Straight answers about studying online.
What the qualifications mean, how applying works, and what they do for your career. Written for people who already have a job.
Understanding qualifications
Every qualification has a level. Malta, Ireland and the UK number them differently. These guides explain what each level means and how they compare.
- MQF, QQI, EQF and RQF: how the accreditation systems compareWhy the same course is MQF Level 5 in Malta and QQI Level 6 in Ireland, and which label you need.
- What is an HND in Malta? MQF Level 5 (120 ECTS) GuideUnsure how to start your diploma? Need guidance on the next steps to starting your course? Read this guide.
- Need an MQF Level 5 with 60 ECTS for Your Next Promotion?Unsure how to start your diploma? Need guidance on the next steps to starting your course? Read this guide.
- MFHEA Malta: What It Does & Why It Matters (2026 Guide)Unsure how to start your diploma? Need guidance on the next steps to starting your course? Read this guide.
- How to get started? A guide to starting your DiplomaHow applying works, step by step.
- RQF Level 7 Qualification: Master’s Degree Equivalent ExplainedWhat is an RQF Level 7? Equivalent to a Master’s Degree (EQF Level 7). See conversion table, senior career paths, entry requirements, and online progr
- What is an RQF Level 5 Qualification?What is an RQF level 5? Our guide to understanding the Regulated Qualifications Framework, what a level 5 is, and what it is equivalent to.
- What is an RQF Level 4 Qualification?What is an RQF level 4? Our guide to understanding the Regulated Qualifications Framework, what a level 4 is, and what it is equivalent to.
- RQF Level 3 Qualification: What It Is, What It Equals & Career PathsWhat is an RQF Level 3 qualification? Equivalent to A-Levels and EQF Level 4. See conversion table, career paths, and how to progress to Level 4/5.
- RQF vs EQF Levels: Are They the Same?RQF vs EQF: While RQF and EQF serve similar purposes in classification and standardisation, they operate on different scales.
- Is a Diploma the Same as a Degree?Diploma vs Degree: What's the difference under the Malta qualification framework? Read our guide to understand the key differences.
- How long is a Diploma?Diploma courses take 6 months to 3 years depending on the level and study mode. Full-time, part-time, and online options compared with exact timelines
- Your Diploma: What Can You Do With It?Are you asking yourself, "What can I do with a diploma?". This guide will tell you all about what you can do with a diploma in Malta.
Studying from Malta
Malta uses the MQF, and MQRIC confirms the level of your qualification in writing. These guides cover the levels, the recognition statement, and the Get Qualified refund.
- Get Qualified Scheme Malta: How to Get 70% of Your Tuition Fees BackGet Qualified Malta lets you claim back 70% of tuition fees (up to €25,000). Step-by-step application guide, eligibility criteria & 2026 scheme status
- MQF Levels Malta: Complete Guide to the Malta Qualifications FrameworkWhat are MQF levels? Malta's 8-level qualifications framework explained, with EQF and RQF conversion table. Find out what each level means and how to
- MQF vs EQF: Are Malta & European Qualification Levels the Same? (2026)MQF vs EQF levels are aligned 1:1 across all 8 levels. See the complete conversion table with UK RQF equivalents and what this means for your qualific
- MQRIC Statement Malta: What It Is, How to Apply & Costs (2026)MQRIC statement Malta: official qualification recognition from MFHEA. Step-by-step application guide, fees from €15, required documents & FAQs.
- MQF Level 4 Qualification in Malta: What It Is and How to Get OneWhat is an MQF Level 4 qualification in Malta? Equivalent to A-Levels (EQF Level 4, RQF Level 3). See conversion table, career paths, and how to progr
- MQF Level 5 Malta: Undergraduate Diploma Equivalent & Career Paths (2026)MQF Level 5 is an Undergraduate Diploma in Malta, equal to EQF Level 5 and UK RQF Level 5 (HND). Conversion table, career paths & Get Qualified eligib
- MQF Level 6 Malta: Bachelor’s Degree Equivalent & Career Paths (2026)MQF Level 6 is a Bachelor's Degree in Malta, equal to EQF Level 6 and UK RQF Level 6. Framework conversion table, career paths, Top-Up Degrees & Get Q
- What is an MQF Level 7 Qualification?What is an MQF level 7? Here's our guide to understanding the Malta qualification framework, what a level 7 is, and what it is equivalent to.
