If you are looking to study in Malta in 2026 and want scholarships without needing IELTS, you are in luck. Some universities and funding bodies allow alternative proof of English proficiency. Below is a detailed guide to available scholarships, universities, and how to apply.
What Does “Without IELTS” Mean?
- It means the university or scholarship doesn’t require IELTS test score.
- Instead, they accept other proofs of English proficiency: previous education in English, other tests (TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge), interviews, or written work.
- Always check each university’s rules because “without IELTS” doesn’t automatically mean “no English proof at all” — there might be alternatives.
Why Malta Is Attractive for Non-IELTS Students
- Many Maltese universities use English as a medium of instruction.
- Malta is an EU member and has reputable research and postgraduate programs.
- Cost of living is moderate compared to UK/USA, especially for students.
- Scholarships are offered for Masters by Research and PhD programmes with waiver options.
Universities in Malta Offering Scholarships (Without IELTS)
These are institutions known to offer programmes or scholarships where IELTS is not strictly required, or alternatives are accepted:
| University/College | Notes on English Requirement / IELTS |
|---|---|
| University of Malta (UM) | Offers fee waivers of 40 % to 100 % for Masters by Research and PhD programmes. UM sometimes accepts applicants without IELTS depending on their background and English proof via other means. |
| MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science & Technology) | Recognised for technical/vocational education. Some programmes might allow English proficiency via previous English-medium study instead of IELTS. |
| American University of Malta | Known among those lists of universities that permit alternatives to IELTS. |
| Global College Malta | Also appears in some sources in lists of universities without IELTS requirement. |
| London School of Commerce Malta | Listed among institutions that may accept other proofs of English proficiency. |
Specific Scholarships at University of Malta (Masters by Research / PhD)
At the University of Malta, there are formal scholarship programmes for postgraduate research degrees:
- Tuition Fee Waivers: ranging from 40% up to 100% for non-EU/EEA students.
- Who is eligible: Applicants accepted unconditionally in full-time or part-time Masters by Research or PhD programmes.
- English proficiency: While the website doesn’t always say “no IELTS”, the selection board may consider communication in English via interview, past education, etc. If your previous degree was taught in English, you may be able to waive the standard English tests.
- Application deadlines: Some key dates include 31 January, 31 May, and 31 October for submitting scholarship applications for programs starting in different months.
Other Scholarship Schemes & Funding Options
- University of Malta Scholarships for International Students: Fully or partially funded scholarships for non-EU students. Some may be available “with or without IELTS,” but this must be verified with the university.
- Malta Government Scholarships / Endeavour Scholarship Scheme: Mentioned in the context of non-IELTS opportunities. It’s not always clear whether IELTS is waived or optional. Check official announcements before applying.
How to Prove English Without IELTS
These are common alternatives accepted by Maltese universities or scholarship bodies:
- Previous education in English: If you did high school, bachelor’s, or master’s in English medium.
- Alternative standardized tests: TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge English (CAE, CPE), Duolingo English Test.
- English proficiency via university interview: online or in-person interviews to test speaking/writing.
- Written work: Essays, reports, or past academic work showing English writing skills.
Eligibility Criteria (General)
To qualify for these scholarships, you often need:
- Strong academic record (e.g. good grades in previous degree).
- Accepted unconditionally into the programme (master’s or PhD).
- Proof of ability to do research (for research degrees).
- Motivation letter, references, sometimes a research proposal.
- For non-EU students, sometimes additional documentation (passport, transcripts).
Deadlines to Watch
- For University of Malta (Masters by Research / PhD): 31 January, 31 May, 31 October are important deadlines.
- For some other scholarship schemes, check the respective university’s or government’s announcements in early to mid-2025 for 2026 intake.
Tips to Boost Your Chance
- Make sure you highlight your English education background in your application, especially if you studied in English medium.
- If applying for “without IELTS”, include alternative proof clearly: transcripts, certificates, English test other than IELTS or interviews.
- Prepare strong motivation letter and research proposal (if relevant). These are often weighted heavily.
- Start early. Deadlines are fixed, and submitting late may mean losing scholarship opportunity.
Risks and Caveats
- Just because an advertisement or blog says “without IELTS” does not guarantee the university will accept your application without any proof of English. Always verify with the official admission office.
- Scholarships may cover only tuition; living costs or travel may not be included.
- Some programmes (e.g. MBA-type or professional doctorates) may be explicitly not eligible for certain research scholarships. For example, UM’s scheme excludes “professional doctorates and MBA-type programmes.”
Sample Opportunities (As of September 2025)
- University of Malta: Masters by Research / PhD programmes with 40-100% fee waiver for non-EU/EEA students. Ensure you check whether IELTS is needed or alternative proof is accepted.
- Other Universities (American University of Malta, Global College Malta, MCAST, LSC Malta): Listed among colleges that may waive IELTS depending on your background. But you should contact each to check if your intended programme qualifies.
How to Confirm Info Before Applying
- Visit university websites to see exact English requirements.
- Email the international admissions office or scholarship office asking: “Do you accept applicants without IELTS? What alternatives do you accept?”
- Check recent announcements or updated scholarship pages in 2025 and early 2026 (they may change policy).
Conclusion
Malta offers promising scholarship options in 2026 for international students who either don’t have an IELTS score or prefer alternative proof of English. The University of Malta stands out with its generous fee waivers for Masters by Research and PhD applicants. Other institutions like MCAST, American University of Malta, Global College Malta, and London School of Commerce Malta are listed among colleges that may waive IELTS depending on your background.