Intakes in Malta at a glance
Quick read
- Malta's main intake is October. Some private colleges and a few programmes also start in February or at other points in the year.
- At the University of Malta, non-EU applicants who need a visa had to apply by 1 July 2026 for October 2026, earlier than the general 15 September deadline. Expect similar dates for 2027.
- Medicine and Surgery has a much earlier deadline for overseas qualifications: 30 January in the 2026 cycle.
- The national D study visa through VFS takes at least six to eight weeks, so apply as soon as you have your offer.
- Private colleges set their own dates and often admit on a rolling basis.
Malta follows a European academic year that starts in early October. The University of Malta, MCAST and the Institute of Tourism Studies admit most students in October. Private institutions, many of which award degrees from partner universities in the UK and elsewhere, often run several intakes a year.
Because the visa needs time, the University of Malta sets an earlier deadline for students who need one. Build your plan around that date rather than the general deadline.
Types of intakes in Malta
October intake
Main intakeAlso called: Autumn intake
- Classes start
- Late September to early October
- Applications open
- From about the start of the calendar year
- Typical deadlines
- University of Malta: 1 July for non-EU applicants who need a visa (2026 cycle); 30 January for Medicine with overseas qualifications
- Courses available
- Almost all University of Malta, MCAST and ITS programmes
Good for: Most students, and anyone applying to the University of Malta.
February intake
Limited coursesAlso called: Spring intake
- Classes start
- February
- Applications open
- From about the previous summer
- Typical deadlines
- Usually by October or November, set by each institution
- Courses available
- Selected programmes, mostly at private colleges
Good for: Students whose chosen private college runs a spring start.
Upcoming intakes in Malta from 23 Oct 2026
February 2027
Closing soonFebruary 2027, selected programmes
Apply by: Now; most spring programmes close in October or November 2026
Mostly private colleges. Allow at least six to eight weeks for the visa.
October 2027
Opening soonLate September to early October 2027
Apply by: Medicine: around 30 January 2027; other University of Malta courses for visa applicants: around 1 July 2027 (check the 2027 dates)
Apply in spring so you have your offer in time for the visa.
February 2028
Plan aheadFebruary 2028
Apply by: Summer to autumn 2027
Check that your chosen programme runs a February start.
Status is worked out from the date this page was updated. Courses can close early once they are full, so treat each date as the latest safe point, not a target.
Not sure which intake you can still make?Tell us your course and marks and our counsellor will check which Malta intakes are realistic for you.
Month-by-month plan for the October 2027 intake
November 2026 to January 2027
Shortlist programmes, check accreditation and whether the degree is awarded by a Maltese or partner university.
January to March 2027
Take your English test and apply (Medicine applicants by the January deadline).
March to May 2027
Receive your offer, pay fees as required and request the documents needed for the visa.
May to June 2027
Apply for the national D study visa through VFS with proof of funds and insurance.
By about 1 July 2027
Make sure your University of Malta application is complete if you need a visa.
August to September 2027
Receive your visa, find housing, travel and apply for your e-Residence card.
How to choose the right intake
- 01
Visa deadline
Plan for the earlier visa-applicant deadline, not the general one.
- 02
Who awards the degree
Many private colleges award degrees from partner universities. Check which institution's name will be on your certificate.
- 03
Programme start dates
Most public programmes start only in October.
- 04
Housing
Rent in Malta has risen sharply. An early decision gives you more time to find a room.
Application deadlines at universities in Malta
| University | Intake | Deadline | Official page |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Malta (non-EU applicants needing a visa) | October 2026 (latest published) | 1 July 2026, 14:00 | Check date |
| University of Malta (all applicants, late deadline) | October 2026 (latest published) | 15 September 2026, 14:00 | Check date |
| University of Malta (Doctor of Medicine and Surgery, overseas qualifications) | October 2026 (latest published) | 30 January 2026, 14:00 | Check date |
| University of Malta (research master's and doctorates) | Multiple entry points | Apply at any time during the year with a research proposal | Check date |
The University of Malta publishes dates for each October intake during the year. Private colleges set their own dates and many admit on a rolling basis.
Eligibility and documents to keep ready
What you usually need to apply
- Class 12 with good marks for bachelor's; some programmes need specific subjects.
- A recognised bachelor's degree for master's.
- IELTS Academic or another accepted English test.
- Proof of funds: 75% of the national minimum wage per month for the visa (about €745 a month in 2026); the University of Malta asks for €950 a month.
- Health insurance of at least €30,000 for the visa.
Documents checklist
- Passport
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- Bachelor's transcripts and degree certificate (for master's)
- English test score report
- Offer letter
- Proof of funds and accommodation
- Health insurance certificate
- VFS study visa checklist documents
Want us to check your documents?Our counsellor will go through your file before you apply, so a missing paper doesn't cost you an intake.
Intakes in Malta: FAQs
What is the main intake in Malta?
October. Most public programmes start only then.
What is the University of Malta's deadline for Indian students?
For October 2026, non-EU applicants needing a visa had to apply by 1 July 2026. Check the 2027 dates when they are published.
Is there a February intake in Malta?
Yes, at some private colleges and for selected programmes.
How long does the Malta study visa take?
At least six to eight weeks, according to VFS.
Sources
- University of Malta: dates and deadlines (opens in a new tab)
- University of Malta: visas (opens in a new tab)
- Identità: study permits for non-EU nationals (opens in a new tab)
- VFS Global: Malta visa information (India) (opens in a new tab)
Researched on 23 Oct 2026. Universities change dates every year, so confirm each deadline on the official page before you apply.