5 Best Courses to Learn Indonesian for Beginners

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Learning a new language can open doors to new cultures, friendships, and opportunities.

If you plan to live, work, or travel in Indonesia, taking the time to learn Indonesian is one of the best investments you can make.

Known locally as Bahasa Indonesia, the language is widely spoken across the archipelago and serves as the unifying tongue among hundreds of local dialects.

For beginners, finding the right course can make the learning process smoother, more engaging, and even fun.

In this article, we’ll explore the 5 best courses to learn Indonesian for beginners, helping you choose the program that matches your goals, schedule, and learning style.

1. LIA

LIA offers a Bahasa Indonesia for Foreign Speakers (BIPA) program tailored for those living and working in Indonesia.

The course emphasizes practical, everyday communication while integrating cultural elements to help learners better understand local life.

Lessons are interactive and designed to build speaking confidence, whether in casual or formal contexts.

Participants also receive handouts, worksheets, and audio materials created by LIA’s curriculum team.

Each level runs for three months with 20 sessions of 90 minutes each.

Progress is monitored through mid-tests, final tests, and daily performance evaluations.

A placement test ensures students start at the right level, and successful participants receive a certificate upon completion. 

The program combines structured learning with engaging activities, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want to learn Indonesian effectively.

Related article: Understanding Language Learning in Indonesian Schools: A Guide for Foreign Families

2. English Today

English Today offers beginner-level Indonesian classes in Jakarta designed to help learners build confidence in real-life communication.

Lessons cover the basics such as the alphabet, numbers, days, months, and common expressions, all taught through practical conversation scenarios.

The program is tailored for newcomers who face daily challenges interacting with locals, making it especially useful for handling situations like introductions at the airport, ordering food, or discussing work and family.

The first class runs for three hours and uses an interactive, communicative approach.

Learners are encouraged to introduce themselves and practice simple conversations using tools like mind maps.

With its practical focus and supportive teaching style, English Today provides a comprehensive foundation for beginners to learn Indonesian quickly and effectively.

3. LBI Universitas Indonesia

Lembaga Bahasa Internasional (LBI) at Universitas Indonesia offers a Bahasa Indonesia untuk Penutur Asing (BIPA) program designed for non-native speakers who want a structured and high-quality learning experience.

Taught by experienced instructors, the program helps learners actively communicate in formal Indonesian, both spoken and written, while also gaining a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture.

In addition to its regular program, LBI UI provides a variety of special courses tailored to different needs. With its academic setting, comprehensive curriculum, and cultural integration, LBI UI’s BIPA program is an excellent choice for learners who seek both language proficiency and cultural insights in Indonesia.

Related article: How to Start Teaching English in Indonesia for Foreigners: Tips and Requirements

4. Superprof

Superprof is an online marketplace where learners can find private Indonesian tutors tailored to their needs.

The platform displays teacher profiles complete with photos, reviews, and hourly rates, making it easy to compare and choose the right tutor.

With prices starting from around IDR 100,000 per hour, learners can find flexible options that suit both their budget and learning style.

Whether you prefer face-to-face lessons or online sessions, Superprof offers the flexibility to design a personalized learning experience.

This makes it a practical choice for beginners who want one-on-one attention and the ability to progress at their own pace while learning Indonesian.

5. BIPA Unpad

Universitas Padjadjaran offers a long-standing BIPA program (Bahasa Indonesia untuk Penutur Asing), established in 1980 and recognized through partnerships with universities in Asia, Europe, and Australia.

The program provides both regular and non-regular courses aimed at developing practical and academic skills in Indonesian, while also introducing participants to the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Taught by experienced faculty from the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, the program combines rigorous instruction with cultural immersion.

In addition to Indonesian, Unpad also offers courses in Sundanese language and culture, giving learners a broader understanding of local traditions.

International students may opt for accommodation with Indonesian host families, allowing for even deeper immersion in daily life.

With its academic credibility, experienced teaching staff, and cultural exposure, BIPA Unpad stands out as a comprehensive choice for anyone who wants to learn Indonesian.

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Choosing the right course is an important first step in your journey to learn Indonesian.

Whether you prefer a structured academic program, a private tutor, or a more flexible online option, each of the courses above offers unique strengths to match different learning styles and goals.

By committing to regular practice and immersing yourself in both the language and culture, you will find that learning Indonesian becomes not only practical but also an enjoyable way to connect more deeply with life in Indonesia.

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