Studying from Ireland
Ireland uses QQI levels, which run one number higher than the European scale. These guides explain what each level means and where a UK qualification sits.
- What Is QQI In Ireland?What is QQI in Ireland? Learn about Quality and Qualifications Ireland and how they relate to UK and European frameworks.
- Irish NFQ vs EQF: Level-by-Level Comparison & Mapping Guide (2026)Compare Irish NFQ levels to EQF equivalents with our complete mapping table. NFQ 1-10 to EQF 1-8, plus how Irish qualifications convert to Malta MQF &
- What is a QQI Level 5 Qualification in Ireland?What is an QQI level 5? Our guide to the Quality and Qualifications Ireland, what a level 5 is, and what it is equivalent to.
- What is a QQI Level 6 Qualification in Ireland?What is an QQI level 6? Our guide to the Quality and Qualifications Ireland, what a level 6 is, and what it is equivalent to.
- What is a QQI Level 7 and QQI Level 8 Qualification in Ireland?What is an QQI level 7 and 8? Our guide to the Quality and Qualifications Ireland, what a level 7/8 is, and what it is equivalent to.
- What is a QQI Level 9 Qualification in Ireland?What is an QQI level 9? Our guide to the Quality and Qualifications Ireland, what a level 9 is, and what it is equivalent to.
Applying and getting started
Applying takes a call and a few documents. These guides cover the first call, the payment plan, your induction, and what happens when you finish.
- How to Apply for an Arden Top-Up Course: A Step-by-Step GuideInterested in studying online at Arden University but confused how to apply? Read our guide on how to begin the application process with us.
- How To Receive Your CertificateA short guide on how to receive your certificate. Follow these simple steps to start the application process.
- How to Sign Up for Our Courses: A Step-by-Step GuideNeed help signing up for one of our diplomas? Read this guide to assist you in taking the next step in your education journey.
- What To Expect From A Meeting With Your Course AdvisorSchedule a meeting with a Course Advisor today. We work with universities both locally and abroad offering well rounded advice.
Careers and next steps
The jobs each level is asked for, how to put a diploma on your CV, and how to ask for a promotion once you have one.
- How to write a resume (and how NOT to)Not sure how to write a resume or just need some tips to improve your job search? Read our guide on how NOT to write a resume in 2026.
- How to Write a Personal StatementNeed help writing a personal statement? Look no further! Read our guide on how to ace the application process with your personal statement.
How we work
What we charge, what we refund, and what a course advisor does.
More from Elephant & Cross
Guides that sit outside the six topics above.
- Join Elephant & Cross in Supporting Abandoned Animals This Christmas 🎄 2024 Donation DriveThis Christmas we're continuing our commitment to helping Abandoned Animals in Malta. We hope you'll join us in supporting the AAA this year!
- Join Elephant & Cross in Supporting Abandoned Animals This Christmas 🎄This Christmas we're continuing our commitment to helping Abandoned Animals in Malta. We hope you'll join us in supporting the AAA this year!
- How the Evening will Change your LifeInterested in learning how maximising your evenings can improve your career and life. Read our blog to learn about our career advice.
- The Secret Difference that Divides PeopleInterested in learning about the secret study tips that make users succeed and abstainers wish they had tried them earlier?
Get qualified without quitting your job.
A UK qualification, recognised across the EU. Studied online, around work, from €220 a month. Malta gives up to 70% back.
“Top notch service! In May I have started the Online Diploma in Business Management, studying everything online in my own time and my own pace has been amazing! Also, whenever I needed any help and support, Andrew the Course Advisor is always there for you and also reply to any of your queries within the same day and make sure to provide all the information needed! Thank you!”