Study abroad
Study in Madagascar
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Madagascar
Higher education in Madagascar, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.
The economy has strengths in conservation, agriculture and biotechnology, which is reflected in many study options. The main languages are Malagasy and French; the availability of English-taught programmes varies between institutions. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.
Why study in Madagascar?
There is no single reason to study in Madagascar. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in the Indian Ocean, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Industry context: Conservation, agriculture and biotechnology matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Biological & Life Sciences and Hospitality, Tourism & Events, with options differing between universities.
- Cities and campus life: Antananarivo, Toamasina and Mahajanga each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Madagascar means everyday contact with Malagasy and French and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in Madagascar
Here are some subject areas that fit well with study in Madagascar. We chose them editorially, with conservation, agriculture and biotechnology in mind, so treat them as ideas rather than a ranking.
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Biological & Life Sciences
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Business & Management
- Computing & Information Technology
Courses connected to conservation, agriculture and biotechnology can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for Madagascar on this site, with its specializations.
It helps to look at specializations within each area as well: two programmes with the same broad subject can lead in quite different directions.
Universities in Madagascar
Madagascar has only a few higher-education providers, so compare what each offers with regional and international alternatives. Institutions include:
- University of Antananarivo
This is not a ranking or a complete list. A strong fit usually comes down to the programme rather than the name: check modules, teaching methods, accreditation, student services and graduate outcomes published by the institution.
Some institutions offer preparatory or foundation courses, placements or joint programmes with partners abroad; these can change the length and cost of your studies.
Scholarships to Study in Madagascar
Funding for international students in Madagascar can come from several sources, and what is available depends on your nationality, level of study and subject.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Madagascar
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Madagascar
Academic calendars in Madagascar differ between institutions and programmes, so there is no single start date that applies everywhere.
Because deadlines differ between universities, keep a simple timeline for each application: when it opens, when it closes, when decisions are expected and how long the visa process may take. Leave room for delays in obtaining documents.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Madagascar
The cost of studying in Madagascar depends on the institution, the programme, the level of study and, sometimes, your nationality.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Programme length also matters: a longer course or a preparatory year changes the total cost. Always use the current fees published by the institution for the year you plan to start.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Madagascar
Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Madagascar requires for your nationality and course.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Madagascar in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Madagascar
Living costs in Madagascar depend a great deal on where you live and how you live. Costs in Antananarivo can differ noticeably from those in Toamasina or Mahajanga and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
On islands and in remote areas, imported goods can raise everyday prices. Current cost estimates from your institution and official sources will help you build a realistic budget for the whole course.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Madagascar
Is Madagascar a good place to study?
It depends on your goals. Madagascar offers programmes across many subjects, a location in the Indian Ocean and study in Malagasy and French (with some English-taught options). Students interested in conservation, agriculture and biotechnology may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Madagascar?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Biological & Life Sciences, Hospitality, Tourism & Events and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies. The subjects page for Madagascar lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Madagascar?
Start dates vary between institutions. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Madagascar?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Madagascar?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Madagascar.
Are scholarships available for international students in Madagascar?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Madagascar?
Antananarivo, Toamasina and Mahajanga are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
Can I study in English in Madagascar?
Many courses are taught in Malagasy and French. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.
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