Blog entry by Hayden Register

Anyone in the world

Corresponding topics: English course for children Malta, English lessons Malta, tuition


Section Index

Why select Malta for English courses?

Why are Brazilians attracted to Malta?

Deciding on the best English course

Best Maltese schools for Brazilian students

Living in Malta: Activities, culture, and student resources

Study English on the islands of Malta where it is used every day by locals, join English classes at IELS — the top English school in the Maltese Islands and reserve with MALTAENG.COM (IELS Discount) to get the best price for your English program. Sharpen your English abilities and make buddies.

MaltaEng (IELS Malta Discount)

Why should you pick Malta for learning English?

Alright, let's be honest here. Back when I was searching for English programs overseas, Malta seriously never even crossed my mind. I’m just saying, who really has this small, sunny island in mind? But suddenly, these crazy images of turquoise waters, ancient cityscapes, and everyone raving about the relaxed vibes start popping up everywhere. It really feels like Europe blending into a tropical party spot, complete with real-life history in the mix.

Here’s what’s easy to miss?

Compared to the UK, US, Australia, or even Ireland, Malta stands out as one of the most economical countries for learning English. Also, Brazilians (and most other passport holders) can visit up to 90 days with zero visa hassle, which is amazing. If you plan to stay for longer, there are straightforward paths to getting a student visa, especially if your course stretches out.

Everywhere you look, people speak English… almost literally

Malta was a British colony until the 1960s, so English is basically everywhere: signs, menus.

Here, teaching English is a true priority — not an afterthought (unlike in certain European places where it’s almost treated as a pastime!).

Both English and Maltese are official languages

Top schools bring on properly credentialed teachers (usually happy to prove it if you ask — seriously, I have!)

People from Brazil, Turkey, Japan, Italy: The international crowd means you make friends instantly

You get to enjoy what the Mediterranean life is all about.

Just imagine: lessons in the morning, swimming in brilliant blue waters in the afternoon, and evenings in Valletta or Sliema sharing a Cisk with friends from all around the globe.

You won’t find this lifestyle in London’s cold weather, plus it’s way more affordable.

Why do Brazilians choose Malta?

You’d think Brazil is in every corner of Malta. Honestly, just wander into a language school and you’re bound to overhear "cara" or "obrigado." What’s behind this? First off, getting a short-stay visa on arrival is possible for Brazilians (which is miles easier than for the UK or US). You might not expect it, but airfare is more affordable than you think, with even better rates from São Paulo or Rio if you look closely. Also, with Malta’s significant Brazilian community, you’ll never be far from home comforts — feijoada included, surprisingly.

Personal story: that first day feeling

On my initial day in Sliema (the popular "student" district), I got to know Ana, a Recife native, during a school meet-and-greet. Right away, WhatsApp details were traded; in no time, we assembled a whole mini-Brazilian squad to exchange tips about where to find pão de queijo, manage homesickness, and discover beaches untouched by tourists. Take it from me: Brazilians in Malta seriously look out for each other.

Reasons Brazilian students choose Malta

Visa flexibility (beyond 90 days with student enrolment)

Both teens and adults have courses to choose from, and special summer camps for teen students

The Mediterranean vibe is chill: makes some feel at home (swap samba for festas!)

Malta offers lower costs: compared to the UK/Ireland, you save

Weather! Brazilians HATE the cold, let’s be honest. Malta is sunny almost every day

Finding your ideal English course

You went with Malta — so, which English course makes sense? Expect teens, backpackers, professionals, and retirees all in class for their own reasons. It’s mad diverse.

Here’s the usual story of what Brazilians (and most internationals) opt for:

Basic English — 20 standard lessons each week, improves listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Flexibility to study in the morning or afternoon.

Advanced English — Follows the general program but adds hours (25-30 each week): perfect for those wanting fast results or prepping for exams.

Prep for exams (Cambridge, IELTS) — For students needing university or visa certificates, or those wanting focused peers!

English for Business — Perfect for upgrading business skills; most courses are one-on-one or small group, with customized areas: negotiations, presentations, email.

