Top 10 international schools in Thailand 2024
Thanks to its large global population, Thailand is home to a significant number of international schools. These schools offer a range of world-class curricula, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), British, American, and Singapore curriculum, which attracts both expatriate families and local residents looking for top-tier education for their children.
However, the abundance of options means choosing the right school can be overwhelming. So, if you’re leaning towards an international school in Thailand, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 schools to simplify your decision-making process, in no particular order.
When selecting schools for this list, we consider various factors aside from school size. This includes looking at the institution’s expansion plans, upcoming projects, and development of new facilities. We aim to showcase not only well-known names but also schools that have exciting growth prospects on the horizon.
10 Best international schools in Thailand for 2024
British International School, Phuket (BISP)
Address: British International School, Phuket, 59 Moo 2, Thepkrasattri Road T. Koh Kaew, A. Muang Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
Curriculum: English National Curriculum, IB, IGSCE, and BTEC
Website: https://www.bisphuket.ac.th/
British International School, Phuket (BISP) is where high-quality British education meets a unique educational philosophy: the Triple Helix. This philosophy focuses on Learning, Wellbeing, and Passion as key pillars of a balanced and productive life.
With classes for children aged 2 to 18, BISP takes a holistic approach to education to nurture every aspect of a child’s development, including social, emotional, physical, and cognitive. In addition to the English National Curriculum, the day and boarding all-through school also offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 12 and 13.
BISP puts wellbeing at the core of their learning community to help students discover their identity and purpose for personal growth. Moreover, students are given plenty of opportunities to explore their passions, from sports and business to the creative arts and, of course, academic studies. Their 44-acre campus on the island of Phuket has top-notch facilities, such as Olympic-sized swimming pools, an athletics track, a short game golf centre, a trapeze rig, a multi-purpose art studio, an auditorium, a drama studio, an amphitheatre, among others.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Holistic educational philosophy focusing on Learning, Wellbeing, and Passion | May have a competitive environment due to its reputation |
| Extensive facilities including Olympic-sized swimming pools and a multi-purpose art studio. | |
| Offers a range of curricula including the IB Diploma Programme |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Muge Kocak Pilates: “Best british school all around the world. A huge campus with many activities. So happy that my 2 kids are here. 🌺 …” |
| Sergei: “Good place for kids. Kindergarten, especially little Ducks is lovely place. Kids adore David and his team! Only positive emotions. The team regularly create something new for children. They eat a lot of tasty and healthy food. Good job!” |
DLTS International School, Nonthaburi
Address: DLTS International School, 8 Nakhon In Rd, Tambon Bang Khun Kong, Bang Kruai District, Nonthaburi 11130, Thailand
Curriculum: American Curriculum with Play-Based Learning and Project-Based Learning
Website: https://denlatrilingual.com/
While English is the primary language of instruction, DLTS International School also incorporates Chinese and Thai languages in its curriculum. The school currently offers Preschool and Primary School Programmes, with plans to introduce a Secondary School for grades 7 to 9 by the year 2025. The Preschool programme follows Play-Based Learning for children 18 months to 6 years. On the other hand, the Primary School Programme follows an Enhanced American Curriculum with an emphasis on Project-Based Learning.
DLTS International School is dedicated to motivating and empowering students. The school aims to help them achieve their maximum potential by providing the necessary skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in an ever-changing global environment. Therefore, their rigorous academic programme ensures proficiency in STEM subjects and fluency in English, Thai, and Chinese languages. The school’s curriculum also includes specialised courses such as Coding, Robotics, and Engineering.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Emphasises Play-Based and Project-Based Learning, especially in early education | Currently only offers preschool and primary programmes, limiting options for older students |
| Incorporates multiple languages (English, Thai, Chinese) into the curriculum | |
| Plans to expand to secondary education |
Krabi International School
Address: Krabi International School, 188 Nong Thale, Muang Krabi 81180, Thailand
Curriculum: English / Cambridge Curriculum
Website: https://www.krabiinternationalschool.com/
Entering its 10th academic year, Krabi International School is now firmly established as Thailand’s leading green school. The school prides itself on fostering a balance between environmental awareness and technological advancement.
Serving an exclusive group of up to 270 students aged 5-18, its focus is quality over quantity. Krabi International School delivers the prestigious Cambridge curriculum, renowned for its rigorous educational framework. Combined with small class sizes, this means each student benefits from personalised instruction and a supportive learning atmosphere.
The welcoming community fosters a sense of belonging, encouraging students to develop into well-rounded global citizens. Parents and students appreciate the school’s commitment to creating a nurturing environment where every child can thrive, set within school grounds regularly praised for their natural beauty. A state-of-the-art science laboratory, modern classrooms, and ample outdoor learning spaces promote hands-on learning across both core and foundation subjects from Year 1 to Year 13.
