Americana Chinese International School vs Unity Concord International School
Americana Chinese International School and Unity Concord International School are both in Chiang Mai, about 1 km apart. Both schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) and American programmes. Published annual fees are close, at THB 200,000 - 376,000 for Americana Chinese International School and THB 192,000 - 368,000 for Unity Concord International School. Both take pupils from 2 to 18. Unity Concord International School is the larger school, with around 760 pupils to Americana Chinese International School's 550. Typical class sizes are 26 at Americana Chinese International School and 25 at Unity Concord International School.
The school is located in the Nong‑Pheung sub‑district, Sarapee District, Chiang Mai, Thailand, situated away from the dense city centre. It can be accessed via the Chiang Mai–Lampang Super Highway.
Location
Unity Concord International School is located along the Chiang Mai–Lampang Super Highway in Saraphi District, just outside Chiang Mai city. The area is accessible by major road links and is a short drive from the city centre and Chiang Mai International Airport. The neighbourhood combines residential areas with easy access to local amenities, making school drop‑off and pick‑up convenient.
Stages
Stages
ACIS offers an American curriculum for students from Pre‑K (early years) up to Grade 12.
Stages
The school serves students from approximately 2 years old in Preschool through Grade 12 in High School. Levels are divided into Early Years (Pre‑K to K3), Primary (Grades 1–5), and Secondary (Grades 6–12).
School type
School type
It is a co‑educational day school.
School type
UCIS is a co‑educational day school with no boarding facilities.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school states that its enrollment team provides individualised support for students with diverse learning needs. ESL (English as a Second Language) support is available.
Additional learning support
The school offers additional learning support, but there is not much publicly available information.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school does not claim formal affiliation with any particular country.
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliations.
School day structure
School day structure
Specific daily hours or break/lunch times for the school day are not publicly available online.
School day structure
The school day at UCIS varies slightly by grade level, but generally starts between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM and ends between 3:00 PM and 3:30 PM. Younger students often finish closer to 3:00 PM, while upper grades may have a later end time to accommodate lessons and after‑school clubs. Breaks and a lunch period are built into the schedule for all year groups.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school offers a transportation service via vans.
Bus service details
The school offers van service.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application & Enrollment Fees Entrance Exam & ESL Test: THB 3,300 (per semester) Entrance Fee: THB 60,000 (one-time, non-refundable) Lifetime Book Fee: THB 10,000 (one-time payment for book usage across all grades)
Tuition Fees (per semester / per year) There are two semesters in an academic year. * Pre‑K to K2: THB 96,000 / THB 192,000 * K3 to Grade 4: THB 140,000 / THB 280,000 * Grades 5–8: THB 162,000 / THB 324,000 * Grades 9–12: THB 184,000 / THB 368,000
Other Regular Fees
* Lunch (all grades, incl. snacks for Early Years): THB 20,000 per year * Capital Improvement Fee: THB 20,000 per year * Transportation (van service): THB 30,000–50,000 per year * Accident Insurance: THB 1,500 per year * Activities Fee (Nursery–Grade 12): THB 4,000 per year * Uniform (5 sets + house shirt): THB 5,000 (one-time purchase) * Graduation Fees: K3, G8, G12 – THB 2,000 * Visa Fee: THB 5,000 per person
Optional / Additional Costs
* EAL (English as an Additional Language) Support: THB 40,000 per semester / THB 80,000 per year (assigned as needed) * Summer School: THB 10,000 per semester / THB 39,000 per year * Stationery: THB 200–400 per semester depending on grade * Standardized Testing Fee: THB 3,000 * Yearbook Fee: THB 800 * PTA Contribution: THB 500
Discounts
* 2nd child: 10% off tuition * 3rd child: 15% off tuition
Billing and Payment
* Tuition and other semester-based fees are billed twice per academic year. * Payments are made via bank transfer
Refunds and Notes
* Lifetime book fee covers all required books, but lost/damaged books incur replacement costs. * Capital improvement fees contribute to campus and facility development.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
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Food options
The school offers a lunch program. The Lunch Menu page publishes weekly meal options.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school was founded in 2019 by Amporn and Chugait Garmolgomut.
