Thinking about studying in Malta? Moving to a Mediterranean island for university can be an exciting new chapter — new people, a new culture, sunny weather and a completely different lifestyle.
But before classes begin, there’s one important question to answer:
Where are you going to live?
Finding the right student accommodation in Malta can have a huge impact on your experience. Your location affects your daily commute, monthly expenses, social life and even how much time you have left for studying.
Whether you’re looking for a room in a shared apartment, a private studio or an apartment with friends, this guide will help you understand student accommodation in Malta in 2026, the best areas to consider, typical living costs and what to check before signing a rental agreement.
Why Study in Malta?
Malta has become an attractive destination for international students looking for an English-speaking study environment combined with Mediterranean island life.
English is one of Malta’s official languages and is widely used in education, business and everyday life, which can make settling in considerably easier for international students.
Outside the classroom, Malta offers beaches, historic cities, cafés, restaurants, nightlife and an international community — all within a relatively compact country.
For students who want to combine education with the experience of living abroad, Malta offers a lifestyle that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Where Is the University of Malta?
The main University of Malta campus is located in Msida.
For students attending the main campus, living in Msida or one of the surrounding areas can significantly reduce daily travel time.
Popular areas to consider include:
- Msida
- Gżira
- San Ġwann
- Swatar
- Sliema
- Swieqi
- St Julian’s
Each offers a different combination of convenience, lifestyle and accommodation options.
Best Areas for Students in Malta
Msida – Close to University
For students attending the University of Malta’s main campus, Msida is one of the most convenient locations.
Living close to campus can mean walking to lectures instead of spending time commuting every morning.
Msida also has supermarkets, cafés, restaurants and public transport connections, making it a practical choice for everyday student life.
If convenience is your priority, Msida should definitely be on your shortlist.
Gżira – Central and Social
Gżira offers an excellent balance between student life and a central location.
It’s close to Msida and Sliema and offers easy access to cafés, restaurants, shops and the waterfront.
For students who want to be reasonably close to university while also having plenty happening around them, Gżira can be a very attractive option.
San Ġwann – Convenient and Residential
If you prefer somewhere a little quieter, San Ġwann is worth considering.
It’s conveniently located near the University of Malta while offering a more residential atmosphere than some of Malta’s busiest coastal areas.
This can make it particularly attractive for students who want somewhere quieter to study and relax.
Sliema – Lifestyle by the Sea
If you imagine your Malta experience involving morning walks along the promenade, cafés, shopping and sea views, Sliema may be high on your list.
It’s one of Malta’s most popular urban areas and offers almost everything you need within easy reach.
The trade-off is that accommodation can be more expensive than in some neighbouring locations.
Sharing an apartment with other students may make living in Sliema more affordable.
Swieqi – Close to Everything
Swieqi combines a largely residential environment with easy access to St Julian’s.
It can suit students who want to be close to restaurants, entertainment and nightlife without necessarily living directly in the busiest streets.
St Julian’s – For a Lively Student Lifestyle
If nightlife and entertainment are important to you, St Julian’s is one of Malta’s liveliest locations.
You’ll find restaurants, cafés, bars and entertainment nearby.
However, location within St Julian’s matters. Some streets can be busy and noisy, so consider whether the apartment will also provide a comfortable environment for studying and sleeping.
What Type of Student Accommodation Should You Choose?
There isn’t one perfect option for everyone.
Your ideal accommodation depends on your budget, personality and how much privacy you want.
Renting a Room in a Shared Apartment
For many international students, renting a room is one of the most practical choices.
You’ll usually have your own bedroom while sharing the kitchen, bathroom and living areas.
This can help reduce accommodation costs and is also a great way to meet people when you’re new to Malta.
Sharing an Apartment With Friends
Moving with friends or already know other students in Malta?
Renting an entire apartment together can give you more freedom and may provide better value than renting individually.
Before moving in, agree on how you’ll divide:
- Rent
- Electricity and water
- Internet
- Cleaning
- Household purchases
A simple conversation before moving in can prevent problems later.
Studio Apartment
If privacy is important, a studio apartment may be a better choice.
You’ll have your own space, but you’ll also be responsible for the full monthly rent and utility costs.
One-Bedroom Apartment
Students with a larger budget — or couples moving to Malta together — may prefer a private one-bedroom apartment.
This provides maximum independence but is generally one of the more expensive student accommodation options.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in Malta as a Student?
Budgeting is one of the most important parts of preparing for student life abroad.
The University of Malta’s current guidance estimates approximately €550–€700 per month for shared accommodation, based on two or three people sharing an apartment.
For single accommodation, such as a residence or private apartment, its guide gives a much broader estimate of approximately €800–€1,600 per month.
These are estimates rather than fixed market prices. Actual rent depends heavily on location, property type, condition and the time of year.
And remember: rent isn’t your only expense.
You’ll also need to budget for things such as:
- Food
- Electricity and water
- Internet/mobile service
- Laundry
- Transport
- Toiletries and household products
- Study materials
- Entertainment
Always calculate your expected total monthly living cost, not simply the advertised rent.
Look Beyond the Monthly Rent
Imagine finding a cheaper room far away from your university.
It might look like a bargain at first.
But if you spend much more time travelling every day, the cheaper property may not actually be the better option.
When comparing student accommodation, think about:
Rent + bills + transport + location + time.
Sometimes paying slightly more for a convenient location can improve your quality of life considerably.
