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.
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.
Education System
Tertiary education in Thailand is offered at universities, institutes of technology (known as the Rajamangala Institute), vocational and technical colleges, teachers colleges (known as the Rajabhat Institute), and other professional colleges such as nursing colleges, and police and military academies.
The standard duration of study for most Bachelor’s degree programmes is four years, except for Architecture, Art, Graphic Art and Pharmacy that require five years of study. Basic training in medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine lasts six years of study.
The academic year is made up of two semesters, June to October and November to March, and a summer session from April to May. However, some Thai universities have adopted different start and end dates for their semesters to correlate with the other school systems, like the ones from U.S. or Europe.
Why study in Thailand?
1. Tuition fees are low
For those of you planning to study at a public university in Thailand, you should know that tuition fees usually range between 1,600 and 2,500 EUR per year. Of course, there are exceptions, and you should expect much higher fees at private universities.
2. Enjoy beautiful weather and golden beaches
We cannot make a list with the best reasons to study in Thailand without talking about its wonderful tropical climate and beaches. What's there left to say?! After classes or during weekends, you can always take your friends, grab your swimming suits, and have fun at the seaside. Just don't forget your sunscreen!
3. Explore jaw-dropping landmarks and sites
If you think Thai beaches are attractive, then you'll love this: there are various other places where you can reconnect with nature and enjoy its beauty. Here are a few top attractions we recommend: the Similan Islands, the Elephant Jungle Sanctuary, the Erawan National Park, the Erawan Falls, the Khao Sok National Park, the Doi Inthanon National Park, etc.
For human-made wonders, check out the Grand Palace, the Wat Arun Ratchawararam temple, the Wat Phra Kaew shrine, the White Temple, and so on.
4. Discover the "Land of Smiles"
The "Land of Smiles" is one of the (cute) nicknames used to refer to Thailand. It originates from Thai people's natural hospitality and friendliness towards internationals and other people in general. You'll discover this genuine light-heart feeling as soon as you arrive.
What to study in Thailand?
The most popular fields of study among foreign students are business administration, marketing, business English, Thai language, general management and international business management.
To demonstrate their English level, students may be required to take an English proficiency test, such as TOEFL or IELTS test. For Thai programmes, the Test of Thai as a Foreign Language is the official certificate accepted by Thailand Ministry of Education.
Application Requirements
Higher educational institutions help international students to follow simple application procedures, either applying online or by e-mail to the chosen university. All accepted applicants receive a Letter of Admission from the university.
Here is a list of most common required documents for university application:
- Completed Application Form
- Copy of Passport
- Transcripts: High School / Previous or current educational institution Official Transcripts (copies must be in English and be original or official certified copies of originals)
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Chosen language of instruction with the language proficiency test annexed
According to university policy, additional documents may be required, like an essay between 300 to 500 words on a topic of your choice
It is advisable to always check with your chosen university for the exact required type of documents.
Language of instruction
Thai is the officially approved language of instruction in universities from Thailand. However, there are numerous degree programmes taught in English and higher education institutions continue to increase the number of courses. Some universities offers candidates the option to follow courses for Thai speaking students in English.
English language preparation for studying in Thailand
Develop your academic English language skills in order to meet the English language requirements at Thai universities offering degree studies for international students. Choose an English language school anywhere in the world and pick your preferred English exam preparation course from diverse language course options.
Universities in Thailand will want to see proof that you have good English-language skills, so that you can easily succeed in their English-taught courses. Universities accept these official English exams: