Thailand

Study abroad in Thailand, famous for its sandy white beaches, delicious street food, and beautiful temples.

Why study in Thailand?

Located in the heart of Southeast Asia, Thailand is a beautiful country with a fascinating history. Home to 67 million people, it’s well-known for its many pristine beaches and resort towns, as well as delicious Thai curries and rice dishes. Here, you will enjoy a vibrant and unique cultural experience. Studying in Thailand is a great opportunity to see Southeast Asia for yourself.

With their friendly smiles and infectious happiness, it is impossible not to like the Thai people. From the moment I arrived at the airport, I was greeted with smiles and open arms.

Hamish, Invercargill

Placements

You can choose to study in Thailand for one semester or one academic year. Gap year students are welcome to apply but must not be older than 18.5 years upon departure. Placements can be anywhere in the country except the southern part of Thailand. On the map below you can see where some of our past students have been placed.

You will be enrolled in a government-approved high school located close to your host family. All of our host families are carefully vetted. We conduct home interviews, inspections, and police checks to ensure our students are placed in a secure and supportive living environment.

 

We aren’t currently offering exchanges to Thailand. Please check back again later.

Duration
Departs
Returns
Application deadline
Price

Covered expenses

Included in the fee:

  • School and family documents for your student visa application
  • Placement in a suitable host family and school
  • Full board and lodging (except school lunch)
  • Pre-departure orientation in NZ and arrival orientation in Thailand
  • Meet and greet at the airport in NZ and at the airport in Thailand
  • Transfer to your host community from Bangkok (and back again)
  • Monthly progress reports to your parents
  • Ongoing monitoring by the host organisation
  • 24/7 emergency assistance in Thailand and NZ
  • Certificate of completion upon return

Other costs

Not included in the fee:

Flights You are responsible for paying all domestic and international airfares between your home and Bangkok.
Insurance You will be required to purchase comprehensive travel and medical insurance prior to your departure.
School setup You will be required to pay for expenses such as a school uniform, books, equipment, and extra-curricular activities. The exact cost varies from school to school.
Visas You are responsible for paying for your visa application and any associated fees.
Spending money We recommend allocating approximately $300 spending money per month to cover things like transport, school lunches, and weekend activities.
Optional trips It’s a good idea to save some money for optional trips organised by your host family or your host organisation in Thailand.

Eligibility

Students must be:

  • Aged between 15 and 18.5 years prior to the programme start date
  • A New Zealand Citizen or hold Permanent Residency
  • Enrolled in a high school
  • Willing to learn Thai during the exchange
  • Fit, well, and have a suitable personality profile
  • Academically motivated

Visas

Students must apply for a student visa before arriving in the country. The validity of the student’s first visa is three months. After arriving in Thailand, students can apply for an extension of stay at the Office of the Immigration Bureau to extend their visa for a period of one year from the date of first entry into Thailand. The host organisation and/or the host family will assist students regarding their visa extension.

Language

Students are expected to have a basic knowledge of Thai (written and oral) prior to departure. You will receive daily language lessons in Thailand, with a minimum of five hours per week at school. Extra language lessons are available at additional cost.    

Financing and scholarships

We know that financing your exchange might be a bit of a challenge, but don’t let that hold you back from pursuing the experience of a lifetime! NZIIU offers a select number of scholarships each year to exceptional students who require some financial assistance, as well as fundraising kits.

Explore now »

NZIIU fundraising kit »

NZIIU Fundraising Kit

Meet our past students

Meet our NZIIU Student Ambassadors at one of our information day events! These students who have recently been on exchange have done it all, and are here to share their knowledge, experiences, and stories from exchange.

Learn More »