Bangkok Adventist International School vs Raffles American School Bangkok
Bangkok Adventist International School and Raffles American School Bangkok are both in Bangkok, about 10 km apart. Both schools offer American programmes. Bangkok Adventist International School also offers Christian, and Raffles American School Bangkok also offers IB and Advanced Placement (AP). Published annual fees are THB 154,700 - 226,200 at Bangkok Adventist International School and THB 198,000 - 297,000 at Raffles American School Bangkok, which puts Raffles American School Bangkok roughly 30% higher. Bangkok Adventist International School takes pupils from 3 to 14, and Raffles American School Bangkok from 2 to 18. Raffles American School Bangkok is the larger school, with around 600 pupils to Bangkok Adventist International School's 105. Typical class sizes are 18 at Bangkok Adventist International School and 16 at Raffles American School Bangkok.
IB (DP), Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
105
Pupils
600
Typical class size
Typical class size
18
Typical class size
16
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
1946
Opened
2017
Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
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Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Bangkok Adventist International School is located in the Watthana district of central Bangkok, in the residential Sukhumvit 71 area. The school is situated on Pridi Banomyong Soi 41, a quiet neighborhood with access to main roads and public transport, including the BTS Skytrain at Phra Khanong.
Location
Raffles American School Bangkok is located in Samut Prakan province, just east of central Bangkok along the Bang Na–Trat frontage road. The school is situated in a suburban area with residential communities and international businesses nearby. It's easily accessible by private car and sits close to major expressways, making school drop-off and pick-up manageable for commuting families. The surrounding area is quiet, with access to amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, and international housing.
Stages
Stages
BAIS serves students from Kindergarten (age 3) through to Grade 8 (approximately age 14). The school is organized into early years, elementary, and middle school levels. It does not offer high school or sixth form.
Stages
The school is organized into four main divisions: Early Childhood (Pre-K to Kindergarten), Elementary School (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). This structure provides a continuous educational pathway for children from age 2 up to 18.
School type
School type
BAIS is a co-educational day school.
School type
Raffles American School Bangkok is a co-educational school.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
There is no information publicly available on the school’s website regarding specific provisions for students with additional learning needs or special educational support services.
Additional learning support
The school does not publicly list any specialized services or programs for students with Additional Learning Needs. There is no mention of specific facilities or trained staff for learning support on its website.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school follows an American-style curriculum and aligns with U.S. educational standards. It is not formally affiliated with the U.S. government.
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
BAIS is a Christian school affiliated with the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Religious education and Christian values are integrated into the school’s daily life and curriculum.
Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliations.
School day structure
School day structure
The official website does not publish a specific daily schedule. However, it notes that the school follows a Monday to Friday calendar and observes a Sabbath rest on Saturdays.
School day structure
The website does not publish details on how the school day is structured.
Bus service details
Bus service details
There is no mention of a school bus or transport service on the official BAIS website.
* Returning Students: THB 154,700 * New Students (including all one-time fees): THB 226,200
Discounts and Payment Terms
* A discount of THB 2,500 is available for full payment made on the registration date.
Other Costs
* Uniforms and stationeries are not included in tuition and are available for purchase at the school office.
Refund Policy
* The Development Fee is refundable after completing one academic year, upon withdrawal.
Fee details
Application Fees The school’s website does not mention any application or registration fees. Families should confirm directly with the school whether such fees apply during the admissions process.
Tuition Fees (By Age Group)
* Nursery (2–3 years old): THB 198,000 per academic year * Kindergarten 1–2 (3–5 years old): THB 234,000 per academic year * Kindergarten 3 (5–6 years old): THB 255,000 per academic year * Grade 1–4 (6–10 years old): THB 279,000 per academic year * Grade 5–12 (10–18 years old): THB 297,000 per academic year
All amounts are listed as annual tuition.
Lunch Fees A separate lunch fee of THB 30,000 per academic year applies to all grade levels.
