The following investigation will explore the rationale behind pursuing English language in Malta, with a particular focus on the language schools available in the Maltese context.
Contents
- Rationale for the preference for Malta as a destination for the purpose of learning English
- Official languages of Malta: English and Maltese, both of which are native languages to the Maltese population
- Analysis of contemporary English schools in Malta
- List of English language schools in Malta that are accredited by the Malta authorities
- Discourse on the rationales underlying the decision to abstain from the acquisition of English proficiency in Malta
- Methodological approach to the selection of an English school in Malta that exhibits optimal efficacy
Rationale for the preference for Malta as a destination for the purpose of learning English
- Malta is an English-speaking country, with English being the native language of the local population.
- The Mediterranean region has been identified as a conducive environment for communication and language practice.
- Malta boasts English language schools of the highest caliber, boasting academic standards that rival the most prestigious institutions in the UK, USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
A compelling argument for pursuing English language studies in Malta is the affordability of educational services, which is notably more economical compared to other English-speaking nations. The confluence of all the above mentioned factors positions Malta as an optimal destination for English language acquisition.
Official languages of Malta: English and Maltese, both of which are native languages to the Maltese population
The official status of English and Maltese in Malta significantly impacts various facets of the country, including its traditions, governance, and social life. The population is proficient in both languages, which underscores the bilingual nature of Maltese society. English, in particular, permeates numerous areas of life in Malta, from educational institutions to government operations and everyday communication. This linguistic blend is a testament to Malta’s historical journey and its current global connections. To fully comprehend the cultural, educational, and international business environment in Malta, it is essential to appreciate the significance of English as a native language among its citizens.
Legislation in Malta officially acknowledges both Maltese and English as national languages. As a result, official documents, government forms, and public signage are available in both tongues. The education system prioritises the acquisition of English from an early age, enabling students to develop proficiency in both languages. This bilingual education not only enhances local opportunities but also prepares students for international prospects. Achieving fluency in English that mirrors that of native speakers is a fundamental aim within Maltese educational frameworks.
Educational institutions such as the University of Malta primarily deliver courses in English, which has transformed the island into a sought-after destination for international students. This emphasis on English-medium instruction has bolstered Malta’s standing as an educational hub.
Students can choose from a wide array of disciplines — including engineering, medicine, and law — all taught in English. Mastering English as the primary language of instruction empowers graduates to excel in professional environments across the globe.
Prior to gaining independence in 1964, Malta had a rich history as a British colony, which established English as an official language within the country. Government affairs are conducted in both Maltese and English, and the majority of Maltese citizens learn English during their schooling. Notably, secondary and higher education is predominantly delivered in English, further solidifying its role within the Maltese educational landscape.
The prominence of English in Malta is not merely a reflection of historical influences; it is a vital component of the nation’s identity, facilitating both local engagement and international connectivity. The presence of numerous language schools in Malta further enhances this dynamic, offering diverse opportunities for individuals seeking to improve their English language skills in a culturally rich environment.
Analysis of contemporary English schools in Malta
Malta has emerged as a sought-after destination for students from around the globe, renowned for its high-quality English courses that are enriched by a vibrant historical and cultural context. The island’s advantageous Mediterranean climate, reasonable tuition costs, and esteemed language schools collectively enhance its reputation as a leading educational centre.
Since gaining independence in 1964 and subsequently joining the European Union in 2004, Malta has experienced a notable surge in educational tourism. This growth can be attributed to both governmental and private initiatives that have fostered a comprehensive network of language schools. These institutions effectively leverage Malta’s multilingual landscape and its historical connections to Britain, positioning the island as an ideal locale for language acquisition.
Initially, these English language schools primarily attracted students from Europe, especially those hailing from Italy, Germany, and France. However, the demographic of learners has diversified over the years to include individuals from Asia, South America, and the Middle East, thereby transforming Malta into a truly international study destination. The rise in student enrolment has been significantly bolstered by effective online marketing strategies and positive word-of-mouth referrals, further entrenching Malta’s status within the global English Language Teaching (ELT) sector.
As of the end of 2025, the Malta ELT Council reports the presence of 34 accredited English language institutions on the island, encompassing a spectrum of establishments from intimate boutique centres to larger organisations. These schools offer an extensive range of programmes, including General English, Academic English, Business English, Exam Preparation (such as IELTS, TOEFL, and Cambridge assessments), English for Teenagers, and specialised courses tailored to specific industries.
