
When it comes to teaching English in Thailand, the type of school you choose can shape your entire experience. Most foreign teachers end up working at either public (also called government) schools or private schools, each offering a distinct environment and rhythm of life. Whether you’re looking for cultural immersion, a polished teaching environment, or something in between, knowing the differences will help you make a choice that aligns with your goals.

From classroom size and teaching hours to salary and lifestyle, the contrast between these school types is more than just administrative — it can affect everything from your daily routine to how connected you feel to the community around you. Thailand has room for all kinds of teachers, but finding your best fit starts with understanding what you’re walking into.

## 🏫 What is a Public (Government) School in Thailand?

Public schools in Thailand — also referred to as government schools — are overseen by the Ministry of Education and make up the backbone of the country’s education system. You’ll find them in cities, suburbs, and even the most remote provinces, serving a wide range of students from diverse backgrounds.

These schools tend to have large class sizes, sometimes up to 40–50 students per room, with varying levels of English ability. Resources can be limited, and teaching materials might be basic or outdated. However, what public schools may lack in polish, they often make up for in cultural authenticity and community connection. You’ll likely be one of only a few foreign teachers on campus — if not the only one — which can create strong bonds with local staff and students.

Teaching at a government school often requires adaptability, but it offers a chance to experience Thai culture more deeply than in polished international or private settings. It’s a path many teachers choose not for the comfort, but for the connection.

## 🏢 What is a Private School in Thailand?

Private schools in Thailand operate independently of the public system, though they still follow national education guidelines. These schools are typically funded through tuition fees and can range from local religious institutions to elite bilingual academies with international aspirations.

Classes are usually smaller, allowing for more focused instruction and better classroom management. You'll likely find air-conditioned rooms, whiteboards or smartboards, and a wider range of teaching materials. With that comes more structure: private schools often have formal dress codes, fixed curricula, and more administrative oversight compared to government schools.

Most private schools are located in cities or well-developed towns, attracting students from middle- and upper-income families. The environment is more polished, but that often comes with higher expectations in terms of punctuality, lesson planning, and parent communication. If you're looking for a more professional and well-resourced setting — with a slightly more “Western” work culture — private schools might be your best fit.

## ⏰ Working Hours and Schedule Differences

One of the biggest contrasts between public and private schools in Thailand is the structure of the workday.

At public (government) schools, teachers usually enjoy shorter official hours, with some finishing by early afternoon. There’s often a long lunch break and a more relaxed pace, especially in rural areas. However, the trade-off is a heavy teaching load — you might be expected to teach six or more different classes a day, often with 40+ students in each. Public schools also tend to follow the national academic calendar closely, meaning more holidays and time off between terms.

Private schools typically have longer workdays, sometimes running from 7:30 AM to 4:30 PM, with additional staff meetings or school events. You’ll usually have fewer teaching hours and smaller classes, but more administrative responsibilities, including grading, lesson planning, and communicating with parents. Some private schools operate on slightly different academic calendars, especially bilingual or international-style institutions.

In short, public schools often give you more free time but require more classroom stamina, while private schools offer more structure and resources in exchange for longer hours.

## 💰 Salary and Benefits Comparison

When it comes to pay, private schools generally offer more — but compensation isn’t just about the numbers on your paycheck.

Public (government) schools in Thailand tend to start lower, often paying between 25,000 to 55,000 THB per month (roughly $700 to $1,540 USD). These schools may provide added benefits like free on-campus housing, a housing allowance, or even daily meals. In smaller towns and rural areas, the low cost of living means even a modest salary can go a long way.

Private schools usually offer higher pay, especially in urban centers. Salaries typically range from 35,000 to 70,000 THB monthly ($980 to $1,960 USD), depending on the institution’s prestige and your qualifications. Many also offer perks like performance bonuses, paid holidays, and health insurance — though they often expect longer working hours and more administrative duties in return.

