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Choosing a school is often the decision that determines where a family settles in Thailand. International schools, curriculum options and the neighbourhoods built around them.
By City
Provision varies significantly across Thailand. Bangkok offers the deepest selection; Chiang Mai and Phuket both have genuinely strong options for the right family.
The widest selection of international schools in Thailand. British curriculum, American, IB and bilingual options at every price point. Fees range from 400,000 THB to over 1,000,000 THB per year.
Bangkok Patana School
British (BSO) · 700,000 – 900,000 THB/yr
Harrow International School
British · 800,000 – 1,100,000 THB/yr
ISB (International School Bangkok)
American/IB · 700,000 – 950,000 THB/yr
KIS International School
IB · 400,000 – 600,000 THB/yr
A smaller selection than Bangkok but several strong options exist, particularly for British curriculum families.
Chiang Mai International School (CMIS)
American/IB · 200,000 – 400,000 THB/yr
Prem Tinsulanonda International
IB/British · 600,000 – 900,000 THB/yr
Lanna International School
British · 250,000 – 450,000 THB/yr
Grace International School
American · 150,000 – 280,000 THB/yr
A strong international school sector relative to its size, ranging from affordable to premium. The British curriculum is well represented.
British International School Phuket (BISP)
British/IB · 500,000 – 850,000 THB/yr
HeadStart International School
British · 300,000 – 550,000 THB/yr
QSI International School Phuket
American · 280,000 – 480,000 THB/yr
Phuket International Academy
IB · 350,000 – 600,000 THB/yr
Pattaya, Koh Samui, Hua Hin, Krabi and Isaan have more limited international school provision than Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket. See the relevant city guide for details on what's available in each location.
Where to Live
School choice and neighbourhood choice are usually decided together. These are the areas families relocating to Thailand consistently choose.
Bangkok
The highest concentration of premium international schools in the city, alongside family-friendly community malls and modern paediatric clinics.
Bangkok
More space for your money and proximity to some of the city's best international schools. The primary choice for expat families wanting room to grow.
Chiang Mai
South of the city. Larger houses, gardens and a quieter environment, home to several of Chiang Mai's international schools. A car is essential.
Phuket
North Phuket's premium residential zone, home to several international schools. Increasingly popular with families and higher-budget expats.
Curriculum
Thailand's international schools follow several different systems. The right choice depends on your child's age, your long-term plans, and whether you anticipate relocating again.
Follows the English national curriculum through to IGCSEs and A-Levels. The most widely available option in Thailand, particularly in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai. A familiar pathway for UK-bound university applications.
Follows a US-style structure through to a high school diploma, often with AP subjects available. Common alongside British and IB options in the larger cities.
A globally recognised framework through Primary Years, Middle Years and the Diploma Programme. Favoured by families anticipating further relocation, as the IB is consistently recognised across countries.
Thai-English bilingual programmes, generally at lower cost than fully international schools. Worth considering for families planning a longer-term stay and wanting stronger Thai language immersion for their children.
Plan Further
Popular schools have waiting lists — early application matters. These resources help connect school choice to the wider move.
Filter your property search by proximity to international schools alongside your other lifestyle priorities.
Compare Bangkok districts in depth, including transit access, rental ranges and the families each area best suits.
Full guides for Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, Krabi and Isaan.