The student population at English language schools in Malta is remarkably diverse, representing a wide array of cultures and nationalities. A considerable number of students originate from Europe, often enrolling in short-term courses or summer programmes. In recent years, there has been a notable increase in interest from South America and Asia, with many learners arriving from countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan for longer or professional courses.
IELS Malta, one of the leading English institutions on the island, reports that its top student nationalities for 2025 include Colombia, Brazil, Japan, South Korea, and Turkey. This is complemented by significant numbers from Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. However, according to the 2025 Marketing Report by StudyTravel Magazine, Italy ranks as the largest source country for students in Malta, followed closely by Germany, France, Austria, and Poland.
This rich mix of nationalities fosters a multicultural environment that encourages intercultural exchange and enhances the overall language learning experience. The age range of students varies widely from teenagers to adults, with many language schools offering tailored programmes designed to meet the needs of specific age groups.
Modern language schools in Malta employ a variety of pedagogical approaches, predominantly focusing on communicative methods that prioritise practical communication skills. Engaging activities, digital resources, and multimedia tools are extensively utilised to maintain student interest. Additionally, many institutions have adopted immersive language practices through cultural excursions, conversation clubs, and language exchanges that promote authentic language usage in real-life contexts.
The prominence of English in Malta is not merely a reflection of historical influences; it is a vital component of the nation’s identity that facilitates both local engagement and international connectivity. The array of language schools in Malta continues to attract students seeking to enhance their English proficiency in an enriching cultural environment.
List of English schools in Malta accredited by Malta authorities
A CLASS ACADEMY OF ENGLISH
STC, Block A, Alamein Road, Pembroke
Tel: (+356) 2137 4588 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.aclassenglish.com
ACE ENGLISH MALTA
Bay Street Complex, Level 4, St.George’s Bay, St. Julian’s, STJ 3311
Tel: (+356) 2713 5135 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.aceenglishmalta.com
ALPHA SCHOOL OF ENGLISH
Arznell Street, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 3232
Tel: (+356) 2158 1474/5 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.alphaschoolmalta.com
AM LANGUAGE
299, Triq Manwel Dimech, Sliema, SLM 1054
Tel: (+356) 2132 4242 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.amlanguage.com
ASCENCIA MALTA LTD
23, Vincenzo Dimech Street, Floriana
Tel: (+356) 2034 1784 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ascencia-business-school.mt
ATLAS LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Alamein Road, Pembroke
Tel: (+356) 2138 2045 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.atlaslanguageschool.com
BELS GOZO
Triq ta’ Doti, Kercem, KCM 1721 Gozo
Tel: (+356) 2156 4333 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.belsmalta.com
BELS MALTA
550 West, St. Paul’s Street, St. Paul’s Bay
Tel: (+356) 2755 5561 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.belsmalta.com
BERLITZ (ENGLISH LANGUAGE ACADEMY)
65, Birkirkara Hill, St.Julian’s, STJ 1143
Tel: (+356) (+356) 2577 4000 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.elamalta.com
BSC LEARNERS MALTA (BSC MALTA)
Palazzo Capua, George Borg Olivier Street,Sliema
Tel: (+356) 2704 7408/7759 8259 Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.bsceducation.com/ destinations/malta/
GATEWAY SCHOOL OF ENGLISH (GSE)
1, Bosfru Street, San Gwann (St.Julian’s)
Tel: (+356) 2137 5086 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.english-malta.com
GV MALTA ENGLISH CENTRE
St. George’s Street, St. Paul’s Bay, SPB 3476
Tel: (+356) 2157 3417 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.gvmalta.com
INTERNATIONAL HOUSE MALTA
Triq id-Dragunara, Paceville San Ġiljan STJ3141