Teen programs (summer camps) — Packages with classes, adventures, meals, activities. Learning is fun, safe, and well-structured.

What do I think?

If you want both fun and educational value, general English is where it’s at. However, if you’re pressed for time (say, university deadlines), intensive is the way. For teens, the summer camps (like at IELS Malta) are honestly as much about making friends as learning the language. I spent time with a crew at Pembroke beach who picked up more English creating TikToks than they learned in lessons, seriously!

"Malta is where I stopped just studying English and actually started LIVING it. The experience is unique: English is unavoidable at the bar, store, or seaside. I improved more in two months here than I did in a whole year back in Brazil."

— Lucas (24), IELS Malta student, São Paulo

Malta’s best language schools for Brazilians

Seriously, with the sheer amount of language schools in Malta, picking one can be overwhelming. Brazilians have a few steady favorites, and for different reasons. Some want all-Brazilian friends (easy comfort zone, but not recommended as you need to practice English!), others want totally international classes (and this is what you need!). You’ll repeatedly see these main school names:

Academy

Unique Qualities

IELS Malta through MaltaEng.com

• Large, high-quality institution featuring a diverse student body

• Targeted guidance for Brazilian attendees

• Savings available with MaltaEng.com (practical tips, top deals)

EC Language Center Malta

• Sleek modern campus

• Strong global atmosphere

• Attractive to those in their twenties and young adults

Malta’s BELS School

• Markably intimate setting (few students per class)

• Quiet countryside campus (St. Paul’s Bay)

Gateway English School Malta

• Home-like comforts (their own serviced student hostel)

• Prioritizes togetherness, not partying

ELA Malta

• Approachable, family-managed language school

• Strong involvement with locals (suited for adult learners)

Benefits

• Global and national accreditation for all schools (ELT Council included)

• Flexible start dates, custom durations

Disadvantages

• Some places have loads of Brazilian students (check the nationality balance)

• Quality and price fluctuate — be wary of picking the cheapest!

Finding your fit: student perspectives

This one friend of mine, Felipe, started out at a big-name school in St Julians but soon found out there were seven other Brazilians in his class. Kinda cool at first, but his English wasn’t much better after a month. So he joined IELS Malta in Sliema, found himself with mostly Italian and a couple of Polish students, and his English took off. That’s the secret: pick a school where the atmosphere fits your personality.

How IELS helps Brazilians

These are the things that make IELS Malta different: Expect practical tips, clear visa guidance, and true stories from students — instead of staged promotional shots. You’ll spot tons of information on their Instagram, while their staff connect you to WhatsApp groups for gatherings, action, or discovering key Brazilian foods. If you’re worried about your move, reaching out to their support is a huge help — people can’t stop recommending it.

Discover life beyond the classroom: Student support, culture, and activities

Something no one tells you: just how much is picked up outside coursework. Institutions provide lots of opportunities to integrate and form bonds. Welcome parties, BBQs, boat tours to Gozo, old city food walks, movie nights: nothing serious or forced, just chill hangouts. Brazil's spirit of celebration and delicious eats naturally complements Malta’s sunny lifestyle. Expect nights spent on the boardwalk and way more group selfies than you imagined.

If you’re concerned about feeling lonely or getting lost, most schools will match newcomers with a representative or a local "buddy." At schools like IELS, student support staff will respond to nearly all queries, while older students — who might as well start charging — also share their knowledge.

First days: what to expect

Arrive, check in, perhaps get a touch anxious, and then — sure enough, a group gathering interrupts your thoughts that same day. Expect anything from a scavenger hunt to a welcome barbecue, or maybe even a WhatsApp chat filled with "Beach, anyone?" At that moment, you realize Malta is designed to help you make friends quickly.

Let’s move on: let’s take a look at the costs, tips for finding accommodation, essential visa advice, and what everyday life is actually like for adults and teenagers studying English in Malta.

How much does it really cost? Tuition, housing, and additional expenses

Let’s dive into the cost, given that, to be honest, that’s what is really on everyone’s mind after wondering "Will I get to know anyone?"

Prices in Malta can change wildly depending on the course, time of year, and how you’re booking.

