Why Thailand is the perfect blend of culture and education

Thailand is one of the most liveable countries in the world. With a unique culture to come into contact with coupled by an education system that is built on academic excellence, the country is fast becoming a focal point for international students searching for a challenging and fulfilling experience. Outlined below are the reasons that make Thailand a suitable destination to not merely build a career but also live life to the fullest.

What does Thailand represent?

If there was one phrase that could sum up living in Thailand, it would be “diverse.” For those on the lookout for a living environment that marries both the old and new, then Thailand will easily be your best bet. Be it the hustle and bustle of the Thai capital of Bangkok where iconic temples, free-flowing rivers, and sprawling marketplaces vie for the attention of the visitor, the sparkling beaches in Phuket to the scenic pleasures of Chiang Mai in the nation’s north, students considering studying in Thailand will certainly be spoilt for choice in terms of things to do and places to visit. What’s more? Thailand is one of the most affordable cities to live with monthly expenses known to hover between USD 500-1,200. However, for the above to materialise, a student like yourself will have to decide on whether it would be better to opt for a reasonably priced private apartment or a university dorm. 

The higher education system prides itself on being world class

Thailand’s higher education sector is on the cusp of broadening its horizons, which as a result is expected to attract a greater number of foreign students to its shores in the coming years. A majority of the country’s universities are either public or private. Furthermore, courses of study are taught in Thai and English, while detailed English language programmes are offered across multiple fields of study, including business, engineering, medicine, and hospitality in a way to groom professionals who can confidently meet the challenges of tomorrow. Notably, celebrated universities and educational institutes in the calibre of Chulalongkorn University, Chiang Mai University, and AIHM, which is a hotel management institute work alongside international bodies abroad that in turn, afford its students opportunities to participate in exchange programmes. As an additional incentive, Thailand continues to make giant strides in research that has led to the creation of better career openings. 

Image via AIHM

The cost factor

Although tuition fees can vary from the type of course and from one educational institute to the other, as a whole, education in Thailand is affordable when compared with other countries in Asia and tertiary institutes in North America and Europe. In terms of the nitty-gritties, foreign students enrolling on any undergraduate course can expect to pay anything in the range of USD 3,000 and 10,000, while for a full-time Masters (1 year), the total tuition cost can go up to USD 13,000. An application for financial support or a scholarship can be made but understand that the final decision will be discretional, as the awarding body will always consider the academic performance of a student. Scholarships are granted directly by the university, while others are sponsored by the local government. Securing some form of financial assistance is advisable, as this can help you increase your savings. 

Employment opportunities

Life after graduating presents opportunities, albeit with a slew of caveats to factor into your decisions. In order to be legally employed in the country, a foreigner requires a valid work permit, while certain industries tend to favour Thais over other nationalities. Industries such as tourism and technology offer employment opportunities and should you be proficient in English, then you could consider teaching English, either online or in person. On a concluding note, some local universities do offer internships, which is an excellent way to develop your knowledge and understand how Thailand’s work environment functions. In this light, speaking to student representatives on what would suit you best is important once you do enrol and settle down to your studies.