By Aziza Francienne · B2C Marketing Manager
The Thai national curriculum is set by Thailand's Ministry of Education (OBEC). It runs from kindergarten through Mathayom 6, ending with the O-NET national assessments plus subject-specific exams for university entry. A small number of Thai international schools weave the national programme into an English-medium delivery for Thai-nationality families.
The learning pathway
-
Ages 3–6
Anuban (Kindergarten)
Early years with play-based and creative activities. Thai is the medium of instruction; English is introduced early.
-
Ages 7–12
Prathom (Primary)
Six years of primary covering Thai, maths, science, English, social studies, health, arts and technology. National tests at Prathom 3 and 6.
-
Ages 13–18
Mathayom (Secondary)
Six years of secondary (M1–M6). Students choose an academic stream — Science-Maths or Arts-Language — in Mathayom 4–6. Ends with O-NET, GAT/PAT and TCAS-round exams for Thai universities.
University routes from Thai high school
Thai universities admit via the TCAS (Thai University Central Admission System) rounds — a mix of portfolio, quotas, direct admission and national exam scores. International routes typically require English-language proficiency evidence (IELTS/TOEFL) and often supplementary A-Level, IB or SAT credentials.
Is Thai right for your child?
It tends to suit families who…
- •Have Thai family connections or are settling in Thailand
- •Are targeting Thai universities via TCAS
- •Value bilingual (Thai + English) delivery
It may be less ideal if…
- •You need a globally-portable single qualification
- •Your child has no Thai and is joining beyond primary
Common questions
FAQs about the Thai curriculum
Can foreign families enroll in Thai national schools?
Enrolment is permitted but the language of instruction is Thai. Most expatriate families opt for international schools with Thai as a subject rather than the full national curriculum.
Is a Thai M6 diploma accepted overseas?
For UK/US universities, usually alongside strong English-language scores and often a supplementary international qualification (A-Level, IB or SAT/AP).
Find schools