A Guide to Schools in Thailand
for Expat Parents

Thailand is a popular destination for expatriates, offering a rich cultural experience and a high quality of life. For families, one of the most important decisions is selecting the right school for their children. With a wide range of international schools available, this guide will help you navigate the options and make an informed choice for your child’s education.

Understanding Your Options

Public Schools:

• Public schools in Thailand are government-funded and primarily cater to Thai citizens.
• Education is free for Thai nationals, but expat children may face challenges such as language barriers (instruction is in Thai) and cultural differences.
• Additional costs for uniforms, textbooks, and extracurricular activities may apply.

Private Schools:  

• Private schools offer an alternative to the public system, often blending Thai and international curricula.
• They typically have smaller class sizes and may include English language instruction.
• Tuition fees are higher than public schools but generally more affordable than international schools.

International Schools:

• International schools in Thailand follow globally recognized curricula (e.g., British, American, IB) and are taught primarily in English.
• They provide a multicultural environment, attracting students from diverse nationalities.
• These schools are ideal for expat families seeking a seamless transition to global education systems.
• Tuition fees are higher, reflecting the premium facilities, experienced faculty, and international standards.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an International School

 1. Curriculum:

International schools in Thailand offer a variety of curricula to suit different educational goals:

• British Curriculum: Focuses on a structured, well-rounded education with an emphasis on core subjects and extracurricular activities. Prepares students for IGCSEs and A-Levels.
• American Curriculum: Emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning, with a focus on SAT/AP exams for university preparation.
• IB (International Baccalaureate): Offers a globally recognized program that encourages holistic development and prepares students for universities worldwide.
• Other Curricula: French, Australian, and other national curricula are also available.

2. Location and Accessibility:

Consider the school’s proximity to your home or workplace. Traffic in cities like Bangkok can be challenging, so location matters.

Many international schools offer transportation services for an additional fee.

3. Facilities and Extracurricular Activities:

Look for schools with modern facilities such as science labs, sports fields, libraries, and technology-integrated classrooms.

Extracurricular activities (sports, arts, music, and clubs) are essential for a well-rounded education.

4. Accreditation and Reputation:

Ensure the school is accredited by recognized international bodies such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), Council of International Schools (CIS), or International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO).

Research the school’s reputation, academic performance, and university placement records.

5. Language Support:

If your child is not fluent in English, check if the school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) support.

Some schools also provide Thai language classes to help students integrate into the local culture.

6. Special Needs Education:

If your child has special educational needs, inquire about the school’s support programs and resources.

Cost Considerations: What to Expect

International schools in Thailand come with varying tuition fees. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

1. Primary School (Grades 1-6):

• Mid-Range Schools: 10,000 – 20,000 USD per year
• High-End Schools: 20,000 – 30,000 USD per year

2. Secondary School (Grades 7-12):

• Mid-Range Schools:  15,000–25,000 USD per year
• High-End Schools:  25,000–40,000 USD per year

Additional Costs:

• Application and registration fees
• School uniforms and supplies
• Extracurricular activities and transportation
• Meals and school trips

Beyond Academics: Important Considerations

1. School Calendar:

• The Thai academic year typically runs from May to March, with breaks for Thai New Year (Songkran) and other national holidays.
• International schools may follow different academic calendars based on their curriculum.

2. Cultural Integration:

• International schools in Thailand offer a multicultural environment, helping students develop global perspectives.
• Some schools also incorporate Thai culture and language into their programs.

3. Community and Support:

• Many international schools have strong expat communities, offering support networks for families.
• Parent-teacher associations and school events can help you stay involved in your child’s education.

How to Find the Right School

Research Online:

• Visit school websites to learn about their curriculum, facilities, and admission requirements.
• Read reviews and testimonials from other expat families.

Attend School Fairs and Open Houses:

• These events provide an opportunity to meet school representatives, ask questions, and tour the campus.

Seek Recommendations:

• Join expat forums, Facebook groups, or local communities to get firsthand recommendations.
• Consult with colleagues or friends who have children attending international schools.

Visit Schools:

• Schedule visits to shortlisted schools to observe the environment, meet teachers, and assess the facilities.

This list provides a starting point for exploring schools in Thailand. Please be aware that it may not be exhaustive, and some information may not be entirely current.