Thailand is a Southeast Asian country known for its pristine beaches and islands, grand temples, delectable food, and the martial arts Muay Thai. The country has never been colonized, that’s why it earned the title Land of the Free. But besides that, the nation is also known as the Land of Smiles for the hospitality and friendliness of its people.
A welcoming community is just one of the many reasons international students are drawn to the country. Thailand has many more to offer when it comes to higher education. In this article, we will be looking at the best universities in Thailand for international students.
Is Thailand good for international students to study in?
Thailand extremely values education, and at the university level, Thai universities are leading in science and technology. Other common programs are ecology, environmental sciences, and agriculture since most developments in these disciplines happen in the country. Many universities host international programs that will provide students with globally competitive degrees.
Tuition fees vary from every university, and each institution may charge differently – per unit or semester. Students can prepare as low as 1000 USD per year for undergraduate studies and between 1000 – 2000 USD per year for postgraduate degrees.
Thailand’s blend of modern and ancient culture creates interesting experiences for international students. The cost of living is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries, especially since the nation’s economy is one of the strongest in Southeast Asia. Depending on their lifestyles, students can expect to prepare between 425 – 850 USD for accommodation, meals, transportation, and hobbies and leisure activities as well.
Can international students work in Thailand while studying?
International students who will study in Thailand need to obtain a Student Visa. It is a type of Non-Immigrant Visa (Non-ED) subject to its own rules, regulations, and durations, and one such policy is not participating in any economic activity. Therefore, international students are generally not allowed to work part-time or full-time during their studies.
Check Also: Available Programs for International Students
Can international students stay in Thailand after graduation?
After graduation, international students must prepare to leave the country two weeks after they receive their final grades. Foreign nationals who wish to stay in Thailand will have to extend or re-apply for a non-immigrant visa, or other visa types depending on their purpose. Graduates who wish to work in Thailand need to apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa Category B for work or business purposes. Once they are accepted by any company in Thailand, they should apply for a Work Permit as well from the Ministry of Labour.
Best Universities in Thailand for International Students
1. Chulalongkorn University (CU)
Chulalongkorn University is an autonomous research university in Bangkok. It was founded during the reign of King Chulalongkorn in 1899 as a training school for civil servants and royal pages. Today, CU comprises 19 faculties, three colleges, ten institutes, and a School of Agriculture. It offers degrees in the health sciences, science & technology, and social science & humanities. Moreover, CU has 99 international programs across the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
Chulalongkorn University is known internationally as the best university in Thailand in many categories, such as research quality, subject quality, university reputation, and more. Its campus also ranks best in environmental management systems with an innovative park, a water retention pond, and safe academic and housing facilities for students and staff.
2. Mae Fah Luang University (MFU)
Mae Fah Luang University is a public and autonomous university located in the Chiang Rai Province. It is also referred to as the International University in Thailand because English is the medium of instruction in the majority of its programs across 15 schools. MFU is known as a central education hub for nearby Asian countries and other continents with over 450 international students.
This top university in Thailand carries the name of Princess Srinagarindra, a royalty in Thailand, and follows her aspiration of restoring forests and developing people that became the university’s philosophy. Indeed, MCU’s 800-hectare campus in an inviting setting of mountains and trees house state-of-the-art education services and infrastructure.
3. Mahidol University
Mahidol University, one of the best universities in Thailand for international students, is a research university named after Prince Mahidol of Songkla, Thailand’s Father of Modern Medicine and Public Health. The institution began as a hospital and medical school, the first in the country, in 1943 and has expanded through the years into 17 faculties, six colleges, and nine research institutions. It offers a range of programs in the health sciences, science and technology, and social science and humanities.
Mahidol University has six campuses both in urban and suburban areas, as well as provinces across the country. These sites house over 70 research laboratories, a library with an automated system, student accommodation, student union centers, and the Mahidol University International College.
4. King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT)
The King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi is a public university focused on teaching and research in engineering and technology. It presents itself as an educational and industrial park with its two campuses in Bangkok, and a leading multidisciplinary academic center in the country. Many programs are taught in English, especially in the School of Architecture and Design. In terms of research, KMUTT’s expertise lies in energy management, bioscience & bioengineering, materials science, and policy research, among others.
Besides academics, KMUTT provides students with enriching recreational and support facilities. International students can enjoy dedicated sports facilities, library & information center, and the KMUTT residence. Students can travel between the two campuses with free bus service as well.
5. Burapha University (BUU)
Burapha University is a public university with three campuses in and around the coastal town of Saen Suk. It offers over 50 degree programs in a wide range of disciplines, including science and technology, humanities and social sciences, and health sciences. This top university in Thailand hosts service centers such as the University Hospital, the Computer Center, and the Institute of Marine Science with an aquarium that attracts tourists regularly. BUU plays an important role as a research center as well, strategically located at the Eastern coast and near the Eastern Economic Corridor, a major economic hub in Thailand.
Burapha University continuously collaborates with regional and international organizations in various industries for social development, following its commitment to intellectual knowledge and morality.
We hope that this article on the best universities in Thailand for international students was helpful. To know more information on studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students!
