KNB Indonesian Government Scholarship 2026 (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang)

Overview

The KNB Scholarship — short for Kemitraan Negara Berkembang, which translates to "Developing Country Partnership" — is a fully funded scholarship program offered by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology. Designed to promote educational exchange and strengthen ties between Indonesia and other developing nations, the KNB Scholarship invites international students from eligible countries to pursue Bachelor's, Master's, or doctoral degrees at some of Indonesia's finest universities. With 34 participating institutions, over 1,000 degree programs across a remarkably diverse range of disciplines, and a comprehensive financial package covering all major costs of studying abroad, the KNB Scholarship is one of Southeast Asia's most generous and inclusive government scholarship programs. For students from developing countries who aspire to access high-quality university education in a vibrant and culturally rich environment, this scholarship represents an outstanding opportunity.

Scholarship Details

The KNB Scholarship is fully funded, providing a financial package that comprehensively covers the costs of studying and living in Indonesia for the entire duration of the programme.

Full tuition fees are covered regardless of the degree level or field of study. Upon arrival in Indonesia, new scholars receive a settlement allowance to help with the initial costs of relocating and establishing themselves in their new environment. Throughout the programme, scholars receive a monthly living allowance to cover daily expenses such as food, transportation, and personal needs.

A research and book allowance supports the academic work of scholars, particularly valuable for graduate students engaged in research-intensive programs. Health insurance is provided for the scholarship duration, and an economy class air ticket covers the international travel cost to Indonesia. Local transport to the host university is also included.

One of the distinctive features of the KNB Scholarship is the mandatory one-year Indonesian language training program (BIPA) that all scholars must complete before beginning their academic degree. This program is fully funded and prepares scholars linguistically and culturally for life and study in Indonesia.

The total programme durations are: Bachelor's — 8 semesters (approximately 4 years); Master's — 4 semesters (approximately 2 years); PhD — 8 semesters (approximately 4 years). All durations include the one-year BIPA language training at the start.

Eligibility Requirements

The KNB Scholarship is exclusively open to citizens of developing countries. Applicants from developed nations are not eligible. The specific list of eligible countries is published on the official KNB scholarship website and reflects Indonesia's development partnership priorities.