Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ’s for students and agents

General

What should I expect on arrival at the airport?

An ESE representative will be waiting for you at the arrivals lounge holding an ESE sign. Make sure you look out for this sign and not a personalised one. The ESE representative will hand over a Welcome Pack with further information on your stay along with the ESE accommodation keys if you are staying at ESE apartments . You will then be shown the way to your transport which will drop you off at your accommodation. Check out the Arrival page on our website for more information.

What should I do if I don’t see an ESE representative at the airport?

If you do not see the ESE representative please go to the ESE office located on the left-hand side as you exit the luggage collection area. More information is found on the arrival page on our website.

If you still do not manage to find the representative, call the ESE Emergency Number +35621373789 which is available 24/7.

What time are airport transfers offered?

Our airport shuttle service is operational at any time during the day and night, 24/7. Make sure to forward your flight details to your booking agent or your contact at the ESE Reservations department before arrival.

What should I do if I booked ESE accommodation but not airport transfers?

You are requested to pick up your Welcome Pack and check-in at the main reception of the ESE school which is operational 24/7.

What’s the check-in procedure?

You are requested to check-in at the main reception either on arrival, or on your first school day. You will be asked to fill in a form with your details and to pay a €100 damage deposit in cash. Please retain a copy of your receipt in order to be refunded when checking out.

How do I choose the right course?

ESE will help you select the most appropriate course for you to achieve your English language goals. We will need to understand what these goals are and the length of time you can afford to achieve them. For example do you need to improve your English level for your career, or to make yourself more employable, or for entrance into university or college? You can see the complete list of courses offered on our courses page.

Our support team would be pleased to assist you, please contact us at: [email protected]

What are the minimum and maximum ages for courses at ESE ?

This will depend on the type of course you choose.

Teen & Junior courses are for ages 9 to 17. Adult courses start from 17+ with the exception of our Academic Year Course (17+) and Young Adult Course (17-22yrs old).

We also offer courses for mature students with our 30+ and 50+ programmes. Please see our courses page on our website for more details.

How does ESE determine my current level of English?

You should do your placement test online, up to 7 days prior to course start date, by using the login credentials found on your Confirmation Letter.

In case you fail to do so you will have your written and oral placement tests on your first day at school and according to the result you will be guided to a class at your level and can start your education experience straight away. For information on entry levels to all our courses please visit our COURSES page on the website or contact our support team at [email protected]

Should I complete a placement test before starting my course?

Students are encouraged to sit for an online placement test, which is available up until 7 days prior to arrival. All details are enclosed within the confirmation letter. You can also sit for the test on your first school day should you have any difficulty doing the test online, or book your course within less than 2 weeks before arrival.

If I am over 30 years old what course would you recommend?

The General English 30 for 30+ is a 30 lesson course offered by our ETI (Executive Training Institute), also located within our ESE building and is designed for adults in the 30+ age bracket who want to develop their core language skills. ETI offers you more exclusivity with other students similarly aged.

When will be my first day at school and what time do I have to be there?

Monday is your first day at school. The time you are expected at school will be written on the envelope you will be given at your arrival at Malta airport. If you do not have airport transfers, you will be given this envelope at school.

What time should I arrive at the school on my first day?

If you have done your placement test, we ask you to be at the school by latest 8:30am. When there is a public holiday, lessons start at 8:30am - click here for a list. If you still have to do your test, we ask you to be at the school by 8:00am.

How do I get to school?

All ESE accommodations are within walking distance to the main school building. You will also have a map in your welcome pack that will be given to you at the airport on your arrival. The school and all ESE accommodations are marked on this map. If you are staying with a host family, the host family will show you how to get to school on your first day.

How is the nationality mix in the class?

This varies from class to class depending on the level and time of year. However, as a guideline the nationality mix on average throughout 2023 has been as follows:

Does ESE have an 24/7 emergency number?

ESE's 24/7 emergency number is +356 21373789.

