Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026 in Malta | Fully Funded

The Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026 in Malta offers a unique opportunity for nationals of Small Island Developing States to pursue a Master of Arts (Research on Islands and Small States) at the University of Malta. Funded through Official Development Assistance from the Government of Malta, this scholarship aims to build capacity in understanding economic, social, political, cultural, and environmental dynamics in islands and small states.

The University of Malta, through its Islands and Small States Institute (ISSI), hosts this scholarship program. The institute focuses on research and postgraduate education tailored to the challenges and opportunities of small island states. The scholarship is supported by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, reflecting Malta’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development.

Islands and Small States Scholarship Benefits

• University of Malta Tuition Fees
• EUR 1,000 research grant available for a maximum of twelve (12) months only, to cover costs for field work (travel, primary data collection, software licenses to analyse the data) against receipts.

Islands and Small States Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be nationals of Small Island Developing States eligible for Official Development Assistance.
• Dual nationals who also hold EU/EEA or non-SIDS nationality are not eligible.
• Applicants must meet the entry requirements set out by the University of Malta and the conditions for joining the specific programme.
• Applicants must have obtained a full acceptance to start the course in October 2026.
• Applicants who have a conditional acceptance cannot be considered.
• Candidates employed in public office or working actively with NGOs in their home country will be preferred.
• Applicants are required to present an internationally recognised English Language Proficiency Certificate at the required level.
• Candidates are expected to have the necessary IELTS results by the very latest 1st July 2026.

Required Documents

The email should include:

• A letter of motivation;
• Three letters of reference.  The Letters must be on letterheads and signed.  Applicants are expected to provide contact emails and telephone numbers of the referees along with the letters;
• Curriculum Vitae (kindly include mobile number);
• Proof of nationality (eligible are applicants who are nationals of Small Island Developing States eligible for Official Development Assistance.

The subject line should read “Islands and Small States Scholarship” and it is highly recommended that students submit all documents together in one email and clearly indicate their selected course.

How to Apply for Islands and Small States Scholarship

• Submit an online application to the University of Malta for admission to the course, settle the application fees and provide copies of academic qualifications and all required documentation.
• By the 1st July deadline, send an email to [email protected] addressed to the attention of the Director of the International Office to be considered for the scholarships.
• The email should include: a letter of motivation, three letters of reference on letterheads and signed, Curriculum Vitae (include mobile number), and proof of nationality.
• The subject line should read ‘Islands and Small States Scholarship’ and it is highly recommended that students submit all documents together in one email and clearly indicate their selected course.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Islands and Small States Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.