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Can one attend an international school in Thailand even with weak English skills? Here comes the practical guide
Time:2025-05-30

Thai international schools have attracted much attention from many families due to their diverse curriculum systems and high cost-effectiveness. 

Many parents and students have doubts: With a poor foundation in English, can they still smoothly enter an international school in Thailand? 

In fact, as long as good planning is done and the right methods are chosen, the language shortcoming can be gradually overcome.

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I. Before enrollment: Targeted improvement of English proficiency


(1) Lay a solid foundation for domestic language training


Before applying to an international school in Thailand, you can choose a regular domestic international education 

and training institution to participate in a 3 to 6-month English improvement course. The course content covers

 daily communication expressions, basic academic English, and common vocabulary in international courses, etc. 

For example, for the school interview session, conduct simulated question-and-answer training to enhance oral expression ability;

 One can also make use of online Learning platforms such as Duolingo and BBC Learning English, and persist 

in 30 minutes of fragmented learning every day to accumulate practical expressions and vocabulary.


(2) Understand the school's language support policies

There are differences in the English proficiency requirements for students among various international schools in Thailand. 

Some schools offer language support services. For example, the American Pacific International School (APIS) in 

Chiang Mai offers intensive courses for students with a relatively weak foundation in English upon enrollment 

to help them adapt to all-English teaching. Some international schools in Bangkok offer stratified teaching 

based on students' English proficiency to ensure that every student can keep up with the learning pace. 

When choosing a school, parents can pay close attention to schools that offer such language assistance. 

They should communicate with the admissions department in advance to understand the specific course arrangements and support policies.


Ii. School Selection Strategy: School Recommendations that match Language proficiency


(1) Low-threshold high-quality schools

Chiang Mai American Pacific International School (APIS) : The English proficiency requirements for admission

 to this school are relatively lenient, there are sufficient places available, and it also offers an intensive English course before admission. 

The primary school stage adopts the IB PYP curriculum, while the middle school stage partially uses the IB MYP curriculum. From grades 11 to 12, 

students transition to the American high school curriculum. The curriculum is rich and diverse, suitable for students with weak English foundations who wish to receive international education.

Bangkok Grace International School: While offering regular international courses, it also provides 

Chinese auxiliary courses to help Chinese students adapt to the learning environment. The school attaches great importance to 

the cultivation of students' comprehensive qualities. Through a variety of extracurricular activities, it helps students improve their English proficiency in a relaxed atmosphere.


(2) Mainstream schools with language support

Chiang Mai Prin International School (PTIS) : Although the overall English proficiency requirement is relatively high,

 it has established a queuing admission mechanism. After passing the entrance examination, students can queue up 

for admission opportunities and receive Intensive English Education (IEP). As the only school in Chiang Mai that offers the 

full IB curriculum from primary to high school, students can not only enhance their language skills but also receive systematic academic education.

Bangkok International School (ISB) : As a leading international school in Thailand, it offers stratified tutoring courses 

for new students with weaker English proficiency, helping them gradually adapt to an all-English learning environment. Meanwhile, 

rich international exchange activities also provide students with a large number of language practice opportunities.


Iii. After enrollment: Effective methods for immersive improvement of English


(1) Utilize school resources to enhance learning

After enrollment, actively participate in the school's language improvement courses or club activities. For example, join the English 

drama club and practice oral English and performance skills through the rehearsal of plays; Participate in the English 

writing workshop to improve your academic writing skills. Take the initiative to communicate with foreign teachers, 

seize the opportunities of asking questions in class and answering questions after class, and correct pronunciation 

and grammar problems. Make full use of the English resources in the school library, read graded reading materials and academic journals, and cultivate the sense of the English language.


(2) Integrate into campus and local life

Take the initiative to interact with classmates from different countries, try to participate in group discussions and after-school activities in English, 

and overcome the psychological barrier of communicating verbally. In my spare time, I leave the campus and go to places like the Sunday Night 

Market in Chiang Mai and the Bangkok Art and Culture Center. I practice English in daily scenarios such as shopping, dining and asking for directions, 

and experience the local culture. One can also participate in voluntary activities such as environmental protection public welfare and community 

cultural exchanges to enhance language skills and cross-cultural communication abilities in practice.

A weak foundation in English is not an obstacle to entering an international school in Thailand. Through thorough preparation before enrollment, 

appropriate school selection, and continuous efforts after enrollment, even with an average English foundation, one can achieve growth and progress

 in an international school in Thailand and embark on a fulfilling international education journey.

Bangkok/Chiang Mai/Pattaya/Phuket/Singapore/Malaysia
Tel:400-666-1270
China Company Address:2F, No.23 Shawan Road, Jinniu District, Chengdu
National unified customer service hotline:400-666-1270
Thailand Company Address:Paradise Place : 4th floor Srinagarindra Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok, 10250, Thailand
Tel:+66 0929200750
China Company Address:2F, No.23 Shawan Road, Jinniu District, Chengdu
National unified customer service hotline:400-666-1270
Thailand Company Address:Paradise Place : 4th floor Srinagarindra Rd, Nong Bon, Prawet, Bangkok, 10250, Thailand
Tel:+66 0929200750