TCAS round 3 fees waived by Thai government for higher education boost

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul announced that the TCAS Round 3 testing fees will be waived to alleviate the financial burden on students and parents. This initiative provides an opportunity for all Thai students to pursue higher education.

During a policy presentation and inspection at the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), the 57 year old deputy prime minister instructed the ministry and the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT) to implement this initiative for the 2023 academic year, branded as TCAS 67. It allows students to apply for up to ten faculty ranks free of charge, saving each individual a maximum of 900 baht.

Nawada Nuengnit, a representative student from Triam Udom Suksa School, expressed her support for the initiative. As a student from Trat province part of a project designed to increase the number of doctors from different provinces, she believes this initiative will give more children access to education and increase support for round 3 students, especially those from different provinces or those whose families cannot afford to support their application fees.

Akkarapop Kositanon, another representative student from Triam Udom Suksa School, also agreed with the initiative, noting that round 3 sees the highest number of Thai students taking the exam, many of whom may not have the financial means to cover the expensive application fees.

This can lead to a decrease in the number of ranks they apply for and a loss of good opportunities. He suggested that the 900 baht could be better used to buy study materials or seek additional knowledge.

Sathita Suwansiri, another representative student from Triam Udom Suksa School, commented on the TCAS Round 3 system, noting that it is a system for selecting individuals to enter university for grade 6 students with four rounds of testing. Having the government subsidise these costs greatly increases opportunities for everyone, reported Sanook.

“Education will lead Thailand to progress. If all children receive education, our society will be much better.”