Student Accommodation in Malta
Finding the right student accommodation in Malta can make your academic experience much better. This guide helps students at University of Malta, MCAST, and language schools find affordable rooms in the best locations.
Malta attracts thousands of international students each year, drawn by English-language education, Mediterranean lifestyle, and relatively affordable living costs compared to other European destinations. The University of Malta is the country's main higher education institution, while MCAST offers vocational programs and numerous language schools cater to short-term students learning English.
Unlike many universities, the University of Malta has limited on-campus housing, meaning most students need to find private accommodation. The good news is that Malta's small size means you're never far from campus, and shared student flats offer an affordable way to live while building friendships with fellow students. This guide covers the best areas for students, typical costs, and tips for finding the perfect room.
Main Educational Institutions
University of Malta (UoM)
MsidaMain campus in Msida with some faculties in Valletta. Student card gives discounts at many businesses.
MCAST
PaolaVocational college with multiple campuses. Main campus in Paola. More affordable southern areas nearby.
Language Schools
Various (mainly Sliema/St. Julian's)Many English language schools cluster in the Sliema-St. Julian's area. Often provide housing assistance.
Best Areas for Students
Msida
€250 - €450/month5-10 min walk to UoMThe most popular area for University of Malta students. Walking distance to campus with plenty of affordable shared flats. Local shops, cafes, and the Msida Marina nearby.
Pros
- Closest to campus
- Student community
- Affordable
- Good bus connections
Cons
- Can be noisy
- Traffic during rush hour
- Less scenic
Gzira
€300 - €500/month15-20 min by busA step up from Msida with better amenities and views of Manoel Island. Quick bus ride to campus. More restaurants and nightlife options within walking distance.
Pros
- Better amenities
- Central location
- Near Sliema
- More modern buildings
Cons
- Slightly pricier
- Further from campus
- Busy area
Birkirkara
€200 - €380/month15-20 min by busThe most budget-friendly option with larger rooms for the price. More local Maltese atmosphere. Good bus connections via the B'Kara route to university.
Pros
- Cheapest option
- Larger rooms
- Local experience
- Big supermarkets
Cons
- Further from coast
- Less English spoken
- Less student community
Sliema
€400 - €600/month20-25 min by busPremium location with seafront living. Best for students with higher budgets who want quality of life. Great social scene but longer commute to campus.
Pros
- Seafront lifestyle
- Best amenities
- Active nightlife
- Many expats
Cons
- Most expensive
- Longer commute
- Touristy in summer
Student Budget Breakdown
| Monthly Expense | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Room rent (shared flat) | €250 - €400 |
| Utilities share | €40 - €70 |
| Groceries | €150 - €250 |
| Transport (Tallinja card) | €21 (student rate) |
| Mobile phone | €10 - €20 |
| Study materials | €20 - €50 |
| Social/entertainment | €100 - €200 |
| Total estimate | €600 - €1,000/month |
Students can live comfortably on €700-900/month by sharing a room and cooking at home. Language school students in Sliema may need €900-1,200 due to higher rents.
Tips for Student Room Hunting
Start Early
Begin your search 1-2 months before the semester starts (July-August for October intake, November-December for February). Good rooms go fast.
Find Flatmates
Join the "University of Malta Students" and "Rooms for Rent Malta" Facebook groups. Many students look for flatmates to share costs.
Location Matters
Consider your class schedule. If you have early classes, living in Msida means extra sleep. If you're part-time, a longer commute might be fine.
Check Essentials
Ensure the room has good WiFi (test it!), a proper desk for studying, and adequate lighting. These are essential for academic success.
Negotiate for Long Stays
If committing for a full academic year (9+ months), ask for a discount. Many landlords prefer stable, long-term student tenants.
Temporary First
Consider booking temporary accommodation for your first 1-2 weeks. This lets you view rooms in person and find the right fit.
Student Room Checklist
When viewing rooms, make sure to check for these student essentials:
Getting to Campus
Bus Transport: The Tallinja bus system is the main way students get around Malta. A student Tallinja card costs just €21/month for unlimited travel (compared to €26 for adults). Most routes pass through Valletta, so for trips from areas like Gzira to Msida, you may need to connect through the capital. Download the Tallinja app for real-time bus tracking.
Walking & Cycling: If you live in Msida, you can walk to University of Malta campus in 5-15 minutes depending on your flat's location. Malta is hilly and cycling infrastructure is limited, but some students do cycle short distances.
Key Bus Routes for Students: The 41, 42, and 43 routes serve the Msida/University area from Valletta. The TD line (direct) runs from Valletta to the university during term time. From Sliema, take the 13 or 14 to Valletta, then connect to university buses.
Student Life in Malta
Being a student in Malta offers a unique experience blending academics with Mediterranean lifestyle. The university has an active student union (KSU) organizing events, parties, and activities throughout the year. The main student hangout is the campus itself, but you'll also find students gathering at cafes in Msida and heading to Paceville in St. Julian's on weekends.
Living with other students is one of the best ways to build your social circle. Many shared flats become tight-knit groups who study together, share meals, and explore Malta on weekends. International students especially benefit from flatmate connections as they navigate a new country together.
Part-time work is possible for EU students and those with appropriate visas. Many students work in hospitality, retail, or tutoring to supplement their income. The university career services can help connect you with opportunities.
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