Private language schools (different from regular private schools) usually fall somewhere in between, paying 25,000 to 40,000 THB per month ($700 to $1,120 USD). These positions can be part-time or full-time and often come with more flexible schedules.

No matter the type of school, many teachers increase their income through private tutoring or weekend classes, especially in cities. With smart budgeting and a bit of hustle, both public and private school teachers can enjoy a comfortable — and adventurous — lifestyle in Thailand.

## 📚 Curriculum and Teaching Expectations

The curriculum and teaching approach can vary widely depending on whether you're in a public (government) or private school — and it affects everything from daily planning to classroom dynamics.

In public schools, the curriculum is usually set by the Thai Ministry of Education, but it's often loosely followed. This gives teachers a lot of freedom to design their own lessons and bring creativity into the classroom. The trade-off? There's usually minimal guidance, few teaching materials, and sometimes a lack of English-speaking co-teachers. You'll need to be adaptable and resourceful.

Private schools are more structured. You’ll often be given a fixed syllabus, teaching materials, and regular assessments to administer. Lesson plans may be reviewed, and classroom performance is monitored more closely. The upside is predictability — you know what's expected of you — but there may be less room for spontaneous or flexible teaching.

In both types of schools, especially bilingual or “English Program” institutions, you might also teach other subjects like science, math, or health — all in English. This can be rewarding for teachers with subject-specific expertise or those looking for variety in their teaching routine.

## 👩‍🏫 Classroom Environment and Student Behavior

One of the biggest differences you'll notice between public (government) and private schools in Thailand is the classroom environment — from class size to student expectations.

In public schools, class sizes are often large, with 35 to 50 students or more in a single room. English levels can vary widely within one class, so you’ll need to differentiate your teaching and focus on engagement. The atmosphere tends to be more relaxed and informal, with students who are curious and energetic, though classroom management can be a challenge without strong support systems in place.

Private schools usually offer smaller class sizes, typically 15 to 30 students. This makes it easier to give students individual attention and manage the classroom. English proficiency is generally higher, especially in bilingual or international programs. Discipline tends to be stricter, and students are expected to follow rules more closely — though this depends on the school’s culture.

In both environments, Thai students are generally respectful and warm toward teachers. But understanding cultural dynamics — like the importance of saving face, using positive reinforcement, and showing humility — goes a long way in building strong teacher-student relationships.

## 🧘‍♂️ Lifestyle, Flexibility, and Workload

Your lifestyle in Thailand will be shaped as much by your school type as by your city or region. Public (government) schools tend to offer more breathing room. While you may teach more classes and have larger groups, the workload outside of teaching is usually light — minimal admin, fewer meetings, and more free time during the day. This makes public schools a great fit for digital nomads, travelers, or teachers who want to explore Thailand without being overwhelmed by work.

Private schools offer a more structured, professional environment. You might have fewer teaching hours, but you’ll often spend more time on prep, paperwork, or school events. The trade-off? Better facilities, smoother systems, and more consistency. Private schools suit those seeking stability or career progression — especially teachers who want experience in formal education systems or who are building a long-term TEFL resume.

Ultimately, it’s about balance. Public schools offer a laid-back rhythm with cultural immersion, while private schools give you modern comforts and professional polish. Choose based on the lifestyle you want both inside and outside the classroom.

## 🌍 Cultural Immersion vs Comfort

One of the biggest differences between public and private schools in Thailand lies in the depth of cultural immersion. Teaching at a public (government) school often means you're one of the only foreign teachers on staff — or the only one altogether. You’ll likely need to navigate more conversations in Thai, take part in local events, and build relationships with Thai coworkers and students in a more organic, authentic way. It’s ideal if you’re looking to connect deeply with Thai culture and community life.

Private schools, on the other hand, tend to attract more expat teachers and often have bilingual staff. You'll likely have English-speaking coworkers, clearer systems, and less need to adapt linguistically or culturally in your daily routine. These schools provide a smoother landing, especially if it’s your first time living abroad or you're more comfortable in structured environments.

