How to Choose an English Language School in Bangkok?

The best way to learn a new language is to commit to it entirely by immersing yourself in it, perhaps through an English language school. When you’re learning a notoriously complex language like English, becoming as involved as possible is incredibly important! Trying to become fluent through an app doesn’t work for most people, but success rates are much more optimistic when it comes to actual schooling. We’re talking courses, testing, and tutoring- key ingredients to your English language learning success. Virtual schooling is a great option, but an English language school in Bangkok is even better, as it allows for in-person, customized instruction.

That said, trying to select the right English language school for you can be difficult. There are a lot of options out there, both in-person and virtual, but not a lot of clarity about what makes for a great school in general. You’re probably wondering what qualities you should look for and what characteristics actually set you up for success. Look no further! This article tells you everything you need to know when selecting the perfect English language school for your needs.

Specifically, we’re going to discuss the following topics:

  • – What services a quality English language school offers
  • – Why school-based learning is a superior method
  • – What qualities you should look for in a school
  • – How to know if you’re ready to attend school
  • – The best English language school in Bangkok
  • – And more!

What does an English language school offer?

Most English language schools offer a variety of courses dedicated to the language. These range from beginner to advanced and often include specialized topics for certain audiences. For example, Insight English offers English courses specifically geared towards business communication for working professionals. If you’re looking for specific English skills, be sure to explore course options to see if you can find a course tailored to your needs. This way, you’ll get the most benefit from your investment.

The best schools also offer preparation for important tests, including the IELTS, TOEFL, TOEIC, CU TEP, TU GET, AEAS, SAT, KET and PET. A preparation course helps you to build the vocabulary you need to succeed, learn strategies for success, develop writing skills, and practice sample questions. Of course, the best of the best will tailor your preparation experience to work on your weakest English skills whilst maintaining the areas you’re already strong in.

If you’re based in Thailand, attending an English language school in Bangkok isn’t too complicated. However, if you need a visa to attend, many schools actually help you get an education visa! Without support, the visa process can be slow and difficult, so we recommend choosing a school that has experience setting up students with education visas. Insight English does a great job of connecting prospective students with education visas, so feel free to reach out to learn more about this!

Is English easier to learn at school?

We’re going to be honest- learning English is never an easy feat. In fact, you should be wary of any company that promises to make this easy! That said, learning in a class environment instead of solo comes with a ton of benefits! There is truly no substitute for live instruction.

You gain access to a certified English language expert who not only is fluent in the language but is equally talented at helping others to learn it. One on one feedback from your instructor helps you to identify and correct specific mistakes on the spot, exactly when they happen. Constant feedback is very helpful, as practice makes perfect!

This also offers the benefit of collaboration, which is essential to learning any language. Being able to converse with peers, practice corrections on the fly, and implement them into conversation is invaluable. Not to mention, you get the opportunity to practice speaking English in realistic situations without any risk.

Learning English in a school environment (whether it be virtual or in-person) is the most effective way to grasp the language. Whether you’re brand-new to English, or looking to expand and refine your conversation, courses are the ideal learning method.

What qualities should I look for in an English language school?

Only you know exactly what your needs are when it comes to your English language learning journey. However, there are a handful of key considerations that every learner should consider when selecting their school. Here are our recommendations:

1) Course variety

If you’re enrolling to study for a specific English test, you should know that courses exist for specific tests. For example, Insight English offers courses dedicated to the BioMedical Admissions Test (BMAT), Pearson’s Test of English (PTE), Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT), and more. The tailored approach is the most effective way to learn (and pass!). A typical, general English course may not meet your needs or prepare you well enough for these tests.

Some schools will go the extra mile and also offer practice testing. This is recommended to get familiar with the test format, question style, and time pace. Insight English offers practice testing for all of the test-specific courses offered and students have found the extra practice valuable when it comes time to write the real thing.

2) Teaching methods

Live interaction is huge for students who want to exercise control over what they’re learning and the feedback they’re getting. With the ability to ask a question or for clarification at any time and receive tailored help, it’s an amazing teaching method. In addition, this format allows for a unique level of personalization. As you get to know your instructor and class, you will feel a sense of community and help each other to become better English speakers and writers.

If you’re hoping to attend virtually, be sure to double check that your school offers online learning! Insight English offers both in-person and online courses, however, not every school is quite as flexible.

3) Testimonials and history

Sometimes, it can feel overwhelming to pick just one school to attend. After all, there are many options to choose from. Luckily, testimonials are a great way to help you make an informed choice that you can feel confident about. First, identify which characteristics of an English language school are important to you, and then read some reviews from past students to see if you’re a good fit. For example, if it’s important to you to have opportunities for group work, you can look for reviews that discuss the level of independence expected of you in the course. Or, perhaps, you want to know if other students found that a test-specific course was actually helpful when writing that test. Again, testimonials can tell you this!

Reviews also assure you that the school is reliable and employs resources that are effective in helping you to learn English. Simply type the school name into Google and reviews should pop right up. Some schools include testimonials on their websites as well. If a school doesn’t have any reviews, tread carefully.

4) Promotions

This may not be a requirement for you, but for the budget-conscious individual, a promotion can make all the difference. Some schools promote special offers with reduced tuition rates during certain times of the year. If you’re curious about whether the English language school you’re considering offers promotions, just ask! Many include special offers on their websites as well.

How do I know if I’m ready to attend school to learn English?

Learning English is an investment, meaning that you need to have both time and money available. The time and money investment required varies by school, type of course, length of course, and more. If you’re concerned about money, you can also ask your employer to subsidize some of the cost. For example, if you’re a hotel worker, you might be considering Insight English’s “English for Hotel Staff” course, and your employer might cover all or some of the cost! In terms of time, most schools offer flexible learning with different program lengths and intensities. With just a bit of research, you can find one that works with your schedule.

What’s the best English language school in Bangkok?

Insight English is a professional English language school in Bangkok that is renowned for its training. With three branches across Thailand (Silom, Lad Prao, and Huahin), you have access to live instruction close to home. In addition, you will benefit from one-one-support from English experts, group work, and practice tests. If you’re interested in learning more, you can check out Insight English’s course catalog! or call 02 638 3311 for more information.