International Student Orientation 2026: Building a More Global CISTU Community

Internationalisation becomes visible when people begin to move—when students crossing borders, entering new classrooms, and becoming part of new academic communities.

The College of Interdisciplinary Studies (CISTU), Thammasat University, recently held its International Student Orientation for Academic Year 2026 at Tha Prachan, welcoming newly admitted international students and incoming exchange students as they began their academic journey at CISTU.

The orientation was organised by CISTU’s International Affairs team together with the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (International Programme). Students were introduced to programme structures, course registration, university regulations, learning resources, and practical aspects of academic and campus life in Thailand.

More importantly, the orientation provided an early opportunity for students to meet one another, connect with faculty and administrators, and begin adjusting to a culturally diverse learning environment.

A Growing International Environment

The event takes place within a broader expansion of CISTU’s international activities.

In Academic Year 2025, CISTU recorded 14 incoming international and exchange students, more than double the number recorded two years earlier. The College also had 29 international students enrolled across undergraduate and doctoral programmes.

Incoming exchange students represented countries including Taiwan, the United States, France, and South Korea, while CISTU students also participated in outbound opportunities through international partners such as SOAS University of London, Northern Illinois University, and National Chengchi University.

At the institutional level, CISTU’s international MOU/MOA network expanded from 8 partners in AY2022 to 18 in AY2025, accompanied by a substantial increase in activities conducted with overseas partners.

These developments reflect an internationalisation process that is increasingly visible within the everyday academic environment of the College.

As CISTU continues to expand its international partnerships and mobility opportunities, welcoming students from different parts of the world remains an important part of building a more globally engaged interdisciplinary community.

Interested in studying at CISTU as an exchange student?

International students from partner universities are welcome to explore exchange opportunities at the College of Interdisciplinary Studies, Thammasat University. Learn more about programmes, eligibility, and the application process through the CISTU Exchange Programme:

https://www.cistuinternational.org/exchange-program