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September 8, 2023

Can International Students Afford the Cost of Living in Thailand?

Author By megha Categories International Students

Thailand is not only a popular tourist destination but also an increasingly popular destination for international students seeking higher education. With its rich culture, diverse landscape, and affordable living costs, Thailand offers a unique and exciting study experience for students from all over the world.

The country boasts over 25,000 international students enrolled in Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs at various universities. However, before deciding to study in Thailand, it is important to understand the cost of tuition fees and living expenses.

While the cost of living in Thailand can be lower compared to many Western countries, it can still vary depending on individual lifestyles and spending habits. It is essential for prospective students to research and estimate expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs before making a final decision.

Thailand offers a diverse range of opportunities for students who are interested in studying abroad, and the cost of living can be relatively affordable. However, it is crucial to research and plan to ensure a successful and comfortable study experience in this beautiful Southeast Asian country.

Let’s discover some of the important aspects of studying in Thailand as an international student.

University tuition fees in Thailand 

In Thailand, the cost of tuition fees for universities can vary depending on whether you choose to attend a public or private institution. Public universities generally have lower tuition fees when compared to private universities. For instance, at Chulalongkorn University, one of the top public universities in Thailand, the tuition fees for Bachelor’s programmes range from 1830.42 to 1950.63 USD per semester while the fees for Master’s programmes range from 2387.75 to 2578.98 USD per semester.

On the other hand, private universities in Thailand typically charge higher tuition fees due to factors such as the type of academic programme, the length of study, and other related expenses. For example, the tuition fees for Bachelor’s programmes range from 19998.06 to 29778.53 USD per year at the private University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce (UTCC). On the other hand, the fees for Master’s programmes at the same university range from 10780.37 to 15435.66 USD per year.

It is important to note that some private universities in Thailand offer scholarships and financial aid to international students, which can help to offset some of the tuition fees. Before applying to a university in Thailand, it is recommended to research and compare the tuition fees and financial aid options available at different institutions to make an informed decision. 

Overall, the cost of tuition fees in Thailand can be relatively affordable compared to other countries, but it is crucial to consider all associated costs when budgeting for your education.

Living Costs for International Students in Thailand

To live comfortably in Thailand as an international student, you should budget between 382.48 to 764.95 USD per month. It is essential to note that the cost of living may vary based on individual lifestyles and spending habits.

The official currency in Thailand is the Thai baht (THB), and as of the time of writing this blog, 1.09 USD is equivalent to approximately 37.70 THB. It is essential to keep in mind that exchange rates can fluctuate, and it is advisable to keep track of currency conversion rates to ensure accurate budgeting.

Living expenses in Thailand, such as accommodation, food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs, can be relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. For instance, renting an apartment in Bangkok can cost around 218.56 to 327.84 USD per month, while a meal at a local restaurant can range from 1.64 to 3.28 USD.

However, other expenses such as international travel, health insurance, and visa fees should also be considered when budgeting for living expenses in Thailand. It is recommended to research and estimate all expenses thoroughly before embarking on your study journey in Thailand to ensure a successful and comfortable experience.

Student Accommodation Costs

  • On-campus dormitories cost 163.92 – 273.20 USD per month. The cost of utilities may be included in these charges.
  • Renting a private flat with 1-3 rooms outside the city centre will cost 251.34 – 597.18 USD per month.
  • Renting a private flat with 1-3 rooms in the city centre will cost 437.12 – 1016.29 USD per month.
  • If renting a private flat, monthly utilities will cost 76.50 – 98.35 USD, which should be added to your expenses.
  • Sharing an apartment with other students can significantly reduce costs.

Food Costs in Thailand

International students can expect to spend 185.77 – 273.20 USD per month on food and groceries. Food costs depend on personal habits and how often students eat out.

Average food prices in Thailand include:

  • 1 loaf of bread: 1.20 USD
  • 1 litre of milk: 1.58 USD 
  • 12 eggs: 1.53 USD
  • 1 kg of white cheese: 17.48 USD
  • 1 kg of apples: 2.51 USD
  • 1 kg of bananas: 1.09 USD
  • 1 meal at affordable restaurants: 1.80 USD

 Transportation costs

  • A monthly pass to cover public transportation costs at around 36.06 USD
  • Transport options include tuk-tuk, motorcycle taxi, regular taxi, bus, subway, and train
  • Taxi ride starts at around 1.09 USD and costs 0.60 USD per km
  • Students can get MRT and BTS student cards for discounts.

Applying for a Student Visa to Study in Thailand

If you are an international student planning to study in Thailand, you will need to obtain a student visa. The application process for a Thailand student visa involves visiting the nearest 

Thai embassy or consulate in your home country. It is recommended to apply for a one-year student visa, which can be extended annually throughout the duration of your program. 

The cost of a Thailand student visa is approximately 65.57 USD, and the processing time typically takes 5 to 10 business days.

Once you have received your Thai student visa, it is mandatory to notify the immigration office of your current address in Thailand every 90 days. International students are also permitted to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week to support their living expenses.

Universities and Courses Available in Thailand

Here are a few universities and courses that you can consider as an international student to study in Thailand.

  • Thailand has 156 higher education institutions (HEIs) which are categorised as Autonomous, Public, and Private.
  • There are three levels of qualifications offered in Thailand – lower than a bachelor-level degree, bachelor-level degree, and graduate-level degree.
  • Autonomous HEIs receive government funding, but less compared to Public HEIs.
  • Public HEIs have a large number of student enrollments and a less competitive admission system, with education opportunities offered to a wider pool of diverse age ranges and backgrounds.
  • Public HEIs may also offer distance learning for students unable to study in classrooms.
  • The other types of Public HEIs are Rajabhat and Rajamangala University of Technology (RMUT) with different focuses.
  • Thailand has 23 universities that hold top world university rankings in areas such as science, technology, environmental sciences, agriculture, and business management. In Thailand, students can also pursue Southeast Asian Studies. This discipline sheds light on research and education on the language, culture, and history of the different states and ethnic groups of Southeast Asia. This discipline is also referred to as ASEAN studies by some institutions.  
  • Some of the best universities international students can consider are listed based on their region in Thailand, including universities in Central, East, North, Northeast, and South Thailand.

To learn further about your prospects of studying in Thailand, get in touch with our team of Expert Education Counsellors. 

FAQs
  • Do I Need a Visa To Live in Thailand?

Yes, as per the Thai Immigration Law, you will need a visa to live in Thailand. Connect with our counsellors to better understand your requirements to study in Thailand.

  • What is the cheapest place to live in Thailand?

Chiang Mai is known as one of the cheapest cities. But you should also know that the universities that international students find affordable are Thammasat University (starting at 983.51 USD per year) in Phra Nakhon, Bangkok and, Mahasarakham University (starting at 1349.60 USD per year) in the Kantharawichai District, Maha Sarakham.

  • How much money do I need to live comfortably in Thailand?

Living comfortably in Thailand will depend on the budget you’ve allotted and the duration of your stay. It also depends on how you utilise your resources. That said, you should have a budget of at least 18,000 USD per year. This basically amounts to 1,500 USD per month per person.

  • What are the utility Costs in Thailand?

The utility costs in Thailand amount to 62.34 USD per month, which is cheaper compared to other countries. For instance, the utility cost in the US is 178.8 USD per month.

Cost of living in Thailand