Number of English language students drops 6% in 2025

In the heart of Malta’s bustling Republic Street, the once-thriving language schools now echo with a subtle silence. The usual hum of international students has noticeably dimmed. Why? The number of English language students in Malta has dropped by a staggering 6% in 2025.

Malta’s English language industry, once a thriving sector, has seen a significant downturn. In 2025, the number of students enrolling in English language courses has plummeted by 6%. This decline, a stark contrast to the industry’s previous boom, has left educators and stakeholders grappling with the implications.

In the past, Malta’s English language schools were a beacon for international students, drawing in thousands each year. The island’s strategic location, warm climate, and rich history made it an attractive destination for language learners. But what’s caused this sudden shift?

Several factors contribute to this downturn. The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly played a significant role, with international travel restrictions and health concerns keeping students at home. the rise of online learning platforms has provided students with more affordable and convenient alternatives.

Competition from other English-speaking destinations has also intensified. Countries like Ireland, South Africa, and even Malta’s neighbor, Gozo, are offering attractive language learning packages, drawing students away from the main island.

Locally, the increased cost of living in Malta has also been a deterrent. With rents soaring and the cost of living climbing, the island is becoming less affordable for international students. Even the local currency’s strength against the Euro has made Malta less attractive for students from Eurozone countries.

Malta’s English language schools are not taking this decline lying down. They’re innovating, adapting, and fighting back. Many have expanded their online offerings, providing students with the flexibility to learn from anywhere in the world. Others are focusing on niche markets, such as specialized courses for specific professions or age groups.

Some schools are also looking to diversify their language offerings, introducing courses in Maltese, Italian, and even Arabic. This strategy aims to attract a wider range of students and tap into new markets.

Government support is also crucial. The Malta Tourism Authority is working with language schools to promote Malta as a year-round destination for language learning. They’re also exploring new markets, like Asia and the Middle East, to attract more students.

Dr. Joseph Mizzi, Director of the English Language Institute at the University of Malta, shares his perspective: “This decline is a wake-up call. We need to innovate, adapt, and promote Malta as a unique, high-quality destination for language learning. Our strength lies in our diversity, our history, and our people. Let’s us that.”

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