Welcome! Chances are you’re here because you’re interested in studying abroad in Thailand. Even better, you’ve been intrigued by our newest Thailand study abroad location, Khon Kaen.
It’s highly possible that you’ve never heard of Khon Kaen (that’s okay). Neither had any of these students, which is why we filled them in on some fun facts.
So, for starters let’s have a geography lesson.
Where the heck is Khon Kaen?!
Khon Kaen may not be on your radar until now, but this populous city is home to more than 1.8 million people. Seeing as it’s located in northeastern Thailand, living in Khon Kaen means you’ll experience a tropical savanna climate and could see some good rain between the months of May through October. However, the ancient cultures, traditions, and historical sites in this city combined with the fact that it’s the largest center for education, healthcare, and technology in northeastern Thailand make it worth a visit any time of year.
Okay, now that you know where Khon Kaen is, here is everything else you need to know about studying abroad in Khon Kaen.
It’s more likely to make a best-places-to-live list than a traveler’s itinerary
We didn’t say it, Lonely Planet did, but that’s why we’re loving Khon Kaen. When you study abroad, you’re moving to a new home for several months. Khon Kaen is the perfect place to take a load off and sink into, and you’ll want every second of your semester to explore this city.
You’ll be attending the largest university in northeastern Thailand
Khon Kaen University (KKU), is a top-ranking university in Thailand and also the leading educational center in the Mekong sub-region. The main campus, where the USAC office and classrooms are housed, is located approximately 1.5 miles from the city center on a large, safe and lush green site. Acclaimed as a research university, KKU has world-class research projects in healthcare and tropical medicine, and plays a vital role in the physical, intellectual and mental health of communities.
The campus is filled with fun things to do and beautiful scenery
Like this Ferris wheel you can ride…
And this evening market you can shop at…
And this beautiful view from the cafeteria…

Photo credit: https://bikelist.org/
And this sunset from the biking trails…
In the words of Chandler Bing, could this campus BE any more beautiful?
You can take unique courses in a variety of fields
USAC students can take courses in the following subjects:
- Global Business
- International Marketing
- International Entrepreneurship
- International Affairs
- Tourism Management
- Creative Media Technology
- International Journalism
The cost of living is so cheap, you may come back with more money than when you left
Your average meal will be roughly $2, we’re not even kidding.
You can easily travel to Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam
Temples galore!
There’s so many, we stopped counting after 20. Can you visit every temple in Khon Kaen? Make sure you don’t miss Wat Nong Wang, Wat Thung Setthi, Wat Pa Thamma Utthayan, and Phrathat Kham Kaen.
The food is amazing
Northeastern Thai food may be a little different than what you’re used to back home. Be sure to try the Laab (minced meat salad), curry (made with broth instead of coconut milk), fermented sausage, and papaya salad to name a few. Okay, just try everything!
The people are insanely friendly
Thailand isn’t referred to as the land of smiles for no reason. Get ready to make some new friends!
You’ll have the best time of your life!
Seriously, what beats spending a super cheap semester, in one of the most beautiful places in the world, making friends, traveling, trying new things, and earning academic credit? That’s right, nothing! So go on and explore studying abroad in Khon Kaen today!
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