Indonesian Government Scholarship KNB 2026 (Fully Funded) – Comprehensive Application Guide

If you are looking for a fully funded scholarship that allows you to study a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in one of the most vibrant and diverse countries in Asia, the Indonesian Government Scholarship KNB 2026 is one of the strongest options currently available for students from developing countries.

The scholarship provides full funding that covers tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, health insurance, and research and book support, with the opportunity to study at dozens of Indonesian universities across scientific and humanities fields. In 2024, a total of 222 scholarships were awarded as part of the KNB program, and a similar level of strength and expansion is expected for the 2026 academic year.

Quick Overview of the Indonesian KNB Scholarship 2026

• Host Country: Indonesia
• Funding Body: Government of Indonesia (Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology)
• Available Study Levels: – Bachelor's – Master's – PhD
• Number of Scholarships: 222 scholarships (awarded in 2024 as an indicator of program capacity)
• Funding Type: Fully Funded Scholarship
• Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
• Application Fees: No application fee is required in most cases.

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Why Choose the KNB Scholarship to Study in Indonesia?

Before diving into the technical details of the application, it is important to understand why this scholarship is considered a strategically excellent option:

Full Funding for the Entire Duration of Study

The scholarship covers almost everything: tuition fees, living allowance, health insurance, and travel tickets, significantly reducing financial burdens during your study years.

Diverse Programs at Dozens of Universities

You can study in a wide range of fields: engineering, economics, computer science, natural sciences, social sciences, arts, nursing, international relations, and many other disciplines, in more than 30–40 partnering Indonesian universities.

Experience Living in a Culturally Diverse Society

Indonesia consists of thousands of islands, dozens of local languages, and a culturally and religiously diverse society, making studying there a complete life experience—not just an academic one.

Affordable Living Costs Compared to Other Countries

Living costs in most Indonesian student cities are far lower than in Europe or North America, and the living allowance provided by the scholarship is designed to reasonably cover students’ basic needs.

Strong Academic and Research Opportunities

Many Indonesian universities are becoming known for their programs in engineering, computer science, social sciences, and economics, with opportunities to participate in research projects and regional or international conferences.

Financial Benefits of the Indonesian Government Scholarship KNB 2026

KNB is a fully funded scholarship, meaning you will not pay essential fees during the scholarship period. Benefits typically include:

Settlement Allowance

A one-time initial allowance upon arrival in Indonesia to help cover early accommodation and basic expenses.

Full Tuition Fee Waiver

The scholarship covers full tuition fees at the host university throughout the program duration, including registration fees and course fees.

Monthly Living Allowance

A monthly allowance covering housing, food, and basic transportation expenses. Higher during the academic study period and a special allowance during the language year.

Book & Research Allowance

Financial support for purchasing textbooks, references, or covering research expenses, especially for Master’s and PhD students.

Health Insurance

Medical insurance covering basic medical needs and emergencies according to the scholarship’s terms.

International Round-Trip Airfare

A round-trip flight ticket from the applicant’s home country to Indonesia, usually at the beginning and end of the program, plus local transportation from the airport to the host university.

Local Transportation to the Host University

Transport from the main airport to the city or university where the student will study is provided or reimbursed.

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Scholarship Duration and Study Structure

Every KNB scholarship recipient typically goes through two phases: a preparatory (language) year and academic study.

Indonesian Language Year (BIPA)

Before starting the academic program, recipients undergo a one-year intensive Indonesian language program (BIPA), which is mandatory.

During this year:

1. You learn Indonesian reading, writing, and speaking.
2. You explore Indonesian culture, laws, and lifestyle.
3. You may take preliminary language tests before proceeding to academic study.

Study Duration by Degree

1. Bachelor’s: 8 semesters (approx. 48 months) after the language year.
2. Master’s: 4 semesters (approx. 24 months) after the language year.
3. PhD: 8 semesters (approx. 48 months) after the language year, with a strong focus on research and dissertation.

Available Fields of Study in the KNB Scholarship

The KNB Scholarship is not limited to one or two fields; it opens access to a large variety of programs at partner universities. Some commonly listed fields include:

1. Biology
2. Engineering (mechanical, electrical, civil, etc.)
3. Economics & Business Administration
4. Physics & Chemistry
5. Visual Arts & Design
6. Architecture
7. Transportation & Logistics
8. Management Sciences & HR
9. Pharmacy
10. Astronomy, Mathematics & Earth Sciences
11. Instrumentation & Control
12. Water Resources Planning & Management
13. Tourism, Urban & Regional Planning
14. Computer Science, Informatics, Statistics & Data Science
15. Communication & Media Studies
16. Accounting & Law
17. Psychology & Veterinary Medicine
18. Library & Information Science
19. Nutrition, Midwifery & Nursing
20. Public Administration, Anthropology, Sociology
21. International Relations, Political Science & History
22. Disaster Management & Governance

Each university has its own KNB program list, so after choosing your degree level, check the available majors at your target university through its official website or the scholarship platform.

