Study in Thailand: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2023

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:

PTE Academic
IELTS
TOEFL
C1 Advanced

Living in Thailand

Let's take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in Thailand:

Tuition fees

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 890 and 10,000 EUR per academic year. There are also study programmes that go over 10,000 EUR. For example, some MBA degrees cost as much as 39,000 EUR per year.

Check out scholarships to fund your studies in Thailand.

Costs of living

The monthly living expenses for students in Thailand can reach anywhere between 400 and 800 EUR. 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): 200–400 EUR/month
monthly utilities: 60–90 EUR
food and groceries: 100–250 EUR/month
monthly transport pass: 34 EUR; some cities might have student discounts
three-course meal for 2 at a mid-range restaurant: 19 EUR
1 litre of milk: 1.50 EUR
1 loaf of bread: 1.10 EUR
1 cappuccino: 1.65 EUR

About Thailand

Thailand officially the Kingdom of Thailand features a modern capital city, Bangkok, and friendly people who epitomize Thailand’s “land of smiles” reputation. Located in the centre of Southeast Asia, The geography of Thailand features many natural borders with neighbouring countries: a mountainous border with Myanmar (Burma) to the north and west; a long stretch of the Mekong River separating Thailand from Laos to the north and east; and the Mekong River and the Dongrak Mountains delineating the border of Cambodia to the east.

Thai means "people" or "human being", The Thai refer to Thailand as "land of the freedom”. This is because Thailand is the only country in Southeast Asia never colonised by a European power.

Thailand is a Constitutional Monarchy presided over by the King of Thailand, who is the official head of state. The Thailand government is based on a constitutional monarchy quite similar to that of the United Kingdom, in which a Prime Minister serves as head of a parliamentary government and a hereditary Thai king functions as head of state.

Thailand is an emerging economy, the 2nd largest economy in Southeast Asia after Indonesia, with the seventh lowest unemployment rate in the world, and only 10% of the population living below the poverty line. The country’s exports consist primarily of agricultural products, including fish and rice, the latter of which Thailand is the largest exporter of in the world, as well as textiles, rubber, automobiles, jewellery, and computers/electronic appliances.

While the official Thai language is widely spoken throughout Thailand, many Thais also speak and understand English.

Thailand is largely tropical, so it's hot and humid all year around with temperatures in the 28-35°C range (82-95°F).

In addition to the Gregorian calendar, Thailand also uses the Thai solar calendar, which is 543 years ahead. Thai dates in English are often written as B.E., short for "Buddhist Era".

Thailand is home to the world’s ninth tallest statue, The Great Buddha of Thailand. Buddhism is the country's main religion, practiced by 95 % of the population.

Universities, colleges and schools in Thailand

Bangkok

Sasin School of Management (1 PhD)

Discover other countries

Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.

Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.

France
France is a study destination whose romance, academic environment, and style of life charm thousands of international students every year. Students can enjoy the best of both worlds: the chance to enrol at top-ranked European universities while paying some of the lowest tuition fees worldwide. The Hexagon, a local nickname for France, is a multicultural hub, allowing you to meet, get to know, and develop friendships with people from all over the globe. There’s also a significant number of English-taught degrees (over 1,500). You can also learn French, the language of love, which will allow you to enjoy even more the local cuisine and touristic attractions and will make you a stand-out applicant on the job market.

Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.

Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.

Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.

Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.

Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.

United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.

Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.

United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.

Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.

Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in Thailand in 2023

Browse all PhD programmes in Thailand