Shortlisting International Schools in Thailand: A Parent’s Checklist
There is no single best international school, only the best fit for your child. This checklist takes you from a long list to the school you apply to.
The short version
- Start with curriculum and city, then filter by budget and commute.
- Compare accreditation, exam results, class sizes and staff turnover.
- Visit on a normal school day and talk to current parents.
- Check all fees, not just tuition: registration, support and exams.
- Apply early: popular schools have waiting lists.
From long list to offer
Work through these in order; each step narrows the list.
- Step 1
Curriculum and city
Decide British, American or IB, and which city or area you will live in.
- Step 2
Budget
Set a total yearly budget including extras, not just tuition.
- Step 3
Long list
Use the JLIT school finder to list every school that fits.
- Step 4
Short list
Compare accreditation, results, class sizes and the commute.
- Step 5
Visit
Visit on a normal day, meet teachers and talk to parents.
- Step 6
Apply
Apply early and ask about waiting lists and assessments.
What to compare
- Accreditation and inspection reports
- Exam results and university destinations
- Class sizes and teacher turnover
- Learning support and English-language support
- Facilities, activities and the school day
- The commute from where you will live
Visiting and questions to ask
- How long do teachers typically stay?
- How do you support children new to the school or to English?
- What does the full fee schedule include?
- How do you communicate with parents?
- What happens if we need to leave mid-year?
Admissions timing
Most schools follow an August-to-June year, and popular schools fill their main entry years early. Start a year ahead if you can, and ask about mid-year places if you are moving at short notice.
Choosing a school
Guides from the JLIT library.
Hubs for families
Find and compare schools.
Keep going
Questions newcomers ask
Which is the best international school in Thailand?
There is no single best school. The right one depends on curriculum, budget, location and your child’s needs.
When should I apply to an international school?
As early as possible, ideally a year ahead, because main entry years fill first.
What should I ask on a school visit?
Ask about teacher turnover, support for new pupils, the full fee schedule, parent communication and leaving mid-year.
