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A Comprehensive Guide to Studying in:
Thailand

Thailand impression

When it comes to studying a master’s abroad, Thailand has everything you could wish for.

If you’re looking for an affordable place to live and study, look at Thailand. Tuition fees and living costs here remain low in comparison with much of Asia, Europe and North America.

If you’re looking for a globally-ranked university, look at Thailand. It has a number of universities that feature in both the QS World University Ranking and Shanghai Ranking.

And if you’re looking for a great place to live, keep looking at Thailand. It is one of the most-visited countries in the world, home to vibrant cities, stunning landmarks and amazing natural landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

How much will it cost to live and study in Thailand?
Do I need to get a visa to live and study in Thailand?
How reputable are Thailand’s universities?
What is the job market like for graduates in Thailand?
Are there a lot of international students in Thailand?

Did You Know? Fun Facts About Thailand

  • 1 Thailand’s national animal is the elephant.
  • 2 The film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was shot in Ko Phi Phi Le in Thailand. It led to a huge increase in tourist numbers, which meant the beach was shut down by Thai authorities in 2018. It eventually reopened (with restrictions) in 2022.
  • 3 Thailand is home to the largest Chinese immigrant population in the world.
  • 4 According to the QS World University Ranking, Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok is the top-ranked school in Thailand.
  • 5 Thailand translates to “Land of the Free” in English.

Which Visas & permits do i need in Thailand

To study a master’s in Thailand you’ll need to apply for a Non-Immigrant ED Visa. Your university will be able to provide you with most of the documents required to apply, but as a minimum you’ll need:

  • A passport with at least six months’ validity.
  • A passport-sized photograph, taken in the last six months.
  • The acceptance letter from your university.
  • Certificates to prove your previous academic studies.

You may also need to provide proof of private health insurance and proof that you can support yourself financially during your time in Thailand. Both of these must cover your entire stay in Thailand.

The documents required, however, depend on your nationality. For this reason it’s worth contacting the Thai embassy in your home country for the exact requirements. You can find more information about the Non-Immigrant ED Visa on the Thailand Ministry for Foreign Affairs website.

Banking in Thailand

Thailand has a large expat population, and it’s a relatively simple process for foreigners to open an account here. The requirements differ from bank to bank – and even from branch to branch – but in general you’ll need the following:

  • Your passport or ID document.
  • Proof of residency in Thailand.
  • The acceptance letter from your university.

You’ll need to apply for a bank account in-person when you arrive in Thailand. The biggest banks in the country include Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank and Krungthai Bank. They all offer expat-friendly account options.

What do I need to know about healthcare in Thailand

International students in Thailand should purchase private health insurance before arriving in the country. You may need proof of this as part of your student visa application.

Private healthcare in Thailand is generally considered to be high-quality, with reasonable waiting times and plenty of English-speaking staff. You’ll also find that healthcare plans here are much cheaper than in Europe and North America.

Some of the best private healthcare providers for international students in Thailand include Allianz, Bupa, Dhipaya and Cigna.

Housing options for students in Thailand

Given its popularity among tourists, expats and students, Thailand remains an affordable country to live in. The average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in Thailand’s major cities is around USD$400, while you can expect to pay less in the suburbs and rural areas of the country.

You can find private accommodation in Thailand through websites such as DDproperty, Hipflat and Thailand-Property. Many universities in Thailand also offer student accommodation for a fraction of the cost of private accommodation.

What are the public transport options in Thailand

The quality of public transport in Thailand really depends on the region you’re staying in. The country’s major urban centers are generally well-served by a combination of buses, taxis, trains and – in Bangkok – a metro.

However, the public transport infrastructure is less developed in rural Thailand. You may be more reliant on your own transport to get around.

How much does a Big Mac cost in Thailand

The Big Mac Index is an informal way of comparing the purchasing-power parity (PPP) of different countries. A Big Mac costs 128 baht in Thailand and USD$5.15 in the United States. The difference between this exchange rate and the actual exchange rate suggests that the baht is undervalued by 32.1%.

For a single person, the estimated monthly living costs in Thailand are around $527, excluding rent.