Cost of Studying in Malta vs Other European Countries: Which is Cheaper?

For Indian students planning to pursue higher education in Europe, choosing the right destination is often a balance between academic quality, career opportunities, and affordability. Tuition fees are an important part of the decision, but they are not the only expense. Accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, visa costs and everyday spending can significantly affect the total amount a student needs each year.

Malta, Germany, France, Italy and Portugal are popular European study destinations, but their fee structures are quite different. Some public universities in Germany have no tuition fees for many programmes, while France has government-supported tuition at public institutions. Italy offers different fee structures and scholarship opportunities, whereas Malta has programme-specific fees for international students.

This guide compares the approximate education and living costs in these countries using their local currency and an approximate Indian rupee equivalent. For the calculations below, €1 = approximately ₹111.90 based on the exchange rate. Actual INR costs will fluctuate according to exchange rates.

Cost of Studying in Malta

Malta uses the Euro (€). Tuition fees for international students are not fixed nationally and depend on the institution and programme. The University of Malta states that applicable tuition fees are listed separately for each course and for EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students. Therefore, students should always check the fee for their specific programme before applying.

For example, the University of Malta currently lists annual doctoral tuition for non-EU/EEA students at €11,000, which is approximately ₹12.31 lakh. This is a doctoral example rather than a general fee for all courses, so undergraduate and master's students should check their individual programme fees.

Living expenses are another major part of the budget. The University of Malta estimates single accommodation at around €800–€1,600 per month, equivalent to approximately ₹89,500–₹1.79 lakh. Food and beverages are estimated at around €450 per month, or approximately ₹50,400. Students should also budget for utilities, laundry, mobile services, and personal expenses.

Shared accommodation can reduce the housing cost compared with renting a private room or apartment. Public transport can also be free for eligible students holding the required e-residence permit, which may help reduce everyday travel expenses.

Cost of Studying in Germany

Germany uses the Euro (€) and is one of Europe's strongest options for students seeking relatively low tuition costs.

Many public universities in Germany do not charge conventional tuition fees for many bachelor's and master's programmes. However, this does not mean that every programme is completely free. Certain states and institutions have specific charges. For example, Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester, equal to €3,000 per year or approximately ₹3.36 lakh annually, for many bachelor's and master's programmes.

Students also normally pay a semester contribution, which is separate from tuition and can cover services such as student administration and other university-related services.

Living expenses are the main financial consideration in Germany. DAAD guidance gives an example of approximately €950–€1,000 per month for living expenses, equivalent to about ₹1.06–₹1.12 lakh per month. Costs can vary significantly depending on the city, accommodation, and lifestyle.

Germany therefore has a major advantage for students who qualify for tuition-free public university programmes. However, students should have sufficient funds for accommodation and everyday expenses.

Cost of Studying in France

France uses the Euro (€) and has a comparatively affordable public higher education system because the French government covers a substantial portion of the actual cost of education.

For the 2026–27 academic year, Campus France lists differentiated registration fees for certain non-EU students at public institutions of €2,902 per year for bachelor's programmes and €3,950 per year for master's programmes. These amounts are approximately ₹3.25 lakh and ₹4.42 lakh, respectively. Exceptions and exemptions can apply depending on the student's status and institution.

Private institutions, particularly business schools, can have substantially higher tuition fees. Campus France states that private tuition can generally range from €6,000 to €18,000 per year, equivalent to approximately ₹6.71 lakh–₹20.14 lakh.

Living costs depend heavily on the city. Paris is considerably more expensive than many regional cities, particularly when it comes to accommodation. Students should therefore compare the complete annual budget rather than looking only at tuition.

For Indian applicants, there are also scholarship opportunities. Campus France India lists scholarships and co-financed opportunities that can help selected students with tuition and living expenses.

Cost of Studying in Italy

Italy uses the Euro (€). Unlike countries with one standard national tuition amount, Italian university fees can differ according to the institution, programme and student's circumstances.

The official Study in Italy portal directs international students to Universitaly to compare programmes, admission conditions, scholarships and other financial opportunities. This means students should check the exact university and course rather than relying on a single national tuition figure.

One of Italy's major advantages is the availability of scholarships and financial support. The Italian government's MAECI scholarship programme for the 2026–27 academic year is available for eligible foreign students applying to selected study and research programmes at Italian institutions.

The official Study in Italy information also notes that some scholarship holders may receive exemptions from university tuition and enrolment fees, depending on the regulations of their institution.

Living costs also vary considerably between Italian cities. Milan, Rome and other major cities can be more expensive, while smaller university towns can provide a more manageable budget. Because accommodation is often the largest monthly expense, students should compare rent before selecting a university.

Cost of Studying in Portugal

Portugal uses the Euro (€). Tuition fees for international students vary according to the university, programme and institution type, so there is no single national tuition figure that can accurately represent every student's cost.

Students considering Portugal should obtain the official tuition fee from their chosen university and then calculate accommodation, food, transport and other expenses. Lisbon and Porto generally require greater housing budgets than smaller cities.

Portugal can be attractive to students looking for a European education experience with potentially moderate living costs. However, affordability depends on the specific university and city. Therefore, students should compare the complete annual cost instead of assuming that Portugal will automatically be cheaper than Malta or other European destinations.

Malta vs Germany: Which Is Cheaper?

When tuition is the main consideration, Germany generally has the stronger advantage. A student attending an eligible public university with no tuition fee can save significantly compared with an international programme in Malta that charges substantial tuition.

However, Germany is not completely cost-free. Students still need to pay semester contributions and cover accommodation, food, insurance, transport and other living expenses. DAAD also emphasises that living costs can vary considerably depending on where students live.

Malta can be attractive for students who prefer a smaller country and an English-speaking academic environment, but the total cost should be calculated for the exact programme.

