More than 13,000 students will attend the University of Malta during the 2026/27 academic year, including more than 5,500 new students starting their university studies this year.

The figures were announced as Education and Sport Minister Byron Camilleri attended the official opening of the new academic year and visited students during Freshers' Week.

Of the new students, more than 2,500 will be pursuing undergraduate courses, while over 2,200 will continue their studies at postgraduate level. Around 350 Erasmus students and 500 visiting students registered to follow micro-credentials will also join the university community.

The University of Malta is offering 931 courses across a wide range of fields during the new academic year.

The university community is also becoming increasingly international, with around 2,000 international students from 130 countries expected to study in Malta this year.

Camilleri said the start of university marked a new chapter for more than 5,500 students, following years of work and sacrifice and bringing new opportunities to learn, develop and prepare for their future.

He said the theme chosen for this year's academic year, "Building Tomorrow - Through Knowledge, Purpose and Community", highlighted the responsibility towards current and future generations.

"The future is not built only through buildings or financial investment, but by investing in the knowledge, talent and potential of our people," Camilleri said.

He said the university should provide students not only with the knowledge and qualifications they need, but also help them develop their skills, confidence and ambition.

Addressing students, Camilleri encouraged them to view their university years as a period of personal as well as academic development.

He said doing well in their studies was important, but that students should also develop other skills and make the most of university life.

University of Malta Rector Prof. Frank Bezzina said the university should remain a key force in Malta's socioeconomic development and continue working with its strategic partners.

He said students should remain at the centre of the university's work, while investment in research and infrastructure should continue.

Bezzina also stressed the importance of ensuring that teaching and research carried out at the university have a positive impact on the country.

"Today is a very beautiful day where we are seeing students eager to start a new year at the University," he said.

Lectures for students continuing their studies began on 28 September, while lectures for first-year students will begin on 8 October.

Meanwhile, more than 1,100 new students have also joined the Junior College, taking its student population above 2,100 this year.

Freshers' Week is giving new students the opportunity to familiarise themselves with university life, meet deans and faculty representatives and learn more about the services and opportunities available to them during their studies.

Kunsill Studenti Universitarji (KSU) President Nick Muscat encouraged new students to make the most of Freshers' Week by visiting stands and taking part in the activities being organised.

He said university life should extend beyond academic studies and encouraged students to get involved, enjoy the experience and leave their own mark on university life.

Camilleri also wished all students a successful academic year and encouraged them to make the most of their university experience, both through their studies and the opportunities, experiences and relationships they develop along the way.