Governance and ownership
The school is part of The Ambassador Education Group.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
ACIS follows American curriculum standards, including California Common Core for English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Science, and AERO objectives for Social Studies, all integrated from Pre‑K through Grade 12. In the elementary years, students study English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health, and enrichment subjects such as STEM, art, music, physical education, robotics, computer technology, gardening & environmental studies. All students learn Chinese and Thai - Chinese daily and Thai weekly as required by the Thai Ministry of Education, using protocols aligned with HANBAN standards and WIDA-based ESL support for English learners. In middle and high school (Grades 6–12), the focus shifts toward college and career readiness, with more advanced coursework in English, social studies, laboratory sciences (biology, chemistry, physics, Earth science), and electives through the STREAM program integrating Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. For high school students, there are different pathways, including a regular US high school curriculum, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and a Dual Diploma Pathway (ACIS and U.S. diploma via Hudson Global Scholars).
Curriculum details
Unity Concord International School follows an American curriculum aligned with U.S. Common Core State Standards. The Early Years program (Pre‑K to K3) focuses on foundational literacy, numeracy, and social development, with instruction in English and exposure to Thai language and culture. Primary School (Grades 1–5) delivers a broad program covering English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Thai, Physical Education, and Creative Arts. Secondary School (Grades 6–12) builds on core academic subjects and introduces specialist courses, including laboratory-based sciences, computing, and the humanities. In High School (Grades 9–12), students can access Advanced Placement (AP) courses to prepare for U.S. university admission or other international pathways. Throughout all stages, Thai language, culture, and history are taught as required under Thai education regulations, and co‑curricular clubs and activities support language, arts, and STEM engagement.
ACIS has established a counselling team that conducts wellness checks for students who are struggling and delivers a social‑emotional learning curriculum. A school‑wide Positive Behavior Support (PBS) system is in place, focusing on reinforcing and recognising positive conduct across different school environments. Teachers, administrators, and support staff work together to clearly communicate behaviour expectations and use positive reinforcement strategies. The counselling team supports students through individual or group sessions as needed. The emphasis on SEL is woven into the holistic development programme of the school.
Social & emotional learning
There is no publicly available information on structured, schoolwide SEL programs beyond counseling support.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school website does not publicly disclose specific details regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Special educational needs (SEN)
UCIS offers learning support services and states that it can support students with mild to moderate special educational needs, such as learning difficulties requiring additional academic or behavioral support. The school is not a specialist SEN institution and does not advertise extensive in-house therapeutic services.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
ACIS runs an ESL (English as a Second Language) programme, with students pulled from regular classes for tailored support based on placement testing in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The school uses WIDA language learning system to structure individual language pathways and measure growth. In August 2024, ACIS began implementing formal WIDA model testing to assess students’ English language abilities for tailored instruction. Students who progress well receive Certificates of Achievement and may transition out of the EAL programme appropriately. While EAL support is clearly offered, the school does not present itself as a specialised EAL-only institution.
English as an additional language
UCIS provides English as an Additional Language (EAL) support for students who are not native English speakers. The program focuses on helping students access the mainstream curriculum while developing their English proficiency. While the school indicates that EAL instruction is offered, there is no public breakdown of program structure, staffing levels, or specific language acquisition frameworks.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
ACIS offers a counselling team dedicated to student mental health and behaviour support, including wellness checks for those who might be struggling. A social‑emotional learning curriculum is implemented as part of broader holistic development initiatives. Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is used to foster a nurturing environment and reinforce positive social and emotional skills. The school further supports physical wellness with annual health checkups for students to identify and address developmental or health issues early.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing is supported through the UCIS Counseling Department, which offers guidance and mental health resources to students and families. Counseling staff provide emotional support and promote wellbeing through one-on-one sessions and shared online resources. The school website highlights links to mental health tools but does not publicly describe formal mental health curricula or structured schoolwide initiatives.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The ACIS website does not publicly detail specific safeguarding or child protection policies or designated safeguarding staff on its official website.
