The Ultimate Guide to Schools in Phuket: International, Private & Public Options (2025)
Phuket is not just a tropical paradise for tourists—it’s also a growing hub for expat families seeking quality education in a stunning environment. Whether you’re relocating or planning a long-term stay, choosing the right school in Phuket is crucial.
This guide covers:
✅ Top international, private, and public schools
✅ Tuition fees & additional costs (2024 prices)
✅ Pros & cons of each school type
✅ Key factors for choosing the best fit
Types of Schools in Phuket
1. International Schools
Best for expats and families seeking globally recognized curricula (IB, British, American).
2. Private Bilingual Schools
A mix of Thai and international programs at lower costs.
3. Public Schools
Free for Thai citizens; limited English instruction.
Best International Schools in Phuket (2025)
| School Name | Curriculum | Annual Fees (THB) | Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UWC Thailand | IB (PYP to DP) | 500,000 – 800,000 | Rawai | Strong academics, beachfront campus | Very expensive |
| British International School Phuket (BISP) | British (IGCSE, A-Levels) | 450,000 – 700,000 | Kathu | Elite sports programs, large campus | Competitive admissions |
| HeadStart International | British (Cambridge) | 250,000 – 400,000 | Kathu | Affordable for an international school | Smaller campus |
| QSI International School | American (AP) | 400,000 – 600,000 | Kathu | Small class sizes | Limited extracurriculars |
Additional Costs:
- Registration fees: 50,000 – 200,000 THB (one-time)
- Uniforms: 5,000 – 10,000 THB
- Transport: 30,000 – 60,000 THB/year
Best Private Bilingual Schools in Phuket
| School Name | Curriculum | Annual Fees (THB) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kajonkiet International School | Thai + British | 150,000 – 300,000 | Cheaper than full international | Less global recognition |
| Phuket PALS | Thai + English | 80,000 – 200,000 | Great for younger kids | Limited high school options |
| Satree Phuket School | Thai + English | 50,000 – 120,000 | Strong Thai program | Less focus on expat needs |
Best for: Families wanting Thai culture + some English education.
Public Schools in Phuket
- Free for Thai nationals (expats may pay small fees)
- Limited English programs (mostly Thai language)
- Popular options:
- Phuket Wittayalai School (strong academic reputation)
- Satree Phuket School (competitive sports programs)
Pros:
✔ No tuition fees
✔ Fully accredited by Thai Ministry of Education
Cons:
❌ Minimal English instruction
❌ Larger class sizes (40+ students)
Key Factors When Choosing a School in Phuket
1. Curriculum
- IB / British / American → Best for university abroad
- Thai + Bilingual → Better for local integration
2. Location & Transport
- Most international schools are in Kathu, Rawai, or Phuket Town
- Traffic can be heavy—check commute times
3. Extracurriculars
- BISP → Top for football, swimming, tennis
- UWC → Strong in arts & sustainability
4. Cost Breakdown
| Expense | International (THB) | Bilingual (THB) | Public (THB) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 400,000 – 800,000 | 80,000 – 300,000 | Free (for Thais) |
| Uniforms | 5,000 – 10,000 | 3,000 – 8,000 | 1,000 – 3,000 |
| Transport | 30,000 – 60,000 | 20,000 – 40,000 | 5,000 – 15,000 |
Final Verdict: Best School for Your Needs
| Family Situation | Recommended School Type |
|---|---|
| Expat staying short-term | International (BISP, UWC) |
| Long-term, budget-conscious | Bilingual (Kajonkiet, PALS) |
| Thai nationals | Public (Phuket Wittayalai) |
Tips:
- Visit schools before enrolling (many offer trial days)
- Ask about scholarships (some schools offer discounts)
- Check visa requirements (international schools often assist)
The Verdict: Which Phuket School Fits Your Family?
Phuket offers diverse schooling options, from world-class international academies to affordable bilingual programs. While international schools provide the smoothest transition for expats, private bilingual options offer a middle ground, and public schools work best for Thai-speaking families.