International Student Guide

01Welcome to Indonesia — Why Choose Indonesia?

A World of Opportunity

Indonesia is one of Southeast Asia's fastest-growing economies and a rising force in global education. With more than 270 million people, thousands of islands, and hundreds of cultures, studying in Indonesia offers an experience unlike anywhere else in the world.

Top Reasons to Study in Indonesia

• 🌍 Strategic Location: Indonesia sits at the heart of Southeast Asia, giving you access to a dynamic, interconnected region central to global trade, diplomacy, and innovation.
• 🎓 Quality Higher Education: Indonesian universities are consistently rising in global rankings, offering internationally recognised degrees across sciences, technology, humanities, social sciences, and arts.
• 💰 Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to universities in Europe, North America, or Australia, the cost of living in Indonesia is significantly lower — from accommodation and food to transportation and recreation.
• 🤝 Government Scholarship Support: The Indonesian Government, through IGTS and its partner ministries, offers comprehensive scholarship packages covering tuition, living allowances, insurance, research support, and more.
• 🌺 Rich Cultural Diversity: Indonesia is home to over 700 living languages and hundreds of ethnic groups — one of the world's most diverse cultural landscapes.
• 🗣️ Learn Bahasa Indonesia: Bahasa Indonesia is one of the world's most widely spoken languages, opening doors to a community of over 260 million speakers across Southeast Asia.
• 🌿 Natural Beauty: From active volcanoes and tropical rainforests to pristine beaches and ancient temples, Indonesia's natural and cultural heritage is unmatched.

02About Indonesia — Geography, Culture, People & Language

Geography

Indonesia (officially, the Republic of Indonesia) is the world's largest archipelagic country, located in Southeast Asia between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Spanning over 5,000 km from Sabang to Merauke, the country consists of five main islands — Sumatra, Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi, and Papua — plus thousands of smaller islands, sharing land borders with Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, and Timor-Leste.

03Your Scholarship & Admission — How IGTS Works

Admission Steps & Processes

The standard steps for application processing and university placement typically include:

1. 1Academic screening by the university's study program
2. 2Interview and/or psychometric assessment (online)
3. 3Plenary session and placement decision (Clearing House)
4. 4Issuance of Letter of Acceptance (LoA)
5. 5Acceptance confirmation by applicant
6. 6Study permit, student visa, and immigration processing
7. 7Re-registration at the host university
8. 8Arrival, orientation, and BIPA program

Required Documents

1. 1Completed online application form
2. 2Valid passport
3. 3Last educational diploma / certificate
4. 4Official academic transcripts
5. 5Recent passport-size photograph
6. 6Recommendation letter(s)
7. 7Motivation letter or study plan
8. 8Language proficiency certificate (if required by the study program)
9. 9Official translated documents (if originals are not in Indonesian or English)
10. 10Additional documents as required by your scholarship type or study program

04Before You Depart — Pre-Departure Checklist

Documents to Prepare

• Passport (valid for at least 18 months from your travel date)
• Student Visa / Telex Visa — applied for at the Indonesian Embassy in your country before departure
• Letter of Acceptance (LoA) from your host university
• Study Permit (Izin Belajar) — IGTS/KUI will assist you after LoA is issued
• Scholarship award letter (if applicable)
• Health insurance certificate
• Certified copies of academic certificates and transcripts
• Minimum 6 recent passport-size photographs
• Medical fitness certificate from a licensed physician

Financial Preparation

Even if you receive a full scholarship, you should arrive with some personal funds for the initial days — before your first living allowance is disbursed. We recommend having at least USD 200–300 in cash upon arrival. Exchange it to Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) at the airport or at a reputable money changer.

Health Preparation

• Complete any required vaccinations (check requirements with the Indonesian Embassy and WHO recommendations).
• Bring a sufficient personal supply of any prescription medications — ensure they are legal in Indonesia.
• Obtain a copy of your medical records or a health summary from your doctor.
• Purchase international health insurance if your scholarship does not cover the pre-arrival period.

