Location
  • Thailand
    • Chiang Mai
Term
Fall, Spring, Summer
Subject Areas
Art History Asian Studies East Asian Studies Ecology Education History International Business International Relations Philosophy Political Science Religious Studies Sociology Sustainable Development Theology Women's Studies +5
Need-based funding, Merit-based funding, General grants/scholarships, LGBTQIA+ funding, BIPOC funding
Health & Safety

Program Details

Program Type
Provider
Degree Level
Bachelors
Housing
Apartment

Pricing

What's Included
Accommodation Activities Airport Transfers Classes SIM cards Wifi
What's Not Included
Airfare Meals
Oct 06, 2023
Feb 10, 2024
15 travelers are looking at this program

About Program

TEAN provides an unbeatable study abroad experience in Thailand's cultural capital of Chiang Mai. Along with taking courses in Southeast Asia studies, students can dive deep into Thai culture thanks to Chiang Mai's affordable cost of living, hundreds of Buddhist temples, vibrant markets, emphasis on art and architecture, and welcoming people!

Your semester and summer studying in Thailand includes a TEAN orientation program, cultural excursions, academic field trips, plus special opportunities to volunteer around the city. TEAN students also benefit from the guidance and support of on-site Resident Director and academic staff throughout their stay.

Visit the TEAN website to learn more and apply online!

Video and Photos

Diversity & Inclusion

BIPOC Support

Here at TEAN, we strive to be a leader in supporting students from all backgrounds to be able to travel and learn abroad. Our aim is to empower our students and help prepare them for a life-changing experience. Everyone's identity is unique to them and can be an integral aspect on where a person chooses to study or intern abroad. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! The DEI team is passionate about advocating against social injustices, racism, homophobia, xenophobia and all discriminatory social constructs. It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

LGBTQIA+ Support

Here at TEAN, we strive to be a leader in supporting students from all backgrounds to be able to travel and learn abroad. Our aim is to empower our students and help prepare them for a life-changing experience. Everyone's identity is unique to them and can be an integral aspect on where a person chooses to study or intern abroad. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! The DEI team is passionate about advocating against social injustices, racism, homophobia, xenophobia and all discriminatory social constructs. It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

Neurodivergent Support

TEAN is committed to facilitating quality programming to students with varying levels of neurodivergence. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

Accessibility Support

TEAN is committed to facilitating quality programming to students with varying levels of accessibility. Our entire TEAN team is here to help you feel informed, comfortable, empowered and supported throughout every step of your journey. In addition, we have a dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team that is ready to act as your resource! It is their priority, along with TEAN’s, to ensure students of all backgrounds have access to and are encouraged to travel, specifically through study abroad.

Impact

Sustainability

TEAN’s Choose Earth initiative is our way of building environmental and social responsibility into the ethos and outcomes of education abroad. At TEAN, we believe that studying abroad should include learning about – and finding solutions to – our most challenging societal problems, such as sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity, resource use, habitat preservation, gender inequality and social injustice in a globalized world.

Ethical Impact

To this end, TEAN is committed to providing experiential learning opportunities abroad that help build the knowledge, skills and attitudes students need to become locally engaged, civically minded and globally responsible. We believe that studying abroad should include learning about – and finding solutions to – our most challenging societal problems, such as sustainable development, climate change, biodiversity, resource use, habitat preservation, gender inequality and social injustice in a globalized world.

Popular Programs

Semester in Thailand

Experience the thrill of studying and living in Bangkok, Thailand’s sprawling capital city and a global hub of culture, commerce and cuisine. Though Bangkok is a major metropolis, this semester program is the least expensive of all TEAN offerings and offers students a surprisingly affordable cost of living. Study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), the English-speaking arm of the esteemed Mahidol University and take a variety of classes in English along with your Thai peers.

Thailand

Experience the thrill of studying and living in Bangkok, Thailand’s sprawling capital city and a global hub of culture, commerce and cuisine. Though Bangkok is a major metropolis, this summer program is the least expensive of all TEAN offerings and offers students a surprisingly affordable cost of living. Study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), the English-speaking arm of the esteemed Mahidol University and take a variety of classes in English along with your Thai peers.

Scholarships

TEAN by WorldStrides Diversity Scholarship

This scholarship is offered for summer and semester programs and is intended for students with identities historically underserved in education abroad. This can include, but is not limited to, individuals who identify as African American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian American, Alaskan Native, American Indian, Native Hawaiian, LGBTQIA+, First-Generation College Students, U.S. Military Veterans, students with disabilities, and/or students at Minority-Serving Institutions.