Brazilians, as I’ve noticed, absolutely adore finding discounts… but don’t fall for the "cheapest is best" trap!

Language School

Weekly fee (General English, 20 lessons)

IELS Malta (save most by booking with MaltaEng.com)

from €180 to €220

EC Malta Institute

€200 - €270

Malta BELS

€170–€250

Malta ELA

€160–€230

GSE Malta

€175 to €230

Important: The prices listed above apply to standard courses: courses that are intensive or specialized (for example, Business or Exam Prep) typically cost €40–€80 more per week. Summer is peak season, so June–September? Expect to pay on the upper end, maybe plus a "high season" fee. Make sure to confirm if materials or books are covered, as some schools can be tricky.

Accommodation: apartments, host families, student residence, and Airbnbs

Wondering about your accommodation? You’ll find it to be its own adventure. Truthfully, you can choose between a student residence, being with a host family, arranging a private rental (like Airbnb), or searching for your own apartment. Here’s typically how it goes:

Student residence: Highly social! Expect to connect with many people, but tranquillity and elegance are limited. Stay onsite or just nearby — IELS Malta delivers that built-in "friend group" feel from the start. Budget €130–€200 per week for shared spaces, and €200–€350 for singles — which are limited!

Family stay: Double win for teens (safety) and adults looking for more home vibes. Share meals with your hosts, converse in English over breakfast, and occasionally enjoy authentic Maltese dishes. This usually costs €180–€250 per week, with meals thrown in.

Shared apartment or Airbnb: Opt for this if you crave independence (and perhaps want to cook brigadeiro!). Keep in mind, prices spike in summer — plan for €180–€300 per week, and more if privacy or AC is a must! The hottest and priciest areas: Sliema, St Julian’s, and Gzira.

The real deal on Malta budgeting

Alongside lessons and your room, don’t forget costs like food, buses, parties, and absolutely… gelato, since you need to have some fun.

Weekly grocery budget (basic home cooking): €30–€50

Dining out per meal: €12–€20

All-you-can-ride monthly bus card: €26

Boat parties or tours (not a must, but highly suggested): €15–€40

Night out/bars: €3–€6 for a drink, €15 maybe for entry if it’s a "big" club

Monthly estimate: play it wise, hunt for deals, cook – you can keep it under €1,000. Go all out and join every adventure? Budget at least €1,200.

Visa and legal matters: Essential info for Brazilians

Worrying about visas is common for Brazilian students, yet Malta is so much easier than most European nations. Let’s break it down:

Brazilian nationals may travel visa-free for a period of up to 90 days (per Schengen regulations)

Planning to stay longer? Register with an accredited English school (such as IELS Malta, EC, etc.), complete your tuition payment, you’ll be able to apply for a student visa or extension on the island (clarify the requirements with your school!)

With a student visa, you may work part-time after ninety days – for up to 20 hours per week. Many people get jobs in cafes, hotels, or bars

Documents required: Letter of acceptance from your school, accommodations proof, health coverage, financial proof (€18 per day), ticket out of Schengen or return flight

The number one tip: contact the school’s visa office before you purchase flights. The pros at IELS Malta are actually famous for helping with the paperwork headaches — they pre-check your documents for you before you submit to the embassy. I’ve actually seen people from other schools waiting by IELS office for student permit advice. Take my advice and save yourself the anxiety!

Day-to-day life for teens versus adults

Malta’s scene for teen summer camps

Anyone under 18 gets first-class treatment: a devoted staff is always present, full-packed schedules, with arranged excursions (such as Comino Blue Lagoon, fascinating Mdina, and fun "Maltese Night" events). Tight curfews and vigilant WhatsApp staff oversight allow even parents in Brazil total peace of mind. Most teens end up staying together in big student hotels (like IELS’s Days Inn in Sliema), meals sorted and excursions every day. Making friends here is truly unavoidable.

Morning sessions in English (games-packed, collaborative, not just grammar)

Afternoon fun (choices include kayaking, touring, shopping, and pool parties!)

Events at night (karaoke, shows, Maltese heritage evenings)

School staff support you 24/7: wallet forgotten or lost? They’ve got your back.