Our reception at our main school building in Paceville is open 24/7 and able to assist you with all your urgent needs.

Does ESE provide free Wi-Fi?

Yes, ESE provides free internet access at school as well as all of its own accommodations.

How far is ESE from restaurants, bars, shops and supermarkets?

ESE is located in the heart of Malta's touristic centre St. Julians and its entertainment hub Paceville. Away from the noise but in a very close walking distance to restaurants, bars, supermarkets, shops, shopping malls, bowling alleys, cinemas and beaches.

ESE also consists of a brand new Cafe Cuba outlet located just next to reception and consists of indoor and outdoor seating.

How far is the beach club from the ESE school?

The ESE Beach Club is located 800 meters away from the school building, at the San Giljan Waterpolo club, Main Street in St.Julians. Entrance is free from Monday to Friday on presentation of your ESE student card and on weekends a fee is charged. However, ESE is also just 200 m away from a popular rocky beach.

Does ESE have a library and self-study centre?

Yes, ESE has a library located on Level -1 and also self-study centre with computers with internet access for ESE students.

Does ESE provide day-care/kindergarden services for single parents or parents studying together?

No, ESE does not provide day-care or kindergarden services but there are day-care centres in close proximity to ESE and which may be used for a fee.

Which languages are spoken by the ESE staff?

We have English, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, Russian, German, French, Bulgarian, Japanese and Korean speaking employees willing to assist you.

How much money do I need to cover weekly basic expenses such as food and drink?

Depending on your lifestyle, you will need minimum 100 € per week - this applies only if you are staying in a self-catering apartment and does not include eating out. This will also vary depending on the accommodation you booked (i.e. Full-Board/Half-Board/Self-Catering etc).

Is there a gym close to ESE that I can go to?

Kindly speak to our staff at the Adult Leisure Desk regarding this matter.

What happens when my flight is cancelled/delayed?

You should contact us on our 24/7 emergency number +356 21373789 to inform us and for us to re-arrange your arrival transfer.

Where can I get a sim card for my mobile device?

ESE provides free top-up sim cards for all its students. You can collect your free sim card at the student reception at the main school building.

Where can I exchange money?

You can exchange your currency at the airport but there also many exchange bureaus close to the school. You can withdraw money from most ATM machines of various banks using your credit card. Also most shops and restaurants accept credit cards.

What should I bring with me?

Course book and material are included when booking with ESE. The following link should help you with packing for your visit: https://ese-edu.com/what-to-bring/

What can I do in my free time?

There are many places to visit in Malta and its sister island Gozo. You can ask our leisure team at the student leisure desk for ideas and information on ESE orgnanised tours and activities or other suggestions.

Which days are public holidays in Malta?

The following is a list of public holidays for 2024. There is no school on these days and lessons may take place from 8:30-10:30 and 11:00-12:30 for adults, and 10:30-12:30 and 1:00-2:30 for Teen & Junior students (unless the feast falls during the weekend).

2024 Public Holidays

1 January - New Year's Day
10 February - Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck
19 March - Feast of St. Joseph
29 March - Good Friday
31 March - Freedom Day & Easter Sunday
1 May - Workers' Day
7 June - Commemoration of the 1919 Riot / Sette Giugno
29 June - Feast of St Peter and St Paul / Mnarja
15 August - Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady / Santa Marija
8 September - Feast of Our Lady of Victories / Victory Day
21 September - Independence Day
8 December - Feast of the Immaculate Conception
13 December - Republic Day
25 December - Christmas Day

Courses

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Do courses start every Monday or can I start any day of the week?

All of our courses start every Monday except for Closed Group courses. You can email us at [email protected] for more information. More details can be found in our COURSES section on our website.

What is the Academic Year Course?