Safeguarding
UCIS has a formal Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy and Procedures, published via its official website. The policy outlines staff responsibilities, reporting protocols, and commitment to maintaining student safety. Safeguarding measures include adherence to child protection procedures and regular monitoring by the administration. No additional public details are available regarding the frequency of staff training or on-campus safeguarding officers.
ACIS has modern, technology-enhanced classrooms with high-speed internet that support collaborative, inquiry-based learning. It offers science and innovation labs for hands-on experiments in STEM subjects. Language and cultural centers provide Mandarin, English, and Thai instruction to promote multilingual proficiency. The campus includes sports and fitness facilities, arts and creativity studios, a library and research resources, and spacious outdoor play areas. An on-site coffee shop and sustainability initiatives reinforce a holistic learning environment.
Facilities overview
Unity Concord International School operates on two campuses, Unity 1 and Unity 2. Unity 1 serves PreK–G2 and Unity 2 serves the upper grades. Unity 2 includes Unity Park with student housing, small businesses, and dining options. The Falcon Fitness Gym is available to staff and upper-grade students. The school has achieved full WASC accreditation and serves over 1,100 students. The STREAM-focused curriculum uses resources such as HASSE, National Geographic Learning, STAR 360, MyON, Britannica, and MAP Growth; Thai language and culture, Japanese, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish are offered; and extracurriculars include Model United Nations, TED-Ed, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Odyssey of the Mind, and Chiang Mai Athletics Conference.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
ACIS provides sports and fitness facilities including a swimming pool, sports fields, and courts for basketball, soccer, and futsal. The facilities support physical development, teamwork, and healthy competition. Outdoor spaces and gym areas contribute to daily activity and balanced student life. These facilities are designed to complement academics and extracurricular programs.
Sports facilities
The Falcon Fitness Gym is available to staff and upper-grade students. The athletics program participates in the Chiang Mai Athletics Conference, offering competitive sports opportunities.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
ACIS follows the American curriculum with a global perspective, serving students PK–12. The program emphasizes Project-Based Learning (PBL) and STEM subjects, complemented by robotics and arts. Students receive daily Mandarin, English, and Thai language instruction. Classrooms and facilities support inquiry-based learning, with science and innovation labs for hands-on experimentation.
Academic facilities
The STREAM-focused curriculum uses HASSE, National Geographic Learning, STAR 360, MyON, Britannica, and MAP Growth, and Thai language and culture, Japanese, Chinese, French, German, and Spanish are offered.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
ACIS offers diverse extracurricular activities, including dance, chess, karate, guitar, swimming, Bible studies, English language, Chinese language, and music club. Availability depends on demand. These activities foster talents, teamwork, leadership, and character, with opportunities for performances, exhibitions, and presentations. The program also supports students across ages and interests.
Extra curricular facilities
Extracurricular activities include Model United Nations (MUN), TED-Ed, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Odyssey of the Mind, and competitive sports through the Chiang Mai Athletics Conference.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Americana Chinese International School (ACIS) was founded in 2019 by educators Amporn and Chugait Garmolgomut, who brought over three decades of experience to building an international school in the Chiang Mai area. t operates as a member of the Ambassador Education Group, which celebrated over 35 years of experience in education alongside ACIS’s development. Ownership remains with its founders under that umbrella group. The school was created to offer an American‑curriculum education enriched with Chinese and Thai language learning in Chiang Mai’s Saraphi district.
History
Unity Concord International School (UCIS) was established in 2016 and officially opened its doors in August 2017 with an initial offering of Pre‑Kindergarten to Grade 5. The school is part of the Ambassador Education Group, which oversees several education initiatives in Chiang Mai. Since opening, UCIS has expanded to a full Pre‑K to Grade 12 program, with enrollment growing from under 200 students to over 700. The school continues to develop its academic facilities and programs in line with U.S. Common Core standards and local educational regulations.