With tuition fees among the lowest in the country and a fully qualified, experienced teaching team — most of whom come from the UK — Krabi International School is arguably the most cost-effective international school in Thailand.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focus on environmental awareness combined with a rigorous Cambridge curriculum | Limited number of students may not provide as diverse an experience |
| Small class sizes allow for personalised instruction | |
| Affordable tuition fees compared to other international schools |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Siân Jones Minhwang: “I cannot say enough to praise this school. My son is thriving at this school having attended now for 3 years. The school is constantly improving with a new science block now open. Well done Krabi International” |
| Chris InTh: “Without doubt the best place for a decent education in Krabi, fees are higher than other local schools, but are a fraction of the cost of Phuket, Bangkok or Chiang Mai equivalents.” |
RIS Ruamrudee International School
Address: RIS Ruamrudee International School, 6 Soi Ramkhamhaeng 184, Khwaeng Min Buri, Min Buri, Bangkok 10510, Thailand
Curriculum: American Curriculum
Website: https://www.rism.ac.th/
Established in 1957, RIS Ruamrudee International School embodies a foundation rooted in the Christian spirit of love. The school’s motto, Ad Astra, meaning “to the stars,” aims to inspire each student to strive for excellence not only in academics but also in personal and spiritual development.
Following the American Education Reaches Out (AERO) standards, RIS implements a curriculum that includes NGSS for science, NCAS for the arts, SHAPE standards for PE, and ACTFL standards for languages. This ensures a consistent educational framework from Kindergarten through grade 12. The curriculum provides challenging and authentic learning experiences at every level of schooling. Additionally, RIS is among the few schools in Southeast Asia that offers both Advanced Placement (AP) classes and the IBDP.
RIS sits on a spacious 29-acre campus with well-kept grounds and separate buildings for elementary, middle, and high school. The school provides high-quality facilities for students and teachers, In addition to essential areas like the canteen, clinic, and church, students have access to art studios, music rooms, gyms, squash courts, and PE classrooms. Boarding students at Seelos Residence stay in comfortable dorms similar to college living and can enjoy all the amenities on campus.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Offers a comprehensive curriculum with Advanced Placement (AP) classes and the IBDP | May have a more traditional approach compared to newer educational philosophies |
| Spacious campus with excellent facilities for various activities | |
| Established reputation since 1957 |
What the parents and alumni think:
| PEESADEJ NANTHACHAIPORN: “one of the elite and oldest international schools in Thailand. My son and daughter study here. They really enjoy! Very good teachers and curriculum.” |
| Chatri Caffin: “Many fond memories of RIS. Was there from grade 4-grade 8 (1993-1998). Sports day and music concerts were the best as the whole school came together to compete and enjoyed what team spirits of school should be all about…” |
Lanna International School, Chiang Mai
Address: Lanna International School, 166 Ban Waen, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai 50230, Thailand
Curriculum: English / Cambridge Curriculum
Website: https://www.lannaist.ac.th/
Located in Chiang Mai, Lanna International School is a prestigious British international school for students aged 2 to 18 (Pre-Nursery to Year 13). Following the rigorous Cambridge curriculum, the school is dedicated to shaping well-rounded individuals who are prepared to succeed in a global society. They focus on character-building through service and leadership initiatives. The school’s main language of instruction is English, but French, Chinese, and Thai are also taught.
LANNA offers the widest range of A Levels and IGCEs in Chiang Mai. Since its establishment in 1993, students at Lanna International School have consistently excelled in exams such as IGCSE, A Level, SAT, IELTS, and TOEFL. Moreover, graduates from the school have been accepted into some of the top universities worldwide.
