🏫 School Finder
How to Find the Right School
A parent's complete guide to evaluating and choosing schools in Pattaya — from international to bilingual to Thai programs.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
School Types Compared
| Factor | International | Bilingual | Thai (EP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Curriculum | British / American / IB | Thai + English (50/50) | Thai National (some English) |
| Language | All English | Mixed | Mostly Thai |
| Annual Fees | ฿200K–900K | ฿60K–180K | ฿30K–80K (EP) |
| Class Size | 15–22 | 25–30 | 30–45 |
| Accreditation | CIS, WASC, IBO | Thai MOE + some international | Thai MOE |
| Best For | Short-term expats, international transfers | Long-term residents, cultural integration | Budget-conscious, Thai language immersion |
Step-by-Step Process
1
Determine Your Requirements
- Age of children and appropriate curriculum stage
- Budget — fees range from ฿30K to ฿900K/year
- Duration of stay — short-term vs permanent relocation
- Language goals — full English or bilingual development?
- Location preference — which area will you live in?
2
Research Schools
- Use our school listings on /education for Pattaya options
- Read online reviews (Google, Facebook parent groups)
- Check school websites for curriculum details and fees
- Shortlist 3-5 schools based on your criteria
3
Schedule Campus Visits
- Contact admissions departments directly
- Visit during term time to see school in action
- Meet the head of school and relevant department heads
- Ask to observe a class in your child's age group
- Talk to current parents if possible
4
Apply & Assess
- Submit applications to top 2-3 choices (hedge your bets)
- Prepare required documents: passport, transcripts, medical records
- Children may need entrance assessment (English + Math)
- Family interview is common at top schools
- Some schools offer trial days — request this
5
Enroll & Transition
- Pay registration fee and first term tuition
- Attend orientation sessions
- Buy uniforms and supplies
- Set up school transport if needed
- Communicate with teachers about transition support (EAL, settling in)
School Evaluation Checklist
Academic Quality
- Check accreditation (CIS, WASC, IBO are gold standard)
- Ask about exam results (IGCSE, IB, AP scores)
- Student-to-teacher ratio (under 20:1 is ideal)
- Teacher qualifications and turnover rate
Facilities
- Visit campus during school hours
- Check science labs, library, sports facilities
- Swimming pool, playground quality
- Air conditioning in all classrooms (essential in Pattaya heat)
Community & Culture
- Ask about nationalities mix (diversity matters)
- Parent involvement opportunities
- After-school activity options
- Anti-bullying policies and pastoral care
Practical
- School bus routes and costs
- Lunch program quality and cost
- Uniform requirements and cost
- Term dates (align with home country?)
Related guides
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Reviewed by Pattaya Knowledge Editors