Why study in Thailand?
Thailand is a great choice for international study due to famous Thai people’s friendliness and hospitality and the country’s rich culture and economic development. With a fascinating combination of tradition and modernism, and exotic scenery, Thailand welcomes more than 20,000 international students each year.
If you're looking to study at a university in Thailand, you will find a variety of study choices, known for their academic excellence and vibrant cultural experiences. Find the best information about what it’s like to study in Bangkok, including degree course offers, career opportunities, student life, living costs, and more.
Benefits of Studying in Thailand for International Students
For International students in Thailand, the nation offers numerous benefits. Being home to some prestigious universities in Thailand, the education system is tailored to cater to international standards, providing a broad perspective.
- Quality Education and Cultural Immersion: One of the primary reasons international students choose Thailand is its combination of quality education and the opportunity for cultural immersion. The nation's universities are increasingly gaining recognition for their academic excellence, making them attractive options for students seeking top-notch education.
- Affordability and Value: Studying in Thailand often comes at a fraction of the cost compared to other popular study destinations. This affordability doesn't equate to a compromise on the quality of education, making it an attractive proposition for students seeking value for their investment.
- English-Medium Instruction: A significant advantage for international students is the availability of programs taught in English. This ensures that language barriers are minimised, allowing students to fully engage with their studies and immerse themselves in the academic environment.
- Global Networking Opportunities: Studying in Thailand exposes students to a diverse international community. This provides a platform for networking and building connections that can prove invaluable in future professional endeavours.
- Safe and Welcoming Environment: Thailand's reputation for safety and its welcoming attitude toward international students create a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. This sense of security fosters a positive academic experience.
- Strategic Southeast Asian Location: Positioned in Southeast Asia, Thailand serves as a gateway to exploring a region known for its economic growth and cultural diversity. This strategic location can open doors to unique opportunities for both academic and personal development.
Applying Undergraduate Degree
Undergraduate students who do not have a high school diploma can also enroll with a GED, which is the equivalent of a 12th grade education in the United States. GED preparation takes at least 4 to 6 months. For an undergraduate degree in Thailand, you have to attend 3 (or 4) years. As a scholarship, you can apply to Child Dream Association, Prospect Burma, and May Bank, which are based in Switzerland. For this scholarship, you should prepare either GED or IELTS (or) TOFEL.
Applying Postgraduate Degree
For Postgraduate, the time can last from 3 to 4 years. IELTS Band Score 6.5 (or TOFEL 80) is required. It may differ depending on the university he chooses to attend.
Differences Private & Public Universities
International public universities have a higher ranking than private universities and are more strict in accepting admissions. Since it is a public school, the education system and curriculum are more complete and the majors to choose from are more complete. There are famous public universities in Thailand such as Mahidol University, Chulalongkorn University and Chiang Mai University, etc. If you want to apply to these universities, it is safer to apply four to six months before intake.
Cost of Studying in Thailand for International Students
In Thailand, tuition fees vary based on the type of university (public vs private), the level of education (undergraduate vs postgraduate), the chosen discipline (e.g. IT, Business, Engineering), and so on.
International students can pay anywhere between 50,000 and 400,000 THB per academic year. There are also study programmes that go over 30,000 THB. For example, some MBA degrees cost as much as 1,400,000 THB per year.
Cost of Living in Thailand for International Students
The monthly living expenses for students in Thailand can reach anywhere between 8,000 THB and 10,000 THB. This largely depends on the city where you live, your lifestyle and, of course, your spending habits.
Here's a breakdown of living costs in Thailand:
- accommodation (one-bedroom apartment): 5,000–8,000 THB/month
- monthly utilities: 800–1,000 THB
- food and groceries: 1,000–2,000 THB/month
- monthly transport pass: 800 THB; some cities might have student discounts
- three-course meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant: 30 THB
Scholarships
As an international student, depending on the school he attends in Thailand, the tuition fee can cost an average of $17,000 to $28,000. his consumption It can cost up to $600 to $1200 depending on the lifestyle.
Scholarships that can be applied for
- Child’s Dream Scholarship
- Prospect Burma Scholarship
- Daughters Rising
- Zomia(Student Loan)
- Brackett Foundation(Partial)
- University Scholarship(Partial+Full) etc…
Student visas for Thailand
- Passport Biodata Page or Travel Document (Must be valid within 6 months from travel date)
- Photograph of the applicant, taken within the past six months
- Document indicating current location (driving license, bank statement, or proof of stay)
- A copy of a recent saving or checking bank statement with an ending balance of no less than $4,000 that shows the applicant's name and date. In case of submitting a family bank statement, proof of relationship (i.e. birth certificate, marriage certificate) must be provided
- Supporting Letter from the University addressing the Royal Thai Embassy in Washington D.C.
- Letter confirming enrollment details from the school indicating the applicant's name and signed by an authorized person together with a copy of Thai ID card or passport of the signer
Required Documents
- filled-in application form
- proof of paying the application fee (if applicable)
- high school diploma (to apply for a Bachelor's)
- Bachelor's diploma (to apply for a Master's)
- transcript of records
- proof of English proficiency
- proof of financial resources (to live and study there)
- medical certificate
- passport-sized photo(s)
- copy of valid passport and/or personal ID
- letter(s) of recommendation
- personal statement etc.
Work Permit
According to the law of the Thai government, international students who come to study from outside of Thailand are not allowed to work part time/full time while they are studying. As an exception, in some relevant schools, you can get internship experience with "Unpaid Internship". Only after the end of the study period can you legally apply for a job and continue living with a Work Visa.