Both paths offer rich rewards. Public schools give you the chance to truly live and breathe Thai culture. Private schools offer comfort, predictability, and an international social circle. The right fit depends on how far out of your comfort zone you want to step — and what you’re hoping to learn from your time in Thailand.

## 🔄 Can You Switch Between the Two?

Absolutely — many teachers in Thailand move between public and private schools as they gain experience and refine their preferences. Some start in public schools for a gentler entry into the system and deeper cultural immersion, then later transition to private schools for better pay, stability, or facilities. Others do the reverse — beginning in structured, private environments and later craving the laid-back, community-driven atmosphere of a public school.

Switching is often easier once you’ve spent a year or more in Thailand. Your TEFL certification, a few reference letters, and local experience can open more doors and give you leverage in choosing your next job. Private schools tend to be more selective, so a proven track record in a Thai classroom can go a long way.

Just be mindful of your visa and contract. Most contracts last one school year, and switching schools mid-year can be tricky due to non-compete clauses or visa sponsorship changes. But with proper planning, moving from one system to the other is not just possible — it’s often the best way to find your ideal teaching environment.

## 🎯 Final Thoughts: Choosing What’s Right for You

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to teaching in public vs private schools in Thailand. Both have their strengths, and the “better” option depends entirely on your personality, priorities, and what kind of experience you’re looking for.

If you thrive on structure, prefer smaller class sizes, and want access to better resources, a private school might be a great fit. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to authentic cultural immersion, relaxed workdays, and a sense of local connection, public (government) schools offer a unique and rewarding path.

Ultimately, [teaching English in Thailand](/teach-english-thailand) isn’t just a job — it’s a lifestyle. The best choice is the one that aligns with your values, your goals, and the kind of adventure you want to have.


Teaching English in Thailand: Public Vs Private Schools


Thailand has long been a magnet for adventurous teachers and digital nomads—and it’s easy to see why. With its warm climate, welcoming culture, incredible food, and laid-back lifestyle, it’s a place where life feels good, even on a modest budget. Add fast, affordable internet and a growing remote work infrastructure, and you’ve got one of the most convenient bases in Asia for teaching English online.

In popular cities like Chiang Mai and Bangkok, you’ll find coworking spaces, teacher meetups, and expat cafés filled with laptops and lattes. Even on the islands, many teachers work remotely while soaking up ocean views. Time zones also work in your favor—if you’re teaching students in Asia or even Europe, you can easily line up a full schedule of classes without having to wake up at 3 AM.

A lot of people teaching English in Thailand combine both in-person and online work. You might teach at a language center in the afternoons and take private online students in the mornings. Or you might go fully remote and enjoy the freedom to move around the country while keeping your income steady. Either way, Thailand makes it easy to find your rhythm.

## Who This Guide Is For

Whether you’re already [teaching English in Thailand](/teach-english-thailand) or just planning your first move, there are plenty of ways to bring online teaching into your life.

If you’re working in a Thai school or language center, online lessons are a great way to supplement your income. Many teachers fill gaps in their schedules with one-on-one lessons, test prep classes, or evening conversation sessions with students abroad. It's flexible, often better paying, and lets you build experience on your own terms.

If you’re more of a digital nomad—maybe [teaching full-time online](/teach-english-online) for platforms like Cambly or Preply—Thailand offers everything you need to settle in and stay productive. The cost of living is manageable even on lower teaching rates, and the lifestyle is hard to beat.

And if you're not yet teaching but exploring the idea, Thailand is a great place to get started. You can earn your TEFL certification, dip your toes into online teaching, and figure out if it’s a path you want to pursue long-term—all while enjoying one of the most vibrant travel destinations in the world.

