Top International Schools in Malta: A Selection of the Best

Published on and written by Cyril Jarnias

Malta, this Mediterranean gem, is attracting more and more expatriates seeking an exceptional living environment. For international families, choosing the right school is crucial. Fortunately, the island offers several quality international school options. Let’s explore the best ones together and what they have to offer.

Top 5 Maltese international schools

1. Verdala International School: Excellence in the heart of Pembroke

Address: Fort Pembroke, Pembroke PBK1641, Malta

Annual cost: Between €9,000 and €13,500 depending on grade level

  • World-renowned International Baccalaureate (IB) program
  • Spacious and modern campus
  • Strong cultural diversity with over 40 nationalities represented

Founded in 1976, Verdala International School is the benchmark for international education in Malta. Located in picturesque Fort Pembroke, the school offers a unique and stimulating learning environment. It provides a comprehensive curriculum from kindergarten through high school, with particular emphasis on students’ holistic development. The innovative pedagogy and multicultural environment perfectly prepare students to become global citizens.

Good to know:

Verdala International School is the only school in Malta offering the complete IB program, from primary years through the diploma.

2. QSI International School of Malta: American approach in Mosta

Address: Triq Durumblat, Mosta MST 4815, Malta

Annual cost: Between €8,050 and €10,812 depending on grade level

  • Adapted American curriculum
  • Small class sizes for personalized attention
  • Focus on character development and values

QSI International School of Malta is part of the global Quality Schools International network. The school stands out for its pedagogical approach based on mastery of skills, allowing each student to progress at their own pace. With small class sizes and highly qualified teaching staff, QSI offers an optimal learning environment for students aged 3 to 18.

Good to know:

QSI offers strong support programs for non-English speaking students, facilitating their integration.

3. St. Edward’s College: Tradition and modernity in Cottonera

Address: St. Edward’s College, Cottonera, Malta

Annual cost: Approximately €6,000 to €8,000

  • Rich history and educational tradition
  • Excellent sports facilities
  • Preparation for IGCSE and A-level exams

Although primarily a Maltese school, St. Edward’s College welcomes many international students. Founded in 1929, the college combines tradition with modern teaching methods. It offers a curriculum based on the British system, preparing students for recognized international exams. The school is renowned for its academic excellence and varied extracurricular programs.

Good to know:

St. Edward’s College is particularly appreciated for its sports program and first-class facilities.

4. Chiswick House School & St Martin’s College: British education in Swatar

Address: Triq is-Swatar, Swatar, Malta

Annual cost: Between €5,000 and €7,500 depending on grade level

  • Educational continuity from kindergarten through high school
  • Enhanced French section available
  • Holistic approach to education

Chiswick House School (primary) and St Martin’s College (secondary) form an excellent educational duo for expatriate families. Following the British curriculum, these schools provide quality education in a stimulating and caring environment. A major advantage is the enhanced French section, resulting from collaboration with the French Embassy, ideal for French-speaking families.

Good to know:

The school offers an excellent extracurricular activities program, including very popular robotics and coding clubs.

5. San Andrea School: Innovative pedagogy in L-Imselliet

Address: Triq l-Imselliet, L-Imselliet, Malta

Annual cost: Between €4,500 and €6,500 depending on grade level

  • Innovative student-centered pedagogy
  • Focus on 21st century skills
  • Stimulating and modern learning environment

San Andrea School stands out for its innovative pedagogical approach. The school emphasizes developing essential skills for success in the modern world, such as critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. With a curriculum based on the British system but enriched with international elements, San Andrea effectively prepares its students to become accomplished global citizens.

Good to know:

San Andrea School is recognized for its advanced technology program, integrating virtual reality and artificial intelligence into learning.

Budget to plan: Investing in your children’s future

For an expatriate considering enrolling their children in an international school in Malta, careful budget planning is crucial. Here’s an estimate of annual costs to anticipate:

Tuition fees: Between €4,500 and €13,500 per child, depending on the school and grade level.

Registration fees: Generally between €500 and €1,500 (one-time payment).

Uniforms and school supplies: Approximately €500 to €1,000 per year.

Extracurricular activities and school trips: Budget approximately €500 to €1,000 per year.

School transportation (if needed): Between €500 and €1,500 per year, depending on distance.

In total, an expatriate should plan an annual budget between €6,000 and €17,000 per child for quality international education in Malta. This amount may vary depending on the chosen school, grade level, and additional activities.

It’s important to note that some employers offer expatriation packages including an allowance for children’s education. Don’t hesitate to negotiate this point during your recruitment or relocation to Malta.

Good to know:

Some schools offer sibling discounts or merit scholarships, don’t hesitate to inquire with each institution.

Conclusion: An investment for the future

Choosing the right international school in Malta is a crucial investment in your children’s future. Although costs may seem high, the quality of education, multicultural environment, and opportunities offered by these institutions make it a wise choice for many expatriate families.

Each school has its own strengths and specificities. Therefore, it’s essential to research thoroughly, visit the institutions if possible, and speak with other expatriate parents to make the best choice based on your child’s needs and personality.

International education in Malta offers not only excellent academic preparation but also valuable intercultural skills in our globalized world. It’s an investment that will bear fruit throughout your child’s life.

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About the author
Cyril Jarnias

Cyril Jarnias is an independent expert in international wealth management with over 20 years of experience. As an expatriate himself, he is dedicated to helping individuals and business leaders build, protect, and pass on their wealth with complete peace of mind.

On his website, cyriljarnias.com, he shares his expertise on international real estate, offshore company formation, and expatriation.

Thanks to his expertise, he offers sound advice to optimize his clients' wealth management. Cyril Jarnias is also recognized for his appearances in many prestigious media outlets such as BFM Business, les Français de l’étranger, Le Figaro, Les Echos, and Mieux vivre votre argent, where he shares his knowledge and know-how in wealth management.

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