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Learn to speak English in Malta
Why study English in Malta?
Let me start by sharing how I got into this subject. True story — my friend spent a summer in Malta for English lessons, scored a Cambridge diploma, major tan, and gained hundreds of international Instagram buddies who practice English with him. He switched to using “cheers” over “thanks” — proof the immersion worked!
So, why is Malta so popular for English courses? The country itself is a blend of sun, epic history, and — believe it or not — English is an official language. The island vibes are real, but it’s also packed with seriously good language schools. There’s a huge mix of global students, the Mediterranean right at your feet, and it’s way less expensive than cities like London or Dublin. This lets you enjoy quality education and skip massive bills for lattes and study materials.
Rumor has it that buying a pastizzi after lectures boosts your grammar skills. Scientific? Maybe not, but sounds believable. The chilled-out, welcoming vibe seriously helps you keep practicing English everywhere. You order coffee, chat at a bus stop, or maybe even party on the weekend — all in English with people from literally everywhere.
If you’ve ever Googled “learn English Malta,” you’ve probably seen just how many options there are — whether you’re a total beginner, business pro, teacher, or even a teenager looking for a productive vacation. No matter your level or goal, Malta delivers.
Different English course options in Malta
Now, let’s check out what kinds of classes are on offer here. There’s way more than beautiful beaches — Malta boasts an awesome range of English classes. Options depend on your aims and learning style. My network has experienced them all — so I’ll give you the inside scoop:
- General Studies English
The go-to program for most students. It’s your traditional setup: lessons in all main skills: speaking, reading, writing, listening. Classes are hands-on, with role-plays, teamwork, and plenty of communication. For example, at the Institute of English Language Studies, the focus is on real-life English skills, no matter your starting level.
- Fast-Track English
This is for anyone needing fast improvement. Same as general English but more intensive — extra hours and mini-groups (places like Maltalingua and Berlitz are famous for this). You’ll swap beach time for assignments, but your English will skyrocket in no time. My old housemate did this before uni and said it was like “running a language marathon” but 100% worth it.
- Exam Preparation (IELTS, Cambridge, TOEFL)
If you need a recognized certificate for uni or work, these are your go-to classes. Malta University Language School and IELS both do them, covering all the tricks — timed essays, mock speaking exams, reading like a machine. People I know dramatically boosted their scores on a second attempt after these classes. And these programs are led by certified, experienced instructors (CELTA, DELTA — real deal).
- English for Work & Meetings
Worried about business English? These courses are for you. Classes are small — usually 6–8 students (check IELS, Maltalingua and BELS) — and focus on emails, presentations, and professional chit-chat. There’s also the bonus of networking across industries with your peers. True story: one classmate from Brazil started negotiating contracts from his balcony in week 3.
- Industry-Focused English
EC Malta rolls out short, high-intensity courses for teachers and school personnel — 1-2 week sprints on communication and methodology. IELS makes it more specific, running English sessions for sectors like healthcare, tourism, and beyond. These are popular for the industry-focused vocabulary, and you get a real, recognized certificate at the end.
- One-on-One Lessons
Not everyone wants to hang out in a group. Private tuition is custom-made for your pace, goals, and problem areas. They can be expensive (think €40–60 per hour at Maltalingua or IELS), but you get total personal coaching. Ideal for shy students or those with a specific pronunciation target.
And just so you know, most schools let you pick “mix and match” — like, general English in the morning, business or private lessons in the afternoon. It’s easy to arrange a flexible schedule, ideal for squeezing in sightseeing after your lessons.
Leading English language schools in Malta
Now for the fun part — each school brings its own flavor and reputation. I get questions all the time like, “Which school is the best?” or “Do they just put tourists in a classroom with a PowerPoint?” So, here’s a rundown of the main schools — plus a peek at what they’re really like:
Name of School Experience & Options
Institute of English Language Stuadies (IELS)
• Known for academic rigor; CELTA/DELTA instructors
• Teacher Trainig courses
• Structured, but also lively!
