Applications for the 2026 student loan scheme opened on 1 April 2026, allowing students to apply for higher education and training both in Maldives and abroad.
What the scheme offers
Students can apply for programmes from Level 5 to Level 10 under the Maldives National Qualifications Framework. This includes diploma, degree, and postgraduate studies, as well as professional licensing programmes, medical specialisations, and fellowships.
The scheme also allows students to complete internships as part of their studies.
Did You Know?
According to Finance Ministry data released, the government has spent MVR 97.8 million on the student loan scheme as of March 26, 12.6% of the MVR 776.6 million allocated for 2025. This is MVR 40 million less than the amount spent during the same period last year.
Key updates this year
The application process has been simplified with the removal of categories such as “new students” and “ongoing students,” which previously caused confusion.
Applications are now open throughout the year, without a fixed deadline.
Where students can study
Students can choose to study in Maldives or in countries that have diplomatic relations with Maldives.
If they choose other countries, they must cover any additional costs themselves and provide proof of financial capacity.
At the same time, some students studying abroad have raised concerns about delays in receiving funds under loan and scholarship schemes.
