C or better for both bachelors and masters. Also, you can use your MOI certificate as the proof of English language requirements for a Maltese student visa.

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Why Study in Malta without IELTS?

Nearly 85% of international organisations use English as one of their working languages. This significance of the language is not unknown to international students, even in non-English speaking countries. Malta, a Mediterranean nation popular among international students, also tests your English proficiency for admission.  However, you can study in Malta without IELTS. There are a lot of English tests that you can take to prove your English skills. IELTS is a widely accepted test at many universities all over the world. However, there is flexibility as many universities in Malta don’t mandatorily require IELTS. So, you don’t have to bother with the English language requirements. The application process will be easier. 

How to Study in Malta without IELTS?

Universities in Malta offer multiple courses designed for international students. Some universities even accept other English language tests, making it possible to study in Malta without taking the IELTS exam. Before exploring the universities, let’s check the alternatives to study in Malta without IELTS for international students.

English Proficiency Test	Details
TOEFL	The TOEFL exam is a well-known test for measuring English skills at the university level. It has two versions: Internet-based (iBT) and Paper-based (PBT). To study in Malta, you usually need a TOEFL score between 80 and 95 for bachelor’s and master’s.
PTE	PTE Academic is a computer-based test that measures English skills for non-native speakers. It has three parts: Speaking and Writing, Reading, and Listening. If you want to study in Malta without taking IELTS, you can take the PTE Academic test. You’ll need a minimum score of 59 out of 71 for both foundation and postgraduate programs.
Cambridge English Qualifications (CEQ)	The CEQ includes tests that assess different levels of English skills. The main tests are Key (KET), Preliminary (PET), First (FCE), and Advanced (CAE). To study in Malta without taking IELTS, students need to take the FCE or CAE exams and get at least a grade of C.
MOI	MOI stands for Medium of Instruction. It refers to the language used to teach courses in schools or universities. If a student has previously studied in a school or university where English was the MOI, they can sometimes use this as proof of their English proficiency, instead of taking standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL
International Student English Test	The International Student English Test (ISET) is an English test for students who need to show their English skills when applying to the University of Malta. This test focuses on the type of English that students will need to use and understand during their studies at the university. It checks their abilities in reading, listening, writing, and speaking in English.

Popular Universities in Malta That Don’t Require IELTS

Are you looking for the universities in Malta that don’t require IELTS? There are some popular universities in Malta that accept international students with an alternative English language proficiency test. Here is the list of universities to study in Malta without IELTS. 

• American University of Malta (AUM)
• Global College of Malta (GCM)
• Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)
• London School of Commerce-LSC
• Learn Key Institute

American University of Malta (AUM)

The American University of Malta (AUM) is ranked #5 in Malta. AUM offers a variety of business courses, as well as bachelor’s degrees in Game Development, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Civil Engineering, and more. You can apply to AUM without an IELTS score, but you will need to take the EAP (English for Academic Purposes) course, which is free. The EAP program is designed to help students who meet all other admission requirements but need support with their English skills.

Global College of Malta (GCM)

Global College Malta (GCM) is a top private college in Malta, located in the smart city area, known for its modern and innovative business environment with a global outlook. GCM offers internationally recognized degrees in fields like Accountancy & Finance, Management with Human Resource Management, Psychology, Tourism Management, Logistics and Supply Chain Management, as well as specialized short courses and English language training. They work with leading industry experts and academic partners, including the University of Chester. Students can apply to Global College of Malta without an IELTS score if they provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) as proof of their English skills.

Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST)

The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course at The Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) is free. MCAST is one of Malta’s top institutions for vocational education and training. It helps students develop practical skills that match industry needs, creating a strong link between learning and real-world jobs. This is one of the best universities to study in Malta without IELTS. 

London School of Commerce-LSC

The London School of Commerce is fully accredited by the Accreditation Service for International Colleges (ASIC) and is partnered with the University of Lincoln, UK. The London School of Commerce Malta combines British education with a global perspective. It offers various courses that provide access to international opportunities.

Learn Key Institute

Learn Key Malta is one of the well-established training institutes on the island, located in the second largest town. It mainly offers courses in Secretarial Studies, Finance, Accountancy, Business and Management, and IT. Learn Key Institute accept international students to study in Malta without IELTS. 

Malta Student Visa Requirements for International Students

Previously we have discussed the English language requirements to study in Malta without IELTS. However, as an international student, you should meet some extra requirements to apply for a Maltese student visa. Let’s explore the Malta student visa requirements for international students.

• Acceptance Letter from a Maltese Institution
• Financial Proof
• Health Insurance Certificate
• Proof of Accommodation
• Medical Certificate
• Biometric Data and Visa Fee
• Visa Application

Financial Requirements for a Malta Study Visa for International Students

To get a study visa for Malta, you need to show that you have at least 854 euros for each month you plan to stay, or the same amount in another currency. Your bank statement must show your transactions for the past three months. Just showing proof that someone else added money to your account is not enough in Malta.

How to Apply for a Student Visa in Malta?

To apply for a student visa in Malta, you need to get in touch with the Maltese embassy, consulate, or a visa application office in your country. Here’s how you can apply for a Maltese study permit. 

• Make an appointment to submit your visa application.
• Gather all the required documents for the Malta student visa. Check the list of “Supporting Documents for Malta Student Visa Application” below.
• On the day of your appointment, submit your application form, payment, and any other documents they ask for. Make sure to fill out the application form completely and sign it at the end.
• Within four weeks, you will get a text message or email from the embassy about the status of your visa application.

Can You Get Jobs in Malta without IELTS?

Yes, you can find jobs in Malta without IELTS. Many employers in Malta do not require IELTS or any specific English language proficiency test, especially for roles that do not demand high-level English skills. Here are some key points to consider:

• Sector-Specific Requirements: Jobs in certain sectors, like hospitality, tourism, and manual labor, may not require formal English qualifications. Employers often prioritize work experience and relevant skills.

• Language Proficiency: While IELTS is a common measure of English proficiency, many employers may assess your language skills through interviews or other assessments rather than requiring a specific certificate.

• Alternatives to IELTS: Some employers might accept other forms of proof of English proficiency, such as a certificate from an English course, experience working in an English-speaking environment, or even a casual conversation during the interview process.

• Networking and Local Knowledge: Building connections through local job fairs, online job portals, or community groups can help you find opportunities where language requirements may be more flexible.

• Multilingual Environment: Malta is a multilingual country, and many residents speak several languages. Knowledge of Maltese or Italian, alongside English, can also enhance your employability.

Overall, while having an IELTS score can be beneficial, it is not always a barrier to securing employment in Malta.

Final Words

Studying in Malta without needing an IELTS score gives international students a great chance to pursue higher education in a lively and rich cultural setting. Universities like the University of Malta, MCAST, AUM, and Global College Malta accept different English tests instead of IELTS, allowing students to choose from a variety of courses. By making smart choices, students can succeed in Malta’s diverse educational environment and get ready for a global future. However, if you want to study in Malta without IELTS, you can always contact AIMS Education. 

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