Billing Schedule and Payment Terms The school’s website does not currently specify the billing frequency (term-based or annual), deadlines, or late payment penalties.
Payment Methods The school does not disclose payment method options (such as credit card, bank transfer, or online systems) in the fee schedule.
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
Regular Uniform and PE Uniform are required in Early Years through High School. Optional items include a School Cap and a School Jacket.
Food options
Food options
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Food options
The school provides on-site meals via Sodexo, the food service provider.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Thailand.
Governance and ownership
The school is part of the Raffles Education Group and is governed by Raffles Education Limited.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Bangkok Adventist International School (BAIS) follows an American-style curriculum with instruction in English, serving students from Kindergarten through Grade 8. The curriculum is designed to support academic development alongside spiritual and moral growth in line with the school’s Seventh-day Adventist values. Core subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, with additional instruction in Bible studies, Music, and Physical Education. From Grades 1–8, students also participate in annual educational camps as part of their experiential learning. The curriculum does not include formal external qualifications such as IGCSEs or AP exams, as the school does not offer high school-level education. BAIS prepares students for transition into American or international high schools after Grade 8.
Curriculum details
Here’s a clear and friendly overview of the curriculum offering at Raffles American School Bangkok, based strictly on information from the school’s official materials:
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Curriculum Overview
Raffles follows a U.S.-based American curriculum aligned with Common Core standards in English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Science, and AERO for Social Studies. In Early Childhood through Elementary, learning is experiential, covering literacy (using frameworks like the 6+1 Trait Writing and Daily 5), numeracy, science, arts, physical education, music, and world languages. In Middle School, students rotate between specialist teachers in subject areas including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, performing and visual arts, PE, health, and technology. High School (Grades 9–12) culminates in the award of a U.S. High School Diploma, with students from Grade 10 onward selecting from a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Starting in the upcoming academic year, the IB Diploma Programme (DP) will be introduced for Grades 11 and 12, while Grade 10 students may sample AP Psychology. The school embeds General Learning Outcomes—such as communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills—at every level.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
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Higher education progression
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Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
The school does not publicly disclose specific programs or staff dedicated to Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
Social & emotional learning
The school embeds General Learning Outcomes across all grade levels, including self-awareness, emotional wellbeing, relationships (like conflict resolution and mediation), and community responsibility. There’s no detailed public information about dedicated SEL staff members or specific initiatives beyond this framework.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
BAIS does not publicize any formal Special Educational Needs (SEN) provisions or specialist support staff. The school is not described as a specialist SEN institution.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not publicly disclose any information regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN).
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
The school does not publicly disclose any EAL support programs, specialist EAL staff, or structured English-remediation provisions.
English as an additional language
RAS follows the WIDA-based ELL (English Language Learner) Curriculum and Assessment, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking. They administer baseline assessments at the beginning, middle, and end of the year to guide student placement within the ELL program.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
No information is publicly available on mental wellbeing programs, counsellors, or structured pastoral care initiatives.
Mental wellbeing
There is no specific information published about mental wellbeing programs, counselling staff, or dedicated initiatives.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
BAIS does not present its child protection or safeguarding policy details on its public website.