Community
Community
ACIS regularly hosts cultural and community events; recent highlights include Chinese New Year celebrations with performances by different grade levels, a Christmas Carnival, Children’s Day, a winter clothing drive, and a New Year potluck parent meet‑up. These events encourage participation from students, staff, and families and showcase the school’s multicultural environment.
Community
UCIS serves a diverse international community, welcoming students and families from a range of cultural backgrounds. The school calendar includes cultural events such as Loy Krathong, Christmas celebrations, International Day, and Songkran, which encourage student participation and family involvement. In addition, community events such as sports days and student showcases foster interaction between families, teachers, and the wider school community.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
The ACIS website mentions a structured parent‑community connection, including an inaugural New Parents’ Meet & Greet event held in September 2024, where families joined in cultural activities and networking. ACIS families participate in potluck gatherings, holiday carnivals, and community‑building events alongside the school leadership. While there is no dedicated PTA page publicly disclosed, parents are clearly invited and involved in school life through organised social and cultural activities facilitated by school staff and parent volunteers.
Parent teacher association
The UCIS PTA is an active volunteer group that supports the school through events and community initiatives. They coordinate teacher appreciation activities, seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas fairs, and fundraisers to support school projects and charity drives. PTA members also assist with cultural days and family engagement activities, helping new families integrate into the school community. Meetings are held regularly to plan upcoming events and provide a communication link between parents and the school administration. The PTA’s role is primarily to enhance student experiences and foster strong home‑school connections through practical, event‑driven support.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
ACIS is located in Chiang Mai, Thailand, serving students PK–12. It was established in 2019, has about 550 students, and a 10:1 student–teacher ratio.
Academic & intellectual
UCIS follows an American curriculum aligned to the California CCSS for English Language Arts and Mathematics, the Next Generation Science Standards, and the AERO Standards for Social Studies and World Languages. The curriculum emphasizes college and career readiness, critical thinking, collaboration, and global perspectives. MAP Growth assessments and other data-driven measures monitor student progress, and secondary programs include Honors and AP coursework. UCIS maintains a standards-based, inquiry-driven K–12 program with teacher collaboration to support rigorous learning.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
ACIS offers Visual and Performing Arts integrated into the academic program, with hands-on learning in drawing, painting, ceramics, photography, instrumental and vocal music, and various dance styles.
Arts & creative
Arts and creative disciplines are integrated through Visual Arts (Studio Art 1 and 2), Photography, Yearbook, Theatre Arts, Graphic Arts, and AP Art & Design. Music programs include Music Band 1 and 2, and AP Music Theory. Creative offerings also include Theatre Arts and various visual arts pathways, including Studio Art and Graphic Arts.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
ACIS provides daily Thai and Chinese language classes as part of its multilingual program, alongside English Language Arts and other core subjects.
Cultural & language
Thai Language and Culture is offered in Grades 9–12, along with Japanese 1–2, Chinese 1–2, French 1–2, German 1, and Spanish 1–2. UCIS is a multilingual community with students from 30 countries.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Extracurricular activities include dance, chess, karate, guitar, swimming, Bible studies, English language clubs, Chinese language clubs, and a Music Club, among others.
Social & hobbies
Extracurricular activities include Model United Nations (MUN), TED-Ed, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Odyssey of the Mind, and participation in the Chiang Mai Athletics Conference. These activities support debate, problem-solving, teamwork, and competition.
Community & service
Community & service
Extracurricular offerings emphasize character development and teamwork through a variety of activities, and inter-school sports provide opportunities for teamwork and leadership.
Community & service
Duke of Edinburgh's Award and Model United Nations provide community service and leadership opportunities, reflecting UCIS's emphasis on inquiry, curiosity, and discovery within a learning community.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
The High School offers multiple academic pathways (Regular, Enriched, AP, and Dual Diploma) to support college and career readiness, and there is a College & Career Counseling program.