The Academic Year Course is one of our popular long term courses with 30 lessons per week. It is more intensive and offers more counselling by our Director of Studies and more project work. It starts every 6 weeks and has 1 week semester break in June and September and a 2 or 3 week semester break in December. This course is great value for money and is ideal for students who really want to improve their level of English for career or study purposes. Besides improving on your core language skills, grammar and vocabulary this courses also allows you to focus on your preferred area of focus choosing from specialist streams such as the Academic Stream, Work Stream or Fluency Stream. The minimum duration is 12 weeks and can be extended in 6 week periods to 18, 24, 30, 36, 42 and 48 weeks.

Find more info on the Academic Year Course page.

Does ESE offer Exam Preparation Courses?

ESE offers a variety of exam preparation courses for IELTS, TOEFL iBT, TOEIC and Cambridge (PET, FCE, CAE and CPE) throughout the year. At ESE we pride ourselves at helping our students achieve certification of their required language levels by preparing them properly to successfully pass their exams.

You can find more details in our COURSES section on our website.

Does ESE also offer smaller classes with fewer students?

ESE has Mini Class courses which are held with a maximum of 6 students per class. Mini Class students benefit from more individual attention from their teachers and more opportunities for speaking and interacting with multinational classmates in order to develop greater confidence and fluency.

What happens if I’m assigned to a level which I believe is incorrect?

We examine students’ core language components when testing to assign students to the proper class level. Being at a higher level in say reading does not mean that you are at that overall higher level. However, should you feel that the assigned level is too difficult or too easy, you first need to speak with teacher who will consult with our Director of Studies in making sure you are placed at your appropriate level. We are there to assist you so please feel comfortable to seek our assitance and as early as possible so that little or no time is lost.

Can I exchange books when changing level?

We advise students not to write in their books for the first few days.

Should students wish to exchange books if they change levels, a supplementary fee of 25€ is required upon doing so.

Are there courses for mature students ?

Yes, we offer programmes for 30+ and also 50+ students. More information can be viewed in the COURSES section.

How long is one lesson at ESE?

Every lesson is 45 minutes long.

What is the maximum number of students per class ?

For Adult Courses the maximum number of students per class varies between 6 and 12 depending on the course. The maximum number of students per class in our Junior & Teen programmes is 15.

How many language levels are offered at ESE?

We have 8 language levels at ESE which are pinned to the Common European Framework of Reference. These range from Starter (1) all the way to C2 - Proficiency (8). These can be viewed following this link:
Language Levels

Do we receive a certificate upon completing a course at ESE?

Yes, once you have completed your course at ESE you will be given an ESE - European School of English certificate which states that you have successfully completed a course at our school and your level. An attendance of 75% is required to issue the certificate.

What's included when booking an Adult Course Only at ESE?

When booking course only the following will be included:

• Course as booked

• Free eLearning

• Free SIM Card

• ESE course certificate

• Personal notebook

• Welcome evening

• Free wifi at the school

What is included in the Adult Course & Accommodation package?

This all depends on the package you choose. An Adult course and accommodation package includes the following:

• General English 20

• Meet & Greet Airport Transfer (on arrival - coach/minibus)

• Accommodation as booked

• Welcome Evening

• ESE e-Learning

• Beach Club (Summer Season)

• TV

• ESE course certificate

• Personal Notebook

• 24/7 Student Welfare Assistance

• Free WiFi at ESE school, Hotels, Residences, ESE Apartments

• Washing Machine

• Air conditioning

• Weekly cleaning and change of linen and towels

• Water & electricity bills

• Eco tax

When can I start using e-Learning?

You can start using e-Learning from the day you receive your booking documents till up to 3 months after your course end date.

Accommodation

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Does ESE offer accommodation?

We offer a variety of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget, ranging from our in-house school residence, Self-Catering Apartments, to 3 and 4 star hotels. We also offer homestay accommodation. Our Teens and Junior students booked on summer and other seasonal packages can choose between homestay and our 4-star Salini Resort. For full details and photos of our accommodation options please visit our ACCOMMODATION section on our website.

What are the prices for courses and accommodations at ESE?

You can get a quick free on-line quote for our courses and accommodations by visiting the BOOK YOUR COURSE section which also allows you to confirm your booking.

