✨ Quick Summary
Why Learn English in Malta?
Malta is one of the few countries in Europe where English is an official language, a legacy of 164 years of British colonial rule. It has established itself as one of the world's most popular destinations for ESL (English as a Second Language) students.
Students flock to Malta not just for the high standard of teaching, but for the lifestyle. You get full linguistic immersion—English is spoken on the streets, used in business, and broadcast on television—paired with 300 days of sunshine, a vibrant international community, and a safe, Mediterranean environment.
Every year, over 80,000 foreign students visit Malta specifically to attend language schools, creating a massive, diverse, and energetic student economy centered around towns like Sliema and St. Julian's.
Types of English Courses
Maltese language schools cater to every level, age, and professional requirement. Courses typically run from Monday to Friday.
General & Intensive English
The most popular option. General English usually involves 20 lessons per week focusing on speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Intensive courses add another 10 afternoon lessons for faster progression.
Exam Preparation
Dedicated courses designed to help students pass international proficiency exams required for university entry or immigration, such as IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge (FCE/CAE/CPE).
Business English
Tailored for professionals and executives. These courses focus on corporate vocabulary, email writing, negotiations, and presentation skills. Often taught in "mini-groups" or 1-to-1 sessions.
Summer Camps (Teens & Juniors)
Highly popular in July and August. These packages combine morning English lessons with a full afternoon and evening itinerary of supervised activities, beach trips, and cultural excursions.
Top Language Schools in Malta
There are over 30 licensed English language schools in Malta. When choosing a school, it is highly recommended to select one accredited by FELTOM (Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations Malta), which guarantees high academic standards and student welfare.
- EC English: Located in St. Julian's. One of the largest and most globally recognized schools, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated "30+" program for mature students.
- EF Education First: Also in St. Julian's. Offers a massive, vibrant campus with its own private beach club. Highly popular with young adults and teenagers.
- IELS Malta: Based in Sliema. One of the oldest and largest schools on the island, known for excellent academic rigor and a massive network of host families.
- BELS: With campuses in St. Paul's Bay (Malta) and Kerċem (Gozo), BELS is favored by students looking for a quieter, more immersive, and personalized learning environment away from the party districts.
- ACE English Malta: A highly modern, boutique-style school located inside the Bay Street shopping complex in St. Julian's, popular for its high-tech interactive whiteboards and stylish design.
Accommodation Options & Costs
Language schools almost always offer package deals that combine your English course with accommodation. Costs vary wildly depending on the season (Summer is significantly more expensive than Winter).
| Accommodation Type | Description | Est. Weekly Cost (Course included) |
|---|---|---|
| Host Families | Living with a local Maltese family. Excellent for language immersion. Usually includes breakfast and dinner (Half-Board). | €350 - €550 |
| Student Residences | Large apartment blocks or hostels shared with other international students. High social interaction, self-catering kitchens. | €400 - €700 |
| Private Apartments | Renting your own 1-bedroom flat through the school for maximum privacy and comfort. | €600 - €1,000+ |
Visas and Working Rights (TCNs)
While EU citizens can study in Malta without any visa restrictions, Third-Country Nationals (TCNs) must navigate the immigration system. Many schools have dedicated visa support teams to help you through this.
- Short Courses (Under 90 Days): TCNs from countries requiring a visa must apply for a standard Schengen Tourist Visa (C-Visa) to attend a short course. You cannot work on this visa.
- Long Courses (Over 90 Days): If you book a course longer than 90 days, you will enter Malta on a D-Visa (or apply for one upon arrival) and then apply for a National Study Residence Permit through Identità. You must show proof of paid tuition, health insurance, and sufficient living funds (approx. €750/month).