World-Class Education for Expat Families
Chiang Mai's international schools combine high academic standards with cultural richness and stunning natural settings. The city offers diverse curriculum options including the complete IB continuum, American, and British programs, making it ideal for expatriate families seeking quality education at more affordable prices than Bangkok or Singapore.
💡 Education Quick Facts:
100-acre campus outside Chiang Mai
Prem is the first International Baccalaureate World School in Southeast Asia to offer all four IB programmes on a stunning 100-acre campus. As a boarding and day school, it provides a comprehensive international education with exceptional facilities including equestrian center, swimming pools, and sports complexes.
Central Chiang Mai
CMIS offers an American curriculum with a strong academic foundation and is one of the more affordable international school options in Chiang Mai. The school provides quality education with reduced fee structures available for eligible families.
100-acre campus, Mae Rim
APIS provides a family-centered, international IB school experience on a lush 100-acre campus just outside Chiang Mai. The school offers both residential and day school options with a focus on holistic education combining academics, arts, and athletics.
Chiang Mai
Unity Concord offers the complete IB continuum with a focus on developing globally-minded students. The school emphasizes inquiry-based learning and international understanding.
Chiang Mai
Founded in 1999, Grace International School provides affordable, quality American curriculum education taught from a biblical worldview. The school was established with a vision to serve children of international Christian workers.
Globally recognized program with inquiry-based learning and international mindedness
US-based education standards preparing students for American universities and colleges
UK National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-Levels
Start your search 6-12 months before the intended enrollment date. Contact schools to schedule campus tours and meet with admissions staff. Most schools offer virtual tours if you're still overseas.
Tip: Book tours during school hours to see classrooms in action and meet teachers. Ask about wait lists for popular grade levels.
Complete the online application form and pay the application fee (฿5,000-15,000). Submit required documents including previous school records, birth certificate, passport copies, and immunization records.
Tip: Apply early! Some schools have rolling admissions, and popular grades fill up quickly, especially for the August intake.
Students will undergo age-appropriate assessments in English and Math. Younger children may have a play-based assessment. Parents and students typically have an interview with the admissions team.
Tip: For non-native English speakers, some schools offer ESL support. Discuss language support options during the interview.
Upon acceptance, you'll receive an offer letter. Pay the admission fee (฿50,000-150,000) and first term tuition to secure your child's place. Complete remaining enrollment paperwork.
Tip: Ask about sibling discounts (2nd child typically 10%, 3rd child 15%, etc.) and payment plans if paying annually.
The school will provide documentation to support your dependent visa applications (ED visa for students). Ensure all medical and immunization records are complete and translated if necessary.
Tip: Some schools offer visa assistance services. Factor in ฿10,000-30,000 for visa processing costs per family member.
International school tuition in Chiang Mai ranges ฿200,000-900,000 vs ฿600,000-1,500,000+ in Bangkok, offering significant savings while maintaining educational quality.
Schools like Prem and APIS feature 100-acre campuses with mountains, nature, and extensive outdoor facilities - impossible to find in crowded Bangkok.
Chiang Mai schools typically have smaller student-to-teacher ratios than Bangkok equivalents, allowing for more personalized attention and stronger teacher-student relationships.
Despite the smaller city, top schools have diverse student bodies representing 30+ nationalities, providing authentic international exposure and cultural learning.
Prem was the first school in SE Asia to offer all four IB programs, providing unmatched continuity from early years through university preparation.
Lower cost of living, cleaner air (except burning season), access to nature, and a relaxed lifestyle make Chiang Mai ideal for raising families while maintaining educational standards.