Tel: (+356) 2138 4139 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ihmalta.com
INLINGUA SCHOOL OF LANGUAGES
92, Tigne Street, Sliema, SLM 3172
Tel: (+356) 2010 2000 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.inlinguamalta.com
INSTITUTE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE STUDIES (IELS)
Mattew Pulis Street, Sliema, SLM 3052
Tel: (+356) 2132 0381 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ielsmalta.com
LONDON SCHOOL OF COMMERCE (LSC)
3rd Floor, Europa Centre, St.Anne Street, Floriana, FRN 9020
Tel: (+356) 2122 6200 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.lscmalta.edu.mt
MALTA UNIVERSITY LANGUAGE SCHOOL
Campus Hub, Block O, Level 6 University of Malta Tal-Qroqq, Msida
Tel: (+356) 2132 2785 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.universitylanguageschool.com
MALTALINGUA SCHOOL OF ENGLISH
2, Birkirkara Hill, St. Julian’s, STJ 1141
Tel: (+356) 2742 7570 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.maltalingua.com
NSTS ENGLISH LANGUAGE INSTITUTE
12, Taliana Lane, Gzira, GZR 1723
Tel: (+356) 2558 8500 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.nstsmalta.org
SCHOOL OF ENGLISH MALTA
8, Magazines Street, Floriana, FRN 1119
Tel: (+356) 2122 1371 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.schoolofenglishmalta.com
SEAL MALTA
58, Tower Tinghi Street, Xewkija, Gozo
Tel: (+356) 2156 1909, 9905 7027 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.sealmalta.com
SMART SCHOOL OF ENGLISH
Villa Menhir, 128, Triq is-Sirk, Is-Swieqi
Tel: (+356) 2124 9400 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.englishsmartschool.com
SPRACHCAFFE LANGUAGES PLUS
6, Alamein Road, Pembroke, PBK 1776
Tel: (+356) 2137 3574/5/6 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.sprachcaffe-malta.com
UNILANG INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF LANGUAGES
Workers’ Memorial Building, South Street, Valletta
Tel: (+356) 2567 9226 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.unilangeducation.com
CAVENDISH SCHOOL OF ENGLISH
124, Melita Street, Valletta, VLT1123
Tel: (+356) 2122 0230 Email: [email protected] Web: www.cavendishschool.com
CLUBCLASS LANGUAGE SCHOOL
104, Triq is-Sidra, Swieqi, SWQ 3150
Tel: (+356) 2137 0694, 2377 2401 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.clubclass.com
EASY SCHOOL OF LANGUAGES
21, St. Ursula Street, Valletta, VLT 1230
Tel: (+356) 2122 5505 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.easysl.com
EC MALTA
Marguerite Mangion Street, St. Julian’s, STJ 3180
Tel: (+356) 2379 0555 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ecenglish.com
EEC-ITIS MALTA TOURISM & LANGUAGES INSTITUTE
9, EEC – ITIS Building, Triq San Pietru, San Gwann, SGN 2310
Tel: (+356) 2137 6868 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.educationmalta.com
EF INTERNATIONAL LANGUAGE CAMPUSES – MALTA
The Mayfair Business Centre, Lower St. Augustine Street,St. George’s Bay, St. Julian’s, STJ 3312
Tel: (+356) 2033 2000 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ef.com
ENGLISH DOMAIN
Domain Building, 102/104, Constitution Street, Mosta, MST 9055
Tel: (+356) 2143 3688 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.englishdomain.eu
ENGLISH PATH MALTA
West Block, Level 5/6, Marguerite Mangion Street, St, Julian’s
Tel: (+356) 2743 2278 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.englishpath.com
EUROPEAN SCHOOL OF ENGLISH (ESE)
ESE Building, Paceville Avenue, St. Julian’s, STJ 3103
Tel: (+356) 2137 3789 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.ese-edu.com
EXECUTIVE TRAINING INSTITUTE (ETI MALTA)
ESE Building, Paceville Avenue, St. Julian’s, STJ 3103
Tel: (+356) 2379 6321 Email: [email protected]
Web: www.etimalta.com
As of now, there are 34 accredited English schools operating in Malta and Gozo. This impressive number highlights the island’s status as a prominent destination for English language learning. The English Language Teaching (ELT) sector in Malta is characterised by its robust organisation and stringent oversight, making it a unique case globally. Malta is distinguished as one of the few countries that has implemented legislation to ensure that all licensed institutions adhere to a national quality standard.
