Live in Thailand
International Schools in Thailand
Start with the child’s needs and likely next educational step. A school that works for one family may be a poor fit for another because of curriculum continuity, language support, learning needs or the journey from home. Build a shortlist around those questions before comparing facilities.
Understand the curriculum and next transition
Ask the school to explain the curriculum, age or year placement, assessment approach and qualifications offered at the relevant stage. Check how that pathway connects with a possible return home or a future university application.
If accreditation or recognition matters to the next institution, verify it with the named accrediting body or receiving institution. Avoid treating a familiar curriculum label as proof of everything the child will need.
Discuss support before applying
Share relevant learning, language or accessibility needs early enough for a useful conversation. Ask what support exists, who provides it, whether there are additional charges and how progress is communicated to parents.
During a visit, ask about safeguarding contacts, pastoral care, class routines and how new students settle in. Give the child an age-appropriate role in identifying what would make the transition easier.
Separate an enquiry from a confirmed place
Contact admissions about availability for the actual year group and intended start date. Ask for the current document checklist, assessment process, deadlines and the terms attached to any offer.
Gather reports and other requested records before relocation where possible. Keep a backup plan if a preferred school has no place, and avoid assuming that an enquiry or application reserves one.
Request the complete fee schedule
Ask for a written breakdown covering tuition and any application, registration, deposit, transport, meal, uniform, examination, activity or support charges that apply. Check payment dates, refund terms and what happens if the family leaves during the year.
Compare like-for-like totals using the child’s actual year group and needs. Keep one-off admission costs separate from recurring costs, and ask how future fee changes are communicated.
Choose the school and home together
Try the route at school travel times. Ask about bus pickup locations, supervision, journey arrangements and after-school transport if your child will use those services. Think through how siblings, different finish times and parent work schedules fit together.
A home that seems convenient for one adult may make the school day difficult. Use neighborhood research to compare workable routines rather than selecting a home first and fitting education around it.
Plan the wider family transition
Discuss language, friendships, healthcare and communication with family elsewhere. Find out how parents receive notices, report absence and contact the school in an emergency.
Keep school planning alongside the move checklist so housing, documents and arrival dates support the child’s start. These questions are a comparison framework, not a ranking or endorsement of individual schools.