English Language Schools in Malta 2026: FELTOM Schools & Costs

Key facts

◇FELTOM Cost ranges illustrative. Verify current prices directly with individual schools. Last verified: 2026-06-09.

Why students choose Malta for English courses

• English is an official language — Malta is the smallest EU member state where English is a co-official language, making it convenient for visas, daily life, and immersion outside the classroom.
• Lower cost than the UK or Ireland — comparable courses in Malta are typically priced below equivalent programmes in London, Dublin, or Edinburgh, especially when accommodation is included.
• Year-round courses — schools run courses throughout the year, with peak demand in summer (June–September) when class sizes and prices both tend to be higher.
• Compact island — most language schools are within walking distance or a short bus ride of the sea, beaches, and social areas popular with international students.

Course types

Checking accreditation before you enrol

Malta's English language teaching industry is represented by FELTOM (Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations Malta), an industry body that sets quality standards for member schools. Separately, MFHEA (Malta Further and Higher Education Authority) is the government regulator for further and higher education providers, including some language schools offering accredited qualifications.

• Confirm the school is a current FELTOM member — this generally indicates inspected facilities, qualified teachers, and adherence to a code of practice.
• For courses that lead to a recognised qualification or that will support a long-stay study permit application, confirm the institution and course are MFHEA-registered or accredited.
• Ask for the school's registration/accreditation reference and verify it directly with FELTOM or MFHEA before paying a deposit.

Visa and permit implications

The visa route for an English course in Malta depends on its length and your nationality:

• Short courses (under 90 days): nationalities that do not need a Schengen visa for short stays can attend on a regular tourist entry. Nationalities that need a Schengen visa for short stays apply for a Schengen C-visa covering the course dates.
• Long courses (90 days or more): non-EU nationals need a student (D-type) visa and a study permit issued by Identità Malta. The course must be with an MFHEA-registered or recognised institution. See the student visa guide for the full process.
• EU/EEA/Swiss nationals do not need a visa for any course length and register residence with Identità Malta only if staying beyond 3 months.

Budgeting for an English course

Course fees are only part of the cost. Most schools quote accommodation, airport transfers, registration, and study materials separately. For a full breakdown of typical living costs in Malta — including shared accommodation, food, and transport — see the tuition and living costs guide.