How far are the residences from the school?

ESE School Residence is located within the school building. Central Apartments are located on the same street as the school. Valley View Economy Apartments, Astolat Apartments and Claret Apartments are between 10-15 minutes walk from the school. Salini Resort is a 10-15 minute drive from the school and free transport is provided by shuttle bus directly to and from the Resort at particular times.

How far away are the ESE apartments from the school?

ESE apartments are as close as a 2-minute walk to a maximum 20-minute walk from the main school.

Are pets allowed in ESE accommodation?

Although we love animals, pets are not allowed in any accommodation provided by ESE.

Can I change my residence option after arrival?

Yes, subject to availability. An administration fee of €50 applies when opting for a change. Should the choice be of a higher standard/classification, the difference in price will also apply.

What days should I arrive and depart on?

We advise students to book flights during the weekend when possible as courses are offered Monday to Friday.

How many people share a bedroom in the ESE self-catering apartments?

Our self-catering apartments offer single, double and triple bedrooms. Single rooms and en-suite bathrooms are at an additional charge. You can read more information regarding the various apartments on our ACCOMMODATION pages.

Are rooms/bathrooms/others common areas shared by both male and female students in the same apartment?

Yes, you may have to share the apartment with other male and/or female students. However, bedrooms and bathrooms are restricted to the same gender. If you have any specific requirements such as private bathrooms, please contact our support team at [email protected] at the time of booking.

Does ESE Residence have a communal kitchen?

No, ESE Residence does not have a communal kitchen. However breakfast is included in the price of this accommodation option.

If I travel alone, do I have to book a single room at ESE ?

This all depends on the type of accommodation you request. If you book a room at ESE Residence or any of our hotels, you must book a single room and a single room supplement fee applies. If you book a room at any of our self-catering apartments or Host Families you may book either sharing (with another student or up to two other students) or a single room and the supplement fee applies.

If we are a couple, which accommodation can we book at ESE?

You can book all accommodations at ESE as a couple. However please note that the self-catering apartments are with 2-3 bedrooms and you would have to share the apartment with other students. ESE Residence offers rooms with en-suite bathrooms and would be more suitable. Or you may select one of our hotels for more privacy and facilities.

Are special diets provided ?

Yes, all accommodation options where food is included can provide special diets such as gluten-free and vegan against a supplementary fee.

Where can I find the address of my accommodation?

You can find the address of your accommodation on the ESE website by visiting our ACCOMODATION pages on our website. If you choose to stay with a family, the address will be sent to you.

Are there washing machines and irons in the accommodations?

All apartments are equipped with washing machines and irons. Host Families will have one load of laundry per week done for you (extra loads are against payment). The Salini Resort provides a coin operated washing machine that can be used against payment. Our in-house school residence and hotels do not provide washing machines but do provide laundry services.

Does ESE provide towels and bed linen in its student residences?

Yes, ESE provides towels and bed linen which are changed weekly in student residences and apartments.

Are cleaning services provided in residences and apartments?

ESE provides a weekly cleaning service in the apartments and a daily service at ESE Residence.

Is air-conditioning and heating provided and included in ESE accommodation options?

The ESE Residences, apartments and hotels are all equipped with air-conditioning (cooling and heating). Host Families will provide a fan and possibly a heater.

Teen & Junior students

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Does ESE provide transport for Junior & Teen students?

Yes, ESE provides all transport from/to school and activities for its Junior & Teen students.

Are there curfew times for Junior & Teen students?

Curfews apply according to age.

Students aged 14 years and under MUST be in their rooms by 23.00 hours from Sunday to Saturday (unless attending an ESE activity). Students aged 15 years and over MUST be in their rooms by 00.00 hours (midnight) from Sunday to Thursday and by 01.00 hours on Fridays and Saturdays (unless attending an ESE activity).

Junior Camp students must not leave their residence except to go on an ESE activity or accompanied by an ESE tour group leader.

Is there Supervision for Junior & Teen students?

