Thailand American Programs

AFS International Programs, 71 West 23rd St., 17th fl., New York, NY 10010-4102, USA (☎+1-800-237-4636 or 212-807-8668; www.afs.org). Runs study abroad and community service programs for both students and educators in Thailand. Volunteers live with host families, and programs last from several months to 1 year. Cost varies widely based on program type and duration.
Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE), 300 Fore St., Portland, ME 04101, USA (☎+1-207-553-4000 or 1-800-407-8839; www.ciee.org). One of the most comprehensive resources for work, academic, and internship programs around the world, including in Thailand.
Lexia International, 6 The Courtyard, Hanover, NH 03755, USA. (☎+1-800-775-3942 or 603-643-9899; www.lexiaintl.org). Students live at Pyap University in Chiang Mai, study Thai, and choose a field research project in Thai culture. Application fee US$40.
Where There Be Dragons, 3200 Carbon Place, Suite #1, Boulder, CO 80301, USA (☎+1-800-928-9203; www.wheretherebedragons.com). Runs youth summer programs and short adult trips to Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. Youth programs cost US$6000-6500. Adult programs cost US$3500-5000. Fee includes food, accommodations, and travel.

Most Thai universities that will accept foreign students are in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, although other universities occasionally offer international programs. The universities below offer programs that foreign students can apply to directly and have classes taught in English.

Assumption University, 592 Ramkhamhaeng 24, Hua Mak, Bangkok 10240, Thailand (☎02 300 4553; www.au.edu). This Catholic university runs August, summer, and January sessions.
Chulalongkorn University, Jamjuree 4 Building, 4th fl., Phyathai Rd., Bangkok 10330, Thailand (☎2218 3331; www.inter.chula.ac.th/index.htm). Foreign students can apply directly to the University thorough its Office of International Affairs. Enrollment fees vary by department.
International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE), 1518 Piboonsongkram Rd., Bangsue, Bangkok 10800, Thailand (☎02 912 2009; www.iaeste.org, www.kmitnb.ac.th/iaeste). Chances are that your home country has a local office; contact it to apply for hands-on technical internships in Thailand. You must be a college student studying science, technology, or engineering. “Cost of living allowance” covers most non-travel expenses. Most programs last 8-12 weeks.
Payap University, Lumpang Rd., Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai 50000, Thailand (☎53 241 255; http://ic.payap.ac.th). Foreign students can enroll either in the Thai and Southeast Asian Studies program or directly into the International College.
Rangsit University, 52/347 Muang-Ake, Paholyothin Rd. Lak-Hok, Pathumthani 12000 Thailand (☎02 997 2200; www.rsu.ac.th). The International College offers international students the opportunity to study alongside Thai nationals in subjects ranging from business to philosophy.
Thammasat University, Dome Building, 2 Phrachan Rd., Phranakorn, Bangkok, 10200 Thailand (☎02 613 2009; interaffairs.tu.ac.th). Offers Thai Studies Program open to International students. All classes are taught in English.