Value
$2,500 - $5,000

Program Reviews

4.96 Rating
based on 57 reviews
  • 5 rating 96.49%
  • 4 rating 3.51%
  • 3 rating 0%
  • 2 rating 0%
  • 1 rating 0%
  • Academics 4.6
  • Support 4.95
  • Fun 5
  • Housing 4.95
  • Safety 5
Showing 1 - 8 of 57 reviews
Default avatar
Ava
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Wonderful Time in Thailand

Overall, this program changed my life for the better. Having been born and raised in California, I felt like I had been living in a bubble for most of my life. Everyone falls within the middle or upper-class economic status, is heavily encouraged to go to school, and has access to plenty of career opportunities. Before going to Thailand, I was aware of how lucky and privileged I am, but being able to go abroad gave me such a vital shift in perspective. Seeing how everyone's way of life was centered around family, community, and practicality made me realize how many Americans are consumed by the desire for material excess. Overall, I really feel as though my priorities were set straight by this experience, and being able to make friends with people who come from all different backgrounds totally validated by ability to adapt and expand my horizons.

What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
I would highly recommend traveling as much as you can while being abroad. The weekends are the perfect time to hop over to neighboring countries or Thai islands, and they also provide a great opportunity for you to make plans with new people. I felt like my weekend trips really pushed me to spend quality time with unfamiliar faces, and now I feel so much closer to them. The connections I made during my time in Thailand are lifelong...I'm still in contact with so many of the friends I made while abroad!
Pros
  • great opportunities for travel
  • community-oriented school and city
  • very welcoming locals
Cons
  • public transportation is often inconvenient
  • pollution
  • driving in traffic can be terrifying
3 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Thang
4/5
Yes, I recommend this program

My Time in Thailand

I was in Bangkok, Thailand studying abroad for my fall 2023 semester. It was such a life changing experience for me. I feel more confident in meeting new people and traveling the world. ISA and TEAN did an amazing job helping me with application process and with all the necessary documents I needed to submit. They answered any questions I had, and made sure I was well prepared before I left the United States. We did a lot of fun excursions when I got to Thailand and I had an amazing group from our program. But there were a few things I had a bit of trouble with. So one of the excursion we did was in Krabi, Thailand. We had just arrived to Bangkok, Thailand and our program director had told us we were leaving for Krabi in 2 days. I felt so unprepared and felt rushed. I wished they would've told us the dates and schedules of excursions beforehand (before we got there), so that each of us can make our travel plans accordingly. And I wished we had more support while we were in Thailand. Our onsite program director was such an amazing person, but sometimes, it's hard to reach them. Especially dealing with VISA renewal was a struggle because we had to do it on our own, more so we couldn't really rely on our onsite program director. And I also thought they would've said our campus wasn't going to be in Bangkok. It was actually in Salaya, so about 40 minutes drive from Bangkok (depending on where you're going). The other students and I from the program had thought that we were going to be studying and living in Bangkok but that was not the case. But of course, there are more pros than cons. These are just a few things I wished we were informed on. But my experience had been so positive that the pros outweigh the cons. I highly recommend studying abroad with TEAN and to go to Thailand!

6 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Samiha
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best time of my life in Thailand!

Studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand has been an unforgettable and transformative experience. From its vibrant culture to the warm hospitality of the locals, this city has much to offer for students seeking a unique and enriching academic adventure.

**Academic Experience:**
Bangkok boasts a diverse range of universities and institutions, each offering a variety of courses. I had the opportunity to study at Mahidol University International College (MUIC), where the academic curriculum was challenging yet engaging. The faculty was knowledgeable and approachable, fostering a conducive learning environment. The international perspective embedded in the courses allowed me to broaden my understanding of global issues.

**Cultural Immersion:**
One of the highlights of studying in Bangkok is the rich cultural experience. The city seamlessly blends traditional Thai customs with modern urban living. From exploring ancient temples like Wat Arun to navigating bustling street markets, every corner of Bangkok is infused with cultural significance. Engaging with locals and participating in cultural events provided me with insights into Thai traditions and values.

**Adventure and Exploration:**
Bangkok is a city of contrasts, offering a plethora of experiences for adventure seekers. Weekends were filled with excursions to nearby islands, jungle treks, and visits to historical sites. The diverse landscapes of Thailand, from pristine beaches to lush jungles, are easily accessible, making it an ideal location for those who crave exploration and adventure.

**Culinary Delights:**
Thai cuisine is renowned globally, and being in Bangkok allowed me to indulge in its authentic flavors. From street food stalls offering pad Thai to upscale restaurants serving traditional dishes, the culinary scene was a gastronomic delight. Exploring the local markets became a regular part of my routine, introducing me to an array of exotic fruits, aromatic spices, and mouth-watering street food.

**Community and Friendships:**
The warmth and friendliness of the Thai people contribute significantly to the overall experience. Bangkok's multicultural environment fosters connections with fellow international students as well as locals. The sense of community extended beyond the campus, creating a supportive network that enhanced my time abroad.

**Logistical Considerations:**
Bangkok's efficient public transportation system, including the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway, made navigating the city convenient. Affordable living costs, coupled with a wide range of accommodation options, provided flexibility for students with varying budgets.

