What are the advantages of studying at an international school in Bangkok?

Choosing a school for your child is an important decision for any parent, especially when choosing between a Thai school and an international school. In Bangkok, there are many international schools offering curricula from a variety of countries. Today, we will look at the pros and cons of studying at an international school in Bangkok to help parents make an informed decision.

Advantages of Studying at an International School in Bangkok
Parents in Bangkok may still be undecided about where to send their children to school, between a Thai school and an international school. Today, we will look at the advantages of international schools in Bangkok and why parents should choose them.

1. International Curriculum
International schools often use globally recognized curricula such as the IB, British Curriculum (IGCSE & A-Level), or American Curriculum. No matter where you study, you can study there, especially for families who plan to go abroad or plan for their children to study abroad because these curricula will help them adjust to international standards from a young age. It is also the same curriculum as foreign countries as if your child studied abroad.

2. English-language teaching is the main language.
International schools in Bangkok use English as the main language of instruction, which is an advantage for children who want to develop their language skills for further study or work in the future. English is the common language of communication used in every country around the world. Learning English from a young age will give them a great advantage.

3. Developing creativity and problem-solving skills
The curriculum of international schools often emphasizes analytical learning, questioning, and problem-solving, which helps develop children's creativity more than memorization.

4. Multicultural environment
Students in international schools in Bangkok come from many countries, allowing children to learn different cultures, make international friends, and gain a global perspective on life.

5. Appropriate student-teacher ratio
International schools usually have fewer students per teacher than typical Thai schools. This allows teachers to provide more attention and care to each student.

6. A variety of extra-curricular activities
International schools emphasize extra-curricular activities such as sports, music, art, projects and social activities, which help develop children’s all-round skills.

7. Opportunity to enter world-class universities
Studying in an international school makes it easier for children to apply to top universities in the world, especially those in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

Disadvantages of studying in international schools in Bangkok
There are advantages and disadvantages, and international schools also have disadvantages. Let's take a look.
1. High cost
Tuition fees for international schools in Bangkok are quite high, especially for leading schools. The cost may be between 300,000 - 1,500,000 baht per year, excluding other expenses such as activity fees, school uniform fees, and transportation fees.

2. Cultural differences with Thai society
Children who study in international schools may not experience Thai culture to its fullest extent, such as learning Thai language that may not be as intensive as in Thai schools, and may have less understanding of Thai traditions than children who study in Thai schools.

Choosing the right school for your child is a thorough and detailed process because once you make your choice, it could determine your child's future. International schools in Bangkok offer many advantages, including the primary use of English, the international nature of the school environment, and the development of skills that are not just focused on knowledge in books.