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Student life in Thailand

Guidelines for international students’ life in Thailand.

Thailand is diverse in terms of geography, culture, and way of life. Therefore, education in Thailand is not limited to the classroom but also includes understanding the social context and systems of daily life, providing students with opportunities to learn from real-world experiences alongside their university studies.

Culture

Thailand has a rich cultural heritage that runs parallel to contemporary lifestyles in its major cities and across the country. Values ​​of politeness, respect for others, and mutual honor continue to play a significant role in Thai society, both in educational contexts and daily life.

Students will experience important festivals such as Songkran and Loy Krathong, as well as art, music, and food activities that reflect the diversity and identity of each region. Thai food is diverse in both ingredients and flavors (some areas may have spicier dishes). Being open to learning and understanding the cultural context will help in living and adapting smoothly in Thailand.

Climate

Thailand has a tropical humid climate, generally divided into three seasons: hot season (February – May), rainy season (May – October), and cool season (October – February). Average temperatures are relatively high throughout the year, especially during March to May.

Students should dress appropriately for the weather and plan their travel during the rainy season, which may bring heavy rain on some days. Although most buildings and facilities are air-conditioned, taking care of one’s health and adapting to the weather is crucial for long-term living.

Etiquette and social practices.

Thai society places great importance on politeness, respect for elders, and respectful communication. The wai (a traditional Thai greeting) is a common form of greeting, and dressing respectfully in government offices or religious places is considered appropriate.

Punctuality, responsibility, and collaboration are valued attributes. Learning fundamental social practices will help students build positive relationships with classmates, faculty, and staff within the institution.

Public Health System

Thailand has a comprehensive healthcare system encompassing both public and private sectors. Hospitals and clinics are available in every region, with many internationally accredited hospitals found in major cities.

International students are required to have health insurance as per their visa and university requirements. In case of common illnesses, students can receive services from Chulalongkorn University Health Center, clinics, or hospitals near their accommodation.
Students should get enough rest, eat nutritious and appropriate food, and consistently pay attention to their health.

Visa

International students studying in Thailand must obtain a student visa (Non-Immigrant Visa type ED) and follow the immigration procedures within the specified timeframe. However, students should regularly check for updates from relevant government agencies, as visa requirements may change according to government policy.

Domestic Travel

Thailand is a country with diverse geography, ranging from mountains in the north and beaches in the south to highlands in the northeast. The country’s transportation system encompasses air travel, trains, buses, and highways connecting the regions.

During semester breaks, students can travel to different regions to learn about traditional cultures and diverse landscapes, providing an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and immerse themselves in the lifestyles of people in Thailand. However, it is important to plan trips in advance and prioritize safety.

Utilities and Services

Electricity

Thailand uses 220-volt alternating current (50 Hz) electricity. Students bringing electrical equipment from abroad should check the voltage to ensure it’s compatible and prepare a plug adapter if the equipment is not compatible with this electrical system.

Tap water

Tap water in Thailand undergoes production processes that meet the standards of the relevant agencies. However, bottled drinking water is generally recommended for direct consumption, for convenience and assurance of hygiene.

Currency

The currency of Thailand is the Baht (฿) with the international code THB. The issuance and regulation of banknotes and coins is the responsibility of the Bank of Thailand.

Currently, Thai society widely uses both cash and electronic payments. Cash can be exchanged at banks or authorized currency exchange points, while payments via banking applications, debit cards, or QR code scanning are popular in daily life, especially in urban areas.

Students should choose a payment method that suits their needs and study the terms and conditions of the bank or financial service provider before opening an account or conducting transactions.

Emergency telephone numbers
  • For emergencies and urgent matters, 24 hours a day (police, ambulance, fire department), call 191.
  • National Institute of Emergency Medical Services (nationwide) Tel. 1669
  • Emergency Medical Services (Bangkok Metropolitan Administration) Tel. 1646
  • Mental Health Department Hotline: 1667
  • Highway Police, call 1193.
  • Crime Suppression Division, Tel. 195 or 0 2513 3844
  • Tourist Police (for reporting emergencies and incidents involving tourists, available in English, French, and German): Call 1155.
  • Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT Call Center) Tel. 1672
  • Tourist Information Center (TAC) Tel. 0 2134 4077
  • Immigration Bureau, Tel. 1178 or 0 2572 8500

Public holidays according to the Thai calendar

Date and monthAnnual public holidays
January 1 – 2New Year’s Day
January / FebruaryMakha Bucha Day
April 6Chakri Day
April 13 – 15Songkran Day
May 1National Labor Day
May 4 – 5Coronation Day
MayRoyal Ploughing Ceremony Day
May / JuneRoyal Ploughing Ceremony Day
June 3Her Majesty Queen Sutida’s Birthday
JulyAsalha Puja Day
July 28His Majesty King Vajiralongkorn’s Birthday
JulyBuddhist Lent
August 12Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother / National Mother’s Day
October 13The anniversary of the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great.
October 23King Chulalongkorn Memorial Day
December 5The anniversary of the birth of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great / National Day / Father’s Day / World Soil Day
December 10Constitution Day
December 31New Year’s Eve
Note

Important Buddhist holidays such as Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asalha Bucha Day, and Khao Phansa (Buddhist Lent) have different dates each year according to the lunar calendar. Public holidays may also be subject to change as announced by the government.

Thailand boasts a diverse culture and way of life that reflects both its historical foundations and contemporary context. Living and studying in Thailand therefore offers opportunities to learn both inside and outside the classroom, while simultaneously understanding society in a different context.

Studying in Thailand not only supports academic advancement but also helps to broaden perspectives and provide meaningful experiences throughout the study period.

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Student life in Thailand

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