Malta’s English Language Student Numbers Drop 6% in 2025
Enrollment Dive: English Language Students in Malta Drop by 6%
In the heart of Malta’s bustling Republic Street, the usually vibrant language schools seem a tad quieter this year. The reason? A 6% drop in English language students in 2025, according to the latest figures from the National Statistics Office. So, what’s behind this linguistic lull?
From Boom to Bust: The Numbers Game
The language learning industry in Malta has been a linguistic goldmine. In 2020, it contributed around €100 million to the local economy, supporting over 2,000 jobs. But 2025 tells a different story. The number of English language students has dipped to 84,000, down from 89,000 in 2020. This 6% decrease has tongues wagging and eyebrows raised.
Why the Drop? Local Insights
Dr. Joseph Aquilina, a respected linguist at the University of Malta, sheds light on the situation. “The drop could be attributed to a few factors,” he says. “Post-pandemic, many students are opting for online learning, reducing the need for physical travel. Also, the strengthening of the Maltese currency has made studying here less affordable.”
the rise of English as a global lingua franca has led some to question the need for physical immersion. “With English widely spoken and taught worldwide, the allure of learning in an English-speaking country may not be as strong as it once was,” Dr. Aquilina adds.
Local Schools: Adapting to the New Normal
Schools like the EF Malta and Malta School of English are not sitting idle. They’re diversifying their offerings, including more online courses and even teaching Maltese as a second language.
“We’re evolving,” says Maria Grech, Director of Studies at Malta School of English. “We’re offering more flexible learning options and promoting the unique cultural experience Malta offers. After all, learning a language is about more than just grammar.”
: Malta’s Linguistic Future
Despite the dip, Malta’s linguistic scene remains diverse and vibrant. With over 60 languages spoken on the islands, the future of language learning here is anything but quiet. As Dr. Aquilina puts it, “Malta’s linguistic melting pot is its strength. We just need to keep stirring the pot.”
So, what does this mean for you, dear reader? Well, if you’ve been thinking about learning English in Malta, now might be the perfect time. With fewer students, you’ll get more personal attention. Plus, you’ll be supporting the local industry during this transition. And who knows? You might just pick up some Maltese along the way.