Leadership & professional
Leadership development is supported through programs like the Duke of Edinburgh's Award and Model United Nations. The school's profile highlights university acceptances as evidence of preparing students for higher education in the United States and abroad.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
ACIS emphasizes a well-rounded, healthy lifestyle with a robust sports program (basketball, futsal, swimming, volleyball, badminton, soccer) and a sport-science approach through CMAC interschool competitions.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Class sizes are capped at 20 in PK–K3, 24 in Grades 1–5, and 28 in Grades 6–12 to maintain a favorable student–teacher ratio. For staff and Grade 9–12 students, there is access to a fully equipped Falcon Fitness Gym. The school also supports athletics through participation in the Chiang Mai Athletics Conference.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Languages taught are English, Chinese and Thai. English-medium instruction is complemented by daily Chinese and Thai language classes for PK-12, supporting multilingual learners.
Language provision
The school follows an American curriculum aligned to the California CCSS, with English Language Arts as a core component. Thai Language, Culture and History is taught by a dedicated Thai language department. A Chinese language program is offered in grades K3-6 under the foreign language standards. English as a Second Language (ESL) is provided, with ESL standards for K3-6 and 7-12; Korean language support is coordinated by a Korean Coordinator on staff.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
ACIS provides an English-language American curriculum with daily Chinese and Thai language lessons for Pre-K through Grade 12. The approach supports multilingual learners and integrates language study with general academics.
Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Awards
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award: UCIS is authorized to operate the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, supporting structured student development through service, skills, physical recreation, and expedition stages
Accreditations
Accreditations
Holds Candidacy Status with ACS WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) Through June 30, 2025, following a comprehensive evaluation by the accrediting body.
Member of the International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) Affirming its commitment to international quality standards.
Undergoing external quality assurance accreditation by Thailand’s ONESQA (Office of National Education Standards and Quality Assessment) from 2022 to 2026.
Accreditations
* WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) UCIS received full accreditation from WASC in July 2023, valid through June 2029, confirming the school meets rigorous U.S.-based standards for curriculum quality, student performance, leadership, and continuous improvement.
* ONESQA (Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment, Thailand) UCIS has been officially recognized by ONESQA, demonstrating compliance with Thailand’s national education quality assurance requirements.
* International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) As a member of ISAT, UCIS participates in Thailand-wide networks focused on collaborative school development and adherence to international best practices.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Schedule a campus visit or tour (optional) You may book a tour via the “Enrollment” page, and discuss the details of the school’s programme with the admissions team.
Submit application form Complete and submit the online (or downloadable) application form, including student details, previous schooling, languages, and family information.
Document submission Parents send required documents (proof of identity, previous school reports, and other details) as part of the application package (implied via application form).
Offer & acceptance The school issues a Letter of Acceptance to successful applicants.
Tuition & visa After acceptance, pay tuition and fees to trigger issuance of student visa letter. ACIS handles visa support for international students.
Admissions
1. Visit the school (in-person or virtual). UCIS invites families to tour the campus, observe classes, explore facilities, and attend an admissions presentation. If an in-person tour isn’t feasible, an online meeting can be arranged.
2. Submit application and supporting documents. Complete the official application form and provide required paperwork such as prior school reports, birth certificate, and health records. These are reviewed to confirm eligibility for the applied grade.
3. Complete assessment and interview. Applicants take an entrance exam, interview, and ESL (English as an Additional Language) assessment, which carries the designated application fee. This helps with academic placement and identifying any support needs.
4. Receive decision and secure placement. Once admission is offered, placement is confirmed upon payment of the entrance fee and book fee. The admissions team will share details on billing, including tuition deposit and optional service fees.
Scholarships
Scholarships
The school does not have publicly available information on their scholarships.
Scholarships
UCIS does not publicly offer academic or merit‑based scholarships. The main financial support available is sibling tuition discounts: 10% off for the second child and 15% off for the third child. Families seeking fee support are encouraged to discuss options directly with the admissions office.
Waitlist
Waitlist
The school does not have a waitlist.
Waitlist
There is not enough information available about whether Unity Concord International School does not operate a formal waitlist or pool system publicly.
