If you’re an international student seeking a prestigious, fully funded opportunity to study in Asia, look no further than the Chulalongkorn University Scholarships 2026 in Thailand. With its top-tier education, prime location in Bangkok, and extensive international support, Chulalongkorn University is a highly attractive destination for graduate students worldwide.
Basic Information About Chulalongkorn University Scholarships
Chulalongkorn University Scholarships 2026 are available to international students from all countries (excluding Thai nationals) to pursue Master’s or PhD degrees in a broad array of academic disciplines. These scholarships are fully funded, covering tuition, living expenses, airfare, and more.
- Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
- Degree Levels: Master’s and PhD
- Duration: 2 years (Master’s), 3 years (PhD)
University/Institution Details
Chulalongkorn University (CU), founded in 1917 and located in Bangkok, is Thailand’s oldest and one of its most prestigious universities. It is a leading autonomous research institution globally recognized for its rigorous academic standards, state-of-the-art infrastructure, vibrant campus life, and strong international outlook.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
Chulalongkorn University offers a wide selection of graduate programs in English. Some of the notable fields and programs available for scholarship applicants include:
- Architectural Design
- Business Administration (Flexible MBA, SCE)
- Business and Managerial Economics (MABE)
- Business Law
- Clinical Sciences
- Computer Science and Information Technology (CSIT)
- Cultural Management (MACM)
- Engineering Management (CUSE)
- English as an International Language (EIL)
- Environmental Development and Sustainability (EDS)
- Finance (MSF), Financial Engineering (MFE)
- Food Science and Technology
- Georesources and Petroleum Engineering
- Governance (MAG)
- Hazardous Substance and Environmental Management (IP-HSM)
- Health Development, Health Economics & Health Care Management (MS Health)
- International Business Management (MM)
- International Development Studies (MAIDS)
- International Economics and Finance (MAIEF)
- Korean, Southeast Asian, and Thai Studies
- Strategic Communication Management
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
- Urban Strategies, Veterinary Science and Technology
…and many more. Check the university’s official graduate program listings for a comprehensive, updated list.
Scholarship Benefits
The Chulalongkorn University Scholarships are among the most generous in the region and include:
- Full tuition fee waiver (faculty/special program fees may be excluded)
- Monthly stipend and accommodation allowance: 16,000 Thai baht (THB) per month (approx. $440)
- Round-trip airfare (reimbursed upon arrival):
- Up to 8,500 THB per leg for ASEAN countries
- Up to 12,000 THB per leg for other Asian countries
- Up to 20,000 THB per leg for Europe, Australia, NZ, Africa
- Up to 30,000 THB per leg for the Americas
- Health insurance
- Research and thesis support
- Duration: 2 years for Master’s, 3 years for PhD
Benefits Not Included
- Special program/faculty fees (if applicable—these must be arranged separately)
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses (beyond stipend)
- Family/dependent support
- Any additional coursework/research costs not covered by the stated benefits
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
To apply for the Chulalongkorn University Scholarships 2026, you must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Non-Thai citizens; open to both ASEAN and non-ASEAN applicants
- Education: Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or Master’s degree (for PhD applicants) in a related field
- Academic merit: Minimum GPA of 3.25 (on a 4.0 scale) for graduate studies
- Age: Not over 35 years old (some sources mention not over 40, but official cut-off for most graduate awards is 35)
- Language proficiency: Good command of English, with a minimum TOEFL score of 500 or IELTS 5.0; or an equivalent English proficiency certificate
- Health: Must be in good health
- Current Chulalongkorn students or alumni (enrolled for more than one semester) are not eligible
- Preference for: Faculty/research staff who will return to contribute to their home university after graduation
Required Documents for the Application
Prepare the following documents for your application package:
- Completed application form with a 1-inch photo attached
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
- Academic transcript and degree certificate(s) from previous institutions
- Copy of valid passport
- Certificate of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Two letters of recommendation from academic/professional referees
- Medical certificate confirming good health (from a hospital in the applicant’s country)
- Study plan or statement of purpose (if required by your program)
Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Research Programs: Visit the Chulalongkorn University website to select your preferred graduate program and check its specific requirements and application date.
- Contact Faculty/Program: Reach out to the faculty/department to confirm details, deadlines, and any extra requirements or steps.
- Prepare Documents: Collect and organize all required application documents as listed above.
- Complete Application Form: Fill out the scholarship application form and the university admission form.
- Submission: Email or post your application package directly to your chosen faculty/program at least two weeks before the official deadline.
- Faculty Screening: Your faculty reviews applications, screens candidates, and forwards their recommendations to the Office of Academic Affairs.
- Notification: Await official notification regarding results, which is typically sent via email.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Meet all eligibility requirements—review each criterion carefully before applying.
- Start early—gathering documents and references may take time.
- Tailor your statement of purpose to the specific program and scholarship.
- Contact your prospective faculty for advice and clarification—they may provide useful insights.
- Apply well before the deadline to allow extra time for any unforeseen issues.
- Check your documents thoroughly for completeness and accuracy; missing documents can result in instant disqualification.
- Prepare for an Interview—some programs might request an online interview as part of the process.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (in USD)
Living in Bangkok as a scholarship recipient is affordable compared to many global cities. Here’s an estimated monthly breakdown for international students in 2025-26:
| Expense Area | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 175 – 300 |
| Food & groceries | 150 – 250 |
| Utilities | 30 – 60 |
| Transport | 40 – 80 |
| Personal/Misc. | 50 – 150 |
| Total | $450 – $750 |
Most scholarship recipients will have their primary living costs (stipend + accommodation) covered, making life in Bangkok very manageable.
Why Choose This Scholarship? (At Least 5 Reasons)
- Comprehensive Funding: Full tuition, living expenses, accommodation, and airfare mean you can focus on your studies without financial stress.
- Reputation and Legacy: Chulalongkorn is Thailand’s leader in higher education and research, highly ranked in Asia and globally.
- Vibrant Campus & Life: Located in the heart of Bangkok—a multicultural, dynamic city with incredible networking and career opportunities.
- Extensive Program Choice: Choose from dozens of innovative and relevant graduate programs taught in English.
- Accessibility: English language requirements are flexible, and the application process is straightforward for international students from all regions.
- Global Alumni Network: Graduates become part of a prestigious international alumni community.
- Career Boost: A degree from Chulalongkorn opens doors worldwide and enhances career prospects significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, a monthly stipend, accommodation, and airfare but excludes certain special/faculty fees, visa costs, and personal expenses.
Q2. Can undergraduate students apply?
For 2026, the main scholarships are for Master’s and PhD programs only. Some exceptions for research/short-term/undergraduate funding may apply, but they are rare.
Q3. Are students from any country eligible?
Yes, all nationalities except Thai citizens are eligible.
Q4. What level of English is required?
Minimum TOEFL 500 or IELTS 5.0, or equivalent. An English proficiency certificate from your university may be accepted in some cases.
Q5. What happens if I win the scholarship but want to defer or work part-time?
Deferral is not allowed. Employment in Thailand is also not permitted during your scholarship period.
Q6. How do I get the airfare reimbursed?
You purchase your flight ticket, keep receipts, and the university will reimburse you according to your region’s cap once you arrive.
Q7. Can previous or current Chulalongkorn students apply?
Applicants who have been enrolled at Chulalongkorn for more than one semester are not eligible for the scholarship.
For the most accurate and updated information, always check the official Chulalongkorn University admissions or scholarships page for 2026, and contact the relevant faculty or graduate office directly.