Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why study International Development Studies (IDS)?

Poverty, inequality, social and economic dislocation of people, environmental degradation, political conflict and violence continue to challenge policy makers and intellectuals in governments, civil society and the private sector worldwide. Individuals and communities with the analytical skills needed to address these issues are and will remain in great demand.

2. Where is Chulalongkorn University located in Bangkok ?

Chulalongkorn University is situated in the heart of downtown Bangkok; close to Siam square, MBK and Siam Paragon shopping centres as well as the MRT Subway and BTS Skytrain. Most of our students live within 20 minutes from campus by car or public transportation.

3. Where do the MAIDS students come from?

The MAIDS student body varies considerably from year to year. Our M.A. students come from a wide range of countries and backgrounds. Since its inception, the programme has hosted nationals from Australia, Bangladesh, Canada, China (and Taiwan), Costa Rica, Finland, Germany, Japan, Moldova, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, United Kingdom, the United States of America and Vietnam.

For more information on current and former MAIDS students please visit the students' page of our website.

4. What is the average age of the MAIDS students?

The age, nationality and background of our students varies considerably from one year to the next. In the past, the ages of MAIDS students have ranged from early twenties to late forties and early fifties.

5. How much does the MAIDS programme cost?

Please consult the finances page of our website for a breakdown of tuition for both Thai and International students.

6. Can I apply before the March 31st application deadline?

You may submit your completed application package to the MAIDS office from February 1st to March 31st each year. You may also submit your application before February 1st; however, the student selection period will not begin until after the application deadline.

7. If admitted to the MAIDS programme, when do classes begin?

Every year, classes begin in early October. We suggest students arrive in Bangkok at the beginning of September to give them a chance to find an apartment and settle in the city .

8. How long does it take to complete the MAIDS programme?

Normally it takes a full year (12 month period) to complete the course and thesis requirements for the programme. However, some students enrol for an extra term to successfully complete and defend their thesis.

9. How many students are accepted to the programme?

The MAIDS course work is organized using a seminar format for discussion and exchange. As such, we normally do not accept more than 20 students per academic year.

10. Can I apply to MAIDS if I don't have prior development experience?

Although we prefer hands-on field experience, we will certainly consider other qualifications (e.g. degrees, professional experience) as a substitute for direct development experience. All applicants are carefully chosen - on an individual case-by-case basis - using the applicants' transcripts, English language test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, C.V./resume and statement of purpose.

11. Are there scholarship opportunities for MAIDS students?

Yes, go to the finances page and scroll to the bottom for detailed scholarship information.

12. Can I apply to MAIDS if my English isn't very good?

You can apply to MAIDS but - if you are accepted - you will have to demonstrate a high level of language proficiency before you begin the programme. Remember MAIDS is an international graduate programme taught in English. Therefore, you are expected to be comfortable with academic reading, writing and speaking for a graduate-level of study. For more information, please read the English language requirements section of the admission page.

13. Does language ability pose a problem for non-native English speakers?

The answer to this question depends on the students' language proficiency. The MAIDS programme curriculum is quite difficult and intensive. Therefore, non-native English speakers normally take more time to understand readings, write paper and complete thesis requirements. Students whose first language is not English should be prepared to devote considerable time to compensate for the added language barrier.

14. Do you give priority to Thai students or other students from the region?

Although the MAIDS programme does not give priority to students from the Greater Mekong Sub-region, we are committed to ensure the accessibility of our program to students from the region. The MAIDS programme strongly benefits from its diverse international student body.

15. I have a part-time job Bangkok . Can I still enrol in the MAIDS programme?

If you plan to complete the programme within the prescribed 12-month period, we highly recommend you concentrate exclusively on your studies. However, you may choose to do the M.A. programme over a longer period but please note you will have to pay tuition for each additional semester of study.

16. Students come from many different countries and backgrounds. How does this dynamic manifest itself in the classroom?

We believe the international element of the MAIDS programme challenges each student to think outside the realm of their particular country's academic discourse. This is particularly relevant to the realm of sustainable development where international cooperation is a vital precursor for change and progress.

17. What do students do after graduation?

Once again, this depends on the personal interests and professional ambitions of each student. Some students stay in Bangkok following their studies to work for NGOs/INGOs or other international organizations. Other students return home to pursue further studies or find work in their respective countries.