Boarding schools in Thailand are available in both international and traditional (Thai/bilingual curriculum), each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right school for your child depends on a number of factors, including curriculum, cost, educational objectives, and future goals.
In this article, we will walk you through the differences between the two types of boarding schools and help you decide which is best for your child.

International boarding school
Advantages of International Schools
1. International Education Standards
International boarding schools in Thailand must use globally recognized curricula such as the IB (International Baccalaureate), A-Level, AP (Advanced Placement), and the American curriculum, which will make it easier for children to enter top universities abroad.
2. English as the main language
Students learn and use English in their daily lives. This is suitable for families who want their children to speak English fluently or plan for their children to study abroad.
3. Diverse and open environment
Students have the opportunity to learn about cultures from friends of many nationalities, which will help instill a global mindset and global citizenship in them.
4. Learning that emphasizes all-round development
International boarding schools in Thailand have flexible curricula, with extracurricular activities such as sports, music, art, and life skills development programs, and do not focus on memorization like the Thai curriculum.

Regular boarding school (Thai or bilingual curriculum)
Advantages of regular boarding schools
1. Familiarity with the Thai education system
The Thai curriculum (regular/bilingual) is consistent with the university entrance examination system in the country, which is suitable for children who want to study at Thai universities.
2. Cheaper than international schools
The cost is around 100,000 - 500,000 baht/year, which is lower than international schools. Dormitory fees, food and activities are often included in the tuition fee.
3. Training discipline and Thai lifestyle
Some boarding schools in Thailand have strict rules, helping to instill discipline and responsibility. The teaching emphasizes knowledge of Thai religion, culture and ethics.
4. There are activities that promote academic and social development.
Students have the opportunity to participate in academic activities such as academic olympiads, quiz competitions or special activities such as scout camps, sports, Thai music and dance.

Disadvantages of regular boarding schools
- Less opportunity to develop English language skills. Although some schools have a bilingual curriculum, the level of English instruction may not be as intensive as international schools.
- Children who want to study abroad may need additional tutoring.
- Thai teaching may focus more on memorization than analytical thinking.
- Some children may feel more pressured by exams and homework than international curricula.

There is no definitive answer as to which type of boarding school in Thailand is better, as it depends on the parents’ goals and the needs of the child. If you want your child to grow up in an international environment with the opportunity to study abroad, an international school is a good choice. However, if you want your child to receive a Thai education, be disciplined, and prepare for entering a Thai university, a regular school is an interesting option. To choose the right and suitable school, you should visit the school, talk to teachers and students, and consider what is most suitable for your child.