When Indian parents think about sending their children abroad for school, the usual names pop up first — the UK, Singapore, maybe even the US. But let me share a little secret: Thailand is quietly becoming a very attractive destination for school-age international students, including those from India.
As someone who has spent her entire career in Thai education — first as a teacher, now as an edtech entrepreneur — I can tell you that the country’s schools have evolved far beyond the postcard image of beaches and temples. If you look closer, you’ll find a blend of strong academics, warm culture, and an international outlook that can make a child’s schooling years both enriching and happy.
Why Thailand Deserves a Spot on Your Radar
Thailand’s international schools are not just good — they’re world-class. Many follow British, American, or IB curricula, and the teaching standards are closely monitored by international accreditation bodies. You’ll also find schools offering Indian curricula like CBSE, catering to families who prefer a smoother academic transition.
The cost? Here’s where it gets interesting. Compared to Western countries, Thailand offers a much more affordable education without compromising on quality. Add to that a lower cost of living, safe environment, and proximity to India — and suddenly, the math starts making sense.
Where to Study: The Three Key Regions
Thailand isn’t just Bangkok. Depending on what kind of environment you want for your child, different regions offer different flavours of schooling.
Bangkok – The Cosmopolitan Classroom
Pros: The largest number of international and bilingual schools; easy access to Indian restaurants, embassies, hospitals, and flights home.
Cons: Traffic can test your patience, and living costs are higher than in other regions.
Best for: Families who value convenience, global exposure, and a fast-paced city life.
Chiang Mai – The Cultural Capital Up North
Pros: Beautiful natural surroundings, slower pace of life, excellent community of educators and expats. Many schools focus on holistic learning and outdoor education.
Cons: Fewer flight connections and slightly less variety of schools compared to Bangkok.
Best for: Parents who prefer a peaceful, safe environment and value balanced development over urban buzz.
Phuket and the Southern Coast – Learning by the Sea
Pros: Smaller international schools with close-knit communities, strong emphasis on sports and creativity, and plenty of sunshine.
Cons: Limited higher-grade options and can be tourist-heavy during the season.
Best for: Families looking for a boarding or lifestyle-based education that combines study and adventure.
Culture and Comfort
One thing Indian families often appreciate is Thailand’s cultural friendliness. Both countries share deep values around family, respect, and education. Vegetarian food, temples, and community connections are easy to find. Students don’t feel “foreign” for long — and that’s important when you’re still young and adjusting to a new life.
Most Thai people are gentle and patient with children, and English is widely used in international schools. Still, your child might pick up some Thai words faster than you expect — our language has a musical rhythm that children love!
The School Experience
In Thai international schools, learning is not just about books. Critical thinking, creativity, and personal growth are strongly emphasised. There’s also a big focus on extracurriculars — from robotics and debate clubs to traditional Thai dance and community service.
One of the things I admire most about these schools is how they balance discipline and freedom. Students are encouraged to express themselves, but also taught the value of humility and respect — two cornerstones of Thai culture.
Support Systems for Students
Even the best students sometimes need extra academic support — especially when adjusting to a new education system. In Thailand, that’s not a problem at all.
Private tutoring is very common here, and you can easily find experienced local and international tutors for almost any subject or language. Many of them, including licensed teachers, are available through our platform BestKru — Thailand’s largest tutor search website. Whether your child needs help with math, English, or just wants to learn Thai faster, there’s always someone ready to help.
A Few Personal Tips
- Visit before deciding. Thailand has a very diverse range of schools — visit a few to get a feel for the environment that best fits your child.
- Check school calendars. Thai and Indian school years don’t always align perfectly, so plan your admissions timing carefully.
- Encourage your child to engage with local culture. Even small things like learning Thai greetings or trying local food can make a big difference in feeling at home.
- Stay connected. Schools here value parent involvement — teachers are approachable, and communication is easy.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Thailand for Indian students isn’t just about academics — it’s about nurturing well-rounded young people who are curious, adaptable, and globally minded. It’s close to home, culturally welcoming, and surprisingly sophisticated in its education approach.
So, if you’re exploring schooling options abroad for your child, don’t overlook Thailand. It may not have been the first name on your list, but it could end up being the most balanced, enriching, and practical choice.
Written by Kamonwan Achjanis, former teacher and co-founder of BestKru, Thailand’s largest platform for finding local tutors. Passionate about education and lifelong learning, she enjoys helping parents and students navigate the Thai education landscape with clarity and confidence.
