Scholarships in Indonesia for International Students

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Scholarships in Indonesia for international students offer a golden opportunity to pursue higher education in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic and culturally rich nations. 

Indonesia has become a rising academic destination, not only for its affordable tuition and living costs but also for its diverse programs and growing number of English-taught degrees. 

Through various government and university-based initiatives, international students can study subjects ranging from engineering to social sciences while experiencing Indonesia’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. 

These scholarships are designed to strengthen global cooperation and support students from developing and developed countries alike. 

Whether you aim to earn a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degree, scholarships in Indonesia for international students can make your academic journey both accessible and rewarding. 

Below, we’ll explore the main scholarship types, eligibility requirements, and what life is like for those who study in Indonesia under these programs.

Why Study in Indonesia?

Indonesia boasts a diverse academic environment with internationally recognized universities, vibrant multicultural communities, and affordability compared to many Western destinations. 

International students can immerse themselves in Indonesia’s rich heritage while pursuing degrees in fields such as engineering, social sciences, business, law, or technology. 

The country’s tropical climate, friendly local communities, and strategic location between Asia and Australia make it a welcoming hub for education and innovation. 

Many universities also collaborate with global institutions, providing students access to joint research, exchange programs, and international exposure.

Types of Scholarships Available

There are various scholarships in Indonesia for international students, ranging from government-funded to university-specific and private initiatives. 

The main categories include:

• Government Scholarships such as the Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) and Darmasiswa programs.
• University-Specific Scholarships like UI GREAT, UI SHINE, and Brawijaya International Student Scholarship (BISS).
• Indonesian AID Scholarships (TIAS), which focus on strengthening academic collaboration with partner countries.

Each program has distinct eligibility criteria, benefits, and fields of study, allowing applicants to find a scholarship that best suits their academic goals.

Major Scholarship Programs

1. Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship

Offered by the Indonesian government, KNB supports students from developing countries for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral programs. 

It covers tuition, living expenses, airfare, health insurance, and settlement costs. 

Applicants must meet academic requirements, provide recommendation letters, and show proof of English proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS).

2. Darmasiswa Scholarship

This non-degree, one-year cultural and language program is aimed at promoting Indonesian culture globally. 

It includes a monthly allowance, orientation costs, visa assistance, and health insurance. 

Eligible applicants must be 18–32 years old, have completed secondary education, and be citizens of countries with diplomatic ties to Indonesia.

3. Indonesian AID Scholarship (TIAS)

TIAS offers fully funded opportunities for Diploma, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees, covering tuition, airfare, accommodation, and health insurance. 

It includes a Bahasa Indonesia course and cultural training. Some categories prioritize government employees or candidates from specific partner nations.

4. UI GREAT and SHINE Scholarships – Universitas Indonesia

UI GREAT is a fully funded Master’s scholarship open to global applicants, covering tuition, airfare, living allowances, and insurance. 

The SHINE program, meanwhile, supports exchange students from partner universities, promoting cultural and academic exchange.

5. GMIF and Faculty Scholarships – Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM)

The Gadjah Mada International Fellowship (GMIF) focuses on ASEAN and Global South candidates, providing tuition and living support. 

Several UGM faculties also offer their own postgraduate scholarships for high-achieving students.

6. Brawijaya International Student Scholarship (BISS)

Universitas Brawijaya’s BISS program covers tuition, accommodation, visa, health insurance, airfare, and research funding. 

It is available for Master’s and Doctoral levels, making it one of Indonesia’s most comprehensive scholarship packages.

Eligibility and Application Process

To qualify for scholarships in Indonesia for international students, applicants must:

• Hold non-Indonesian citizenship.
• Meet academic qualifications for their intended program.
• Demonstrate English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).

Required documents typically include academic transcripts, diplomas, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, passport, and medical certificate. 

Some scholarships may request a research proposal or motivation essay. 

Applicants should also note age limits and specific country eligibility rules for government programs like KNB and TIAS.

Scholarship Benefits

While benefits differ among programs, most scholarships offer:

• Full or partial tuition fee waivers.
• Living allowances, health insurance, and accommodation.
• Travel support, including round-trip airfare.
• Research and study materials funding.
• Cultural and language orientation programs to help students adapt.

These comprehensive packages ensure students can focus on their academic and personal growth without worrying about major financial burdens.

Tips for Successful Applications

• Research each scholarship’s deadlines, eligibility, and field coverage carefully.
• Prepare required documents early, including legalized transcripts and translated certificates.
• Highlight your motivation to study in Indonesia and your intended contribution to your home country.
• Strengthen your application essays with specific goals and clear reasons for choosing Indonesia.
• Connect with university international offices or alumni networks for insider advice.

Life as an International Student in Indonesia

Living in Indonesia is a rewarding and transformative experience. Students are welcomed by friendly communities, rich cultural traditions, and affordable lifestyles. 

Universities like Universitas Indonesia, Universitas Gadjah Mada, and Universitas Brawijaya provide support services, buddy programs, and language training to help foreign students settle in. 

Beyond academics, scholarship recipients often engage in cultural festivals, volunteer projects, and leadership activities. 

Cities such as Jakarta, Yogyakarta, and Malang offer a balance of urban comfort and cultural immersion, ideal for international learners seeking both academic excellence and meaningful experiences.

For those who choose to study in Jakarta, housing options near top universities are plentiful. 

One recommended choice is Nivara Resort Townhouse at Wijaya, a serene residential complex in South Jakarta.

Located in a prestigious neighborhood close to major international schools and campuses, this townhouse blends resort-style comfort with city convenience, making it perfect for scholars and expat families seeking tranquility after busy study days. 

Its strategic location also allows easy access to shopping centers, restaurants, and public transport, ensuring a balanced lifestyle between learning and leisure.