Stipend application: Embarking on your educational journey in Malta? Let’s make sure you’re in the know about the financial help available!
The Student Maintenance Grants, also called Stipends in Malta are here to give students like you a helping hand. Keen on grabbing this opportunity? Be sure to apply online between 30th September and 31st December 2023 to enjoy the benefits from the start of the academic year. If you’re late in submitting after December 2023, worry not; you’re still on board for Stipends and Grants from your submission date onwards.
This friendly guide will break down what the grants are all about, who’s eligible, how to apply, and all the sweet perks that come with it. So, whether you’re just considering studying in Malta or are already enrolled, let’s dive in!
Ready, set, apply! Stipend application:
Whether you’re a newbie, shifting courses, repeating a year, or in an extension year, just submit an online application using your e-ID and password through this portal: Stipends & Grants Login. Promoted students, don’t forget to confirm your details by 31st December 2023 to secure your stipends from the get-go of the academic year! You can find more info on the official government website.
What’s in Store for You:
Studying at MQF Levels 5 to 7 comes with perks! (Not sure what MQF levels are? Check out our handy guide.)
Upon successful online confirmation, here’s what awaits:
- Yearly Initial Grant: A warm welcome with a once-per-academic-year grant, perfect for buying essential textbooks and learning materials.
- One-Time Grant: First-Year Degree Level students, a special grant covering your entire MQF Level 6 course.
- Regular Stipend Payments: Enjoy four-weekly stipend rates, initiating in early December and typically stretching until August, subject to attendance (beware, absenteeism might lead to deductions!).
- Single Parents’ Grant: A provision for full-time students who are single parents solely relying on Social Security benefits, with the grant amount tailored based on the MQF Level of your study course.
- Summer Special and Top-Up Stipends: Apprentices, this one’s for you! Eligible candidates receive summer stipends and additional top-ups ensuring your total yearly earnings match or surpass the national minimum wage.
- Supplementary Allowances: These are determined by the Students’ Maintenance Grants’ Board, based on your eligibility.
Here are your Stipend Payment Dates for 2023:
- 27th January
- 24th February
- 24th March
- 21st April
- 19th May
- 16th June
- 14th July
- 11th August
- 7th September
- 6th October
- 4th November
Stipend Application Eligibility Insights:
To access these Stipends and Grants, you should:
- Hold Maltese citizenship or relevant EU/EEA status, with certain residency requirements.
- Have lived in Malta for at least 5 continuous years before starting your course, with some exceptions for periods spent abroad for specific reasons accepted by the Board.
- Have completed compulsory education.
- Attend and make satisfactory progress in your current course.
- Not engage in full-time work; part-time work is acceptable if it’s no more than 30 hours per week.
- Continuously advance in your studies, as recognized by the Malta Qualification Framework.
Stipend Application How to Apply:
Navigating the online application for Stipends and Grants is straightforward:
Page 1: Review your personal details and enter your IBAN. It’s important these details are accurate.
Page 2: Provide all necessary information about your course. Make sure your educational or employment history is included.
Page 3: The Supplementary Grant section is for those experiencing financial hardship. If this applies to you, indicate why you need additional support.
Page 4: Upload all necessary documents as listed. If you’re applying for a Supplementary grant, include all required financial information.
After filling out the online application, don’t forget to hit ‘Submit.’ It shouldn’t take more than 10 minutes if you have your documents and IBAN at hand. You can adjust your application until the end of June of the academic year. After 30th June 2024, applications are considered final.
Who Is It Not For?
While the Student Stipends and Grants program in Malta is a boon for many, it’s important to recognise that not everyone falls within the eligibility parameters set by the government. Understanding whether or not this program suits your circumstances can save you valuable time and direct you towards more applicable opportunities.
This financial aid is not for individuals who:
Non-residents: Do not have Maltese citizenship, lack EU/EEA state nationality with permanent residence in Malta, or non-EU/EEA nationals without refugee or long-term residence status.
Short-term Residents: Have not resided in Malta for at least five continuous years before the commencement of their studies. Exceptions exist for specific circumstances, detailed on the official website.
Full-time Employees: Are engaged in full-time employment. The program is designed to support those who are not in a position to fully fund their education, often evidenced by their need to commit to full-time work.
Non-regular Students: Are not attending their courses regularly or not making satisfactory academic progress. The stipends and grants are merit-based and require students to demonstrate commitment to their studies.
Not Eligible?
Don’t worry! There’s lots of support available to those working full time in Malta who would like to further their education. One example is the Malta Get Qualified Scheme – you can find more info here.
