The Maldives will probably not be the first place that comes to mind when you think about studying abroad. With its remote location and geographical specifics, this scattered group of islands has earned a reputation as one of the most picturesque vacation destinations, but is not exactly known for its universities and other educational establishments.
With that, studying in the Maldives definitely has its benefits. First, you will get to spend time in a truly fascinating natural setting with plenty of opportunities to explore nearby islands. Second, you will get acquainted with a different culture and get a peek behind the country's resort setting and into the life of its people. Finally, as one of the world's top tourist destinations, the Maldives offer a variety of opportunities in the fields of hospitality and tourism, and you will be able to see how the islands operate in the tourist season first hand.
Education system
The first university in the Maldives was established in 2011 under the National University Act.
Maldives National University (previously the Maldives College of Higher Education) is, thus, the country's primary educational establishment offering post-secondary education. Here, you can study a variety of subjects ' but a strong emphasis is placed on engineering, health science, education, tourism, and management.
Other higher educational establishments include Cyryx College, Mandhu College, Villa College, MAPS College, Avid College, and Maldives Business School.
While a large number of Maldivian high-school graduates still prefer to continue their studies abroad (like the neighbouring countries of India or Sri Lanka), the situation is starting to changes with more and more programmed being available at Maldives National University ' like, for instance, the Master of Business Administration, which is also the most popular course chosen by foreign students.
Conditions
While the majority of courses at the national university are taught in Dhivehi, there are also English-language courses and degree programmes available ' mostly in the fields on business management and tourism.
In order to apply for enrollment, it is best to contact the university and ask about the programme that you are interested in and the specifics of the application process. Typically, however, you will need to provide the following documents:
- a filled university application form
- copies or original of your last degree
- academic transcript
- passport and passport-sized photos
- certificate of English language proficiency
- reference letter and CV (if applicable), etc.
Student visa
Upon acceptance to the university, you will need to apply for a student visa. Here's what you will need:
- a filled-in IM23 application form
- passport-sized photo
- valid Passport
- a letter of acceptance from your university or school
- expatriate health insurance for the length of your stay
- medical report
- relevant fees
Once you've been granted a student visa, you will be able to stay in the Maldives for one academic year ' after that, you will need to renew your student visa to continue your studies.
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