Eligibility Requirements for the KNB Scholarship 2026

Requirements slightly vary for Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD applicants, but the general framework includes:

Nationality

The scholarship is open only to citizens of developing countries (Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, etc.).

Age Limits

– Bachelor’s: Maximum age 21 – Master’s: Maximum age 35 – PhD: Maximum age 40

Academic Qualification

– Bachelor’s: High school certificate with acceptable grades. – Master’s: Recognized Bachelor’s degree with good academic standing. – PhD: Master’s degree in a relevant field.

Holders of a higher degree cannot apply for the same level.

English Language Requirement

Most universities require English proficiency (TOEFL / IELTS / TOEIC). Exemptions may apply for: – Native speakers – Applicants who studied in English

This varies by university policy.

Health Condition

Applicants must be in good health and may need a medical certificate.

No Concurrent Indonesian Scholarships

Applicants cannot hold another Indonesian government scholarship at the same time.

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Required Documents for the KNB Scholarship 2026

Typical application documents include:

• Scanned graduation certificates (High school + transcript for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s degree + transcript for Master’s, Master’s degree + transcript for PhD)
• Recommendation letter from the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate
• Academic recommendation letters (From previous university/school, and sometimes from employer for working applicants)
• Passport copy (Valid for the intended duration of study)
• Updated CV in English
• Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
• English proficiency proof (if required) (TOEFL / IELTS / TOEIC or equivalent)
• Medical certificate (Confirming the applicant is medically fit to study abroad)
• For PhD applicants: – Research Proposal – Potential supervisor pre-acceptance (if requested)

Steps to Apply for the Indonesian Government KNB Scholarship 2026

1. Read All Official Requirements

Visit the official scholarship website: https://knb.kemdiktisaintek.go.id/ Review the Requirements and FAQ sections.

2. Download the Offer/Invitation Letter

This document is needed when contacting the embassy.

3. Contact the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate

Submit the required documents to obtain an embassy recommendation letter—a mandatory requirement.

4. Create an Account on the KNB Portal

Register at: https://knb.kemdiktisaintek.go.id Use an active email.

5. Fill Out the Online Application Form

Enter personal information, education history, field of study, and university accurately.

6. Upload All Required Documents

Ensure clarity, correct format, and size compliance.

7. Submit Before the Deadline

Deadline: March 31, 2026 (submit earlier if possible).

8. Monitor Email and Application Portal

Shortlisted applicants may attend an interview before final results.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Acceptance in KNB 2026

1. Choose a major that aligns with your country’s development needs. Programs aim to support development in developing countries, so selecting a field beneficial to your home country increases your chances.
2. Write a strong motivation letter explaining your goals and future plans. Clarify why you chose Indonesia, the KNB scholarship, and how the program will help you contribute after graduation.
3. Prepare a professional CV showcasing your experiences and contributions. Include volunteer work, projects, leadership activities, or any relevant experiences.
4. Contact the embassy early to avoid delays in recommendation processing. Getting the embassy recommendation letter can take time, especially near deadlines.
5. Double-check your application for errors or inconsistencies. Mistakes in dates, documents, or personal information may lead to immediate rejection.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – KNB Scholarship 2026

1. Is the KNB Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. It covers tuition fees, living allowance, airfare, health insurance, book and research allowance, settlement allowance, and local transportation.

2. Is IELTS or TOEFL required?

Most universities require English proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Some exemptions may apply depending on the university.

3. Can I bring my family?

The scholarship covers costs for the student only. Family expenses must be self-funded.

4. Can I apply without an embassy recommendation?

No. Embassy recommendation is a mandatory requirement.

5. When does the language program and academic study begin?

BIPA language training usually begins in September, with academic study starting the following semester depending on the university calendar.

Conclusion – Why You Should Seriously Consider Applying Now

The Indonesian Government KNB Scholarship 2026 is more than a chance to earn a free university degree; it is an opportunity to:

1. Build an international network with students and researchers from dozens of countries.
2. Experience a culturally rich and diverse society.
3. Develop strong academic and research skills in globally relevant fields.
4. Return to your country with enhanced knowledge and competitive qualifications.

If you meet the age and academic requirements and have genuine motivation to study abroad, start preparing your documents and contact the Indonesian Embassy in your country now. Do not wait until the last days before March 31, 2026.