The KNB (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang) Scholarships are a fully funded opportunity the Government of Indonesia provides to students from developing countries. This prestigious scholarship supports Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees at top Indonesian universities. The program aims to strengthen educational ties between Indonesia and participating countries, fostering global academic and cultural exchange. Established in 1992, the scholarship has since expanded beyond its initial regional focus and now welcomes students from Asia, Africa, South America, the Pacific, and Eastern Europe.
By securing the KNB Scholarship, students can access high-quality education in Indonesia’s best universities while experiencing life in a multicultural and vibrant society. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, research support, and travel costs, making it an exceptional opportunity for international students.
In 2025, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of Indonesia, in collaboration with 34 host universities, will accept around 200 students into the program. This initiative aims to develop global leaders by providing them with world-class education and research opportunities in Indonesia.
Quick Overview of KNB Scholarships 2025-26
- Host Country: Indonesia
- Host Universities: 34 top Indonesian universities
- Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral
- Scholarship Value: Fully funded (tuition, living stipend, travel, research support)
- Application Deadline: February 23, 2024
- Age Limit:
- Bachelor’s: 21 years old (max)
- Master’s: 35 years old (max)
- Doctoral: 40 years old (max)
- Eligibility: Students from developing countries with valid academic credentials
Perks of Indonesian Government Scholarship 2025
- The scholarship covers the full tuition fees for the duration of the program.
- A stipend is provided to cover daily expenses and accommodations while studying in Indonesia.
- Additional financial support is provided for research-related expenses and books.
- The scholarship includes full health insurance coverage for medical expenses during the study period.
- The program provides an economy-class ticket for arrival from the home country to Indonesia and for returning upon completion of the program.
- Transportation from the Indonesian airport to the host university is arranged.
- Students receive a one-year intensive Bahasa Indonesia (BIPA) training program, ensuring they can effectively engage in their academic coursework.
- Scholars will have access to academic conferences, seminars, and networking events with professionals and researchers.
- A unique opportunity to experience and understand Indonesian culture, history, and traditions.
- Funding is provided for publishing academic articles and research papers.
Benefits of the KNB Scholarships
- Gain world-class education and research opportunities at Indonesia’s top universities.
- Opens doors to international career prospects and post-graduation job placements.
- Engage in cultural exchange programs and build global networks.
- Develop leadership and problem-solving skills in a diverse academic environment.
- The scholarship covers all major academic and living expenses, allowing scholars to focus on their studies.
- Earn a degree that is recognized internationally, enhancing career prospects worldwide.
- Participate in workshops, conferences, and training programs that prepare students for future professional success.
Eligibility Criteria for Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral Scholarships in Indonesia
Bachelor’s Program
- Maximum age: 21 years
- Must hold a high school diploma
- English Proficiency: TOEFL ITP 477, TOEFL IBT 53, IELTS 5.5, or equivalent
- Recommendation letters from the Indonesian Embassy and previous academic institutions
- Valid passport (minimum two years before expiration)
- Must not hold a bachelor’s degree
Master’s Program
- Maximum age: 35 years
- Must hold a bachelor’s degree
- English Proficiency: TOEFL ITP 500, TOEFL IBT 61, IELTS 6.0, or equivalent
- Recommendation letters from the Indonesian Embassy, employer (if applicable), and previous academic institutions
- Valid passport (minimum two years before expiration)
- Must not hold a master’s degree
Doctoral Program
- Maximum age: 40 years
- Must hold a master’s degree
- English Proficiency: TOEFL ITP 530, TOEFL IBT 71, IELTS 6.0, or equivalent
- Recommendation letters from the Indonesian Embassy, employer (if applicable), and potential research supervisor
- Statement of purpose and research proposal
- Valid passport (minimum two years before expiration)
Important Dates for the KNB Scholarships
- Application Deadline: February 23, 2024
- Administrative Selection: February 26 – March 22, 2024
- Academic Selection & Interviews: March 25 – May 17, 2024
- Final Announcement: June 10, 2024
- Re-registration: June 11 – 21, 2024
- Visa Processing: July 8 – August 9, 2024
- Arrival in Indonesia: August 2024
- Indonesian Language Program Start: September 2024
How to Apply for the Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students 2025
- Download the KNB Scholarship Offering Letter from the official website.
- Contact the Indonesian Embassy in your home country and submit the required documents to obtain a recommendation letter.
- Gather the required documents, including academic transcripts, certificates, recommendation letters, English proficiency certificates, and passport.
- Register online via the KNB Scholarship portal and upload all required documents.
- Complete the online application and submit the required documents in .jpeg or .jpg format (maximum size 300KB per file).
- Await selection results, which will be announced on the official KNB Scholarship website.
- Follow further instructions for visa processing, travel arrangements, and enrollment in the host university.
Required Documents for KNB Scholarships
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Must be up-to-date and include educational background and work experience.
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least two more years.
- English Proficiency Test Certificate: TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent test result obtained within the last two years.
- Recommendation Letters: From previous academic institutions and employers (if applicable).
- Academic Certificates and Transcripts: Officially translated into English or Bahasa, legalized by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the applicant’s country.
- Research Proposal and Statement of Purpose (for Doctoral Applicants): Must outline research interests and reasons for studying in Indonesia.
- Letter of Recommendation from the Indonesian Embassy: This is mandatory and must be obtained before applying online.
For official details, visit the KNB Scholarship Website.
