Studying or learning English in Malta: schools, costs and work

One hour's flight from Tunis, with English as an official language, a Mediterranean climate and a Maltese language surprisingly reminiscent of Tunisian Arabic, Malta is an ideal destination for learning English or studying in English. A stay of a few weeks, several months of IELTS preparation or a full degree: here is how to prepare your English project in Malta.

Why choose Malta?

• English every day: it is an official language, spoken everywhere.

• Close to Tunisia: short flights and a familiar Mediterranean culture.

• A Maltese language close to our own, which makes integration easier.

• A European Union country, safe and welcoming.

• Many accredited language schools, for all ages.

• Recognised degrees, especially in hospitality, tourism and business.

Learning English in Malta

Types of courses

• General English: from beginner to advanced, 20 to 30 lessons per week.

• Intensive courses: more hours to progress faster.

• Exam preparation: IELTS, Cambridge (B2 First, C1 Advanced).

• Business English and specialised courses.

• Junior stays: for 8-17 year olds, with activities and supervision. See Language stays for children and teenagers and our Junior programmes page.

How long?

From 2 weeks for a discovery stay to several months to move up one or two levels, or to prepare for the IELTS before a university application. As a general rule, allow 8 to 12 weeks of intensive classes to move up one level.

Choosing your school well

• Accreditation by the competent Maltese authority for language schools.

• Class size and maximum number of students.

• Mix of nationalities: avoid schools where your group is dominated by French or Arabic speakers.

• Placement test on arrival and progress monitoring.

• Location: Sliema, St Julian's, Valletta or quieter areas.

Studying in Malta

For a full degree, there are several options:

• the University of Malta, a public university offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees;

• MCAST, the College of Arts, Science and Technology, with vocational programmes;

• private institutes and colleges, often in partnership with British universities, especially in hospitality, tourism, business and IT.

An English test (IELTS or equivalent) is generally required. See IELTS in Tunisia.

The visa

Malta is part of the Schengen area. For a stay of more than three months, you need a national long-stay visa for studies. For shorter stays, a short-stay Schengen visa may be enough. Usual documents:

• acceptance letter from the school or institution and proof of payment;

• proof of funds;

• health insurance;

• confirmed accommodation;

• plane ticket or booking.

Processing times can be long in high season: submit your application several weeks before departure.

Accommodation

• Host family: ideal for practising English, often with meals.

• Student residence: more independence, an international atmosphere.

• Shared flat: for long stays.

For minors, only supervised options (host family or residence with supervision) are suitable.

What budget should you plan for?

Prices vary by school, season (summer is more expensive) and type of accommodation. Items to plan for:

• course fees, often decreasing with length of stay;

• registration and materials fees;

• accommodation;

• insurance, airport transfers and plane ticket;

• daily life: transport, meals, leisure.

Malta is generally more affordable than the United Kingdom or Ireland for a language stay.

Can you work in Malta?

Work is possible for some non-European students, subject to conditions: minimum programme length, work authorisation to be obtained, a limit on weekly hours. The rules have been tightened in recent years, especially for language courses. Do not count on a job to fund your stay: proof of funds is required before departure.

Typical timeline for a stay in Malta

• Short stay (2 to 8 weeks): book 2 to 3 months before departure, more for the summer.

• Long stay (more than 3 months): book 3 to 4 months ahead, to leave time for the national visa.

• University studies: apply 6 to 9 months before the start of the academic year.

Summer is high season: course and accommodation prices are higher and classes are fuller. Autumn and spring often offer better value for money and more international classes.

Documents to prepare for the visa

• passport valid for at least three months after the return date;

• school enrolment letter and proof of payment;

• accommodation booking;

• travel and health insurance covering the whole stay;

• bank statements or a sponsorship certificate;

• plane ticket booking;

• for a minor, parental authorisations and the parents' identity documents.

How to progress faster

• Choose a host family to practise English every day.

• Avoid sticking with French or Arabic speakers after class.

• Take part in the activities organised by the school.

• Set yourself a measurable goal: an IELTS score, a Cambridge exam or a CEFR level.

• Keep going after you return: reading, series in English, online conversation.

Malta for higher education

Degrees in hospitality, tourism, business and IT offer good prospects in a country where these sectors are highly developed. Company internships are plentiful. After graduation, the residence rules for working in Malta depend on your situation: find out at the right time.

How we support you

Worldwide Studies helps you choose the school or institution, the length of stay and accommodation, and put together your visa file. We also organise supervised junior stays. See our Malta page.

👉 Prices depend on the season and the length of stay: talk to an advisor for a quote tailored to your project.