Safeguarding
The school mentions that it maintains a safe and clean environment and enforces health and safety protocols. However, it does not publicly disclose any detailed safeguarding or child protection policies. No further information is provided regarding designated staff, training, or reporting procedures.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
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Facilities overview
The school has a Playground & Sport Field and a Swimming Pool measuring 25 x 18 meters with sun shading. A certified lifeguard checks the pool's pH daily and remains on standby during school hours. For younger students, a Teaching Assistant (TA) and Thai Nanny accompany them to provide additional care and support. The campus includes a PE Room, a Library, a Music Room, and a Science Lab. Nursery–K2 classrooms have three staff members per class (Homeroom Teacher, Teaching Assistant, and Thai Nanny) to provide full support and care; K3–G4 classrooms have two staff members (Homeroom Teacher and Teaching Assistant) to support students; G5–G8 and G9–G12 classrooms are led by one Homeroom Teacher with air purifiers in every room, and the janitor cleans the room every morning and in the evening after class.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
The school has a Playground & Sport Field and a Swimming Pool. The swimming pool measures 25 x 18 meters and has shading for sun protection. A certified lifeguard checks the pool's pH daily and remains on standby during school hours. For younger students, TA and Thai Nanny accompany them to provide additional care and support during swimming activities. The PE Room supports physical education classes.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
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Academic facilities
The school provides a Library, a Music Room, and a Science Lab as core academic facilities. Nursery–K2 classrooms have three staff per class (Homeroom Teacher, TA, and Thai Nanny) to provide full support and care; the Nanny cleans tables and floors after breaks and lunch to maintain hygiene. K3–G4 classrooms have two staff per class (Homeroom Teacher and Teaching Assistant) and air purifiers in each room. G5–G8 classrooms are led by one Homeroom Teacher with air purifiers, and G9–G12 classrooms are led by one Homeroom Teacher with air purifiers; the janitor cleans the room every morning before class and in the evening after class.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) are programs outside the regular curriculum that help students explore interests, develop skills, and build confidence. The program offers sports, arts, clubs, volunteering, and leadership activities to foster teamwork, creativity, and personal growth. ECA is organized into Early Years, Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary, and Middle School / High School, with schedules and activities available for each level.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
BAIS was founded in 1946 and is owned and managed by the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Thailand. The school has operated continuously as a private Christian institution serving both local and expatriate families in Bangkok since its founding community mission. It remains under church administration and aligns its education with Adventist values.
History
Raffles American School Bangkok was established in 2017 as part of the Raffles Education Corporation, a regional education group with institutions across Asia. The Bangkok campus initially offered early years and elementary education, gradually expanding to include middle and high school levels. By the 2018–2019 academic year, the school had introduced a full K–12 pathway. Its campus is located in the Bang Na district and is adjacent to Raffles International College, with which it shares organisational ties through the Raffles Education network.
Community
Community
The school hosts community and cultural events such as the annual Christmas Concert and holiday schedules aligned with Thai national holidays. BAIS also participates in community service projects and church-related programs that reflect its faith-based mission, though specific events are not detailed publicly on the website.
Community
Raffles American School Bangkok fosters a culturally diverse community that includes students, families, and staff from a wide range of national backgrounds. The school celebrates this diversity through inclusive community events such as International Day, where families share food, dress, and traditions from their home countries. Cultural celebrations like Songkran Day are also held on campus to promote Thai heritage and encourage engagement between students and local traditions. In addition, families take part in school-wide service efforts, such as donation drives supporting the Baan Nokkamin Foundation, promoting values of compassion and civic responsibility. Parents are often invited to attend school performances, art shows, and holiday events, building a sense of connection and shared involvement in the school’s daily life.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
The official site does not mention a formal Parent Teacher Association (PTA) or its activities.
Parent teacher association
While a formal PTA structure isn't detailed, the school’s social media reflects active parental participation. Posts such as reminders about PTA gatherings indicate that parents are invited into school life, though the types of events, groups, or committees are not described in detail publicly.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
BAIS is a private Christian school in Bangkok that provides education for Kindergarten through Grade 8, owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church of Thailand. The school emphasizes Christ-centered, Bible-based education focused on the holistic development of each student.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
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Arts & creative
RAS provides arts education across the school, including visual arts and performing arts. The art studio is a space for creativity where students express ideas through painting, sculpture, and design. Student artworks are regularly showcased in school exhibitions and international school art events in Bangkok. Music and performing arts provide opportunities to sing, play instruments, and perform at school events.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) are programs outside the regular curriculum that help students explore interests, develop skills, and build confidence. RAS offers sports, arts, clubs, volunteering, and leadership activities, providing opportunities for teamwork, creativity, and personal growth. Activities are organized for Early Years through High School. ECAs enrich the overall school experience.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
ECA includes volunteering and leadership activities. Students have opportunities to participate in community service and service-learning projects.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
Leadership opportunities are integrated into ECAs. Students lead clubs, organize events, and participate in service projects. These activities foster communication, organization, and teamwork. RAS emphasizes leadership as part of a holistic education.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
The mission outlines a positive and caring learning environment that nurtures an inquiring mind and a purposeful, meaningful lifestyle through an active understanding of Jesus Christ.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Sport Academy (Raptors) provides regular athletic development. Physical activity supports fitness and teamwork. ECAs balance academic demands with wellness, supporting overall well-being and a healthy school lifestyle.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
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Language provision
English is the language of instruction for Studies in Language and Literature (English Language & Literature). Language Acquisition is offered in Thai, Mandarin, or Spanish. World Language instruction follows ACTFL standards.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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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’s official website does not provide information about any awards won by the school itself in the past five years.
Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
* ONESQA (Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment): The official Thai government body that inspects and certifies private schools for meeting national educational quality standards. BAIS is listed as ONESQA accredited by the International Schools Association of Thailand.
* ISAT Membership (International Schools Association of Thailand): BAIS is a member school of ISAT, a body recognized for promoting quality practices across international schools in Thailand.
Accreditations
* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC): A U.S.-based accrediting body that evaluates and certifies the quality of schools offering American-style education internationally.
* International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme: The school is authorised to offer the IB Diploma Programme for Grades 11–12, a two-year pre-university qualification recognised by universities worldwide.
* College Board – Advanced Placement (AP): Raffles American School Bangkok is approved to deliver AP courses, allowing high school students to complete college-level coursework and exams for potential university credit.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Submit the application form and required documents. Parents are required to complete an application form and submit it along with the child’s academic records, birth certificate, and other identification documents. There is a non-refundable application fee of THB 1,000 and a testing fee of THB 500.
2. Entrance assessment and interview. Applicants must complete an entrance test appropriate to their grade level. The school may also conduct an interview with the child and parents to understand the student's background and readiness.
3. Offer of admission and fee payment. If the application is successful, parents will receive an admission offer. Upon acceptance, families are required to pay an admission fee of THB 50,000, a refundable development fee of THB 20,000, and other annual fees to secure the place.
4. Complete registration. To confirm enrollment, full payment should be made by the registration deadline. A THB 2,500 discount is offered for full payment on the registration date. Uniforms and stationery can be purchased at the school office.
Admissions
1. Initial Visit & Inquiry Begin by visiting the school or contacting the Admissions Office. You can arrange to meet the Head of School or Director in person—or connect online via email, phone, or the Line app if visiting isn’t possible. An open-door policy is offered for visits by appointment.
2. Submit Application Materials Complete and submit the Application Form, Admission Requirement Checklist, Authorization to Release School Records form, and Informed Consent from the previous school. Include two passport-sized photos, a copy of the student’s passport or Thai ID, up to three years of academic records (translated into English if needed), standardized test results or evaluations, and a confidential recommendation from the current school. These can be submitted online or via mail, email, or in person.
3. Evaluation & Interview Once your application is complete, the school typically processes it within five working days. Then, the student will undergo evaluation, screening, and an interview designed to assess English and math proficiency. Pre‑K and Kindergarten applicants have a parent interview and child engagement activity. Interviews can be held in person or via Skype; if remote applicants can't participate, offers may be conditional on in‑person evaluation later.
4. Application Outcome If accepted, the school will send a formal Offer of Admission by email, followed by a tuition invoice and a welcome letter from the Head of School outlining next steps.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Bangkok Adventist International School does not publicly advertise any scholarship programmes or financial aid opportunities.
Scholarships
The school’s official website does not mention any scholarships or financial aid programs.
Waitlist
Waitlist
The school does not publish any information indicating the use of a waitlist or pool system.
Waitlist
When an applicant meets the admissions requirements but the requested grade level or program is already full, that applicant is placed in a wait pool.