Chulalongkorn University
A prestigious research-intensive university with strong international recognition. Known for quality education, innovative research, and producing graduates who excel in their fields worldwide.
- Acceptance Rate
- 59.3%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.4
- Size
- Large (39,416 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:13
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 82.0%
- Retention Rate
- 88.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $4,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $5,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Student life at Chulalongkorn combines intense academic competition with the social opportunities of Bangkok living. The campus provides a somewhat sheltered environment within the chaotic city, with green spaces and historic buildings creating atmosphere. Students gather at campus cafeterias, libraries, and the many food stalls surrounding university gates. First-year orientation traditions include cheering competitions and activities that build faculty identity and cohesion. These rituals generate strong loyalty to specific faculties that continues throughout careers. The distinctive faculty cheering shirts become markers of identity worn proudly at sporting events and beyond. Student organizations span academic clubs, performing arts groups, volunteer organizations, and social clubs. Many activities connect to national service, reflecting the institution's role in Thai society. Political awareness runs high, with student movements historically playing roles in Thai democratic struggles. Housing mostly occurs off-campus in the surrounding neighborhoods or across Bangkok. Some dormitories exist but cannot accommodate the large student population. Students commute by BTS Skytrain, bus, or increasingly motorcycle taxis navigating Bangkok traffic. Commuting times vary enormously depending on where students live. The Bangkok location provides entertainment, dining, and cultural options unmatched elsewhere in Thailand. Students explore the city's neighborhoods, shopping centers, and nightlife. This urban environment contrasts sharply with the quieter settings of regional Thai universities.
Location & Surroundings
Bangkok surrounds Chulalongkorn with all the energy, chaos, and opportunity of one of Asia's great metropolises. The campus sits in the Pathumwan district near Siam Square, the city's shopping and entertainment center. BTS Skytrain stations provide connections throughout the city. Major malls, theaters, and restaurants lie within walking distance. The urban intensity shapes daily life fundamentally. Traffic congestion makes car travel unpredictable. Air quality raises health concerns, particularly during burning season. Noise and crowds are constant. Yet the city also provides access to international food, world-class shopping, and cultural events from traditional to contemporary. Thai culture infuses campus and city life. Buddhist temples dot the landscape. The monarchy receives visible reverence. Thai language and customs govern most social interactions despite international influences. Foreign students should prepare for cultural immersion rather than expecting Western norms to apply. Climate remains tropical year-round with three seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. The hot season from March through May brings extreme heat and humidity. Monsoon rains from June through October flood streets regularly. The cool season from November through February offers the most comfortable conditions, though "cool" remains warm by temperate-zone standards. Living costs in Bangkok range widely from modest to expensive depending on lifestyle choices. Street food keeps food budgets low. Air-conditioned apartments in convenient locations cost significantly more than basic rooms. Students from wealthy families and those stretching limited budgets coexist in the student population.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at Chulalongkorn varies by program and student category. Thai-language programs for Thai students remain relatively affordable given the public university status. International programs charge substantially higher fees to cover English-medium instruction and smaller class sizes. Non-Thai students in regular programs pay international rates. Living expenses in Bangkok require careful budgeting. Housing near campus costs more than distant neighborhoods requiring longer commutes. Food ranges from cheap street vendors to expensive restaurants. Transportation costs depend on distance and mode. Students should plan for monthly expenses of at least 15,000-25,000 baht beyond tuition. Scholarships help qualified students manage costs. Government scholarships support talented Thai students. International student scholarships exist in limited numbers. Graduate assistantships provide support while developing research skills. Students should explore all options before committing to programs. Career outcomes for Chulalongkorn graduates benefit from the university's prestige. Top employers recruit actively on campus. Government ministries favor Chula graduates for elite positions. Corporate Thailand draws heavily from the alumni network. The degree opens doors throughout Thai society. International career prospects depend on specific fields and individual initiative. Business and economics graduates find opportunities with multinational firms. Engineers work for international companies. Medical graduates may pursue further training abroad. The university's growing international reputation supports career ambitions beyond Thailand. Alumni networks operate powerfully in Thai society. Faculty-based connections shape career trajectories. Helping fellow Chula graduates represents cultural expectation. These networks constitute significant advantages for navigating Thai professional environments.
Campus Location
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