Learning Thai provides foreigners an opportunity to see a different side of Thailand that’s not normally seen. On top of that, if you are living in Chiang Mai for an extended period of time, it’ll no doubt save you a lot of stress and unnecessary headaches.

Because, yes, while knowing basic Thai can get you through most daily encounters, it’s not always sufficient when it comes to doing more difficult life tasks–such as renting a condo in Thailand, securing a driver’s license, or getting around outside the major cities.

That said, choosing a Thai language school in Chiang Mai goes beyond just the linguistic benefits; it opens doors to cultural immersion and presents an avenue for securing a long-term stay in Thailand with a Thai education visa (ED visa).

When navigating the selection process for a learning center or language school in Chiang Mai, it’s important to consider all the factors at hand from location and cost to class size and instructional levels.

Here are our top recommendations for Thai language courses and learning centers in Chiang Mai:

TSL Chiang Mai

TSL (Thai as a Second Language) Chiang Mai is a language school that specializes in teaching Thai to non-native speakers. Located in Pantip Plaza, TSL prides itself on having over 30 highly qualified language teachers. They do both group and private lessons. Group courses for one month consist of 24 hours of classes and only cost 2,900 baht ($81.30). Private lessons over Zoom are also an option as are private lessons for native Chinese speakers who want to learn Thai.

Address: 152/1, Pantip Plaza Chiang Mai, 4th Floor, Changklan Rd., Thailand, 50100

Lanna Language

Lanna Language School in Chiang Mai offers foreigners fun, interactive Thai language lessons. On top of teaching the language, Lanna Language teaches its students important information about Thai culture generally, giving foreigners not only practical language knowledge but also cultural context. Lanna Language has flexible lessons accommodating both those who want to learn one-on-one and those who want to learn in a group classroom setting. Students at Lanna Language are eligible for a one-year Thai education visa.

Address: 276/7, San Phak Wan, Hang Dong District, Chiang Mai, Thailand, 50230

Payap University Intensive Thai Program

Payap University’s Intensive Thai Program is one of the most well-respected language institutes in Thailand. Although all levels are welcome, the program is aimed at foreigners looking to learn Thai seriously. Hence, the “intensive” part. Modules, ranging from Thai 1 (beginner) to Thai 8 (Thai for academic and literacy), take place over five weeks for a total of 60 classroom hours. Education visas are given to full-time students.

Address: Payap University, Mae Khao Campus, Super-highway Chiang Mai – Lumpang Road, Amphur Muang, Chiang Mai, 50000, Thailand

We Learn Thai Chiang Mai

Like the other schools mentioned above, We Learn Thai Chiang Mai offers many of the same perks including group classes, private classes, ED visas, and qualified teachers. What sets We Learn Thai apart, however, is their “Speak Thai in 15 Days” program. This course meets every day for three weeks straight and teaches basic Thai speaking patterns and focuses on in-class conversations in order to get students learning–and using–Thai as quickly as possible.

Address: Pantip Plaza, 4th Floor, 152/1 Changklan Rd, Tambon Chang Khlan, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand

Learn Thai in Chiang Mai

In summary, Chiang Mai hosts a plethora of esteemed learning centers and language schools that cater to foreigners and expats seeking to learn the Thai language. The Thai language schools mentioned above stand out above the rest, earning commendable reviews for exceptional services.

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Related: Our Picks for the Best Thai Language Schools in Bangkok