Study in Maharashtra from Maldives — Admissions, Fees, Visa & Documents 2026
Maldivian Students: Your Path to World-Class Education in Maharashtra
Affordable fees compared to Maldives. Globally recognised degrees. via Colombo/Trivandrum. Join students from 68 countries already studying in Maharashtra.
Why Maldivian Students Choose Maharashtra
No Visa Required
Maldivian citizens do NOT need a student visa to study in India. This is a special bilateral arrangement. You can enter India with your Maldivian passport and admission letter. No embassy visits, no visa processing wait.
No Visa Required
Maldivian citizens enjoy visa-free access to India for education under a special bilateral arrangement. No embassy visits, no processing delays. Just your passport and admission letter.
Affordable Excellence
Engineering degrees from MVR 80,000-250,000 + $1,200. Living costs as low as $200-400/month in student cities like Pune and Nagpur.
Direct Connectivity
Male to Mumbai direct or via Colombo/Trivandrum. Total journey: 4-6 hours. Multiple connections available daily through IndiGo, Air India, and Maldivian Airlines.
Globally Recognised Degrees
Degrees from AICTE-approved Maharashtra colleges are recognised by MQA (Maldives Qualifications Authority) and valued by employers across the Maldives.
Welcoming Community
The Maldives and India share strong diplomatic ties. Many Maldivian professionals are Indian university graduates. A supportive South Asian community exists in Mumbai and Pune.
Fee Comparison: Maldives vs Maharashtra
See how Maharashtra compares to studying in Maldives or Western countries.
| Course | Maldives | Maharashtra (fn.mahacet.org) | UK/Australia |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.E./B.Tech (4 years) | MVR 150,000-400,000 | MVR 80,000-250,000 + $1,200 | MVR 800,000-1,500,000 |
| MBBS (5.5 years) | MVR 300,000-800,000 | MVR 150,000-500,000 + $1,200 | MVR 1,200,000-2,500,000 |
| MBA (2 years) | MVR 100,000-300,000 | MVR 60,000-200,000 + $1,200 | MVR 600,000-1,000,000 |
*Fee ranges approximate. USD $1,200 + $50 one-time fee to CET Cell. College tuition paid separately.
How to Apply: Step by Step
Check Your Eligibility
Visit fn.mahacet.org and verify your requirements. You need GCE Advanced Level or equivalent Maldivian secondary qualification.
Register Online
Create your account. Select "Foreign National Student (FNS)" category. Upload required documents.
Browse & Select Colleges
Explore available colleges and courses. Apply to multiple institutions through the single-window system.
Pay Provisional Eligibility Fee (USD $50)
Pay the non-refundable provisional eligibility fee of USD $50 online.
Pay Registration Fee (USD $1,150)
After receiving your provisional eligibility letter, pay the one-time registration fee of USD $1,150.
Travel to Maharashtra
No visa needed. Travel with your admission letter and passport. Complete in-person document verification at your college and begin your studies.
Documents Required
- Valid Maldivian Passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- GCE A/L or equivalent certificate and results
- School Leaving Certificate
- Character Certificate from last institution
- Passport-size photographs (white background)
- Birth Certificate or ID Card
- Bank statement showing sufficient funds
- Sponsorship letter (if applicable)
All documents must be in English or officially translated. Originals verified in person at the college.
Questions Maldivian Students Always Ask
Do I need a visa to study in India?
No! Maldivian citizens do not need a student visa to study in India. This is a special bilateral arrangement. Just carry your passport and admission letter.
Do I need to take the MHT CET exam?
No. As a Foreign National Student, you apply directly through fn.mahacet.org. No entrance exam required.
Will my degree be recognised in the Maldives?
Yes. Degrees from AICTE-approved colleges are recognised by MQA (Maldives Qualifications Authority) and valued by employers.
How much does it cost per month to live in Maharashtra?
Expect $200-400 per month for hostel, food, and expenses in cities like Pune. Mumbai is slightly higher. Much more affordable than Male.
Are there scholarships for Maldivian students?
Yes. ICCR scholarships, Study in India (SII) scholarships, and India-Maldives bilateral grants are available.