Malta University Language School
• Strong academic rep; CELTA/DELTA teachers
• University of Malta certificate
• Structured, but also lively!
Maltalingua
• Adult-oriented, cozy groups
• Sky terrace, poolside events
• Open-minded, sociable, contemporary
EC Malta
• Biggest chain, tons of activities
• Guided tours, confidence-boosting sessions
• Trendy and diverse
BELS Malta & Gozo
• Test prep and business English
• Young learner programs, visa guidance
• Relaxed, welcoming, many coming back
Berlitz Malta
• Classic Berlitz method
• Both group and private, speaking-centric
• Ideal for professionals needing fast results
The right school depends on your own preferences and what you want most. Maybe you’re searching for academic discipline, or you’d rather bask in the sun, swim, and have relaxed conversations? Are you set for just a few weeks, or are you in for months (maybe grabbing a long-stay discount)?
“I signed up for three weeks, stayed half a year, and made international friends. My language skills and network both grew massively.”
— Viktoria from Prague (still sends me selfies from Valletta)
Class sizes, how lessons work, and teaching approach
So, yeah, group sizes actually matter — a lot. I’ll admit, I dislike large, hectic groups, so Malta’s small, laid-back classes were a shock compared to big urban courses.
Here are the typical setups:
Standard English Classes typically have 10 to 15 students, so everyone gets a turn, and no one can hide in the background!
Workplace English & Test Prep Ultra-small groups — sometimes down to 4–6 people. That means more individual attention, quicker progress, and way less “wait your turn.”
Individual Tuition One-to-one, super intense but ridiculously effective.
Teachers here? Yeah, they’re not just “native speakers” — these folks are certified (CELTA, DELTA, TESOL, you name it) and actually care about your progress. Also, classroom vibes are centered on talking and real-world language. I remember spending a session on mock job interviews — awkward in the moment, but incredibly practical for real life.
For those who hate exams but love a challenge (yep, that’s me), schools often use debates, games, drama, and sometimes cooking or baking as learning tools.
Outside lessons: English in Malta’s daily life
Honestly, English in Malta is as much outside class as in it. One word: immersion. I figured “cultural program” meant only an odd museum trip and then back to textbooks. Nope! Try this instead: class in the morning, then a beach barbecue in Sliema with Italians, Russians, and Germans, all bantering in English.
The schools set up activities including Valletta tours and Comino trips, plus karaoke, movies, and language exchanges. I’ll never forget messing up in a Maltese folk dance lesson — people laughed, but I got all the jokes. That’s fluency!
Outside the classroom, it’s crazy simple to use your English in Malta. You’ll end up chatting at cafes, in shops, or at bookstores. Even grandmothers in the grocery aisles might coach your pronunciation when they notice you’re learning.
Here’s some stuff you’ll never find in an online lesson:
Trying rabbit stew at a nearby eatery (it’s better than you’d think) Crumbling with laughter during a pub trivia night with friends from school Joining a spontaneous festival and belting out English lyrics (with questionable pitch)
Since everything’s nearby, you won’t miss a thing. Learn, hit the beach, discover, and do it all over again — no car needed. That’s immersion, and that’s where it gets amazing.
Accommodation options for language students
Once you’ve got your school and course sorted, the real question is: where will you stay? It’s no small thing. Where you live determines how you experience Malta, meet other students, interact with residents, and blend with city life.
Homestay experience in Malta
This is classic. Staying with a Maltese family means you’ll eat local food (expect lots of fresh bread, tomatoes, and crazy-good pastizzi), experience daily life, and talk, talk, talk — all in English, from breakfast to dinner.
Based on stories I’ve heard — and my Italian friend’s stay — you might gain a “surrogate grandma” who cares for you and corrects every English mistake at meal times. For learning real-life phrases and the Maltese style of speaking, it’s unbeatable. Don’t worry if you’re vegetarian or have allergies; schools arrange things to fit your needs.
