Malta has established itself as a top destination for English language learning, attracting students from all over the world. While European learners have long recognised the island’s appeal, Malta is increasingly drawing students from long-haul markets seeking quality education in an immersive English environment.
Malta’s English Language Teaching (ELT) industry has seen significant growth from key long-haul markets in recent years. Currently, the top non-European markets showing strong interest include Japan, South Korea, Brazil and Colombia. These markets represent diverse cultural backgrounds but share a common interest in Malta’s unique educational offering and enriching way of life.
Despite the distance, travelling to Malta has become more accessible for long-haul students. Several major international airlines offer convenient connections with just one stop, including Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, Air Asiana, Korean Air, LATAM, and Avianca. Flights from these long-haul destinations are also quite reasonable, coming in at approximately €700 or less for a one-way ticket, with prices typically ranging from €500-900 depending on the season and booking time frame.
One significant advantage Malta offers international students is the opportunity to work while studying. According to Identity Malta, students pursuing courses longer than 90 days are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week after their first three months of study. This provision makes Malta particularly attractive for long-haul students seeking extended immersion programmes, as they can:
- Offset some of their living expenses.
- Gain valuable work experience in an English-speaking environment.
- Practise language skills in real-world settings.
- Integrate more deeply into the local culture.
Many international education organisations provide market-specific training for agents in long-haul countries. These specialised training programmes ensure agents can:
- Accurately represent Malta’s educational offerings.
- Address country-specific concerns and questions.
- Guide students through the application and visa process.
- Provide comprehensive pre-departure information.
This support network makes the journey from enquiry to arrival seamless for students travelling from distant locations.
Malta offers a wonderful combination of educational and lifestyle benefits that make it particularly appealing to students who are far from home.
Malta is one of Europe’s safest destinations, providing peace of mind for students and their families. As a small island nation, it’s easy to navigate, with efficient public transportation connecting major points of interest.
Unlike non-English speaking destinations, Malta offers true language immersion, with English being one of its official languages. Students can practise their skills not just in the classroom, but throughout their daily interactions.
Compared to traditional English-speaking destinations like the UK, USA, or Australia, Malta offers:
- Lower tuition fees.
- More affordable accommodation options.
- Reduced overall cost of living.
- Better value for long-term study programmes.
Spending time in Malta, students will also get to experience a range of benefits and activities:
- Over 300 days of sunshine annually.
- Beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Rich historical sites spanning 7,000 years.
- Diverse cultural festivals year-round.
- Exceptional cuisine blending Mediterranean and North African influences.
For long-haul students seeking quality English language education in a charming European setting, Malta offers an unmatched combination of top-quality education, complete cultural immersion, and warm Mediterranean lifestyle. With its growing reputation in markets across Asia and Latin America, supported by the Malta Tourism Authority’s commitment to international education standards, Malta continues to strengthen its position as a global ELT destination of choice.