The University of Malta (UM) continues to support academic excellence and research innovation by offering generous tuition fee waivers for international postgraduate students. For the academic year 2026, UM invites non-EU/EEA applicants to apply for its Master by Research and PhD Scholarships, which cover 40% to 100% of tuition fees based on merit and need.
These scholarships aim to attract outstanding global talent, foster research excellence, and contribute to Malta’s academic and research development. Students admitted to full-time or part-time postgraduate research programs can benefit from substantial financial support under this competitive scheme.
Overview of the University of Malta Postgraduate Scholarship 2026:
The UM Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 offers tuition fee waivers ranging from 40% to 100% for selected students. The exact percentage of the waiver is determined by the candidate's performance during the selection process, including an online interview. Bench fees may still apply to some programs, and extensions beyond the standard study period may not be covered.
It’s important to note that living costs and travel expenses are not included in this scholarship. Applicants are expected to demonstrate that they have adequate financial means to support themselves while studying in Malta.
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Scholarship Program Benefit:
The results of the interview and evaluation process determine the percentage of the tuition fee waiver:
|
Evaluation Score |
Tuition Fee Waiver |
|
80 – 100% |
100% (Full Waiver) |
|
70 – 79% |
80% Waiver |
|
60 – 69% |
60% Waiver |
|
50 – 59% |
40% Waiver |
|
Below 50% |
Not eligible |
Note: This scholarship does not cover travel expenses, health insurance, or daily living costs. Applicants must ensure they can financially support themselves throughout their stay in Malta.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply:
To be eligible for the University of Malta Master and PhD Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
● Be a citizen of a country outside the EU/EEA.
● Be unconditionally accepted into a Master by Research or PhD programme at UM, on either a full-time or part-time basis.
● The programme must be primarily research-based. For Master’s degrees, this means a dissertation or research project of at least 60 ECTS credits.
● Applicants for Professional Doctorates and MBA-type programs are not eligible.
● Students who have already started their studies at the University of Malta are not eligible to apply for this scholarship.
● Applicants already benefiting from a full scholarship from another institution (covering both tuition and living expenses) are not eligible.
● Candidates receiving partial scholarships or maintenance grants (e.g., covering living costs only) may still apply but must disclose this funding in their application.
● Only those applicants who achieve a score of at least 50% will be granted a partial or full waiver.
Interview Stage:
Eligible candidates will be invited for an online interview conducted by the UM PhD and Master (by Research) Degree Scholarship Selection Board. This interview is an essential part of the evaluation process and is used to determine the final fee waiver percentage.
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Required Application Documents:
Applicants must attach the following documents for the scholarship:
● A copy of the unconditional acceptance letter from UM.
● A detailed and updated Curriculum Vitae.
● A motivational letter explaining your academic goals and how your research aligns with your future career.
● A copy of your passport.
● The International Office will contact the relevant Head of Department, Supervisor, or Director to complete an Academic Recommendation Form.
Evaluation Criteria:
The selection process is merit-based and conducted by a panel of experts. Each application is scored across five key areas:
1. Academic Ability and Research Proposal (60%)
● Academic performance, including university grades and academic track record.
● Research-related achievements, such as publications or relevant academic experience.
● Quality and feasibility of the research proposal.
● Validity and relevance of the research topic.
● Strength of academic references (if available).
2. Motivational Letter (10%)
● Coherence and clarity of the motivation statement.
● Connection between the proposed research and the candidate’s career goals.
● Demonstrated commitment and passion for the subject area.
3. Interview Performance (10%)
● Communication skills in English.
● Ability to explain and defend the research proposal.
● Personal suitability and commitment to completing the program.
4. Financial Need and Personal Circumstances (10%)
● Assessment of the applicant’s financial situation.
● Availability of other funding sources.
● Ability to pursue the program without a full scholarship.
5. Contribution to Malta and the University of Malta (10%)
● Potential value added to Malta and the University through the research.
● Long-term impact of the project on academia, industry, or society in Malta.
How to Apply for University of Malta Masters and PhD Scholarships 2026?
● Before applying for the scholarship, candidates must first apply and be unconditionally accepted to a Master by Research or PhD programme.
● Course applications are available online through the UM website.
● Check the official list of available postgraduate research programs.
● Refer to the Dates and Deadlines page for course-specific application timelines.
● Applications are only considered before the start of the programme.
● Late applications or those submitted after the course has started will not be accepted.
● Applicants must submit their scholarship request within one month of receiving the unconditional offer letter from UM.
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Applications Deadlines for 2026:
Scholarship applications must be submitted within one month of receiving the unconditional offer, and applicants should consider the following official deadlines:
● 31 January.
● 31 May (especially important for courses starting in October).
● 31 October (for programmes starting in February or later).
Note: If your course is scheduled to start in October 2026, you must submit your scholarship request by 31 May. The 31 October deadline is only applicable for applicants starting their studies in February or later.
Conclusion:
The University of Malta Master and PhD Scholarships 2026 provide an exceptional opportunity for non-EU/EEA students to pursue advanced research in a globally respected institution while receiving up to 100% tuition fee waivers. With a clear, merit-based selection process and flexible support for a wide range of research areas, these scholarships are designed to attract talented international students ready to make meaningful contributions to academia and society. If you are an aspiring researcher with a passion for discovery and a strong academic background, the University of Malta invites you to take the next step in your academic journey. Apply early, prepare thoroughly, and don’t miss the chance to study in one of Europe’s most historic and vibrant academic environments. So to apply and know more visit University of Malta Master and PhD Scholarships 2026 official link here.