Number of recipients
In addition to being a prestigious academic exchange program, the Fulbright Program is designed to expand and strengthen relationships between the people of the United States and citizens of other nations and to promote international understanding and cooperation. To support this mission, Fulbright Scholars may be asked to give public talks, mentor students, and otherwise engage with the host community, in addition to their primary activities.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss with their host how to apply their expertise to strengthen the capacities of faculty members, researchers, graduate students, and higher education administrators in Thailand. This can be achieved through research projects, teaching and research projects, and professional projects.
Applicants may propose activities aligned with their chosen activity type. Host institutions can be accredited higher education institutions, government agencies, or state enterprises.
Applicants are encouraged to discuss with their hosts the award length (4-6 months) and starting period. If your host institution is an accredited university, your start date is likely at the beginning of each semester. Academic years for universities in Thailand generally run from August to December (1st semester) and January to May (2nd semester).
Applicants are encouraged to review Thailand’s priorities from the Thirteenth National Economic and Social Development Plan (2023-2027), and Thailand’s National Adaptation Plan (NAP). While applicants may apply in any area of their interest, Fulbright Thailand prioritizes areas aligned with the country’s priorities, including but not limited to economic growth, social development, environmental sustainability, water management, agriculture, food security, public health, and natural resources management.
Fulbright East Asia Pacific Regional Travel Program
As conditions allow, Fulbright Scholars in the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region may have the opportunity to apply for funds to support short-term (3-14 days) travel to other countries in the EAP region for activities such as lectures, workshops, graduate or faculty seminars, master classes or recitals, curricular advising, or panel presentations. EAP Regional Travel Program funding covers transportation only. Regional Travel Program activities/host sites should NOT be included in the initial Fulbright application. Scholars may start the process of seeking out invitations for short-term activities in other EAP countries once notified that they have been selected for a Fulbright grant but will only be able to apply for travel program funds, conditions permitting, once they have actively started their Fulbright grant in their host country. Scholars on Flex grants are not eligible for the regional travel grant.
All applicants must meet the Program eligibility requirements (click to review the requirements).
Fulbright grantees/scholars must apply for a non-immigrant visa type F when coming to Thailand. Since the grant period is more than 90 days, host institutions of Fulbright scholars must issue a letter confirming that applicants are working with them. This letter is necessary for Fulbright Thailand to facilitate a visa extension. Therefore, having an invitation letter from the host institution is preferable, as it ensures they accept to host the applicant during the grant period.
While Thai is the official language, English is widely spoken in academic and professional settings. Learning basic Thai phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with the local community.
For applications choosing to work in academic institutions, a Ph.D. or other terminal degree is required. For professionals and higher education administrators and executives, we are keen on applicants with ten or more (10+) years of experience. Applicants without prior experience in Thailand are strongly encouraged to apply.
Thailand-U.S. Educational Foundation
U.S. Department of State - Thailand
For more information, please visit our East Asia and the Pacific regional webpage and view our schedule of upcoming webinars.
Email the East Asia and the Pacific Team with questions about applying.
Scholars will receive all allowances and reimbursements in Thai Baht (local currency). Estimates are provided in U.S. dollars using an exchange rate of 34 Baht per dollar.
Each month (prorated), Scholars will receive a maintenance allowance of 68,000 Baht (approximately $2,000) and a housing and subsistence allowance of 28,000 Baht (approximately $820), regardless of their location and the number of dependents.
Fulbright Thailand will arrange economy round-trip tickets with two pieces of luggage, each weighing 23 kilograms, for each Fulbright Scholar and up to two dependents from a preferred airport in the U.S. to an airport near their host institution, in accordance with the Fly America Act. Costs for extra weight and luggage shall be paid by the Scholar. Note that supported dependents must be with the Scholar for more than 80% of the grant period to receive the support.
Additionally, each Scholar will receive a lump sum of 4,500 Baht (approximately $130) for in-transit expenses and 15,000 Baht (approximately $440) for relocation or settling-in expenses. These amounts will be deposited with their first monthly allowance.
Each Fulbright Scholar may be reimbursed up to 31,000 Baht (approximately $910) for educational and research materials used for their teaching, research, and/or professional projects. These materials should be donated to their host institution upon completion of the project. Receipts and justification of expenses must be provided to Fulbright Thailand for processing the reimbursement to the Scholar’s Thai bank account. Scholars are encouraged to submit these expenses at least a month before their departure date to ensure sufficient processing time. Fulbright Thailand reserves the right not to reimburse expenses unrelated to their projects or teaching duties.
Fulbright Thailand cannot cover the cost of international schools for your children while in Thailand. Scholars with children listed as dependents will receive a lump sum allowance of 60,000 Baht (approximately $1,765), regardless of the number of children, to help subsidize additional expenses for the entire grant period.
Dependents must accompany the grantee for at least 80% of the period abroad and a minimum of one semester in order to qualify for additional dependent benefits. Dependent benefits are not provided to Flex grantees.
The cost of living in Thailand varies based on an individual’s lifestyle. While Fulbright Thailand cannot match the stipend levels provided in the U.S., the stipend we offer ensures that our Scholars can live comfortably, with all necessities covered, and enjoy a standard of living above that of the average Thai faculty members.
Fulbright scholars may register for Thai language training and be reimbursed up to 20,000 Baht (approximately $590) upon presenting Fulbright Thailand with a certificate of completion and receipt.
Final grant amounts will be determined prior to the start of the academic year and are subject to the availability of funds. The United States Department of State and the Fulbright Commission in the host country reserve the right to alter, without notice, participating countries, number of awards and allowances.
Thailand, known as the "Land of Smiles," is a vibrant country located in Southeast Asia. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. Bangkok, the capital city, is a favorite destination among international travelers and ranks 7th in the list of the most visited tourist cities in 2024, according to the WP Travel.
Cultural and Historical Significance: Thailand has a deep cultural history influenced by Buddhism, which is evident in its numerous temples and festivals. Key historical sites include the ancient cities of Ayutthaya and Sukhothai, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Thai culture emphasizes respect, family values, and a strong sense of community.
Living in Thailand: Living in Thailand provides a unique experience with a blend of urban and rural lifestyles. The cost of living is relatively low compared to the United States, and the local cuisine is world-famous for its flavors and variety. Public transportation is well-developed in major cities, and the country is known for its friendly locals.
Language: While Thai is the official language, English is widely spoken in academic and professional settings. Learning basic Thai phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with the local community.
Climate: Thailand has a tropical climate with three main seasons: hot, rainy, and cool. The weather varies by region, but generally, the best time in Thailand is during the cool season from November to February.
Education and Research Opportunities: Thailand offers a dynamic environment for education and research, with several prestigious universities and research institutions. Fulbright scholars can engage in diverse fields. Generally, academic years for universities run from August to December (1st semester), January to May (2nd semester), and June to July (Summer).
Conclusion: Thailand offers a rich and rewarding experience for Fulbright scholars. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity, coupled with its commitment to education and research, makes it an excellent destination for academic and cultural exchange.
Visit our Scholar Directory to view and search all Fulbright alumni. You can also learn more about Fulbright Alumni Ambassadors.