Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 - KNB Scholarship

The Indonesian Government KNB Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded opportunity for international students from developing countries to pursue Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degrees at top universities in Indonesia. Also known as the Kemitraan Negara Berkembang Scholarship , this program aims to support human resource development in developing nations while strengthening cultural ties between Indonesia and partner countries. A total of 222 scholarships are available, including 30 for Bachelor's students, 162 for Master's students, and 30 for PhD students. Selected scholars will study at 31 prestigious partner universities across Indonesia. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, health insurance, research allowance, and a one-year Indonesian language course. Eligible applicants must meet age requirements (max 21 for Bachelor's, 35 for Master's, 40 for PhD) and provide required documents including recommendation letters from the Indonesian Embassy. The application deadline is March 31, 2026. Read on for complete details about eligible programs, universities, benefits, and the step-by-step application process.

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Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 - KNB Scholarship | Fully Funded

Are you a student from a developing country dreaming of studying in Southeast Asia with all expenses paid? The Indonesian Government KNB Scholarship 2026 offers exactly that opportunity. The Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship , also known as the Developing Countries Partnership Scholarship, is a fully funded program sponsored by the Indonesian Government. It is designed for prospective international students from developing nations who wish to pursue Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctoral degrees at Indonesia's leading universities.

This scholarship program has a dual purpose. First, it aims to support the growth and development of human resources in developing countries by providing access to quality higher education. Second, it strengthens people-to-people relations between Indonesia and recipient countries, building lasting friendships and cultural understanding. For the 2026 academic year, the Indonesian Government will select 222 outstanding students from around the world. This includes 30 Bachelor's students, 162 Master's students, and 30 Doctoral students. Selected scholars will enroll in high-quality degree programs offered by 31 partner universities across the Indonesian archipelago.

Recipients will not only receive a world-class education but also experience life in one of the most diverse and vibrant societies in the world. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the cultural heart of Yogyakarta, Indonesia offers an unforgettable living and learning experience. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything about the KNB Scholarship 2026 , including eligible programs, participating universities, financial benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and the step-by-step application process.

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What is the KNB Scholarship?

The Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship is the Indonesian Government's flagship scholarship program for international students from developing countries.

History and Purpose

Established to strengthen educational cooperation between Indonesia and developing nations
Aims to contribute to human resource development in partner countries
Builds mutual understanding and cultural exchange between Indonesia and the world
Supports Indonesia's foreign policy and international partnerships

Program Name Meaning

Kemitraan means Partnership
Negara Berkembang means Developing Countries
Together, KNB represents Indonesia's commitment to partnering with developing nations through education

What Makes KNB Special?

Fully funded by the Indonesian Government
Access to Indonesia's top universities
One-year intensive Indonesian language training
Cultural immersion and community engagement
Alumni network across dozens of countries

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Host Country: Indonesia

Host University: 31 Partner Universities across Indonesia

Scholarships Coverage: Indonesian Government

Degree Programs: Undergraduate / Bachelors, Masters & PhD Degree Program

Total Scholarships: 222 Scholarships

What are the benefits of KNB Scholarship?

The KNB Scholarship is a fully funded award. Selected scholars receive comprehensive financial support covering all major expenses.

What is Covered:

Full Tuition Fees – Complete coverage for the entire duration of your degree program
Living Allowance – Monthly stipend to cover food, accommodation, and daily expenses
Indonesian Language Course (BIPA) – Free language training for one year before degree studies
Round-Trip Airfare – Indonesia Visa + Economy class tickets to and from Indonesia
Health Insurance – Comprehensive medical coverage during your stay in Indonesia
Research and Book Allowance – Monthly allowance for academic materials and research expenses
Research Publication Support – Assistance with publishing research after degree completion
Settlement Allowance – One-time payment upon arrival in Indonesia to help with initial expenses

You do not need to pay for:

Tuition or academic fees
Language courses
Flight tickets
Medical care
Books and research materials

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What is the program duration of KNB Scholarship?

The KNB Scholarship includes language preparation followed by degree studies.

For All Students

1 Year Indonesian Language Course (BIPA) – All scholars must complete this preparatory program before starting their degree studies. This ensures you can communicate effectively and adapt to life in Indonesia.

