Chulalongkorn University

Thailand is rapidly emerging as a new study abroad destination in Asia for Indian students. The reason is that Thailand offers affordable education, programs taught in English and an exposure to Southeast Asia through its growing economic networks. From medical colleges to internationally recognised hospitality programs, Thailand attracts thousands of international students interested in quality education.

Study in Thailand Highlights

Why Study in Thailand from India?

Thailand offers affordable and internationally recognised programs. Thailand is rapidly gaining a reputation as a regional education hub. Thai universities attract international students from not just the Asian subcontinent but also from Europe and Africa. The reason thousands of international students flock to Thailand is also due to its English-taught programs. Apart from this, there are other reasons why students want to study in Thailand:

• International students account for over 22,000 annually, enrolled across various Thai universities.

• Most Thai universities are globally recognized and accredited. International students receive the best education in Thailand.

• The medium of instruction is Thai (local), but a wide range of English-language programs is available for international students.

• Key student cities to study in Thailand include Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket, which are safe and also have lower living costs.

• Overall, the cost of living in Thailand is cheaper than other Asian countries. There ample affordable transport and food options that do not hurt the student pocket.

• Over time, Thailand has also become a hub for Medicine, Tourism, and Hospitality studies.

Popular Courses to Study in Thailand

Here are a few popular courses which Indian students can study in Thailand:

• Medicine
• Dentistry
• Nursing
• Business & Management
• Engineering & IT
• Architecture
• Journalism
• Design
• Tourism & Hospitality

Apart from the full-time and popular courses, Indian students can also look at short-term classes. Some of the popular ones include Thai language certifications, summer exchanges, and cultural immersion programs.

Admission Requirements to Study in Thailand

The admission requirements vary by the level of course an international student applies for. Check out the level-wise admission requirements to study in Thailand:

Admission Requirements for UG Programs:

• Completion of 10+2 with 55-65%+ in high school

• Transcripts of school, that is, 10+2

• Proof of English language proficiency by submitting any one of the tests:

• IELTS (5.5–6.0) or

• TOEFL iBT (61+)

Admission Requirements for PG Programs:

• Bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.5-3.0 on a 4.0-point scale

• Statement of purpose (SOP)

• Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

• English language proficiency tests of either IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 / TOEFL iBT score of 79

NOTE: Medicine/Dentistry programs may require interviews or additional entrance exams. Some of the best student cities in Thailand include - Bankok, Phuket and Nakhon Si Thammarat.

Student Visa to Study in Thailand

International students coming to study in Thailand would need a student visa. On a student visa, students are usually ineligible to work part-time. Check out the details below:

• Students must apply for a Non-Immigrant “ED” visa after getting an admission offer from a Thai university.

• Proof of finances (usually an attested bank statement showing at least 50,000 Thai Baht or ₹1.2 Lakhs for the last 6 months).

• The visa is extendable annually based on the duration of the program extension.

• Sponsorship letter from parents will also be needed if they are sponsoring education.

• The student visa in Thailand costs USD 70.

Officially, part-time work is restricted, but internships and practical training are possible with university permission.

Post-Study Work Options in Thailand

Thailand is not a major post-study work hub like Canada or Australia, but it still offers opportunities for those seeking to stay and work. Graduates in Thailand can either secure internships or obtain full-time jobs if they are sponsored with a work permit. They can also explore some career opportunities in the ASEAN region, where Thai degrees are recognised. Top job sectors in Thailand for PSW after graduation are:

• Technology
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Banking & Fin Tech
• Advanced Manufacturing
• International Education

Scholarships & Financial Aid to Study in Thailand

To study in Thailand, international students can consider the following scholarships to fund their education and lower their cost of tuition:

• Thai Government Scholarships

• Chulalongkorn University Graduate Scholarships

• AIT Scholarships

An ideal mix of affordability, top-notch education, and a taste of life could be provided to an Indian student by opting to study in Thailand. Whereas Thailand offers discounted tuition for those who would otherwise attend Western countries, its curricula are strong in Medicine, Business, and Hospitality, and the country's continuing international recognition of degrees ensures that its candidates develop academically and professionally. Being the gateway to ASEAN, it provides experience with global companies and opportunities that transcend borders. Equally interesting student communities and cultural life make it worthwhile to study here.

Study in Thailand FAQs

Q. Can Indian students study Medicine in Thailand?
A. Yes, many Indian students pursue courses in Medicine, Dentistry, and Nursing in Thailand. This is because Thailand offers affordable tuition fees, English-medium teaching, and its degrees are globally recognised not just in ASEAN but also in other parts of the world. A student can practice medicine after graduating from Thailand with a license.

Q. Do universities in Thailand offer English-taught programs?
A. Yes, the majority of Thai universities teach domestic and international students in English. However, public universities often have programs in the Thai language. Still, top institutions like AIT, Chulalongkorn, and Mahidol offer a wide range of courses taught exclusively in the English language.

Q. What should be the budget for Indian students to study in Thailand?
A. On average, Indian students spend around USD 6,000 – USD 9,000 per year while studying in Thailand. These costs include both tuition and living expenses. The costs vary depending on the city and the university of study in Thailand. Additionally, some universities may offer scholarships, which can help reduce overall costs.

Q. Can students work part-time in Thailand?
A. Officially, part-time jobs are limited and mostly restricted to international students. However, international students may secure sponsored internships during their full-time studies. Special permission may be needed from universities in Thailand, which will allow students to work part-time while studying.

Q. Is Thailand a safe destination for Indian students?
A. Yes, Thailand is considered student-friendly and safe. Cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai have large international communities, with affordable healthcare and reliable transport systems. Among 163 countries, Thailand ranks at #86 as per GPI globally, which suggests that Thailand is safe for students.