In conclusion, studying abroad in Bangkok, Thailand, is an enriching and life-changing experience. The city's dynamic blend of academics, culture, adventure, and culinary delights creates a perfect environment for personal and academic growth. My time in Bangkok will forever be etched in my memory as a chapter of self-discovery, cultural immersion, and lifelong friendships.

6 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Alex
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Alessandro Noel - Abroad Experience

This was by far one of the greatest experiences of my life. Everything from traveling within Thailand to other countries in South East Asia was incredibly Immersive. One of the best things by far during my time in Thailand was being able to connect with the locals and other students. Everyone was so kind and open minded it really made meeting people very easy. The support system that TEAN provided truly made the transition from America to Asia seamless. Having someone with us in Thailand to be there to answer any questions or concerns was extremely valuable to have especially when needing to communicate to the locals. Overall, I have nothing bad to say about TEAN abroad and I would highly recommend it to anyone wanting to see Thailand.

What was the most nerve-racking moment and how did you overcome it?
One of the most nerve racking things I had to face was going on the Ha Giang bike loop in Vietnam and riding my own motorbike. This was not I had done more than a few times and many people had mentioned that this bike trail was not for beginners. Nonetheless I was able to practice right before we took off to the big trail which really helped boost my confidence. I was also with a couple of friends I had met abroad who were doing it with me so the combination of practicing and a support system gave me the right mindset to overcome this moment.
Pros
  • Friendships
  • Scenery
  • Independence
Cons
  • Busy city
  • Communication Barriers
  • Challenging Academics
19 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Ping
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best Place to Study Abroad

I loved Thailand so much, I have studied abroad multiple times, and this was my favorite place. I loved the country's beauty; the food and prices were cheap, and the culture was so beautiful. Only 15 of us were in my program, so we got to know each other very well. We also got to make friends with the further study abroad students and the Thai students, who were super friendly and wanted to hang out and make friends with you.

Our resident director, Mamiaw, was terrific. She made it feel like she wasn't only our resident director but also our friend; she would go out with us and meet up with us if we were in the city. She took time out of her say to hang out with us, and it made such a big difference because I felt more comfortable talking and asking for help.

Pros
  • Beautiful architecture
  • Amazing/cheap food
  • Very friendly people
Cons
  • School far away from city
  • Crazy drivers
28 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Katherine
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

A Lifetime of Experiences in 4 months

I picked my program because 1. Thailand is beautiful, 2. I could fulfill my gen ed requirements easily, 3. because it was cheap. I was hoping to adventure hard for 6 months, because without "studying," I would only be allowed in Thailand for 30 days on my passport.

I was not expecting to learn about the world in so many ways. On the first day of our orientation, we learned about how to be ethical tourists, and how to react to things that surprise us. We went to a cafe that supports Shan refugees, and heard one girl's personal story. We went to an ethical elephant park and learned about the abuse many elephants go to. In class and on field trips, we learned about the complications of US intervention.

I received the adventure I was looking for, and unexpectedly learned so much about the the world.

What would you improve about this program?
Although we did have time designated to meeting local people, and had the option to live with a Thai person, I think it would be beneficial for the program if they facilitated more time getting to know local students.
95 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Sara
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Unforgettable 5 Months

My time in Chiang Mai is difficult to summarize in a short blurb, however, I will try my best. Chiang Mai is a beautiful city full of culture and life around every corner. I feel extremely lucky to have been able to call it home, even if for just a few months. I learned so much about the world and my own country by going abroad, both in the classroom and out. I took some of my favorite classes while abroad and was even able to take field trips to the places we talked about in class. Additionally, I was lucky enough to be able to travel throughout Thailand and Southeast Asia, which I am extremely grateful for. All in all, I will never forget my time in Chiang Mai and think everyone deserves such a life-changing experience. Thank you Chiang Mai!

What was the most unfamiliar thing you ate?
While staying at the homestay experience in the first few weeks, my host mom would make me a lot of delicious food, however, I oftentimes had no idea what I was eating. One of my favorite dishes was definitely the whole fish she prepared in a broth. It was something totally different from what I was used to but I absolutely loved it!
95 people found this review helpful.
Default avatar
Sara
5/5
Yes, I recommend this program

Best 5 Months

The five months I spent in Chiang Mai were some of the most life-changing, largely thanks to TEAN's support. Firstly, TEAN emphasized cultural immersion and understanding which helped me to learn a lot, about myself, my country, and others. TEAN also did so much to support us while we were there, from taking us on awesome field trips to getting massages, TEAN never failed to provide us with a great time. The location of Chiang Mai is also perfect for traveling throughout Thailand and all of Southeast Asia. Traveling was an integral part in making my experience so unforgettable. However, Chiang Mai was the best place to call home. All in all, my time in Chiang Mai was education, enjoyable, and unforgettable. If you are thinking about doing this program you absolutely should!

89 people found this review helpful.

Questions & Answers