Bachelor's Degree Program

48 Months (4 Years) – Full Bachelors / Undergraduate degree after language preparation

Master's Degree Program

24 Months (2 Years) – Graduate degree studies after language course

Doctoral Degree Program

48 Months (4 Years) – PhD research and coursework after language preparation

Participating Indonesian Universities in KNB Scholarship Program

Institut Pertanian Bogor (IPB University) - Bogor
Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) - Bandung
Institut Teknologi Sepuluh Nopember (ITS) - Surabaya
Politeknik Elektronika Negeri Surabaya - Surabaya
Universitas Airlangga - Surabaya
Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta - Yogyakarta
Universitas Brawijaya - Malang
Universitas Dian Nuswantoro - Semarang
Universitas Diponegoro - Semarang
Universitas Gadjah Mada - Yogyakarta
Universitas Hasanuddin - Makassar
Universitas Indonesia - Depok/Jakarta
Universitas Islam Indonesia - Yogyakarta
Universitas Jenderal Soedirman - Purwokerto
Universitas Katolik Parahyangan - Bandung
Universitas Lampung - Bandar Lampung
Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang - Malang
Universitas Muhammadiyah Purwokerto - Purwokerto
Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta - Surakarta
Universitas Negeri Jakarta - Jakarta
Universitas Negeri Malang - Malang
Universitas Negeri Padang - Padang
Universitas Negeri Semarang - Semarang
Universitas Negeri Surabaya - Surabaya
Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta - Yogyakarta
Universitas Padjadjaran - Bandung
Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia - Bandung
Universitas Pembangunan Nasional (UPN) Veteran Jawa Timur - Surabaya
Universitas Sanata Dharma - Yogyakarta
Universitas Sebelas Maret - Surakarta
Universitas Sumatera Utara - Medan

What Study Program are available under KNB Scholarship Program?

The KNB Scholarship offers a wide range of academic programs across multiple disciplines. You can choose from the following fields:

Sciences and Mathematics

Biology
Physics
Chemistry
Mathematics
Astronomy
Earth Sciences
Statistics

Engineering and Technology

Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Engineering
Informatics
Computer Science
Instrumentation and Control
Logistics
Transportation Engineering
Water Resource Management
Urban and Regional Planning
Architecture

Economics and Business

Economics
Management Science
Accountancy
Communication Science

Social Sciences and Humanities

International Relations
Political Science
Sociology
Anthropology
History
Psychology
Law
Public Administration
Library and Information Science
English Language and Literature

Health and Medical Sciences

Pharmacy
Veterinary Medicine
Nursing
Midwifery
Nutrition

Arts and Design

Visual Art and Design
Tourism Planning

Agriculture and Environment

Disaster Management

What is the Eligibility Criteria for KNB Indonesia Scholarship Program?

To qualify for the Indonesian KNB Government Scholarship 2026 , applicants must meet all the following requirements:

Age Requirements

Bachelor's Degree Applicants: Maximum age 21 years
Master's Degree Applicants: Maximum age 35 years
PhD Degree Applicants: Maximum age 40 years

Educational Background

Bachelor's Applicants: Must not already hold a Bachelor's degree
Master's Applicants: Must not already hold a Master's degree
PhD Applicants: Must not already hold a Doctoral degree

Nationality

Open to applicants from developing countries
Must be recommended by the Indonesian Embassy in your home country

English Language Proficiency

Candidates must take an English proficiency test within the last two years if from non-English-speaking countries.

Accepted tests include TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent
Applicants from English-speaking countries are exempt but must provide an official university letter confirming their previous education was in English
Applicants enrolled in English-taught programs are also exempt with proper documentation

Document Requirements

All required documents must be submitted as specified
Documents must be in English or Bahasa Indonesia
Translations must be official if original documents are in other languages

Other Requirements

Good physical and mental health
Strong academic record
Commitment to returning to home country after studies
No criminal record

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What are the required documents for KNB Indonesian Scholarship?

Prepare the following documents before starting your application:

Essential Documents for All Applicants

Offering Letter – Downloaded from KNB website and completed
Passport Copy – Valid for at least the duration of your studies
English Proficiency Test Result – TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent (if applicable)
Recommendation Letter from Indonesian Embassy – Must be obtained from the Indonesian Embassy in your home country
Recommendation Letter from Employer or Immediate Supervisor – Professional reference
Academic Certificates and Transcripts – From all previous education
Updated CV or Resume – Highlighting education, experience, and achievements
Motivation Letter – Explaining why you want this scholarship and your future plans

Additional Documents by Degree Level

For Bachelor's Applicants:

Scanned high school diploma and transcripts

For Master's Applicants:

Scanned Bachelor's degree certificate and transcripts

For PhD Applicants:

Scanned Master's degree certificate and transcripts
Recommendation from Research Supervisor – From your previous research advisor
Research Proposal – Outlining your intended doctoral research

What is the Application Process for KNB Scholarship?