Malta vs France: Which Is Cheaper?

France can be cheaper than Malta when students obtain places at public institutions with the applicable differentiated registration fees. A master's student paying €3,950 would pay approximately ₹4.42 lakh in annual registration fees before living expenses.

However, private French institutions can be much more expensive. Similarly, Malta's tuition varies by course. Therefore, the most affordable choice depends on the exact university and programme.

Malta vs Italy: Which Is Cheaper?

Italy can be particularly attractive for students who qualify for scholarships or tuition reductions. The availability of government and institutional financial support can make the final cost significantly different from the standard published tuition.

Malta may appeal to students who prioritise an English-speaking study environment. For Study in Malta for indian students, it is important to compare the actual course fee and accommodation cost against the Italian university's fee and scholarship options rather than comparing countries only.

Malta vs Portugal: Which Is Cheaper?

Portugal can be a reasonable option for students seeking a European education experience, but tuition fees differ from one institution to another. Accommodation is another major factor, particularly in popular cities.

Malta and Portugal both use the Euro, so exchange-rate movements affect Indian students in the same way. The better financial choice depends on the course, university, accommodation and available scholarships.

Which Country Is the Cheapest for Indian Students?

There is no single European country that is cheapest for every student.

Germany can be the most economical for tuition when students attend eligible public universities without tuition charges.

France offers relatively low public registration fees for applicable non-EU students, although private institutions can be significantly more expensive.

Italy can become particularly affordable for students who receive scholarships or fee exemptions.

Portugal can offer a moderate-cost option, but students need to compare the specific university and city.

Malta may have higher tuition for some international programmes, but students may value its English-speaking environment and compact study setting.

How to Reduce the Overall Cost

Students can control their European education budget through several practical decisions.

First, compare total annual expenses rather than tuition alone. Add accommodation, food, transport, insurance, visa expenses, and personal spending.

Second, consider shared accommodation. In Malta, for example, the University of Malta's published living-cost guidance shows that housing can represent a significant part of the monthly budget.

Third, research scholarships before applying. Germany has scholarship opportunities through organisations including DAAD, while France and Italy also have funding opportunities for eligible international students.

Finally, keep an additional emergency fund because exchange-rate changes can increase the amount Indian students ultimately pay in rupees.

Conclusion

The Cost of Studying in Malta should be evaluated alongside tuition, accommodation and everyday expenses rather than by looking at tuition fees alone. Germany can be highly economical for students who secure tuition-free public university programmes, while France offers comparatively low public registration fees for applicable non-EU students. Italy can become more affordable through scholarships and fee exemptions, and Portugal remains an option for students who find a suitable university and manageable accommodation.

For Indian students, the cheapest destination is ultimately the one that provides the best combination of tuition, living expenses, scholarships and academic value. A programme with slightly higher tuition can still be affordable if accommodation is cheaper and financial support is available.

Students planning to Study in Malta should therefore compare the exact university and programme costs before making a decision. For Study in Malta for indian students, factors such as English-medium education, accommodation, scholarships, visa requirements and future career plans should all be considered alongside the financial budget. Guidance from Neethus Study Abroad can help students compare suitable courses and destinations and prepare a realistic study-abroad budget.

FAQs

1. Is Malta cheaper than other European countries for international students?

Malta is not always the cheapest European destination in terms of tuition fees. Germany and France can offer lower tuition at eligible public universities, while Italy may become more affordable through scholarships and fee reductions. The total cost depends on the course, university, accommodation, and lifestyle.

2.Which European country is the cheapest for Indian students to study in?

Germany can be one of the most affordable options for Indian students because many public universities do not charge conventional tuition fees. France can also offer relatively low public tuition, while Italy may become more affordable through scholarships and fee reductions. The cheapest option ultimately depends on the university, course, city and financial support available.

3. Is Germany cheaper than Malta for higher education?

Germany can be cheaper than Malta, particularly for students attending eligible public universities where conventional tuition fees are not charged. However, students still need to pay semester contributions and cover their living expenses.

4. How much does studying in France cost for international students?

For 2026–27, applicable differentiated public registration fees for non-EU students are €2,902 (approximately ₹3.25 lakh) per year for bachelor's programmes and €3,950 (approximately ₹4.42 lakh) for master's programmes. Private institutions can charge considerably higher fees.

5. Is Italy affordable for Indian students?

Italy can be an affordable option because tuition varies by university and student circumstances, and scholarships and fee exemptions may be available. Students should compare the specific university's tuition, accommodation, and scholarship opportunities before applying.

6. Is Portugal cheaper than Malta for international students?

Portugal can be a moderate-cost study destination, but there is no universal answer. Tuition varies by institution and programme, while accommodation costs depend heavily on the city. Students should compare the complete annual budget with the cost of their chosen Maltese programme.

7. What currency is used in Malta?

Malta uses the Euro (€). Indian students should consider exchange-rate fluctuations when converting tuition and living expenses into Indian rupees.

8. What is the biggest expense for students in Malta?

Accommodation is generally one of the largest expenses. The University of Malta estimates single accommodation at approximately €800–€1,600 per month, while shared accommodation can cost around €550–€700 per month. Food and other personal expenses need to be added separately.

9. How can Indian students reduce the cost of studying in Europe?

Students can reduce expenses by choosing affordable cities, sharing accommodation, applying for scholarships, comparing public universities, and preparing a complete budget before applying. It is important to consider tuition and living expenses together rather than focusing on tuition alone.

10. Is Malta a good choice for Indian students?

Malta can be a suitable option for Indian students who prefer an English-speaking European study environment and find a programme that fits their academic and financial goals. Before applying, students should compare tuition, accommodation, scholarships, visa requirements and career opportunities with alternatives such as Germany, France, Italy and Portugal.