Moving to Pattaya with children: the school basics
In brief
Choose the school and the area together, then plan the move around the school year. Most international schools here start in mid to late August; Thai-curriculum schools start in May. Places in some year groups fill early, so contact admissions before you sign a lease.
Five steps before you move
- Shortlist by curriculum and age. Decide whether your child continues a British, IB, American, French, Japanese or Thai pathway, then use the school finder to list schools that teach that year group.
- Compare the real cost. Check yearly tuition in the fees by grade table, then add entry fees, deposits, bus and meals from each school profile.
- Pick the area after the school. Most schools are in East Pattaya, Si Racha or Ban Chang. See schools by area and drive the school run at 07:00 before you sign a lease.
- Time the start. Check the 2026/27 term dates. Joining at the start of a term is easiest; most schools charge from the term of entry.
- Get the place in writing. Ask admissions for a written offer that names the year group, start date, every fee, the payment dates and the refund terms, plus the list of documents the school needs from you.
Records to ask the school about
Each school sets its own list. Ask admissions which of these it needs and whether it wants certified translations: your child’s passport, birth certificate, recent school reports, any assessment or learning-support reports, and the vaccination record.
Visa rules for children and parents are outside this guide. Ask the school whether it issues the letters or documents a student or dependant visa application needs, and check the rules with the Thai immigration authorities.
Quick answers
When should we contact schools before moving to Pattaya?
As soon as you know your moving month. Some year groups fill early; ask admissions about places, assessments and the documents they need before you book flights.
Can my child start school in the middle of the year?
Usually yes if a place is free, after an assessment. Fees are normally charged from the term of entry; ask for the term fee and the entry fee in writing.
Which area of Pattaya is best for families with school children?
The one closest to your school. Most schools in this guide are in East Pattaya; others are in Si Racha, Ban Chang and Rayong. See the area pages before choosing a home.