Follow these steps to apply for the KNB Scholarship 2026 :

Step 1: Download the Offering Letter

Visit the official KNB Scholarship website
Find and download the Offering Letter form
This is a required document for your application

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents (see complete list below). Ensure everything is complete and properly formatted.

Step 3: Obtain Recommendation from Indonesian Embassy

Contact the Indonesian Embassy in your home country
Request a Recommendation Letter as part of your application
This is a mandatory requirement
Allow sufficient time for embassy processing

Step 4: Complete Online Application

Go to the KNB Scholarship online application portal
Create an account or log in
Fill in all personal and academic information carefully
Upload all required documents including:
1. Offering Letter
2. Passport copy
3. English proficiency test result
4. Embassy recommendation letter
5. Employer/supervisor recommendation letter
6. Academic certificates and transcripts
7. Research supervisor recommendation (for PhD applicants)
8. Review everything before submission

Step 5: Submit Application

Ensure you submit before March 31, 2026
Late applications will not be considered
Keep a copy of your complete application for reference

Step 6: Wait for Selection Results

The selection committee reviews all applications
Results are announced online through:
1. KNB Scholarship website
2. Indonesian Publication Network
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional information

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Tips for a Strong Application

1. Start Early

Begin gathering documents at least two months before the deadline
Contact the Indonesian Embassy well in advance for their recommendation letter
Give recommenders enough time to write strong letters

2. Secure Embassy Recommendation

The recommendation from the Indonesian Embassy is mandatory
Visit the embassy in person if possible
Be polite and professional in all communications
Explain why you are a strong candidate

3. Write a Compelling Motivation Letter

Explain clearly:

Why you want to study in Indonesia
How the KNB Scholarship fits your career goals
What you will contribute to your home country after studies
Your interest in Indonesian culture and society

4. Highlight Academic Excellence

Include all relevant achievements
Mention any awards, publications, or research experience
Show consistent academic performance

5. Choose Your University and Program Wisely

Research the 31 partner universities
Select programs that match your qualifications and interests
Explain why you chose specific universities in your application

6. Ensure Document Quality

Scan documents clearly
Use proper file formats as specified
Ensure translations are official if needed
Double-check all information for accuracy

7. Apply Before the Deadline

Do not wait until the last day
Technical issues can arise
Early applications demonstrate responsibility

What is the Application Deadline for 2026 KNB Scholarship?

The deadline is 31 March, 2026 for 2026 applications!

Frequently Asked Questions about KNB Scholarship

Q1: Is the KNB Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. It covers tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, health insurance, language course, research allowance, and settlement allowance.

Q2: How many scholarships are available?

A total of 222 scholarships : 30 for Bachelor's, 162 for Master's, and 30 for PhD students.

Q3: Do I need to know Indonesian language?

No. The scholarship includes a one-year Indonesian language course (BIPA) before your degree program starts.

Q4: What is the age limit?

Bachelor's: Maximum 21 years
Master's: Maximum 35 years
PhD: Maximum 40 years

Q5: Can I apply if I already have a degree at the same level?

No. You cannot apply for a Bachelor's if you already hold a Bachelor's degree, and similarly for Master's and PhD.

Q6: Do I need IELTS or TOEFL?

Yes, if you are from a non-English-speaking country. The test must be taken within the last two years. Applicants from English-speaking countries or English-taught programs may be exempt with proper documentation.

Q7: Is the Indonesian Embassy recommendation really required?

Yes. This is a mandatory requirement. You must obtain a recommendation letter from the Indonesian Embassy in your home country.

Q8: When is the deadline?

The application deadline is March 31, 2026.

Q9: How do I apply?

Complete the online application through the KNB Scholarship website and submit all required documents including the Offering Letter, embassy recommendation, and academic certificates.

Q10: Can I choose any university?

You can choose from the 31 partner universities listed in this article. Your application should indicate your preferences.

Q11: What documents are needed for PhD applicants?

PhD applicants need all standard documents plus a recommendation from a research supervisor and a research proposal.

Q12: When will results be announced?

Selection results are announced online through the KNB Scholarship website and Indonesian Publication Network after the deadline.

Q13: Can I work while studying?

The scholarship is for full-time study. Focus should be on your academic program and language learning.

Q14: What happens after I complete my degree?

You are expected to return to your home country and contribute to its development using the knowledge and skills gained in Indonesia.

Official Website: https://knb.kemdiktisaintek.go.id/

Note: Always check the official KNB Scholarship website for the most current information, application forms, and updates. Requirements may change, so verify all details before applying.