Opting for student housing or apartment sharing
If you want to do your own thing, go for a student residence. It’s like dorm life, but with way better views. You’ll share space with students from all over the globe — French, Japanese, Brazilian — and discover how to work the shower, while debating whose food is missing.
Major plus: constant company for studying, films, swims, and non-stop English practice (including debates about who does the dishes).
Private apartment option
Some students — especially professionals or those who like privacy — prefer their own apartment. Yes, it’s pricier, but you get to live like a local: market shopping, hosting guests, and feeling like Malta is really “your” city. Opt for this if you’re taking an extended course (BELS has long-term deals) and want independence.
Housing option Ideal for Vibe Average price per week*
Family accommodation Immersion lovers, younger students Home-cooked food, lots of English, inside info €200–€300
Shared accommodation Budget travelers, socializers Group activities, communal meals, new friends €150-€250
Rental apartment People staying longer, those valuing space Your space, live like a Maltese resident, do it your way €250–€450
*Season affects the cost — prices rocket in July-August, but drop in winter.
What’s a student’s day like in Malta?
Curious about daily life? This is how real students (and sometimes me, for research!) fill up 24 hours in Malta:
8:00 – Greet the day with church bells and ocean scents. Catch an espresso with your host or flatmates. 9:00 – 12:30 – Lessons time. Could be group chat practice, grammar work, presentations, or exam sessions. 12:30 – 14:00 – Lunchtime with friends. Eventually, you all gather at the same café, where a ftira sandwich and flawless English order feels like victory. 14:00 – 16:00 – Sunbathe, swim, or choose a special workshop — could be exam prep, learning Maltese slang, or even salsa dancing in the study center. 16:00 – 18:00 – Extra classes for those in advanced programs, or tackle homework — maybe outside by a gelato cart. 19:00 – Dinner and good company. Either with your host family, sharing a meal in the residence, or dining out with friends in Valletta. 20:00 – 23:00 – Evening fun: city walking tour, trivia night, party on a boat, or sunset on a rooftop — group chat blows up with new plans.
Craziest bit? Every activity is a lesson in disguise — you’re constantly speaking and listening in English, barely realizing you’re learning.
Student visas & paperwork
Getting a visa sounds daunting, but Malta handles it well for language students. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you often don’t need one (short stays). Non-EU? You’ll apply for a student visa if you’re staying more than 90 days.
Exciting update! Big schools like IELS, BELS, EC, Maltalingua all have visa guidance as part of their student services. They’ll give you a handy checklist, help gather documents, and issue an acceptance letter — so it’s smooth sailing at the consulate. Pro-tip: Always check the latest rules (they can switch up fast post-Brexit for UK/Irish passport holders).
Firsthand reviews from real students
Don’t just take it from me — literally, everyone I met had strong emotions about their Malta experience. Here’s a random sampling, and yeah — some of these are from ex-classmates now scattered across Europe, still texting me memes in English:
“I’d already tried learning English in other countries twice, but Malta was on another level. After only weeks at IELS, my confidence shot up and I actually made friends outside my comfort zone. No joke, we’re already organizing a reunion!” — Paola, Italy
“My business English shot up at BELS Gozo. Couldn’t imagine how helpful the teachers were — every class, they tailored topics to my work, role-played real calls, and even helped polish my resume for job apps.” — Andreas, Germany
“Was worried about being 35 in an English course in Malta, but turns out it’s totally mixed. Finance, tech, medicine, you name it — now we have a big LinkedIn group and brainstorm weekly in English.” — Clare, France
Everyone agrees on one thing: there’s something magic about how fast you level up when you’re living, not just learning.
What to be aware of
Being real: there are some potential pitfalls if you’re not prepared in Malta:
If you’re planning for July or August, expect crowds — book ahead or you might wind up in a dorm with a dozen teenagers and just one bathroom (not kidding). Party all night in Paceville if you want, but for a relaxed vibe, Sliema and Gozo are better choices. Low-cost courses aren’t always better — watch out for overcrowding; ask for honest feedback first. The climate’s generally great, but January and February can be windy and colder than expected — bring some layers for winter.
