Grace International School vs Unity Concord International School
Grace International School and Unity Concord International School are both in Chiang Mai, about 17 km apart. Both schools offer Advanced Placement (AP) and American programmes, and Grace International School also offers Christian. Published annual fees are THB 294,500 - 361,000 at Grace International School and THB 192,000 - 368,000 at Unity Concord International School, which puts Grace International School roughly 17% higher. Grace International School takes pupils from 5 to 18, and Unity Concord International School from 2 to 18. Unity Concord International School is the larger school, with around 760 pupils to Grace International School's 600. Typical class sizes are 20 at Grace International School and 25 at Unity Concord International School.
Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum, Christian Curriculum
Curriculum
Advanced Placement (AP), American Curriculum
Pupils
Pupils
600
Pupils
760
Typical class size
Typical class size
20
Typical class size
25
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
1999
Opened
2017
Bus service
Bus service
—
Bus service
Yes
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Grace International School is located at 88 Muu 3, Tupaed‑Hang Dong, Chiang Mai, Thailand, in a suburban area southwest of the city. It is accessible via rail, bus services, and major highways. The surrounding neighbourhood includes residential zones, green space, and school-operated buses that serve off-site events.
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
GIS offers education from kindergarten (K) through 12th grade, structured in three divisions: Elementary (K–5), Middle School (6–8), and High School (9–12).
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
GIS 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 Educational Support Division offers Inclusion Support, Individual Learning Plans (ILP), Guided Study Halls, Grace Accommodation Plans (GAP), small‑group instruction, academic assessments, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, and the R.I.S.E. program for students with significant needs like autism or Down syndrome.
Additional learning support
The school offers additional learning support, but there is not much publicly available information.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with a specific country.
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
GIS is a Christian international school which integrates a biblical perspective into its academic programme and student life.
Religious affiliation
The school has no religious affiliations.
School day structure
School day structure
Daily schedule information is not publicly provided on the school's website. Activities such as morning chapel services (for elementary) and staggered lunch times are part of the weekly routine.
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
GIS does not operate a routine school bus service for student drop-off or pick-up.
Bus service details
The school offers van service.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application and One-Time Fees (for first-year students) English Proficiency Test Fee: THB 1,500 (if required)
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
The school does not provide dormitories or boarding.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
Uniforms are required. GIS polo shirts, GIS PE shorts, and GIS PE jerseys are sold at the Tiger Shop. The uniform policy is described in the PSMO Handbook for each grade; uniforms and PE gear must be GIS-branded and purchased from the Tiger Shop; sweatshirts may be worn for PE if they follow dress code; old uniforms can be donated or disposed of.
Uniform requirement
—
Food options
Food options
The cafeteria serves hot lunches daily with Thai and Western dishes and a daily salad bar. The lunch program is available to all students in grades K–12, and a parent committee works with the cafeteria manager to develop menus. Allergy information is available on request.
Food options
The school offers a lunch program. The Lunch Menu page publishes weekly meal options.
House system
House system
—
House system
—
Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The Board of Trustees governs GIS and is formed by representatives of GIS Owner Organizations. The Chief Governance Officer chairs the board. The Board uses Carver Policy Governance and meets to oversee policy and planning.
Governance and ownership
The school is part of The Ambassador Education Group.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Grace International School offers a U.S.-based, Christian curriculum from Kindergarten through Grade 12, structured across Elementary, Middle, and High School divisions. In Elementary School (Grades K–5), students study core subjects (English, Math, Science, and Social Studies) alongside Art, Music, Physical Education, Library, Thai (Grades 1–5), and Korean (for Korean nationals). In Middle School (Grades 6–8), the curriculum includes Language Arts, Bible, Mathematics, Science, World Civilizations, Thai, and electives such as Fine Arts, STEM, Yearbook, and Drama. Students in High School (Grades 9–12) complete graduation requirements in core subjects, with electives in Fine Arts, Technology, PE, and additional courses, including AP options in subjects like Calculus, English, Chemistry, and World History.
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.
GIS integrates support via its Educational Support Division. When emotional or behavioural concerns emerge, parents and teachers can request a Student Success Team meeting involving educational staff, a counsellor or principal, and the student. This team reviews the situation and commits to tailored actions. Guided Study Halls also offer support with behaviour management and study strategies. While the website refers to emotional support within these structures, it does not specify a standalone social‑emotional learning programme.
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 operates an Educational Support Division offering Grace Accommodation Plans (GAP) or Individual Learning Plans (ILP) for students with diagnosed learning, behavioural, or cognitive differences. Services include inclusion support, occupational therapy, speech/language therapy, small‑group instruction, academic assessments, and the RISE programme for those with needs such as autism, Down syndrome or moderate learning disabilities. It is not a specialist SEN institution but provides these supports within the mainstream school.
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
GIS does not offer an intensive ESOL programme with first‑language support. They do employ trained ESOL specialists to assist English‑language learners, though students spend most of their time in mainstream classrooms. Admission requires passing an English proficiency assessment, and the number of ESOL students is capped at approximately 15 % per grade.
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
The school provides academic counselling and Student Success Teams to address emotional and behavioural challenges alongside academic ones. Educational Support staff collaborate with teachers and parents to implement strategies. Counsellors also meet one‑on‑one with students to support academic growth and future planning, indirectly supporting wellbeing via planning and guidance. The site does not describe a dedicated mental wellbeing curriculum.
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
GIS maintains a Student Safety and Protection Policy, requiring all staff and aides to sign a Student Safety Code of Conduct. Mandatory reporters must report any suspicion or knowledge of abuse to the Student Safety Director, who notifies the Superintendent within 24 hours. The school addresses both student‑to‑student and adult‑to‑student harm, and suspected abuse is reported to appropriate authorities or mission organisations.