## Internet, Work Environment, and Infrastructure

One of the reasons Thailand is so popular with online teachers is the solid internet infrastructure. In major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, high-speed fiber is the norm, and mobile data is fast, cheap, and incredibly reliable. Even on the islands, many areas now offer stable connections—though you’ll want to test speeds if you plan to teach from a beach bungalow.

If you're teaching from home, short-term apartments and condos often come with good Wi-Fi already set up. For peace of mind, having your own router or portable hotspot (like AIS or TrueMove) is a smart backup. Many online teachers work from their apartments in the morning and head to a café or coworking space in the afternoon.

Coworking spaces are everywhere. In Chiang Mai, spots like Punspace and Yellow Coworking cater to the digital crowd. Bangkok has a wider range—from sleek corporate-style spaces in Sukhumvit to indie cafés with private booths and fast internet. Koh Phangan, Koh Lanta, and Phuket even have beachfront coworking hubs where it’s totally normal to teach a lesson in the morning and hit the water after lunch.

The key is flexibility. Thailand gives you the freedom to choose your environment—whether you prefer city hustle, mountain calm, or island life—with just a laptop and a good connection.

## Online Teaching Job Types

### Global Teaching Platforms

For most people getting started, international platforms are the easiest way to break into online teaching. Companies like **Cambly**, **Preply**, **italki**, **AmazingTalker**, and **Engoo** let you teach students around the world, often with little more than a good internet connection and a clear speaking voice.

Requirements vary: some platforms don’t require a degree or teaching experience, while others prefer certified, experienced teachers. Pay rates can range from $8 to $25 an hour depending on the platform, your qualifications, and how you market yourself.

Living in Thailand gives you a timezone advantage—especially if you’re teaching students in China, Japan, Korea, or the Middle East. You won’t have to stay up all night to catch peak hours, and you can build a routine that fits the local rhythm.

> 👉 For a breakdown of the best platforms, visit our [Teach English Online Guide](/teach-english-online).

### Thai-Based or Asia-Focused Companies

While not as widely advertised, there’s a growing demand within Thailand for online English lessons—especially for kids, teens preparing for exams, and adults learning business English. Some Thai language centers now offer online-only programs, and a few hire foreign teachers to work remotely.

You might also come across hybrid roles where you teach in person a few days a week and handle online lessons the rest of the time. These can be great for teachers who want visa sponsorship and steady hours, while still enjoying online flexibility.

Asia-focused companies that serve Thai or regional students may offer better hours than Western platforms and more consistency—but pay may be lower or require more commitment upfront.

### Freelance and Private Students

If you prefer full control over your schedule and earnings, going freelance is a strong option. Many teachers living in Thailand build a roster of regular students—some based locally, others from abroad.

To get started, you can offer trial lessons through platforms like Preply or italki, then transition loyal students to private arrangements. You can also advertise your services in expat Facebook groups, local forums, or via word of mouth. Parents of your in-person students may even be interested in booking online follow-up sessions.

Rates for private lessons in Thailand typically range from $15–$40/hour depending on the niche. Test prep, business English, and kids’ classes tend to bring in the most.

To handle payments, most freelancers use Wise, PayPal, or direct bank transfers if working with local clients. Keep time zones, holidays, and local customs in mind as you build your client base—Thai students often prefer short, consistent lessons and friendly rapport over rigid structure.

## Visas and Legal Considerations

Navigating Thailand’s visa landscape as an online teacher has become easier—especially with recent updates aimed at remote workers.

**Tourist, Education & Long-Stay Options**  
Thailand now offers e‑Visas and Visa-on-Arrival (60-day stays), both extendable to 90 days through immigration offices . Education visas (Non‑ED) allow long-term stays while studying Thai (or TEFL), though they don't automatically permit work.

**Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)**  
Launched in 2024, the DTV is aimed squarely at digital nomads. It’s valid for **five years**, allowing **up to 180 days per entry**, with the option to re-enter after leaving. Applicants must be 20+, show remote work, and maintain a Thai bank balance of THB 500,000 (USD 15,000). A basic fee of THB 10,000 ($270) applies.