This regulatory framework plays a pivotal role in maintaining high educational standards across the board, fostering an environment where students can expect consistent quality in their language education. Consequently, the combination of legislative support and a structured approach has catalysed rapid growth within the sector, attracting a diverse array of students eager to enhance their English proficiency in Malta.
The commitment to quality assurance not only benefits the students but also reinforces Malta’s reputation as a premier location for language acquisition. As such, the English schools in Malta continue to thrive, catering to an increasing demand for English learning amidst a backdrop of cultural richness and historical significance.
Discourse on the rationales underlying the decision to abstain from the acquisition of English proficiency in Malta
Misconception of Malta as a Non-English-Speaking Country
The belief that Malta is not an English-speaking nation is a significant misunderstanding. The Maltese population is predominantly bilingual, with both English and Maltese recognised as official languages. Similar to Ireland, Malta successfully upholds its cultural heritage while being proficient in two languages.
Moreover, it is essential to highlight that instruction at secondary level and post-secondary educational institutions in Malta is predominantly conducted in English. Maltese citizens often identify as bilingual and consider English to be their native tongue, thereby reinforcing the island’s status as a suitable environment for learning English.
Perception of a Strong Local Accent
The assertion that Malta possesses an overly pronounced accent warrants reconsideration. Like any other region where English is spoken,
Malta exhibits unique cultural characteristics that can influence language use, speech patterns, and pronunciation. However, these local variations do not hinder the development of practical language skills. In fact, the leading language schools in Malta employ modern teaching methods using textbooks from reputable British publishers such as Oxford University Press (OUP) and Cambridge University Press (CUP). Furthermore, the educators are often qualified to British standards, ensuring a high level of instruction.
It is also important to acknowledge that in every English-speaking country, there exist individuals whose accents may render them difficult to understand. This phenomenon is not representative of the entire population. The clarity of communication largely depends on the individual speaker; however, Received Pronunciation remains prevalent among the higher socio-economic strata of Maltese society.
Perceived Focus on Leisure Over Serious Study
The notion that Malta is more conducive to leisure activities than serious academic pursuit is ultimately subjective. Prospective students should carefully select language schools in Malta that are renowned for their rigorous academic frameworks and impressive student outcomes. It is crucial to consider student testimonials that emphasise achievements in mastering English rather than mere references to recreational activities such as beach outings and parties. For those committed to serious study, it is vital to ensure that the chosen institution delivers high-quality education tailored to meet academic
goals.
Malta presents a compelling case for learning English, dispelling myths surrounding its linguistic landscape and educational offerings. By selecting reputable language schools in Malta, students can expect a rigorous academic experience alongside the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant cultural setting.
Methodological approach to the selection of an English school in Malta that exhibits optimal efficacy
When seeking to learn English in Malta, the distinction between a superior language school and an average one lies in a structured approach to maintaining educational quality and performance. It is essential to ensure that the chosen institution provides a comprehensive array of conditions
conducive to learning. Only through such diligence can students be assured of achieving commendable results.
The characteristics that define an outstanding language school include:
- Established Academic and Professional Reputation according to independent experts in the field.
- Qualified Teaching Staff with globally recognized qualifications such as the Cambridge CELTA, Trinity TESOL or equivalent.
- Experienced Academic Director/Manager with solid professional background.
- Positive Student Feedback confirming achievements in acquiring practical language skills.
- Accreditations and Licenses from the ELT Council and FELTOM.
To excel in mastering English in Malta, it is crucial to select a language school with a robust academic standing. The Institute of English Language Studies (IELS), Malta is a premier institution with international acclaim.
“I have been involved in global language education since 2005, collaborating with some
— Nataliya Kudryavtseva (MA in Language Teaching with Honours; Cambridge CELTA “B”), IELS Malta representative and co-founder of MaltaEng.com
of Malta’s most esteemed language schools. In my view, IELS offers the finest experience
for those learning English.”
Information sources
https://nso.gov.mt/ — National Statistics Office
https://eltcouncil.gov.mt/ — ELT Council
https://www.feltom.com/ — FELTOM
Author
Mike Kudryavtsev, educational consultant specialising in international language education and study abroad since 1997, co-founder of MaltaEng.com.
Related Topics
Malta, languages, EFL, ESL, education, English learning, English schools, language travel, study abroad, escuela de inglés en Malta, escola de inglês em Malta
