Why Study English in Malta?
Choosing where to study English is a big decision. You want somewhere safe, somewhere interesting, and somewhere your English will actually improve — not just in the classroom, but in real life too. Malta gives you all of that.
At BSC Malta, our General English and IELTS courses are designed to make the most of every advantage the island has to offer.
Malta is a small island in the middle of the Mediterranean, with good weather, thousands of years of history, and a large community of international students. But what makes it genuinely different from most study destinations is simple: English is an official language here. That changes everything.
English Is Spoken Everywhere in Malta
In most countries, your English lessons stop when you leave the school. In Malta, they do not.
English is one of Malta’s two official languages, which means you will hear and use it everywhere — in shops, cafés, on the bus, and in conversation with local people. You do not need to switch to another language outside class. Your learning carries on naturally, all day, every day.
You will also hear English spoken in many different accents and situations. This is especially useful if you are preparing for the IELTS exam, which tests your ability to understand a variety of speakers in real contexts.
A Place With a Lot to Explore
Malta is a small island, but there is a lot going on. Over the centuries, the Romans, Arabs, and British all lived here, and you can still see their influence in the buildings and culture today. British-style red postboxes sit next to ancient city walls in Valletta — it is that kind of place.
If you enjoy history, St Paul’s Catacombs in Rabat date back to Roman times and are well worth a visit. The ancient temples on Malta and Gozo are UNESCO World Heritage sites and some of the oldest buildings in the world. Walking tours are a good way to explore the island and practise your listening skills at the same time.
Food, Festivals, and Life on the Island
Maltese food is a mix of Mediterranean, North African, and Italian cooking, and it is very good. Pastizzi are small, flaky pastries filled with ricotta — cheap, delicious, and sold in bakeries everywhere. For fresh seafood, head to Marsaxlokk, a colourful fishing village in the south. And try Kinnie, a fizzy orange drink made locally that you will not find anywhere else.
There is always something happening in Malta. There are two carnivals each year with music, costumes, and parades. In October, the Notte Bianca festival fills Valletta with live music and performances. In August, the Malta International Food Festival is a great day out if you enjoy food — which, after a week in Malta, you definitely will.
Things to Do in Your Free Time
The weather is good year-round. Winters are mild at around 10 degrees, and summers are warm at around 30 degrees. Because Malta is an island, water activities are very popular. Swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, and windsurfing are all easy to access. The Blue Lagoon is one of the most beautiful places to swim anywhere in Europe. Ghajn Tuffieha is a great beach for sunbathing, and Ghar Lapsi is for the more adventurous — you can jump into the sea from the rocks there.
If you prefer to stay on land, hiking and rock climbing give you a chance to see a side of Malta that most tourists miss.
Your Base: Sliema
BSC Malta is in Sliema, which is one of the nicest areas on the island for students staying for a few weeks or longer. It is quieter than St Julian’s nearby, with a pleasant seafront, plenty of local cafés, and good spots to study outside. Bookbites, a café overlooking Manoel Island, is a favourite with students — a nice place to read or go over your notes.
The Barraka Gardens in Valletta are also worth the short trip. Both the Upper and Lower Gardens have great views over the Grand Harbour and shaded benches to sit and relax. The Lower Gardens are usually a little quieter if you want some peace.
Malta is also one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a strong community feel. For students and for parents, that matters.
You Will Not Be on Your Own
One thing students often say about Malta is how easy it is to meet people. The international student community here is large and genuinely mixed. You will have classmates from France, Turkey, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Germany, and many other countries.
The conversations you have outside class are just as valuable as the ones inside. Practising English with people from different backgrounds builds confidence quickly, and the friendships you make can last long after the course ends.
General English and IELTS Courses at BSC Malta
BSC Malta offers two main programmes for international students: General English and IELTS preparation.
General English is for students who want to improve their overall level of English. The course covers reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Classes are small, which means more time to speak, more feedback from your teacher, and a programme that works around your level and your goals. Whether you are at a lower level or already fairly confident and want to become more fluent, the course will be built around you.
IELTS preparation is for students who need to pass the IELTS exam — for university entry, a visa application, or a job requirement. The course is taught by experienced teachers who know the exam in detail. You will work through all four parts — Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking — with timed practice, mock tests, and regular individual feedback. Studying in an English-speaking country while you prepare means your skills develop around the clock, not just during lessons. That combination makes a real difference to your result.
Both courses are based at our school in Sliema, with dedicated support throughout your time in Malta.
Ready to take the next step? Contact the BSC Malta team today and we will help you find the right course for your goals. You can also follow BSC Education on Instagram and TikTok to get a real feel for life at BSC Malta before you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Malta a good place to learn English?
Yes, and for a very specific reason: English is an official language in Malta. That means you use it everywhere — not just in class. Most study destinations cannot offer that, and it makes a real difference to how quickly you improve.
Can I take an IELTS preparation course in Malta?
Yes. BSC Malta offers a dedicated IELTS preparation course covering all four parts of the exam: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. Courses are taught by qualified, experienced teachers.
How long does it take to improve my English in Malta?
It depends on your starting level and your goals. Most students notice real progress within a few weeks because they are using English both inside and outside the classroom every day. The more you engage with English life in Malta, the faster you will improve.
Is Malta safe for international students?
Yes. Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. Many students say they felt at home very quickly.
Where is BSC Malta located?
BSC Malta is in Sliema, on the northeast coast of Malta. It is close to the seafront, local cafés, and good transport links to the rest of the island, including the capital city Valletta.
Contact us today or follow BSC Education on Instagram or TikTok to see more from us.