**Legal Grey Areas: Remote Teaching vs Local Work**  
Teaching foreign students online is generally permissible under DTV but is _not_ covered by a work permit. Teaching in-person for Thai students, however, does require a Non‑B visa and work permit. Many teachers avoid legal issues by doing all teaching online under remote credentials.

**Typical Teacher Setups**  
Most remote teachers in Thailand use one of these setups:

1. **Tourist or DTV Visa** + 100% online teaching for non-Thai students.
2. **Non-B (Work/Education Visa)** + in-person work, then add online lessons externally.
3. **DTV + Online Invoicing** through platforms like Wise or Payoneer for income.

This approach gives flexibility and a layer of legal safety—just be clear about who you're teaching and how you're paid.

## Cost of Living vs. Online Teaching Income

Thailand's affordability makes it a global hotspot for remote teachers. Here's a comparison of key hubs:

**Monthly Expenses (USD)**

- **Bangkok**: typical living costs (excluding rent) ~ $620
- **Phuket**: ~ $520 ()
- **Chiang Mai**: ~ $498

Add rent:

- Mix apartments range between **฿8,000–15,000/month** (~$240–450) in cities .
- Budget living (e.g., Chiang Mai): **฿3,000–8,000/mo** (~$90–240) ().

**Income from Online Teaching**

- Entry-level platforms: **$8–15/hr**
- Certified or niche (exam prep, conversation): **$15–25/hr**
- Private/freelance: **$20–40+/hr**

**Income Scenarios**

- **20 hrs/week at $12/hr** → $960/month (basic living)
- **25 hrs/week at $15/hr** → $1,500/month (comfortable)
- **30 hrs/week at $20/hr** → $2,400/month (solid savings)

Add in-person teaching or paid trial classes, and many teachers earn **$2,000+** monthly — enough for a great lifestyle or saving toward future travel or investment.

Balancing online and local work lets you combine visa stability with financial buffers—whether you're in-the-classroom or fully remote.

## Best Places in Thailand for Online Teachers

Thailand offers something for every type of online teacher—whether you’re drawn to buzzing city life, creative mountain towns, or quiet beaches with a view. Here are some of the most popular bases for remote English teachers.

### **Chiang Mai**

Tucked in the north, Chiang Mai is a favorite among remote workers. It's relaxed, walkable, and filled with coworking spaces, cafés, and expats. Rent is cheap, internet is fast, and the creative vibe attracts teachers, writers, designers, and entrepreneurs alike. The lifestyle here is slower than in Bangkok but very comfortable—and you’ll find a welcoming community of both TEFL teachers and digital nomads.

### **Bangkok**

If you thrive on energy, variety, and convenience, Bangkok delivers. It’s a massive city with endless teaching opportunities, both in-person and online. You’ll find strong infrastructure, modern apartments, coworking spaces on every corner, and an endless supply of students. It’s also well-connected for regional travel, with cheap flights across Southeast Asia. The only trade-off? It’s busy, hot, and not always the most peaceful place to work.

### **Phuket & Koh Phangan**

For those who want to be near the ocean, these two islands are among the most popular for remote teachers. Phuket has great infrastructure, easy access to Western comforts, and strong internet in most parts of the island. Koh Phangan is more laid-back, with a seasonal digital nomad crowd and a few well-established coworking hubs. If you’re looking to work online and live the island dream, these spots can work well—just be aware of occasional storms or patchy Wi-Fi in remote areas.

### **Other Spots Worth Exploring**

- **Pai** – a tiny mountain town a few hours from Chiang Mai, known for its scenery and chill vibe.
- **Koh Lanta** – less crowded than Phuket, with decent infrastructure and a quiet atmosphere.
- **Hua Hin** – a coastal town popular with retirees and long-term visitors, with a growing remote work scene.

