Malta

Language schools in Malta operate with a modular and flexible structure. Courses usually start every Monday throughout the year, and the minimum enrolment at most schools is 1 week; in our sources, programme durations range from 2 weeks to 12 months. A typical General English course consists of 20 lessons per week, each lasting 45 minutes; in intensive programmes the number of weekly lessons can rise to 30. On your first day at school, a placement test puts you in the appropriate class, from beginner to advanced. Our partner sources state that class sizes at many schools do not exceed 8 – 12 students. Course types include general and intensive English, Business English, IELTS / TOEFL / Cambridge preparation, academic English, children's and junior programmes, summer schools and 50+ courses. Some schools are accredited by organisations such as FELTOM and IALC.

Why Malta?

• As English is one of the country's official languages, you have continuous opportunities to use the language outside the classroom as well.
• Malta is in the European Union and the Schengen area; the source notes that the visa process is relatively easy.
• The course and accommodation ranges shared in our sources point to a more affordable budget compared with the UK.
• Thanks to the Mediterranean climate, you can combine language study with holidays and social life.
• There are many school options in areas with a high concentration of students, such as Valletta, Sliema and St. Julian's.
• According to the source, students on programmes longer than 90 days can apply for part-time work permission under certain conditions.
• There are options suitable for different age groups, from children's and junior programmes to courses for those aged 50+.

Tuition fees and living costs

The Malta language course page gives monthly living expenses as €300 – €600. Accommodation costs range from €300 to €1,500 per month depending on the type. Course fees fall on a weekly basis as the duration increases. All figures are averages given in the source and may vary by season.

Application steps

1. Define your goal (general improvement, exam, Business English) and your planned duration.
2. Choose your area and school; students most often choose Valletta, Sliema and St. Julian's.
3. Select your course and accommodation type, complete your enrolment with the school and receive your enrolment confirmation.
4. Prepare your Schengen visa application with your enrolment letter, accommodation and financial documents.
5. For programmes longer than 90 days, plan your student residence permit application after arrival.

Required documents

• Valid passport
• Enrolment / acceptance letter from the language school
• Proof of accommodation
• Proof of financial means
• Travel health insurance
• Visa application form and photo

Academic calendar and application periods

• Courses run all year round and start every Monday at most schools.
• The source states that the shortest programme is 2 weeks and the longest 12 months.
• Junior and summer school programmes are mainly held in the summer months.

Language requirements

• There is no language prerequisite for enrolling at language schools; you can enrol as a beginner.
• You are placed in the appropriate class through a level test on the first day.
• Age limits vary by school; the school list in the source includes 16+ and 18+ programmes.

Frequently asked questions

How much do language schools cost in Malta?

The source gives an average weekly price for General English of €150 – €300 for enrolments of 1-4 weeks and €80 – €180 for enrolments of more than 12 weeks. Current prices may vary by school and season.

Which visa do I need for Malta?

Malta is in the Schengen area; a Schengen visa is required for short-term language study. According to the source, students on courses longer than 90 days can also apply for a residence permit.

Can I work while studying a language in Malta?

The source states that students attending programmes longer than 90 days can apply for part-time work permission under certain conditions. This option is not available for short programmes.

Which area should I stay in?

St. Julian's is an area with a lively social life, Sliema is a central district with many school options, and Valletta stands out for its historic character. Your choice should depend on your budget and the pace of life you expect.

How many hours of lessons will I have per week?

A typical General English course consists of 20 lessons of 45 minutes per week. In intensive programmes this can rise to 30 lessons.