Malta

Language studies
Many of the English language schools in Malta offer a wide range of courses, including special interest courses, combining language learning with an activity such as sailing or horse riding. Since 1996, the Ministry of Education has been responsible for licensing and monitoring all language schools in Malta, according to a national accreditation scheme. Sixteen schools are members of the self-regulating organisation, the Federation of English Language Teaching Organisations Malta (Feltom), which is recognised by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Tourism. The quality of teaching in Feltom member schools is ensured through a code of academic conduct.

Owing to its location, Malta is popular mostly with European students, but over the last few years its popularity as a study destination has expanded to other countries. More and more Japanese and Russian students are now choosing to study English in Malta.

Travelling around Malta
Malta is famous for its yellow buses, which remain great value – the most you’ll pay for a single journey is LM0.20. The total area of the three Maltese islands of Malta, Gozo and Comino is just 316 square kilometres, so visitors can usually see everything they want to and travel around the country very easily. The main terminus is in Valletta, and you can get to almost anywhere you want on the main island by bus, with the longest journey taking just fifty minutes.

Renting a car is a good option, especially if you want to get to the furthest reaches of the island, as taxis can be expensive. Seat belts must be worn and the Maltese drive on the left. You can also rent motorcycles and bicycles, which are ideal to explore while taking advantage of the warm weather. Malta is also ideal for exploring on a moped.

A regular ferry service links the three islands and costs LM2 (US$5) for a one-way ticket, with the trip taking about half an hour. There are no cars on Comino, which is the smallest island and is inhabited by a handful of farmers and has only one beachside hotel. Visitors wanting to travel to Gozo from Malta can also take a helicopter from Malta International Airport.

Crucial visa info and work rights
Nationals from the countries listed below who are visiting Malta for less than three months do not need a visa. Nationals of other countries must apply for a visa before arriving in Malta.

Applicants should apply to their Maltese Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate for their visa. If your country has none of this, get in touch with the Honorary Consul for Malta, if there is one, or contact the Maltese Immigration Police directly. Some schools will be able to deal with your visa application on your behalf.

Almost all visa applications require a non-refundable administration charge of LM4 (Maltese Liri).

Two-week English course: Euro272 (US$395) Two weeks' host family accommodation: Euro340 (US$492)
Two weeks' residential accommodation: Euro440 (US$638)

English language exams available: Cambridge, Oxford, Ielts.

Source: Language Travel Magazine