The KNB Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship offered by the Government of Indonesia for students from developing countries The full name of this program is Kemitraan Negara Berkembang Scholarship, which means Developing Countries Partnership Scholarship.
This scholarship allows international students to study in Indonesia without worrying about tuition fees or living costs. Students can apply for Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs at well known Indonesian universities.
The goal of the scholarship is to strengthen friendship between Indonesia and other developing countries by sharing education knowledge and culture. Students from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and other developing regions including Pakistan can apply.
This guide explains everything in simple and easy English so students can clearly understand the process.
What Does the KNB Scholarship Cover
The KNB Scholarship is fully funded, which means most study expenses are covered.
Tuition Fees
All tuition fees are paid by the scholarship. Students do not need to pay university fees during their program.
Monthly Living Allowance
Students receive a monthly allowance for daily expenses.
Approximate monthly stipend
- Around IDR 1,750,000 for undergraduate students
- Up to about IDR 2,550,000 for master’s and PhD students
This amount helps cover food, accommodation, and transportation.
Settlement Allowance
When students arrive in Indonesia they receive a one time settlement allowance to help them settle into their new environment.
Books and Research Support
Students also receive extra funding for
- Books
- Academic materials
- Research or thesis work
Health Insurance
The scholarship provides health insurance, so students can receive medical treatment during their studies.
International Airfare
The scholarship also covers a round trip flight ticket from the student’s home country to Indonesia.
Indonesian Language Course
If needed students will take a free Indonesian language preparation course called BIPA before starting their academic program.
Because of these benefits students can focus on studying without financial stress.
Who Can Apply for the KNB Scholarship
The scholarship is open to students from developing countries.
Citizenship
Applicants must come from a developing country and must not be Indonesian citizens.
Age Limit (2026 Intake)
- Bachelor’s program
Maximum age around 21 years sometimes updated to 25 years depending on the latest rules - Master’s program
Maximum age 35 years - PhD program
Maximum age 40 years
Education Requirements
- Bachelor’s applicants must have a high school diploma.
- Master’s applicants must have a bachelor’s degree.
- PhD applicants must have a master’s degree.
English Language Requirement
Applicants usually need an English test score such as
- TOEFL ITP around 477
- TOEFL iBT around 53
- IELTS about 5.5
- TOEIC around 510
The certificate must usually be from the last two years. In some cases students who studied previously in English may be exempt.
Health and Character
Applicants must
- Be in good health
- Have no criminal record
- Follow Indonesian regulations
Other Important Rule
Applicants should not be married to an Indonesian citizen and must agree to return to their home country after finishing their studies.
Universities Participating in the KNB Scholarship
Students can study at many partner universities in Indonesia. Around 47 universities participate in the program.
Some popular universities include
- Universitas Indonesia
- Bandung Institute of Technology
- Universitas Gadjah Mada
- Airlangga University
These universities offer modern facilities strong academic programs and international student communities.
Study Programs Available
Students can choose from many fields such as
- Engineering and technology
- Information technology and computer science
- Business economics and management
- Health sciences nursing and medicine
- Agriculture and environmental studies
- Education social sciences and law
- Arts culture and humanities
Indonesia is especially known for technology business and tropical studies programs.
How to Apply for the KNB Scholarship 2026
The application process is online and free.
Step 1 Create an Account
Go to the official KNB scholarship portal and create an account using your email.
Step 2 Download Application Documents
Download the scholarship guidelines invitation letter and recommendation form.
Step 3 Get Embassy Recommendation
Submit your documents such as passport academic certificates and forms to the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your country to receive a recommendation letter.
This is a very important step.
Step 4 Complete the Online Application
Fill in the online form and upload required documents such as
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts
- English language certificate
- Passport copy
- Recommendation letter
Step 5 Submit Application
Submit your application before the deadline.
KNB Scholarship 2026 Deadline
The main deadline for the 2026 intake is expected to be March 31 2026.
Some Indonesian embassies may set earlier deadlines around March 22 for document verification so students should check their local embassy requirements.
Selection Process
The selection process happens in several stages.
- Step 1 Embassy document verification in April
- Step 2 University academic review between April and May
- Step 3 Final results announced around June 2026
Successful applicants will sign the scholarship agreement and usually arrive in Indonesia around September 2026.
Tips to Increase Your Chances
Here are some useful tips for students applying for the KNB Scholarship.
Start Preparation Early
Prepare your English test and documents early to avoid last minute stress.
Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Explain clearly
- Why you want to study in Indonesia
- Why you chose your program
- How your education will help your home country
Maintain Good Academic Records
Strong grades improve your chances during university evaluation.
Contact the Indonesian Embassy Early
Embassy recommendation letters can take time so apply early.
Choose Your University Carefully
After selection it may not be possible to change your university choice.
Why Study in Indonesia
Indonesia is one of the most diverse and beautiful countries in the world.
Students enjoy
• Beautiful beaches and nature
• Rich culture and traditions
• Friendly people
• Affordable living costs
• Modern universities and research facilities
It is also a great place to meet students from many countries and build international friendships.
Final Thoughts
The KNB Scholarship 2026 is a great opportunity for students from developing countries to study abroad for free. With full financial support including tuition fees living allowance health insurance and airfare students can focus completely on their education.
Every year many students successfully receive this scholarship and build their future through international education.
If you are interested prepare your documents early and submit your application before the deadline.
This scholarship could become one of the biggest opportunities for your academic journey and career growth.