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.
Grace International School sits on a 37-acre campus. The campus is divided into academics and an athletics complex. There are seven buildings: Administration, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Cafeteria, Facilities, and Fitness Center. Outdoor courts, covered courts, and soccer fields support sports and recreation. The school is expanding with Tiger Fieldhouse & Gymnasium, Auditorium, and Performing Arts. Security includes 24/7 campus security and facilities staff.
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
The athletics complex includes outdoor courts, covered courts, and soccer fields. Phase I includes Tiger Field House & Gymnasium as part of athletics development.
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
There are seven buildings: Administration, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Cafeteria, Facilities, and Fitness Center.
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
Grace International School offers athletics, visual and performing arts, spiritual life, after-school clubs, and other student services.
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
Grace International School was founded in 1999 out of a vision to serve the missionary community in Southeast Asia by providing affordable, biblically integrated education. The idea began around 1995, when the founder Gene Foltz and representatives from 12 mission organizations began planning and praying for a school to support international Christian workers. A school board was formed from multiple mission groups, and because of a shared goal, they united around this vision.
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
GIS has a culturally diverse community each year with over 500 students from more than 85 member organisations and families serving in over 40 countries. Community life includes regular school‑wide events, chapel gatherings, podcasts, and the Grace in Action newsletter sharing stories from around campus.
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
GIS supports parental involvement through its Parent‑Led Activities (PLA) group, which organizes community-building events and maintains communication between parents and the school. The PLA helps facilitate fellowship among families, serves as a sounding board for administration, and empowers parents to propose ideas and serve the school. Specific groups within PLA coordinate various service activities, and parents are encouraged to reach out to Campus Life for involvement.
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
GIS offers after-school clubs and activities that support academic enrichment. Elementary clubs include Creative Worship, Journaling, Origami, Creative Dance, Engineering, Running, Art, Drawing, Critter Club, and Chess. Middle and High School clubs include Art Club, Athletics, Bible Club, Chapel Team, Drama, E-Sports, Math Club, Media Club, Model United Nations, Music Club, Night Bazaar Evangelism, Speech & Debate, Student Council, STEM, and Thai ROTC.
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
Arts are available through Visual and Performing Arts, with Drama, Music Club, and Art Club offered across levels. Elementary Arts include Origami, Creative Dance, Art, and Drawing; Middle and High School clubs include Art Club, Drama, and Music Club.
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
GIS has a diverse community with 23 nationalities among students and 14 nationalities among staff. Model United Nations exposes students to global issues, and Thai ROTC is part of cultural activities. Grace Connect provides a flexible alternative to full-time enrollment, enabling homeschooling families to access curriculum resources and stay connected to the GIS community.
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
Elementary clubs include Chess, Journaling, Origami, Creative Worship, and running activities; middle and high school offer clubs such as Art Club, Athletics, Bible Club, Chapel Team, Drama, E-Sports, Math Club, Media Club, Model United Nations, Music Club, Night Bazaar Evangelism, Speech & Debate, Student Council, STEM, and Thai ROTC.
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
The athletics program emphasizes leadership development through Sports Leadership 1 and 2 and includes ministry and outreach activities. GIS also pursues community engagement by hosting events and outreach initiatives in the Chiang Mai area.
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
Student leadership opportunities include the Student Council (two representatives per grade and officers) and Model United Nations. Speech & Debate develops critical thinking and communication skills. Athletics provide leadership development through coaching and ministry outreach.
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
The athletics program serves grades 2–12 with Basketball, Cross Country, Futsal, Rec League, Running Club, Soccer, Swimming, and Volleyball, supporting physical health and character development. Leadership, service, and community engagement are integrated into athletic programs and campus life.
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
Grace International School delivers an American curriculum taught in English. English language support for non-native speakers is provided through the TESOL program at no additional cost, and admission requires an English Proficiency Exam to assess speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. TESOL includes a Guided Study Hall, monitoring, and dedicated TESOL teachers in Elementary, Middle, and High School, with ESOL resources for K-5 and 9-12 and WIDA assessments used to guide support.
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
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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 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
Grace International School is formally accredited by:
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) A highly respected U.S.-based accrediting body that ensures the school meets international academic standards in curriculum, faculty, and governance.
The Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) An organization that provides accreditation to Christian schools worldwide, with a strong focus on spiritual education and values-based learning.
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
1. Pre-application & Inquiry Submit the Inquiry Form to check for space availability and share any learning support needs (e.g. speech therapy, learning services).
2. Schedule an Appointment If spaces are available, the admissions team will email you to schedule a parent-student appointment. You must confirm to proceed.
3. Assessment & Interviews Elementary (K–6): Includes an English proficiency interview (10 minutes) and a writing sample; plus an interview with the Elementary Principal (20 minutes).
Middle & High School (Grades 7–12): Similar screening plus age-appropriate cognitive assessments, references, and prior transcripts may be requested.
4. Decision & Waitlist Acceptance is confirmed in writing once all prior steps meet school guidelines. Applicants without Member‑Associate status may be placed on a waitlist, especially if applying after the main admissions window (April/May).
5. Enrollment Fees & Visa Processing Once accepted, submit required payments and documentation. GIS assists with visa paperwork for students (non-immigrant ED visa) and offers a guardian visa for parents.
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
GIS operates a Financial Assistance Program (FAP). This program offers tuition discounts to qualifying families especially international Christian workers to help make education more affordable. These tuition reductions are not labeled as scholarships, but they serve a similar purpose.
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
GIS notes that applicants without Member Associate family status may be placed on a waitlist, particularly if applying after the main admission window (April–May). Seats are allocated based on availability and priority is given to Member Associate families.
Waitlist
There is not enough information available about whether Unity Concord International School does not operate a formal waitlist or pool system publicly.