And yeah, WiFi isn’t world-class everywhere. If you’re remote working between classes, double-check the school/café has decent internet so your Zoom call doesn’t freeze mid-sentence (happened to me… more than once).
Expense guide: English language study in Malta
Expense type Typical price (per week)
General English course €210-300
Intensive English upgrade additional €70-€150
Business-focused English 250–400 euros
Living with local hosts €200–€300
Student accommodation €150–250
Apartment rental €300–450
Dining €50-100
Transport card €21 (tallinja unlimited travel)
Entrance tickets, museum/cultural 5–15 euros
Bars & entertainment €20–€60
Honestly, once you’re here, daily expenses aren’t too crazy. Most people budget for the course and accommodation first — everything else depends on how wild you go with dinners, day trips, or, um, karaoke nights.
Malta’s edge in English learning
Here’s where I get a bit passionate: Malta is easily my number one pick for learning English, and I’ve spent time checking out cities all over Europe. The environment makes mixing study, chill-out, and actual adventure seamless. Locals are friendly, public transport works well, and there’s always someone to help you out — whether it’s fixing your verb tenses or just figuring out the next bus.
English course FAQs for Malta Which months are best for studying in Malta?
May, September, and October offer great weather, fewer tourists, and reasonable costs. The summer months (June–August) are party central, but accommodation gets crowded.
Is Maltese required to get by in Malta's English courses?
Not at all! You don’t need any Maltese. English is the main language, and teachers are ready to correct any awkward translations. Still, knowing words like “mela!” impresses the locals.
Is it possible to get a job while learning English in Malta?
If you’re an EU/EEA student, yes — talk to your school about the process. Non-EU students may apply for work after meeting certain conditions.
Is there a minimum English level to start?
No minimum! You’ll take a placement test before or once you arrive, so all levels are covered — beginners and advanced alike.
Is it safe to go to Malta by yourself?
Extremely safe — low crime, locals watch out for each other, and police are known to assist if you need directions after a night out.
What if I have a problem during my stay?
All big schools have a student support office and a WhatsApp number for emergencies — so you’ll never be stuck.
Are courses in Malta effective for fast learning?
Dive into every aspect — lessons, making friends, family stays — and your English will leap in a month or two. But chatting lots is key!
Not exaggerating: Malta’s English courses are more than the syllabus. They can change your career, your friend circle, the way you travel, and even how you see yourself. All you gotta do is show up, say “hi,” and let the island take care of the rest.
Feeling inspired? Enroll now, pack, and take the leap — the water’s perfect and the world is out there.
Why yоu ѕhould consider learning English at IELS Malta?
A ⅼarge, modern educational institution boasting һigh-еnd finishes аnd tоp-notch resources. Classes fⲟr ɑll levels ѡith a start ɗate օf ｅνery Ⅿonday tһroughout tһе year (timetabled courses) Experienced and highly qualified teachers ѡith CELTA/TEFL certificates. Decades of educational experience providing exceptional quality. Ꮯonstantly ɑvailable emergency assistance fօr аll students. Αn energetic locale ѡith the beach, stores, restaurants, and pubs ⲟnly fіᴠｅ minutes aᴡay օn foot. Dedicated spaces for students t᧐ relax and study. Wide range of accommodation options Charming school ѡith excellent residence options situated within fіѵe mіnutes ߋn foot. A newly built residence located directly аbove thｅ school. A friendly and dynamic environment thɑt promotes multilingualism. Α broad selection of excursions and activities: weekly offerings οf leisure, culture, аnd outdoor experiences. Supportive and proactive staff dedicated tо assisting students. ᒪatest teaching methods Initial testing prior tⲟ arrival coupled ѡith weekly assessments ߋf progress. Average ᧐f 8-12 ᴡeeks to complete оne level Receive a certificate confirming ϲourse completion ᥙpon finishing ѕuccessfully.
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