Study Abroad in Bangkok
College Study Abroad
Explore Bangkok with CIEE
Get ready to dive into Thailand’s dynamic capital when you study abroad in Bangkok, a city where ornate temples, bustling street markets, and modern skyscrapers create an iconic backdrop for daily life. As a major travel hub in Southeast Asia, Bangkok makes it easy to explore neighboring countries and cultures. The city is also on the rise as a high-tech center, with growing influence in fintech, green technology, and digital infrastructure. Wake up to river views along the Chao Phraya, enjoy world-famous street food, and spend your evenings exploring night markets, rooftop views, and a thriving cultural scene. Between classes, visit incredible landmarks like Wat Pho and the Grand Palace, or venture beyond the city to floating markets and nearby coastal escapes. With its rich traditions, welcoming locals, and nonstop energy, Bangkok study abroad offers an immersive experience that blends academic discovery with unforgettable cultural exploration.
While abroad, you may complete a full- or part-time internship in Bangkok, gaining real-world international work experience and developing valuable professional skills. Internships are available across diverse industries, including retail, hospitality, human services, marketing, and more, providing a well-rounded perspective of today's global job market and enriching the overall study abroad experience.
Top Activities in Bangkok with CIEE
Every CIEE Bangkok study abroad and international internship program includes frequent cultural excursions uniquely designed to complement the program’s academics and enhance students’ cultural immersion. In Bangkok, excursions may include:
- Day trips to nearby destinations such as Ayutthaya Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore ancient temple ruins and discover Thailand’s past kingdoms
- Visiting vibrant local markets like Chatuchak Weekend Market or floating markets outside the city to sample authentic street food, observe daily local life, and engage with local vendors
- Experiencing Bangkok’s contemporary arts and cultural scene with visits to spaces like the Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, home to rotating exhibitions, local and international artists, and modern Thai creative expression
Academics in Bangkok
CIEE Bangkok
Study in Thailand’s vibrant capital, where tradition and modern life intersect at every turn. Balance immersive academics with opportunities to explore ornate temples, bustling markets, diverse cuisine, and the fast-paced cultural rhythm of one of Southeast Asia’s most exciting cities.
Arizona State University (ASU)
Brought to you by CIEE in partnership with ASU, enhance your international coursework with online classes that align with your degree requirements. ASU offers thousands of online courses in asynchronous 7.5-week sessions that fit within the CIEE academic calendar.
Internships in Bangkok
Depending on your program of study and availability, you may be able to participate in an international internship while studying abroad in Bangkok. As a major Southeast Asian hub, Bangkok’s fast-paced work scene is shaped by tourism, international business, marketing, and social enterprise, combining rapid innovation with rich cultural heritage. This dynamic environment encourages adaptability and cross-cultural collaboration, helping you build strong communication skills while gaining hands-on experience in global markets. You may find opportunities in industries such as:
- Consumer Goods + Retail
- Hospitality + Tourism
- Human Services
- Marketing, Sales + Service
- Transportation, Distribution + Logistics
Community Impact Initiative in Bangkok
CIEE's Community Impact Iniative invites you to connect more deeply with your host city by becoming an active member of its community. You’ll work alongside local organizations on projects that reflect real, on-the-ground needs, building meaningful relationships, gaining cultural insight, and contributing to efforts that create lasting, positive change. Through these immersive, hands-on experiences, you’ll engage with your surroundings while supporting initiatives that matter most to your host community.
While in Bangkok, your service work will align with broader initiatives focused on:
- Food Security
- Community Development + Public Health
- Youth Development + Education Initiatives
New Programs Coming in 2027
- Business + Culture
- Engineering, Technology + Sciences
- Sustainable Smart Cities
- Open Campus Block
- Quarter in Bangkok
- Semester in Bangkok
- Semester Global Internship
- Intern + Study Abroad in Bangkok
Pocket Guide to Bangkok
Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
Spoken Languages
Thai, English
Available Transportation
BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, buses, taxis, tuk-tuks
Famous Local
Mario Maurer – one of Thailand’s most recognizable actors, admired across Asia for his versatility and charm
Climate
Tropical climate with hot, humid weather year-round, a rainy monsoon season (May-October), and a cooler, drier season (November-February)
Airport
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Local Attraction
Wat Arun – a stunning riverside temple known as the Temple of Dawn, famous for its intricate design and views at sunset
Did You Know?
Bangkok’s full ceremonial name is one of the longest place names in the world – its formal name contains 160+ characters and is often abbreviated for everyday use
Social Norms
Respect for hierarchy and tradition is important; the wai (a slight bow with hands pressed together) is a common greeting; modest dress is expected when visiting temples
What to Pack
Lightweight breathable clothing, modest attire for temple visits, comfortable walking shoes, umbrella, reusable water bottle, sunscreen
Frequently Asked Questions
Studying abroad in Bangkok puts you in the heart of a vibrant, bustling city full of culture, history, and energy. Known for its lively street markets, ornate temples, and delicious cuisine, Bangkok offers an unforgettable backdrop for your studies.
As a Bangkok study abroad student, you’ll take engaging courses while exploring neighborhoods, sampling Thai food, and experiencing festivals and local traditions. With its unique mix of modern city life and rich cultural heritage, Bangkok is an exciting and immersive place to study abroad.
Yes, Bangkok is an exciting and rewarding place to study abroad. The city combines a dynamic urban lifestyle with rich cultural experiences, from bustling markets and historic temples to modern cafés and shopping districts.
As a student, you’ll have the chance to explore Thailand’s traditions, connect with local and international peers, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences – all while living in a city that never stops buzzing with energy.
As a tourist in any city, you’ll want to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Research the areas of Bangkok you’ll be going to, ask friendly locals for their opinions, and learn basic Thai phrases in case of emergency. Stay in well-lit areas at night, avoid walking alone once it’s dark, and always use official transportation services.
In the event of an emergency, remember that CIEE staff are available 24/7 and can be reached at 1-800-40-STUDY (1-800-407-8839).
Read More: Student Safety Tips
Studying abroad in Bangkok is a mix of academics, culture, and adventure. You’ll take engaging courses while exploring vibrant neighborhoods, visiting ornate temples like Wat Pho, and sampling local street food.
Outside the classroom, you can wander bustling markets, take boat rides along the Chao Phraya River, or attend festivals and cultural events. Life in Bangkok is lively, colorful, and full of opportunities to experience Thai culture firsthand.
If you’re wondering how to study abroad in Bangkok, students can complete a few simple steps:
- Search our study abroad programs in Bangkok
- Connect with your campus study abroad office
- Start your application
For more information, check out: How to Study Abroad
Study Abroad Scholarships & Grants
Apply in 1,2,3!
You may be wondering if there are any scholarships for studying abroad in Bangkok. CIEE offers scholarships and grants for study abroad programs in Bangkok to students with demonstrated financial need, proven academic merit, and for specific CIEE programs. Students can apply for scholarships through 3 simple steps:
- Search for and apply to your dream program
- Review all available funding opportunities
- Complete the Scholarship & Grants portion of your application
Study Abroad Scholarships
NEED-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on students' Estimated Family Contribution (EFC) from their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and enrolled institution. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
Based on academic achievement. Complete the Scholarships & Grants portion of your program application, along with an essay, to be considered for all awards to which you are eligible.
OTHER SCHOLARSHIPS
Other scholarship awards are based on program or alumni status.
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