Malta’s English Language Schools: A 6% Dip in 2025

Imagine the bustling streets of St. Julian’s, Malta’s ‘City of Learning’, on a typical autumn morning. The air is crisp, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts from the cafes lining the busy thoroughfare. But this year, something’s different. The usual chatter of international students, their backpacks adorned with stickers from their home countries, is noticeably quieter. Malta’s English language schools, once teeming with eager learners, are seeing a 6% drop in student numbers in 2025.

Why the Decline?

The reasons behind this shift are as varied as the students who once filled our classrooms. The global pandemic, for one, has cast a long shadow. With travel restrictions and safety concerns, many students opted for online learning or postponed their plans. But the story doesn’t stop there. Rising costs, both here in Malta and back home, have made studying abroad a financial stretch for many. And let’s not forget the lure of other English-speaking destinations, each offering its own unique appeal.

Take, for instance, the case of Maria, a Spanish student who had planned to spend her gap year in Malta. “I loved the idea of learning English in Malta,” she says, “but with the cost of living going up, and the opportunity to study in the UK now that Brexit has settled, I decided to change my plans.”

Local Impact

The ripple effects of this decline are being felt across Malta. Language schools are reviewing their budgets, and some have already started to consolidate classes. The hospitality sector, which thrives on the student population, is also feeling the pinch. Cafes and restaurants that once catered to students are now seeing fewer familiar faces.

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Schools are adapting, offering more flexible learning options and competitive pricing. Some have even started to diversify their offerings, branching into other languages and courses. And let’s not forget Malta’s unique selling points – our rich history, Mediterranean climate, and English-speaking culture. These remain strong draws for students.

So, what does the future hold? It’s too early to tell if this 6% dip is a blip or a trend. But one thing’s for sure – Malta’s English language schools are not going down without a fight. They’re innovating, adapting, and working together to ensure that Malta remains a top destination for English language learners.

As for Maria, she’s now studying in the UK. But she hasn’t ruled out a future visit to Malta. “I’ll definitely come back,” she says, “to explore the islands, soak up the sun, and maybe even improve my Maltese!”