FAQs
About NIST
- How is NIST different from other international schools in Bangkok?
- How multicultural is NIST?
- Can English language learners study at NIST?
- Does NIST offer boarding?
- How many students and teachers are there per class in each year level?
How is NIST different from other international schools in Bangkok?
Thailand has a very high ratio of international schools per capita compared to other countries in Asia, providing parents with an immense number of choices. However, most international schools in Bangkok offer only British or American curricula, with few other options available. NIST is one of only three full IB international schools, and the only one with not-for-profit status and a central campus in the heart of the city.
The IB philosophy permeates our school, and our values of integrity, caring, community and growth are central to our learning and actions. To inspire, empower and enrich our students, we diligently work to provide unique learning opportunities that you may not find at other international schools in Bangkok.
WHAT DOES NIST OFFER THAT OTHER INTERNATIONAL SCHOOLS IN BANGKOK DO NOT?
In addition to activities that encourage and challenge, such as Action Week and Challenge by Choice, NIST partners with elite organizations around the globe to offer first-class programmes and resources such as the Global Citizen Diploma.
While there are many international schools in Bangkok, few can offer the expansive facilities, resources and programmes available at NIST while also maintaining a strong, caring community.
How multicultural is NIST?
Can English language learners study at NIST?
Does NIST offer boarding?
How many students and teachers are there per class in each year level?
- Early Years
Classes & Students: 6 composite classes, 18-19 students each
Teachers & Assistants: 1 teacher, 2 assistants - Year 1
Classes & Students: 6 classes, 20 students each
Teachers & Assistants: 1 teacher, 1 assistant - Year 2-4
Classes & Students: 6 classes, 23 students each
Teachers & Assistants: 1 teacher, 1 assistant - Year 5-6
Classes & Students: 6 classes, 23 students each
Teachers & Assistants: 1 teacher, shared assistants - Year 7-9
Classes & Students: 6 classes, 23-24 students each
Teachers & Assistants: Dependent on class subject - Year 10-13
Classes & Students: 5 classes, 24 students each
Teachers & Assistants: Dependent on class subject
Admissions
- What criteria do you use to make your admissions decisions?
- When should I submit an application?
- Will my child have to complete any tests as part of the application process?
- What is the application timeline?
What criteria do you use to make your admissions decisions?
In accordance with our mission statement, we serve children in Early Years to Year 13 who are committed to the mission of the school and can contribute meaningfully to our community. We want every student to thrive, and NIST will provide learning pathways for students to flourish and positively impact others. We are committed to the principle of equal opportunity in education and employment. NIST does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational, admissions or employment policies, but may take into account factors including an applicant’s prior educational and linguistic background for purposes of admission in order to fulfill our mission, and the availability of resources and services at the school.
NIST exists to serve the educational needs of students from international and internationally-minded families living in Bangkok, and we strive for a mix of students who represent diversity in nationality. It is the mission of the Admissions Department to help prospective families through the admissions process in reflection of our core values of integrity, caring, community and growth.
We consider several factors when we review an admissible application in order to make a decision whether to extend an offer of enrollment, including space availability, age, previous school records and teacher’s recommendation(s), siblings currently at NIST, IB programme experience, community involvement and the availability of support services at NIST.
When should I submit an application?
Will my child have to complete any tests as part of the application process?
What is the application timeline?
- Mid-September: Applications for the following school year open.
- September – December: Families are encouraged to make an appointment with a member of the Admissions team to tour the campus or meet virtually.
- January: Any outstanding records, such as report cards and transcripts, must be submitted.
- February – March: The Admissions team contacts families regarding assessment dates.
- March – April: Admissions assessments take place, and the first acceptance letters are sent as spaces become available.
- May – July: Acceptance letters continue to be sent as spaces become available.
Curriculum
- What is NIST’s curriculum?
- Are students grouped into classes by ability?
- How much homework is assigned?
What is NIST’s curriculum?
Are students grouped into classes by ability?
How much homework is assigned?
Living in Bangkok
What is the traffic like? Does the school provide transportation?
Where do most families live?
School Day
- What time does school begin and end?
- Do students need to wear a school uniform?
- Does the school provide lunch and snacks?
- Can my child be involved in activities?
What time does school begin and end?
Do students need to wear a school uniform?
Does the school provide lunch and snacks?
NIST Catering operates the elementary and secondary cafeterias, as well as cafés in the Secondary Building and The Hub. All students have accounts created for them through the NIST Catering Campus Online system. This system can be topped up with funds via credit card or cheque, or by cash through the kiosks on campus.
Parents may choose to purchase a meal plan for elementary students, which includes a light morning snack. Secondary students are able to buy snacks and lunch with either cash or through their NIST Catering accounts.