For the 2026/2027 cycle, Indonesia has increased its presence in international academia by offering a mix of government-backed “KNB” scholarships and highly regarded university-specific fellowships. These programmes are mostly about working with developing countries and getting researchers in economics, engineering, and cultural studies to come to the US.
1. The Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship
The Indonesian government finances the KNB Scholarship, which is the main program of the “Developing Countries Partnership.” It is a fully funded chance for students with a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD.
- • The prize includes full tuition, a settlement allowance (about IDR 1,500,000), a monthly living allowance (about IDR 3,500,000), health insurance, and a round-trip economy flight.
- Language Prep: Before starting their degree studies, students must complete a one-year Indonesian Language (Bahasa Indonesia) programme.
- • Deadlines for 2026:
- Registration is open from February 2, 2026, to March 31, 2026 (past for Fall 2026).
- • The results will be announced on June 19, 2026.
- • Preparing for 2027: Beginning in January 2027, students aspiring to attend college should monitor the portal for the upcoming cycle.
2. “Excellence” Scholarships for Specific Universities
Universitas Indonesia (UI) – NEW UI GREAT 2026
The best school in the country is Universitas Indonesia. The “UI GREAT” scholarship is for talented Master’s students from other countries.
- • The award includes full tuition for four semesters, a monthly living allowance of IDR 3,500,000, coverage for the visa fee, and up to IDR 10,000,000 in airfare.
- Deadline: The last day to apply for the 2026 intake is May 4, 2026.
- • To keep the stipend, you must keep your GPA at least 3.0 throughout the program.
Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) – DEIE Grant
The Faculty of Engineering at UGM gives special funding for Electrical Engineering and Information Technology.
- The award covers the cost of tuition and provides dormitory housing for the full length of the Master’s (4 semesters) or PhD (6 semesters) programme, as well as a monthly stipend of IDR 3,000,000.
- 2026 Status: Applications for the 2026–2027 school year opened in January 2026. Students who are interested should email the department directly at teti@ugm.ac.id to find out if there are any spots open for the Spring 2027 intake.
The Asia-Africa Scholarship at Telkom University
This university is a leader in digital and telecommunications teaching, and it has special programs for students from Asia and Africa.
- The Award: Full or partial tuition and admission fee waivers.
- Deadline: Applications are open until August 2026, but they are given priority for that intake. Candidates should apply as soon as possible through the Telkom University international office portal.
3. Scholarships for language and culture
The Darmasiswa Scholarship
A scholarship program that doesn’t require a degree allows people who aren’t Indonesian citizens to study Indonesian language, arts, and culture for a year.
- The prize is a monthly stipend and free tuition (the host university usually takes care of housing).
- Timeline for 2026: Most applications for the 2026/2027 school year are due in early March.
- • 2027 Goal: The portal usually opens in January 2027.
4. Advice on how to apply strategically for 2026/2027
- NIN and Identity: For the 2026 KNB and UI GREAT applications, you need to show that your National Identity Number (NIN) or something similar is real along with your passport. The Indonesian immigration system (KITAS) is becoming more digital. To avoid visa delays, ensure your name is spelt the same on all documents.
- Health Requirements: Indonesia is very strict about health checks. Most 2026 scholarship websites need a full medical report that includes tests for Tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and Ebola/Mpox, and it must be less than three months old when you apply.
- Video Profile: For the KNB 2026 cycle, you must now upload a “Motivation Video” to YouTube that is 3 to 5 minutes long. It should talk about why you chose Indonesia and how your study program fits your career goals.
In conclusion
The major national government (KNB) deadline has passed as of April 2026, but applications for high-value institutional awards like the NEW UI GREAT are still being accepted until May 4, 2026. Telkom University is still a viable choice for the Autumn 2026 intake for people who want to get a technical degree. If you’re getting ready for the 2027 cycle, you should focus on getting a Bahasa Indonesia proficiency certificate or writing a strong research proposal for research tracks that are similar to UGM or KAUST.