All transport from/school and activities as well as the activities themselves are supervised by ESE group leaders. There is also 24/7 supervision at the Salini Resort hotel.

What is included in the Junior & Teen programme packages?

The following are included in the Junior & Teen packages.
• General English 20
• Accommodation as booked
• Meet & Greet at the airport and Airport Transfers

• Welcome Evening

• Course Materials

• Course Certificate

• Welcome Pack

• 24/7 Student Support & Welfare

• Free Wi-Fi at School and in public areas at Salini Resort

• Free T-Shirt

• Leisure Programme (daily activities except Sundays)

• Daily Transport

What sort of activities are included in the Junior & Teen programmes?

The are plenty of activities and excursions included in the Junior & Teen programmes packages. The selection of activities depends on the age group. You can get more information and a sample activity programme here.

Travel

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Can I also book a flight ticket with ESE?

ESE is fully licensed by IATA and we can help you with your flight reservations. Tickets are electronic and this means that we can email your flight ticket immediately. This also means that we would have all your correct flight details in our system and this would make it easier to arrange your airport transfers correctly.

Will I be greeted on arrival at the airport?

If you have booked Airport transfers with your course/package you will be greeted at the Arrivals lounge at the Airport by an ESE representative. Free Airport transfers are included on arrival when selecting a package (course and accommodation). Return transfers for adult courses can be booked at a supplement. The latter is included in Teen & Junior packages. There is also an ESE office at the airport on the left-hand side of the Arrival Lounge.

Malta

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Where is Malta?

Malta is located right in the heart of the Mediterranean sea, between Sicily and North Africa. Malta is part of Europe and a member of the European Union since 2004. The Maltese Archipelago is made up of several islands, the largest being Malta, Gozo and Comino, inhabited by a population of just over 460,000 people.

Is Malta part of the Schengen area?

Yes, Malta became a member of the Schengen Area in December 2007.

What is the official language in Malta?

Malta has two official languages, English and Maltese. English is spoken fluently by most of the population. Italian is also widely spoken although it is not one of the official languages.

Is Malta a safe country?

Malta boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Europe, making it a safe language study destination for all.

Is public transport expensive in Malta?

In comparison to many European countries it isn't. You can buy a weekly/monthly card with unlimited use for a reasonable price. Please visit https://www.publictransport.com.mt/en/tallinja-card for more information. Individual daily fares cost 1.50 Euro in winter and 2.00 Euro in summer. You can get a weekly bus pass for 21 Euro per week. If you are in Malta for a period of 1 to 3 months you can get a bus card where you will pay not more than 26 Euro per month and if you are registered as a student in Malta for more than 3 months you can get a bus card where you will pay not more than 21 Euro per month.

Which type of plug is used in Malta?

Malta uses the associated plug type G, which is the plug that has three rectangular pins (3-pin) in a triangular pattern (these plugs are also used in the UK). Malta operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.

Visa

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Do I need a Visa and how do I apply for it?

If you are from a country that is a member of the EU, you don't need a Visa to travel to Malta. Some countries are Visa exempt during the first 90 days - click here for a list. To determine whether your country is on the list of Visa required countries please visit Identity Malta here.

Does ESE assist in applying for a Visa?

Yes, if you book a course at ESE, our staff will be pleased to assist and support you with the Visa application process.

In case my Visa is refused what is the refund procedure?

A deposit of €200 including a registration fee of €50 is required to book the course. There is no additional charge from our end for Visa applications. In the event that a visa is not issued then the total €200 is non-refundable.

Reservations

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How do I check availability for a course or accommodation?

You can check availability for a particular course by getting a free on-line quote by visiting our Get a Quote / Book online section on our website or by contacting our support team at: [email protected] or by completing our contact form. We aim to respond to your enquiry within 24 hours.

Do I need an insurance?

We require all students to obtain adequate insurance before their travel. This should cover your entire stay in Malta. We suggest using Guard.Me insurance with coverage for cancellation, travel and health. Please contact your booking agent or us directly at [email protected].