In terms of facilities, LANNA has everything to support students both inside and outside of the classroom. These include a covered swimming pool free of chemicals, a splash pool, an indoor air-conditioned gym, outdoor sports fields, positive pressure systems for clean air circulation, dedicated art and performing arts rooms, an assembly hall, and STEM Labs.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong focus on character-building through service and leadership initiatives | Potentially higher costs associated with its prestigious reputation |
| Offers a wide range of A Levels and IGCSEs | |
| Comprehensive facilities including STEM labs and sports facilities |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Ally Rossiter: “Our children had an excellent experience at Lanna International School. Lanna’s teachers are first-rate and exceptionally dedicated, and the admin there was very caring and supportive…” |
| Frances: “Lanna is an outstanding school with extremely dedicated teachers, a very high academic standard, a great principal and a really upbeat atmosphere. We couldn’t be happier, and nor could our kids. It’s definitely the best option for high school in Chiangmai.” |
XCL American School of Bangkok (XCL ASB Sukhumvit)
Address: XCL American School of Bangkok, Sukhumvit, 59-59/1 Sukhumvit 49/3 Alley, Khwaeng Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Krung Thep Maha Nakhon 10110
Curriculum: American Curriculum
Website: www.asbsk.ac.th/
Founded in 1983, the XCL American School of Bangkok, Sukhumvit, (XCL ASB Sukhumvit) is a prestigious international school with over 40 years of trust and inspiration, welcoming students from over 40 nationalities across the globe. Offering an innovative, future-focused American curriculum, XCL ASB Sukhumvit provides 20+ Advanced Placement (AP) courses and the College Counseling Program for students in grades 9-12, ensuring their readiness for top global college entrance. The school also emphasises project-based learning and social-emotional learning, allowing students to explore real-world challenges while developing critical thinking skills.
XCL ASB Sukhumvit nurtures their students from Pre-kindergarten through Grade 12 and promotes a well-rounded education that strongly focuses on a child’s holistic self-development, preparing students for success in an interconnected global society. With a prime location in the heart of Sukhumvit, Bangkok, XCL ASB Sukhumvit provides a conducive environment for learning, offering cutting-edge facilities and being a proud member of XCL Education.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Central location, very accessible campus | Medium-sized school with limited campus space |
| Located near Samitivej Hospital for medical emergencies | |
| Extensive AP courses available at the school |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Veena Narula: A great choice for families who are looking for an American international school located conveniently in the heart of Bangkok, with comprehensive facilities, rigorous AP programs, a wide array of sports and extracurricular activities, and a thriving student community. |
| Wichit Issarawimol: This school has been an excellent fit for my son. Having transferred from another international school, he immediately felt comfortable and content here. The teachers are professional and kind. There is almost no case of bullying. The American AP standards curriculum is impeccable. My son really enjoys getting knowledge from an engaging teaching method from the teachers. |
D-PREP International School
Address: D-PREP International School, 17/1 Moo 4, Bangna-Trad Road, Bangna, Bangkok 10260, Thailand
Curriculum: American Curriculum
Website: www.dprep.ac.th
D-PREP International offers a unique approach to learning with a focus on academic and character-building through experiential learning. D-PREP utilises the rigorous American Curriculum while applying the best teaching practices worldwide. It promotes critical thinking and independence for Early Years and Primary students using the Reggio Emilia approach and the IBPYP framework. For Middle and High School students, D-PREP offers the Expeditionary Learning and Advanced Placement (AP) Program. Internships and college/career counselling are also provided for Grade 11-12 students.
Located in Bangna, D-PREP offers a warm and safe environment for students’ personal growth and academic excellence. In addition to its core curriculum, the school provides additional services such as English Language Learning (ELL) and Social-Emotional Needs (SEN) support. February also brings an exciting opportunity for prospective students with a Scholarship Programme which reinforces D-PREP’s commitment to making education more accessible.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The staff and the teachers are very attentive | Limited campus space |
| Located near the massive Megabangna mall | |
| Applies the Reggio Emilia approach for a more comprehensive education |
What the parents and alumni think:
| s wongsawat: I’m impressed with everything here. The teacher team is very cute and attentive. Miss Fa is the best tech. Studied a short summer course but was really impressed. |
| ปกรกุล เอี่ยมสอาด: The admin takes care very well, the school cares. The executives came down to take up the matter themselves. The school is beautiful too. |
St. Andrews International School, Green Valley, Rayong
Address: St. Andrews International School, Green Valley, Koo Road, 1 Moo 7 Banchang-Makham, Ban Chang, Ban Chang District, Rayong 21130, Thailand
Curriculum: English National Curriculum / IB
Website: https://www.standrewsgreenvalley.com
Set among a lush green landscape on the outskirts of Pattaya and Rayong, St. Andrews International School, Green Valley, offers a stimulating and child-centred learning environment for students aged 2 to 18 years old. The school integrates the British curriculum with the inquiry-based IB Programme (IB PYP and IB Diploma) to develop independent, confident, and lifelong learners.
St. Andrews International School, Green Valley’s three pillars of educational philosophy includes ecoliteracy, personalised learning, and holistic education. This philosophy is encapsulated in their motto, “3Be’s”: Be Adventurous, Be Brilliant, Be Happy. The school aims to equip children with the skills needed for success in various aspects of life. The focus is on fostering well-rounded individuals who are academically successful, caring, independent, and confident.
