Customers urged to contact BML for failed education-related online payments

Bank of Maldives (BML) has issued guidance for customers experiencing difficulties when making online payments for examination fees and other educational services.

The bank explained that, to ensure the continued availability of foreign currency for essential expenditures, a daily transaction limit has been introduced for certain categories of online commerce. However, BML clarified that these limits are not intended to restrict essential spending on education, healthcare, or critical subscriptions.

Having trouble paying for an exam or other similar services?

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— Bank of Maldives (@bankofmaldives) August 14, 2026

The national bank noted that payments for educational examinations, including IELTS, are sometimes processed using Merchant Category Codes (MCCs) that do not classify the transactions as "educational." In other cases, such payments may be processed under uncategorized codes within the payment network. As a result, such transactions may be automatically declined by the system.

"If this happens, please contact us with your transaction details. We will promptly review and correctly classify the merchant so future payments are not affected" the bank explained.

BML reiterated that ensuring seamless access to payments for education, healthcare, and essential subscriptions remains a key priority. The bank assured customers that it will continue to assist in resolving technical issues that may prevent these essential transactions from being completed.

BML has previously stated that demand for US Dollars currently far exceeds the bank’s actual foreign currency inflows.