The Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026, widely known as the Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship, is now open for international applicants from developing nations. This prestigious initiative is designed to foster human resource development and strengthen international cooperation between Indonesia and recipient countries. By providing full financial backing for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees, the program enables students to study at top-tier Indonesian universities while immersing themselves in one of Asia’s most vibrant cultures. Consequently, this Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 represents a life-changing opportunity for 222 selected scholars to achieve academic excellence without financial barriers.
Program Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Program Title | KNB (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang) Scholarship 2026 |
| Funding Body | Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology, Indonesia |
| Total Awards | 222 (30 Bachelor’s, 162 Master’s, 30 PhD) |
| Host Institutions | 31+ Partner Universities (e.g., UI, ITB, UGM, ITS) |
| Degree Levels | Undergraduate, Master’s, and Doctoral |
| Mode of Study | In-person (Includes 1-year Indonesian Language Course) |
Program Overview
The Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 aims to nurture future leaders by providing access to high-quality education in diverse academic fields. Specifically, the curriculum covers a broad range of disciplines including Engineering, Science, Humanities, and Social Sciences. A unique feature of the KNB program is the mandatory one-year Indonesian Language and Preparatory Program (BIPA), which ensures that international scholars are well-integrated into the local academic environment. Furthermore, the scholarship provides a robust alumni network, facilitating long-term professional connections and cultural exchange.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026, candidates must satisfy the following academic and age requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a developing country or a nation with bilateral relations with Indonesia.
- Age Limits (by Dec 31, 2026):
- Bachelor’s: Maximum 21 years old.
- Master’s: Maximum 35 years old.
- Doctoral: Maximum 40 years old.
- Academic Background: Applicants must hold the relevant previous degree (High School for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD). Current degree holders in the same level being applied for are ineligible.
- English Proficiency: Minimum scores (obtained within the last 2 years):
- Bachelor’s: IELTS 5.5 / TOEFL iBT 53.
- Master’s: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 61.
- Doctoral: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 71.
- Health Status: Must be in good physical and mental health, verified by a medical report.
Benefits & Financial Coverage
The Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 is a 100% fully funded package that includes:
- Full Tuition Waiver: 100% of university fees covered for the duration of the program.
- Living Allowance: A monthly stipend to cover daily expenses and accommodation.
- Travel: Round-trip international economy class airfare to and from Indonesia.
- Settlement Allowance: A one-time payment of IDR 1,500,000 upon arrival.
- Health Insurance: Monthly coverage provided for the duration of study.
- Research & Book Allowance: Specific financial support for thesis research and academic materials.
Selection Schedule & Application Process
The selection for the Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 follows a rigorous timeline:
| Milestone | Date |
| Application Period | February 2 – March 31, 2026 |
| Embassy Data Verification | April 6 – April 17, 2026 |
| Academic Selection | May 4 – June 12, 2026 |
| Final Result Announcement | June 19, 2026 |
| Orientation & Start | September 2026 |
Application Steps:
- Register: Create an account on the Official KNB Scholarship Portal.
- Documents: Upload your CV, Passport, Academic Transcripts, and English Proficiency results.
- Recommendations: Obtain a mandatory recommendation letter from the Indonesian Embassy in your home country.
- Statement of Purpose: Submit a 500-word handwritten motivation letter or study plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 open to all nationalities?
It is primarily targeted at citizens of developing nations. You should verify your country’s eligibility on the official portal before applying.
Can I apply without an IELTS or TOEFL score?
Applicants from English-speaking countries or those whose previous degree was taught in English (with official proof) may be exempt from the English test requirement.
Do I need to know the Indonesian language (Bahasa) before arriving?
No. The scholarship includes a mandatory one-year Indonesian Language Course (BIPA) to prepare you for your degree studies.
Is there an application fee for the KNB Scholarship?
No, the application process for the Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 is completely free of charge.