Homeschooling in Malta
Homeschooling permitted only with government approval, teaching warrant, and audited program.
Home education in Malta is legal with authorization from the Division of Education as per the Education Act, Chapter 605, Part V. Parents must apply with valid justification, employ warranted educators, follow an approved curriculum, and ensure social and facility equivalents to schools. Compliance satisfies compulsory education duties.
Quick Reference
School Days
-
No minimum
Hours Required
-
No minimum
Subjects
0
required
Notification
Yes
once
Key Requirements at a Glance
- Parents apply to Division of Education under Article 46 for authorization.
- Authorization requires valid reasons demonstrating child's best interest.
- Home education must provide social experience equivalent to schools.
- Approved accredited program must be followed as specified by Division.
- Home education is delivered at parental expense.
- Compulsory education age in Malta runs from 5 to 16 under the Education Act (Chapter 605).
- Applications cannot be based on racist or improper grounds.
Legal Framework
Governed by Education Act (Chapter 605 of the Laws of Malta), Part V, Articles 46 and 47. Article 46 allows parental application to the Division of Education for home education if not for improper reasons and in the minor's best interest. Article 47 sets conditions for authorization including social experience, facilities equivalent to schools, and accredited program approved by the Division. Responsible authority is the Division of Education.
Filing Requirements
What to file
Home Education Application
When
Prior to commencement
Where
Division of Education
How to submit
In writing to Division
What to include
- • Valid justification, proposed accredited program, evidence of social/facility equivalents, educator warrant
Application per Article 46; authorization conditional on Article 47 criteria.
How to Get Started
- 1
Apply in writing to Division of Education with justification and program details.
- 2
Secure warranted educator with teaching license.
- 3
Obtain approval confirming social, facility, and curriculum equivalents.
- 4
Commence at parental expense post-authorization.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓Fulfills compulsory education legally
- ✓Flexible for valid cases
Cons
- •High regulation and approval barrier
- •Expensive, no state funding
Questions about homeschooling in Malta
What counts as a valid reason for home education approval?
Valid reasons must demonstrate home education is in the child's best interest, such as frequent international moves; racist or improper grounds are rejected.
Does the home educator need qualifications?
Yes, must hold a teaching warrant and license in the Maltese system.
What curriculum must be followed?
Division-approved accredited program equivalent to national standards, including social and physical components.
Is there a cost to parents?
Yes, fully at parental expense with no state funding.
How is compliance checked?
Division audits the program and conditions; social and facility equivalents must be provided.
Can I start homeschooling without approval?
No, unauthorized homeschooling violates compulsory attendance under Article 6.
What about social requirements?
Child must have social experience equivalent to schools, e.g., via activities or clubs.
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Last updated: 2026-04-26 · MT homeschool law guide