The school’s outstanding campus boasts extensive green areas and facilities to support academic and over 80 co-curricular activities for their students. These features comprise a well-equipped art studio, swimming pool, five football fields, Forest School, and sustainable gardens spanning across 30 acres of lush tropical landscape.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Integrates British curriculum with IB programs for holistic education | Tuition fees may be on the higher side |
| Extensive co-curricular activities and a beautiful campus | |
| Focus on personalised learning and eco-literacy |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Priya: “My son loved every single day spent at Saint Andrews green valley. The primary wing headed by Ms Michelle was just stupendous. The school is the best sanctuary in the lap of nature with thorough professionals running the school fostering an active learning environment with plethora of activities and participation opportunities for young kids…” |
| Anna Ko: “An excellent international school with kindergarten groups. Well equipped, surrounded by green golf courses.” |
KPIS International School Bangkok
Address: KPIS International School Bangkok, 58 Moo 9 Soi Ram Intra 34, Tha Raeng, Bang Khen, Bangkok 10220, Thailand
Curriculum: American Curriculum
Website: https://kpis.ac.th/
KPIS International School Bangkok provides a tailored educational approach based on American Core Standards for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The focus is on shaping students into well-rounded global citizens who excel in communication, continuous learning, and critical thinking. These skills prepare them for success at local or Western universities and in their future careers. Moreover, the school’s curriculum is designed to meet both local regulations and international standards, integrating elements of local language and culture while also preparing students for the ASEAN economic community.
Accredited by both the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the Thai Ministry of Education, KPIS International School Bangkok offers a variety of extracurricular activities to nurture each student’s unique talents and abilities. The school also provides a range of high-quality facilities. Their learning spaces include a fully-equipped science lab, design lab, Mac lab, and auditorium, among others.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tailored educational approach based on American Core Standards | May not have as extensive facilities as some larger schools |
| Accredited by WASC, ensuring quality education | |
| Offers a range of extracurricular activities |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Phupa Phuwadonanon: “KPIS greatly outlined my lifestyle and mindset. They provide warm welcome everytime I go back to visit. Looking back on my highschool life, I see only warmth and heart fonding memories. 10 out of 10 alumni would recommend this place.” |
| Nattapon Natt Rojanapo: “KPIS has some of the most friendly staff, and teachers. I am impressed by the music equipment, as well as their theatre-like auditorium. It’s also great to be a walk away from 7-11, with a coffee shop directly across. Rich in activities and events，this school really brings fun and education together.” |
NIST International School, Bangkok
Address: NIST International School, 36 Sukhumvit 15, Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand
Curriculum: IB
Website: https://www.nist.ac.th/
NIST International School is possibly among the most popular international schools in Thailand, and it’s easy to see why. It’s the first school in Thailand to offer the full range of IB programmes for students aged 3 to 19 years. In addition to the IB Programmes, the school also integrates concept-based learning with NIST Attributes and UN Sustainable Development Goals. Plus, they provide the unique Global Citizenship Diploma to secondary students.
With an Activities Programme boasting over 300 diverse options, NIST encourages students to push their boundaries and grow personally while emphasising the value of learning from challenges and making a positive impact on others.
Spread across a sprawling 25-rai campus are ten buildings housing more than 90 classrooms equipped with top-notch facilities. These include a Sports Complex featuring various sports facilities such as basketball courts, volleyball courts, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a FIFA-certified football pitch. Furthermore, there’s a Creative Arts Building with a 350-seat theatre, dance studios, music rooms equipped with instruments and a recording studio for students’ creative pursuits.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| First school in Thailand to offer the full range of IB programmes | Competitive admission process |
| Extensive facilities and a wide variety of extracurricular activities | |
| Strong focus on global citizenship and sustainability |
What the parents and alumni think:
| Shannon Blocker: “We have had two children attend NIST from Year 3 through graduation in Year 13. We loved the IB through the years starting with the PYP then MYP and finally the IB diploma. The teachers were top notch as were the counselors and coaches. They not only received an excellent education, but learned how to be good people. I highly recommend NIST and as my youngest just graduated, I will miss being on campus for their sports and activities.” |
| Matt Langer: “Since I’ve sold my business in Thailand, NIST is the reason why I stay in Bangkok with my kids. I am an academic and Ph.D. and appreciate the values and quality of education here. One of the top schools worldwide for me.” |
We are sure there are many other excellent international schools in Thailand. However, if you’re feeling uncertain about where to begin your search, these ten international schools serve as a fantastic starting point. Despite their own distinct features, all ten schools share a common commitment to academic excellence and provide students with access to world-class facilities. These schools also offer a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities so students can pursue their interests beyond the classroom.
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