Thai Language Schools in Thailand

From the mountainous north, central river valleys, and world-famous beaches in the south, Thailand’s geography varies as much as the flavors in its complex cuisine. Wherever you settle down in the country to attend a Thai language school, it’s sure to offer a taste of Thailand’s reverence for the old with a hefty dash of openness to the new.

So named the “new city” because it was the new capital when it was founded in 1296, Chiang Mai is ancient but certainly not outdated. The city seamlessly blends the aged with the modern, welcoming tourists from all over the world. Align your Thai classes in Chiang Mai with one of the many yearly festivals. Loi Krathong lights up the waterways and skyways. Usually held in November, the residents of the city construct banana leaves into containers to float down the rivers, and small paper lanterns are lofted into the air. During the three-day Flower festival in February, intoxicating tropical flowers are in full bloom.

Another top destination, Thai language schools in Bangkok are a natural choice for studying Thai. Not only is it the capital and largest city in the country, it’s also a hub for art, entertainment, and education. Ask anyone who has spent time in Bangkok what makes it stand out, and they will probably tell you the same thing: the street vendors. Vendors sell everything from flowers to clothes, but mostly, food. Try stewed pork knuckles or fresh tom sum (green papaya salad) or the ubiquitous but tasty pad thai noodles. Street food brings the people of Bangkok together and offers the ideal environment to test out your language skills while filling your belly.

If island life is calling, Phuket may be just the ticket. Located off the west coast of Thailand, Phuket is the largest island as well as home to many well-known beaches. Surf or watch the sunset on popular Patong Beach, or escape the crowds at Kamala beach. After your Thai language lessons, hit the area near Patong Beach for shopping and nightlife. For those seeking more peace and quiet, head to the the island’s mountains to search for the Big Buddha, a 150-foot structure covered in white marble.

With 44 consonants and 18 vowels, to learn the Thai language can be a complex endeavor. On the other hand, once you get a hang of the written language, each letter or group of letters maintains the same pronunciation every time you see it. As a tonal language, meaning the meaning of a word can change depending on the tone used in speaking, new Thai learners worry that they’ll be difficult to understand. Luckily, most of what you say can be understood from context, as long as you’re giving speaking a shot.

Language program options in Thailand consist of Thai language schools, but several universities, notably Thammasat, Chulalongkorn, and Chiang Mai Universities, also offer language programs. Regardless, most courses meet in groups of six to twelve. The average program for 400 hours of study costs between $1200 and $2000 USD. You must commit to a minimum of 400 hours in order to obtain a visa. Some Thai language classes will offer optional culture courses as well. Learn how to utilize Thai spices to perfection in a Thai cooking class, or relieve some stress with a traditional Thai massage class. Because why the heck not?

Some schools teach spoken Thai before writing, and some schools follow the method of teaching various language skills, such as speaking, listening, reading, and writing, simultaneously. If you find yourself needing a little extra explanation, most teachers also speak English, but don’t rely on English too often. The more you practice your tones, the faster you’re on your way to fluency.

Thailand boasts a relatively affordable and comfortable lifestyle. Even the most extravagant of students will have a hard time spending more than $900 USD per month on food, housing, and entertainment. The the more modest spender can get by on around $600 USD a month. And that’s only in Bangkok, where prices are higher than smaller cities like Chiang Mai.

Housing costs, of course, will vary, but a standard studio apartment with internet, cable, and air conditioning runs around less than $300 USD per month. Expect to pay about one to two dollars per meal as you slurp yourself silly between Thai classes— there’s no excuse to not try those local noodles! A one way ticket on public transportation costs less than a dollar, and even a taxi ride across town will likely only set you back a couple of bucks. 

Shopping at local markets, street vendors, and local businesses in general will help you stick to your budget. They cost less than international chains and offer the added bonus of supporting local people and experiencing life the way Thai people do.

Housing options during your Thai language course run the gamut from homestays, to dormitories, hostels, and apartments. Where you stay will likely be determined by a couple of factors, mainly how long you stay and what type of language program you choose. Dormitories, for example, typically are only available for students studying at universities. Homestays and hostels can be a good mid-length stay option, say, if you are staying a few months. If you’re staying longer than a few months, consider an apartment.

Luckily, all options are affordable and offer their own benefits. Dorm life and hostels make it easy to meet other students or travelers, while homestays and apartments add to the local feel of the whole experience.

To take Thai language lessons in Thailand, you will need an education visa. To obtain the visa, you’ll of course need a valid passport, a visa application, a recent passport photograph, as well as letters of support from the academic institution where you’ll be studying. The education visa is valid up to three months, but it can be extended in Thailand to up to one year. Check out GoAbroad’s Embassy Directory to learn the most up-to-date regulations for visas in Thailand.

Learning Thai is one of the best ways to truly understand the intricate culture of Thailand. You’ll be able to confidently face many situations that you might otherwise walk away from for simply not being able to communicate. Not only can you chat up the locals after your Thai language lessons, but you’ll be able to form meaningful relationships with the people there. Plus, you’ll have instant street cred.

If your goal is to live long-term in Thailand, or to work in a career where knowing Thai is an asset, learning the language is a necessary first step. Few English speakers can speak Thai, and even fewer can read and write in both languages. Who knows what opportunities this may bring you in your life? You will definitely be one step ahead of those that try to get by without trying to learn the Thai language.

With so much to discover, one challenge you’re sure to meet is finding time to balance class and study time with travel and cultural exploration. Learning Thai successfully takes patience, dedication, and more than a few flashcards. Make the most of class time, and take advantage of opportunities to kill two birds with one stone by practicing Thai while you’re out visiting temples, museums, and making friends.

Thai language lessons are no tourist’s holiday. It’s so much more than that! Learning Thai will expose you to the generosity and respectfulness inherent in the Thai culture, open your mind to a new way of thinking, and far exceed your own expectations.