What Should Be in Your Rental Agreement?
Never rely solely on a verbal agreement when renting accommodation.
Malta regulates private residential leases, and primary residential lease contracts generally need to be registered with the Housing Authority.
Your rental agreement should clearly identify important details including:
- The property being rented
- Intended use of the property
- Duration of the lease
- Renewal conditions
- Monthly rent
- Payment method
- Security deposit
- Furniture and appliances included
An inventory describing the condition of the property, furniture and appliances is also important.
Read everything carefully before signing.
If you don’t understand something, ask for clarification first.
Protect Your Deposit
When you move in, take photographs or videos of the property.
Document the condition of:
- Walls
- Floors
- Furniture
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Appliances
- Windows and doors
- Air-conditioning units
If something is already scratched, damaged or broken, make sure you have a record of it.
Keep the photos until your tenancy ends and your deposit has been settled.
Also keep receipts or proof of payments connected with the tenancy.
Watch Out for Rental Scams
Students searching for accommodation from another country can be particularly vulnerable to rental scams.
Be cautious if:
- The price looks unusually cheap.
- Someone pressures you to send money immediately.
- You’re unable to verify the property.
- The person avoids answering basic questions.
- You’re asked to transfer a large amount before receiving proper documentation.
- The property cannot be viewed or verified.
If possible, view the property before making a significant payment.
If you’re still abroad, consider whether a trusted person in Malta can view it on your behalf.
A beautiful apartment at an unbelievable price isn’t a bargain if it doesn’t exist.
Check These Things During a Viewing
Don’t focus only on how attractive the apartment looks.
Check the practical things you’ll use every day.
Air Conditioning
Malta’s summers can be very warm.
Check whether your bedroom has functioning air conditioning and ask how electricity consumption will be charged.
Internet
Reliable internet is essential for studying, research, online lectures and staying connected with family.
Ask whether internet is already installed and whether it’s included in the rent.
Washing Machine
Having access to a washing machine can make student life considerably easier.
Kitchen
Check that you have suitable cooking facilities, refrigerator space and enough storage.
Study Space
A desk may not sound important when you’re viewing apartments, but you’ll appreciate having a proper place to study once assignments begin.
Damp and Ventilation
Look carefully around walls, ceilings, bathrooms and windows for signs of damp or poor ventilation.
Getting Around Malta as a Student
Malta may look very small on a map, but traffic can make some journeys longer than expected.
Before choosing accommodation, check how you’ll actually get to university every morning.
Consider:
- Walking distance
- Nearby bus stops
- Direct bus routes
- Journey time during peak hours
- Distance to supermarkets
- Pharmacies
- Gyms
- Cafés and restaurants
Malta also offers free travel on regular Day Routes, Night Routes and eligible Special Services for holders of a personalised tallinja card. Some premium or direct services are excluded, so always check the latest Malta Public Transport conditions.
There are also seasonal student-focused routes serving educational institutions during the academic year.
Questions to Ask Before Renting
Before saying yes to an apartment or room, ask:
How much is the monthly rent?
How much is the deposit?
Are electricity and water included?
Is internet included?
Is the property fully furnished?
Does my bedroom have air conditioning?
How long is the rental agreement?
What is the notice period?
Are there any additional charges?
Who pays for repairs?
How will the rental agreement be registered?
When and under what conditions will my deposit be returned?
The more you know before signing, the fewer surprises you’ll have later.
When Should You Start Looking for Student Accommodation in Malta?
As early as possible.
The University of Malta specifically advises students to secure accommodation as soon as they receive their acceptance letter because demand for student and rental accommodation can be high.
Starting early gives you more time to:
- Compare neighbourhoods
- Compare accommodation prices
- Arrange viewings
- Understand rental conditions
- Find potential flatmates
- Check transport connections
- Avoid making rushed decisions
If you’re planning to arrive around the beginning of an academic term, don’t leave your accommodation search until the last minute.
Moving to Malta From Abroad?
Before travelling, create a simple checklist.
Make sure you’ve considered:
- Accommodation
- University documents
- Visa or residence requirements, where applicable
- Health insurance requirements
- Travel arrangements
- Initial living expenses
- Mobile phone and internet
- Local transport
Visa and residence requirements depend on your nationality and length of stay, so always check the latest official requirements that apply specifically to you.
Finding Student Accommodation in Malta
There are several ways to find accommodation in Malta, including private landlords, property portals and real estate professionals.
When searching online, narrow your results according to:
- Location
- Maximum monthly budget
- Number of bedrooms
- Furnished or unfurnished
- Property type
- Distance from university
Don’t automatically choose the cheapest property.
The best student accommodation is the property that gives you the right combination of affordability, location, comfort and convenience.
Find Your Place on MaltaRealEstate24
If you’re preparing to study in Malta, you can browse rental properties and accommodation opportunities on MaltaRealEstate24.
Compare properties in different areas and find an option that fits your budget, university location and lifestyle.
Whether you’re looking for a room, an apartment to share with friends or your own place, starting your search early gives you the best chance of finding somewhere you’ll enjoy calling home.
Welcome to Student Life in Malta
Moving abroad to study is about much more than attending university.
You’ll meet new people, experience another culture, discover new places and learn how to build a life away from home.
Your accommodation will become an important part of that experience.
So don’t choose based on price alone.
Choose somewhere that works for your studies, your budget and the way you want to live.
Study hard, explore Malta and make your new place feel like home. 🇲🇹🎓