**Tips for Island and Small-Town Life:**  
If you're heading somewhere more remote, test the internet before committing. Look for accommodation with a backup router or reliable mobile signal. And remember—some smaller towns may have fewer amenities, less English spoken, and a slower pace that’s not for everyone.

## Pros and Cons of Teaching English Online from Thailand

### ✅ Pros

- **Affordable lifestyle** – You can live comfortably on under $1,000/month, especially outside Bangkok.
- **Timezone advantage** – Perfect for teaching students in Asia, the Middle East, or Europe.
- **High quality of life** – Great food, friendly locals, warm weather, and easy domestic travel.
- **Freedom to combine roles** – Many teachers blend classroom work with online gigs for more income and flexibility.
- **Community** – Large TEFL and digital nomad networks in major cities and islands.

### ⚠️ Cons

- **Visa uncertainty** – Tourist and education visas are common but need frequent renewals. The DTV is a step forward, but not ideal for everyone.
- **Legal grey areas** – While remote teaching isn’t actively policed, it’s not officially permitted without a work visa—especially if teaching Thai students.
- **Banking and payments** – Receiving money from overseas requires some setup (e.g., Wise, Payoneer), and some platforms don’t pay to Thai banks.
- **Noise and power outages** – In busy or remote areas, background noise or unstable electricity can interrupt classes if you don’t plan ahead.

Despite the trade-offs, teaching English online from Thailand continues to be a smart, flexible option for people looking to earn a living while enjoying one of the most exciting countries in Asia.

## Tips for Succeeding as an Online Teacher in Thailand

Teaching online gives you flexibility, but staying productive—especially in a place as stimulating as Thailand—takes a bit of structure.

**Get into a rhythm.**  
Work out a schedule that fits both your energy levels and your students’ time zones. Most online English learners are in Asia or the Middle East, so mornings and evenings in Thailand can be peak hours. Block out chunks of time to teach and stick to them, even if your platform is flexible.

**Create a dedicated workspace.**  
Whether you’re in a high-rise condo in Bangkok or a bungalow in Pai, having a quiet, comfortable setup makes all the difference. Invest in noise-canceling headphones, a decent webcam, and good lighting. A backup mobile hotspot is also essential in case of Wi-Fi dropouts.

**Build your client base slowly and strategically.**  
Start on global platforms to gain experience and reviews. Once you’re confident, branch into private teaching. Offer trial lessons, specialize in niches like IELTS or Business English, and ask satisfied students for referrals. Social media, expat groups, and even local meetups can help you network.

**Use the right tools.**

- **Scheduling**: Google Calendar, Calendly
- **Teaching**: Zoom, KoalaGo, ClassIn
- **Payment**: Wise (for receiving international transfers), Payoneer, or PayPal
- **Lesson planning**: Notion, Canva, or Google Slides

Remember: success in online teaching comes down to consistency, clarity, and connection. If you're present, professional, and bring good energy, your student base will grow.

## Is This Path Right for You?

Thailand is a great fit for people who want to live meaningfully and work remotely without sacrificing lifestyle. It's ideal if:

- You’re an in-person teacher who wants to supplement your income online
- You’re a digital nomad looking for a soft landing with a strong remote work scene
- You want to build an independent online teaching career somewhere affordable and inspiring

Combining in-person and online teaching is a smart strategy for those who want both visa security and higher income. Many teachers start with a school job, then scale up online work over time. Others dive in 100% remotely and use tourist or digital nomad visas while teaching full-time online.

Either way, teaching English online from Thailand is one of the most flexible and rewarding ways to support a life abroad—whether you're in it for a season or settling in long term.

## Useful Resources and Next Steps

- [Teach English in Thailand](/teach-english-thailand) – Learn how to get started teaching in-person across the country.
- [English Teaching Jobs in Thailand](/jobs/thailand) – Explore current openings at schools, academies, and recruiters.
- [Teach English Online Guide](/teach-english-online) – Compare platforms, strategies, and tools for building a remote teaching career.


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