MCAST (Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology) is Malta's further and higher education college, covering everything from entry-level certificates to Master's degrees and a Doctoral Research programme. It runs across four campuses in Paola, Mosta, Qormi and Gozo, with specialist institutes covering engineering, ICT, creative arts, business, health and more. If you are weighing up your study options in Malta, this guide covers how MCAST is structured, what you need to apply and how to find the right route for your goals. For a broader overview of what to expect when moving to Malta to study, our guide for universities in Malta for international students covers the wider picture.
🔧 Engineering and Transport
Mechanical, electrical, civil, automotive, aviation and marine engineering, plus logistics and transport.
💻 ICT
Software development, cybersecurity, networking, data science and computing.
🎨 Creative Arts
Design, fine art, media, photography, performing arts and music.
🤝 Community Services
Social work, early childhood education, health care, sport and youth work.
💼 Business and Commerce
Accountancy, management, marketing, tourism and hospitality.
🔬 Applied Sciences
Agriculture, aquatics, animal sciences, environmental science and laboratory technology.
MCAST's Role in Malta's Education System
MCAST sits within Malta's post-secondary education landscape alongside the University of Malta, but with a distinct focus. Where the University of Malta is primarily an academic institution, MCAST is structured around practical, industry-linked learning at multiple qualification levels. It is not simply a vocational college: MCAST holds self-accrediting status and awards qualifications up to MQF Level 8, including Bachelor's degrees, Master's degrees and a Doctoral Research programme.
Programmes are aligned to the Malta Qualifications Framework (MQF), which maps directly onto the European Qualifications Framework (EQF). This means MCAST qualifications can be compared and understood within the wider European qualifications landscape, though formal academic recognition remains a separate process. For a broader overview of post-secondary options across the island, our guide to higher education in Malta covers the full landscape.
MQF Levels and Progression Routes
📋 MQF Levels 1 to 3
Introductory and foundation certificates. Entry-level qualifications that build skills and knowledge in a subject area. Suitable for those with limited prior qualifications or those returning to education.
🛠️ MQF Levels 4 and 5
Diploma and higher diploma level. Covers practical and technical skills in more depth, often with industry placements or project work. Many school-leavers enter at this level.
🎓 MQF Levels 6 to 8
Bachelor's degrees, Master's degrees and doctoral programmes. MCAST awards these directly through its self-accrediting status. Level 6 and above qualifications are classified as higher education.
Completing a programme at one MQF level can qualify you to progress to the next level within MCAST. For example, a student completing a Level 4 diploma may be eligible to progress to a Level 5 higher diploma, and from there to a Level 6 Bachelor's degree. Each progression step has its own entry requirements, so check the specific programme page at mcast.edu.mt for the route that applies to your chosen subject area.
MCAST Entry Requirements
Entry requirements at MCAST vary by programme and MQF level. Each programme page on mcast.edu.mt publishes the specific requirements for that course, and these are the criteria the Admissions Board applies when reviewing applications. For most full-time programmes at Levels 4 and above, typical requirements include Secondary Education Certificate (SEC) passes in relevant subjects. Some courses also require portfolios, auditions, interviews or specific subject passes as additional conditions.
Adult learners without standard school-leaving qualifications may be assessed on relevant work experience or prior learning, and introductory level programmes provide a stepping stone for those not yet ready for diploma-level entry. Always check the individual course page rather than relying on general guidance.
Full-Time, Part-Time and Work-Based Study
- Full-time programmes: the main route for school-leavers and those entering higher education directly. Most have an October intake, with applications opening earlier in the year.
- Part-time courses: offered through MG2I Malta, aimed at working adults, career changers and those looking to upskill without leaving employment. Subjects range from trade qualifications to professional certifications and higher-level diplomas.
- Apprenticeships: structured programmes combining on-the-job training with college-based learning, earning a qualification while gaining direct industry experience.
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD): shorter programmes for professionals looking to update skills or gain a specific qualification without committing to a full programme.
- Online learning: a growing range of programmes available fully or partially online, for those who cannot attend on campus.
How to Apply
Applications for full-time MCAST programmes are submitted online through the admissions portal at mcast.edu.mt. The main intake is in October, and applications typically open several months before the start of the academic year. Late applications may be accepted depending on availability, but applying early gives you the best chance of securing a place on competitive programmes.
Check the entry requirements for your specific programme on mcast.edu.mt. Have your academic certificates, transcripts and any other required documents ready before starting your application. Some programmes ask for a portfolio, audition or interview as part of the selection process. If you are unsure whether your qualifications meet the requirements, contact MCAST admissions directly at information@mcast.edu.mt before applying.
Fees and Funding
MCAST fees depend on the programme, level of study and the student's nationality and circumstances. Not all MCAST courses are free, and eligibility for funded or subsidised study varies. The most accurate source for current fees is the individual course page on mcast.edu.mt.
🇪🇺 EU/EEA students
Full-time courses are free for Maltese and EU/EEA candidates.⁵ Some higher-level or specialist programmes may carry fees even for EU students. Always confirm the fee for your specific course before applying.
🌍 Non-EU/EEA students
Tuition fees apply and vary by programme. MCAST offers a scholarship for Bachelor's degree students covering the final year of study. A tax rebate of up to 70% of fees paid may also be available on completion for graduates employed and paying tax in Malta.
For a full picture of what studying in Malta costs beyond tuition, including accommodation, transport and everyday expenses, our guide to cost of studying in Malta covers what to budget for day to day.
Studying at MCAST as an International Student
MCAST welcomes applications from international students at most levels of study. Teaching across the majority of programmes is delivered in English, and no additional language qualification is required for most applicants educated in English. For those educated outside an English-speaking system, MCAST publishes specific English language requirements that vary by programme level.
Applications from outside the EU typically need to be submitted earlier, particularly where a student visa is required. MCAST recommends applying for a visa at least 75 days before the course start date, and non-EU students must pay the first instalment of fees before visa documentation is issued. Overseas qualifications are assessed for equivalency against Maltese entry requirements.
MCAST or University: Choosing the Right Route
MCAST and the University of Malta both offer recognised qualifications at higher levels, but their focus and teaching models differ:
- MCAST specialises in applied, technical and industry-linked learning, with programmes ranging from introductory qualifications through to Bachelor's, Master's and doctoral level
- The University of Malta offers a broader academic and research-focused curriculum across multiple faculties
- Both institutions have degree-level options in overlapping subject areas — compare specific programmes, modules and entry requirements rather than choosing by institution name alone
It is also worth knowing that some MCAST programmes may offer progression pathways towards further study at degree level. Check with MCAST directly for current options in your subject area. If you are unsure which path suits you, MCAST's student services team can advise on entry routes and progression options before you apply. For a full overview of degree options, see University of Malta courses.
💡 Not sure where to start? MCAST offers a free guidance service to help prospective students identify the right programme and level before they apply. You can also attend an open day to visit the campuses, meet tutors and get a feel for the environment before committing.
References
- MCAST. "Full-Time Programmes." mcast.edu.mt, https://mcast.edu.mt/full-time-programmes/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2026.
- MCAST. "Admissions." mcast.edu.mt, https://mcast.edu.mt/admissions/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2026.
- MCAST. "International Students." mcast.edu.mt, https://mcast.edu.mt/int-students/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2026.
- MCAST. "Fee and Payments for Non-EU Candidates." mcast.edu.mt, https://mcast.edu.mt/fee-payments-for-non-eu-candidates/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2026.
- MCAST. "Key Information for Full-Time Programmes." mcast.edu.mt, https://mcast.edu.mt/key-information-for-full-time-programmes/. Accessed 27 Sept. 2026.
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