EpoMag Opportunities Org. | Email: info@euromagopportunities.org

Welcome to EpoMag Opportunities Org.

The Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026 in Malta provides an important opportunity for students from Small Island Developing States to pursue postgraduate education at the University of Malta. The scholarship supports the Master of Arts in Research on Islands and Small States and is funded through Official Development Assistance from the Government of Malta.

This scholarship programme aims to strengthen research and professional capacity in areas affecting islands and small states. These include sustainability, climate change, governance, social development, security, literacy, and ocean-related challenges. The initiative reflects Malta’s commitment to international cooperation and sustainable development among vulnerable island nations.

Students selected for the programme will receive tuition fee support and a research grant that can help cover fieldwork expenses during the research period.7

Overview of Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026

The Islands and Small States Scholarship is hosted by the University of Malta through its Islands and Small States Institute. The programme focuses on the unique economic, social, political, cultural, and environmental conditions affecting island nations.

The scholarship is open to nationals of eligible Small Island Developing States. It is intended for students who wish to conduct research and contribute to development in their home countries after graduation.

Scholarship Summary

Scholarship Details	Information
Host Country	Malta
Host Institution	University of Malta
Study Level	Master’s
Scholarship Coverage	Tuition Fees + Research Grant
Scholarship Type	Fully Funded
Deadline	1 July 2026
Eligible Applicants	Nationals of Small Island Developing States

About the University of Malta

University of Malta is one of the oldest and most respected higher education institutions in Europe. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes and is known for its strong academic and research environment.

The Islands and Small States Institute at the university focuses specifically on research connected to small island states. The institute studies issues such as environmental sustainability, governance, climate adaptation, education, and social development.

Through this scholarship, the university aims to prepare researchers and professionals who can contribute practical solutions to the challenges facing island communities.6

Islands and Small States Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship provides financial support that allows students to focus on academic research and postgraduate studies.

Full Tuition Fee Coverage

The scholarship covers tuition fees for the Master of Arts in Research on Islands and Small States programme at the University of Malta.

EUR 1,000 Research Grant

Selected students receive a research grant of EUR 1,000 for a maximum of twelve months. The grant helps cover approved research-related expenses including:

Fieldwork travel
Primary data collection
Research software licences
Research materials

Students must provide receipts for reimbursement of approved expenses.

Access to Research Facilities

Scholarship recipients gain access to university libraries, research centres, academic databases, and learning resources that support postgraduate research.

International Academic Environment

Students will study in an international academic setting while connecting with researchers and professionals working on island development issues worldwide.

Study Programme Covered

The scholarship supports the Master of Arts in Research on Islands and Small States programme offered by the Islands and Small States Institute.

Research Areas

Students can focus on research topics connected to the challenges and opportunities facing island nations. Common research themes include:

Climate and oceans
Sustainability and development
Security and governance
Women, peace, and security
Children and armed conflicts
Literacy and education
Social and economic resilience

These research areas are highly relevant for developing island nations facing environmental and economic pressures.4

Eligibility Criteria for Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026

Applicants must meet all scholarship and university admission requirements before applying.

Nationality Requirement

Applicants must be nationals of Small Island Developing States eligible for Official Development Assistance.

Dual Nationality Restriction

Candidates holding dual nationality with EU, EEA, or non-SIDS countries are not eligible for the scholarship.

Admission Requirement

Applicants must obtain full acceptance into the programme at the University of Malta before the scholarship deadline.

Conditional acceptance letters are not accepted.

English Language Requirement

Candidates must submit an internationally recognised English language proficiency certificate such as IELTS.

Applicants are expected to obtain the required IELTS results by 1 July 2026.

Professional Preference

Preference may be given to candidates employed in public service or actively working with non-governmental organisations in their home countries.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare all required documents carefully before submission.

Letter of Motivation

The motivation letter should explain the applicant’s academic interests, professional goals, and reasons for applying for the scholarship.

Three Reference Letters

Applicants must provide three signed reference letters printed on official letterheads. Contact details for referees should also be included.

Curriculum Vitae

The CV should include academic background, work experience, research activities, achievements, and a mobile phone number.

Proof of Nationality

Candidates must provide official documents proving nationality from an eligible Small Island Developing State.

Academic Documents

Applicants may also need to provide academic certificates, transcripts, and proof of programme admission during the university application process.

How to Apply for Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026

The application process involves both university admission and scholarship submission.

Step 1: Apply for Admission

Applicants must first submit an online application for admission to the University of Malta programme.

Students should also pay any required application fees and upload academic documents.

Step 2: Obtain Full Acceptance

Candidates must secure full acceptance into the Master’s programme before applying for the scholarship.

Applicants with conditional admission will not be considered.

Step 3: Prepare Scholarship Documents

Collect all required scholarship documents including motivation letter, references, CV, and nationality proof.

Step 4: Submit Scholarship Email

Before the deadline, applicants should send all required documents by email to the International Office at scholarships@um.edu.mt.The email subject line must read:“Islands and Small States Scholarship”

Applicants are strongly advised to submit all documents together in one email and clearly indicate their selected course.5

Application Deadline

The deadline for the Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026 is:

1 July 2026

Applicants should complete both the university admission process and scholarship submission before the deadline.

For students applying through the Master’s by Research pathway, expressions of interest should reach the Islands and Small States Institute by 31 May 2026.Late applications may not be accepted.

Why Study in Malta?

Malta has become a respected destination for international education and research. The country offers a safe environment, high academic standards, and a multicultural learning experience.

Strong Research Environment

The University of Malta provides excellent research support for postgraduate students working on international development and sustainability topics.

Mediterranean Location

Malta’s strategic location in the Mediterranean makes it an ideal place for studying island governance, environmental management, and maritime issues.

International Student Community

Students from many countries study in Malta each year. This creates opportunities for networking, collaboration, and cultural exchange.

Focus on Sustainable Development

The scholarship aligns with global development priorities including climate resilience, social inclusion, and sustainable growth for island communities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Islands and Small States Scholarship Fully Funded?

The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a EUR 1,000 research grant. However, students are responsible for living expenses, accommodation, travel, and personal costs.

Can International Students Apply?

Yes. The scholarship is specifically designed for nationals of eligible Small Island Developing States.

What Programme Does the Scholarship Cover?

The scholarship supports the Master of Arts in Research on Islands and Small States at the University of Malta.

Can I Apply with Conditional Admission?

No. Only applicants with full acceptance into the programme are eligible.

What English Test Is Required?

Applicants must submit an internationally recognised English language proficiency certificate such as IELTS.

What Expenses Are Covered by the Research Grant?

The grant can support fieldwork travel, primary data collection, software licences, and other approved research expenses.

Official Website Apply Now

Follow our Social Media Platforms: WhatsApp Groups | Facebook Page

Islands and Small States Scholarship 2026 Malta scholarships University of Malta scholarship fully funded scholarships in Malta Master’s scholarship Malta study in Malta Islands and Small States Institute postgraduate scholarships Malta scholarships for island states Small Island Developing States scholarship Malta international scholarships research scholarship Malta University of Malta Master’s programme scholarships for developing countries Malta study opportunities

Comments

Disclaimer — EpoMag Opportunities Org

Disclaimer

EpoMag Opportunities Org provides information on scholarships that are publicly available. Unless explicitly stated, we are not affiliated with or endorsed by the institutions mentioned.

Some listings are drawn from public sources or submitted by users. We aim to share accurate and current details, but we cannot guarantee the completeness accuracy or ongoing availability of the opportunities posted.

For corrections updates or concerns please contact us.