How do I make a booking?

You can book directly by visiting our Book online section on our Homepage. If you require assistance you can contact our support team at: [email protected]. Alternatively, you may choose to book through an agent who represents us in your country.

Can I pay by credit card?

Yes, we accept VISA and MASTERCARD. You can use this method of payment by booking directly online. If you prefer we can set up a credit card payment link which will take you directly to the secure payment gateway. Or you may also pay by bank transfer.

Work Placement Programme

About this package

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When do I have to submit my registration?

We normally require Work Placement requests to be submitted 12 weeks prior to your desired start date. Work Placements depend on third party organisations and it may take a few weeks for us to find the most suitable organisation to match you with, however late applications will still be considered.

When will I know which company I will work with?

We will try to give details of the host organisation as quickly as possible but commit to providing information about the company you will work with by not later than 4 weeks prior to your arrival date if you are coming alone and not later than 4 weeks if you are coming in a group of more than 5 persons.

How old do I have to be to take a Work Placement?

We require students to be at least 17 years old when they are about to start their placement. Students who are not yet 17 years old will have their application considered depending on there area of study or interest.

How long does a placement have to be?

Most organisations will only host students if they are in Malta for a minimum of 10 weeks however we have managed to place students with companies for periods as short as 3 weeks. There is no maximum stay.

What level of English do I need to apply for a Work Placement?

We require students to have a B1 level of English. Students with a lower level may be considered after a video chat is held.

Will I have any English classes during my placement?

Students who are in Malta for at least 4 weeks will have 16 lessons (12 hours) of General English. Students who are in Malta for a period of 5 to 9 weeks will be entitled to 20 lessons of General English (15 hours) whereas students who are in Malta for 10 weeks or longer will be entitled to 40 lessons of General English (30 hours). Lessons are usually held in the first and last weeks of a student's stay.

How many hours will I be expected to work for on a Work Placement?

Students on a Work Placement package are usually expected to work for 40 hours a week. This does not include travelling time, English classes or other work a student may need to submit to their college. Shorter hours have sometimes been negotiated depending on the area of study, the duration of one's stay and the time of year when one is travelling.

Will I get paid for my work?

The vast majority of our placements are unpaid. Some hosting organisations in particular areas of study may consider offering a stipend.

Which jobs are available?

We have offered placements in more than 35 areas of study or interest. Please send an email to the workplacement coordinator on [email protected] and ask about the placement you would like to work in.

Where will I live during my stay in Malta?

Students on an ESE Work Placement package can book accommodation with a host family, in self-catering apartments or in a hotel.

Will the placement be in the vicinity of my accomodation?

Although we will do our utmost to place you in an organisation which is as close as posible to your organisation, some of our best placements happen to be in organisations which are up to 1 hours away by bus.

Is it easy to travel by bus in Malta?

Public transport in Malta is safe and an inexpensive option when getting around in Malta. We will help you find the best route to travel to your place of work and back.

How will I know how to go to my place of work?

The ESE coordinator will take you to your host organisation during the first week and show you how to go there by bus if needed.

What happens if I am not happy with my place of work?

At ESE we will do our utmost to match you with the right organisation where you can get a good learning experience. In the event that you are not happy with your placement, you are first asked to speak to your manager at work but if you are still not happy you can speak to the ESE Work Placement Coordinator who will consider alternative options.

Can an organisation terminate my work placement?

Organisations will give you warnings if they are not happy with your work or your attitude but they can also terminate your placement immediately in specific cases.

If I apply with a friend, can we both be placed with the same organisation?

Whilst we will try to place two students with the same organisation on request, we cannot guarantee that this will be possible. Please remember that the purpose of a placement is for students to get exposed to real life working situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ’s for students and agents

General

Courses

Accommodation

Teen & Junior students

Travel

Malta

Visa

Reservations

Work Placement Programme

If you can’t find what you were looking for, please contact us using our contact form.

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