Parents: check out maltaeng.com for unbeatable deals (better than booking with IELS directly) and full support. You’ll get full details through WhatsApp. Answers to anything — fast.

Mature learners: blending academics, jobs, and leisure

Being over 18 gives you much more freedom. Classes for adults bring together people from 19-year-old adventurers to seasoned managers in their fifties. When classes wrap up in the morning, people usually drift to coffee shops, cram in a trip to the beach, or begin looking for jobs in St Julian’s. Schools host plenty of networking evenings and pub crawls, yet you’re also free to chart your own course.

Changeable course hours (opt for morning or late afternoon sessions to accommodate part-time work)

Regular BBQs, social nights, language swaps, and open bar festivities scheduled weekly

Endless chances to use English — from setting up a SIM card to haggling over scooter rentals or debating prices at a shop ("that’s Malta for you!")

"Malta is absolutely the best place for Brazilians to study English, notably if you’re concerned about being alone or feeling out of place. IELS Malta arranged my visa, matched me with a fantastic host family, and got me connected socially right away. Much more supportive compared to where my friend studied!"

After chatting to dozens of pupils from Brazil (myself as well and students currently on the island), IELS based in Malta (booked by way of the MaltaEng service) definitely stands out. You actually feel welcomed, and not like you’re just "number 243." The team is attuned to Brazilian culture: handling late check-ins, party organizing, homesickness issues, and giving unparalleled help with visa and housing.

Expert advice to help you maximize your time in Malta

Effective language hacks that work

Stay away from constantly being among only Brazilians — challenge yourself to mingle internationally!

Go to language exchange gatherings each week: totally free, relaxed, entertaining, plus you’ll get to know Maltese people

Pitch in during school events: helping organize the BBQ or language club means you have to use authentic English, not just what you learn in class

Must-have items all Brazilians should pack (seriously!)

All-in-one plug adapter (never miss a beach photo with a dead phone)

Extra swimsuit

Copies of all your important docs (leave one with family back home just in case)

Something from Brazil to share: coffee, candy, even a football jersey! Instant icebreaker anywhere you go

Social skills guide

Stay connected with your school for updates on events and meetups

If you visit in May, get set for extraordinary Eurovision parties because Malta really goes all out

Don’t stress if buses run behind schedule — "Malta time" happens to all

Malta English course FAQ

What’s the best time of year to study?

Between March and June is ideal: sunny, fun, but before peak summer chaos and heat. These autumn months, September and October, are fantastic options, especially for grown-ups.

Is the island as international as they say?

Yep! You’ll hear 10+ languages in any main school. Brazilians have a strong presence, but Italians, Turks, Japanese, French, and others are abundant. It feels like a global melting pot.

Do Brazilians have access to scholarships or discounts?

The best schools (such as IELS Malta) typically provide ongoing seasonal discounts — request information about deals in the low season, savings for group enrollments, or extras like free upgrades for longer stays. Visit MaltaEng.com to find exclusive offers. Always compare and ask!

Do I have the option to work while attending school?

You can start working after being on a student permit for 90 days. You’re allowed to work part-time, up to 20 hours per week. Students often find jobs in coffee shops, ice cream stands, or summer tourist spots.

What is the main cultural shock for Brazilians?

Dinner happens quite late (Maltese people eat late!), the unpredictability of the buses, and the constant conversations about the weather. Additionally: Feijoada is missing from most supermarkets — be ready for it emotionally.

Is the way of speaking in the Maltese islands make it difficult to understand English?

Definitely no. Every teacher communicates in clear, standard English. Occasionally, you’ll notice the appealing "Maltese-English" but it honestly adds character, it’s never a real barrier for your English practice.

Eager to launch your Malta escapade?

When you’re dreaming of advancing your English, savoring all the Mediterranean has to offer, and meeting people who support you (especially if you’re a Brazilian feeling travel nerves), this is the place for you. Let yourself get swept up in the adventure! Just don’t forget sunscreen and that universal plug. Those experiences and friendships? They’re yours to keep forever.


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