What to Pack

05Arriving in Indonesia — Immigration & First Steps

Student Visa (Telex Visa)

Before traveling to Indonesia, you must apply for a student visa (Telex Visa) at the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Your host university's International Office (KUI) and IGTS will provide the required supporting documents — LoA, study permit recommendation, guarantee letter — to complete the visa application.

At the Airport

1. 1Proceed to the Immigration counter. Present your passport, student visa, and LoA.
2. 2Complete the immigration card provided on your flight or at the airport.
3. 3Collect your luggage from the designated baggage belt.

06What to Do First — Setting Up Your Life in Indonesia

Accommodation (Kost)

For off-campus housing, a private room rental (kost) is the most common option. Monthly rates vary significantly by city and room quality. Your KUI and fellow international students can help you find reputable options. Always inspect the room before signing a rental agreement.

First-Week Checklist

1. 1Report to your university's International Office (KUI) on the first working day.
2. 2Complete your KITAS processing with KUI assistance — bring all original documents.
3. 3Register with the campus health clinic.
4. 4Open an Indonesian bank account (your KUI will advise which bank your scholarship uses).
5. 5Get a local SIM card (Telkomsel, Indosat, or XL Axiata are widely available at the airport).
6. 6Download essential apps: Gojek / Grab, Google Maps, WhatsApp.
7. 7Attend the university orientation program for international students.

07Academic Life — Studying at Your University

Academic Calendar

The Indonesian university academic year is divided into two semesters, each consisting of 16 weeks of classes plus exam periods. The academic calendar varies by university — your KUI will provide you with the official schedule.

Credit System (SKS — Sistem Kredit Semester)

Indonesian universities use the SKS (Semester Credit Unit) system, similar to the credit hour system used internationally. One SKS corresponds to approximately 50 minutes of classroom time per week per semester. Minimum graduation requirements by degree level:

• Bachelor's (S1) — typically 144 SKS over 4 years (8 semesters)
• Master's (S2) — typically 36–42 SKS over 2 years (4 semesters)
• Doctoral (S3) — typically 42–52 SKS over 3 years (6 semesters)

Language of Instruction

Most undergraduate programs are conducted in Bahasa Indonesia. International (English-medium) programs are available at graduate level in many partner universities. This is why the BIPA program is an important first step — to ensure you can participate effectively in your academic program.

Academic Advisor

Upon registration, you will be assigned an academic advisor (dosen pembimbing akademik) who will guide you in course selection, monitor your academic progress, and support your study plan.

08Code of Conduct — Student Responsibilities

Academic Integrity

• Maintain full academic integrity at all times — plagiarism, cheating, and fabrication of data are serious offenses.
• Attend all scheduled classes, examinations, and mandatory institutional events. Prior written notice is required for any absence.
• Actively engage with your academic advisor and follow the guidance of your study program.

Immigration & Documentation Compliance

• You are personally responsible for ensuring your passport, KITAS, and all immigration documents remain valid throughout your stay.
• Report to your KUI regularly as required. Any changes in personal information must be updated with the KUI promptly.
• Never overstay your visa or KITAS.
• IGTS and your KUI will assist you, but ultimate responsibility for compliance lies with you.

Dress Code & Conduct on Campus

• Dress appropriately on campus. Avoid overly casual attire such as sleeveless shirts, very short shorts, and flip-flops in academic buildings.
• Modest dress is generally appreciated and expected in Indonesian society — on and off campus.
• Behave respectfully toward staff, faculty, and fellow students at all times.

Prohibited Activities

• Engaging in political or ideological activities that could disrupt Indonesian social order.
• Committing any criminal act, including drug use or trafficking, illegal trading, harassment, or abuse.
• Working for profit or earning an income during your study period (unless specifically authorised).
• Excessive consumption of alcohol — Indonesian society, particularly in predominantly Muslim communities, does not welcome public intoxication.
• Any activity that violates Indonesian law or university regulations.

Cultural Sensitivity

Indonesia is a deeply respectful and communal society. Being culturally sensitive will not only help you avoid misunderstandings but will make your experience far richer.

• Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a place of worship.
• Use your right hand when giving or receiving items, and when eating.
• Greet elders and people of authority with particular respect.
• Avoid raising your voice or public displays of frustration.
• Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural or traditional communities.
• Respect religious practices and observances — be mindful of prayer times and fasting months.

09Money & Banking — Currency and Finance Tips

Currency — Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)

The official currency of Indonesia is the Indonesian Rupiah (IDR, symbol: Rp). Notes come in denominations of Rp 100,000 | 50,000 | 20,000 | 10,000 | 5,000 | 2,000 | 1,000. Coins come in Rp 1,000 | 500 | 200 | 100.

Rough guide: USD 1 ≈ Rp 15,000–16,000 (rates fluctuate — always check current rates).

Currency Exchange Tips

• Exchange money at official money changers or banks — avoid street exchangers.
• The US Dollar (USD) is the easiest foreign currency to exchange. Notes must be clean, unwritten, untorn, and issued after 2005.
• Airport exchange rates are generally less favourable — exchange a small amount at the airport and get better rates in the city.

ATMs and Cards

ATMs are widely available in Indonesian cities and towns. Most accept international Visa and Mastercard debit/credit cards. Inform your home bank of your travel dates before departure to avoid card blocks. International cards are accepted in most hotels, large restaurants, and shopping centres in major cities.

Scholarship Allowance

If you receive a government scholarship, your living allowance will be disbursed monthly or as scheduled, directly to your Indonesian bank account via your host university. Contact your KUI for disbursement schedules and scholarship payment queries.

Estimated Monthly Cost of Living

Costs vary significantly between cities — larger cities like Jakarta and Surabaya tend to be more expensive than smaller university towns.

10Survival Tips — Food, Health, Safety & Social Life

Food & Dining

Indonesian food is diverse, flavorful, and very affordable. Rice (nasi) is the staple food, served with a wide variety of dishes (lauk pauk). Popular dishes include Nasi Goreng (fried rice), Soto (soup), Rendang (slow-cooked meat), and Gado-gado (vegetables with peanut sauce).

• Campus canteens (kantin) offer affordable, varied meals.
• Local warungs (small eateries) are an authentic and budget-friendly dining option.
• Larger cities have international restaurants, supermarkets, and convenience stores (Indomaret, Alfamart).
• Vegetarian and halal food options are widely available. Inform your canteen or restaurant of any dietary restrictions.
• Always drink bottled or boiled water — do not drink tap water directly.

Health & Medical Care

• Register with your campus health clinic as soon as possible after arrival.
• Ensure your health insurance is active from your first day in Indonesia.
• For mild illnesses: campus health clinics offer basic medical services including pharmacy and general check-up.
• For emergencies: proceed to the nearest government hospital (Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah / RSUD) or private hospital.
• Drink plenty of water — dehydration is common in tropical climates.
• Apply sunscreen and use insect repellent, especially in the evenings.

Culture Shock & Adjustment

Culture shock is a completely natural experience when living in a new country. If you are struggling, do not hesitate to seek help. Your KUI, campus counseling centre, and IGTS are here to support you. Connecting with both international and local students will greatly accelerate your adjustment.

Personal Safety

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places. Petty theft does occur in busy public areas.
• Keep your valuables — passport, phone, wallet — secure and not visible.
• Avoid isolated areas at night.
• Save emergency phone numbers in your phone before you need them.
• Respect Indonesia's strict laws regarding narcotics — penalties are extremely severe.

Social Life

Indonesia is a wonderfully social country. Making friends with Indonesian students will significantly enrich your experience and accelerate your language learning. Most universities have active student organisations, international student associations, cultural clubs, and sports teams — join them!

11Travel & Transportation — Getting Around Indonesia

Within the City

Inter-City Travel

Travelling Responsibly

• Always carry your KITAS or a copy of your passport when travelling within Indonesia.
• Respect local customs when visiting temples, mosques, or traditional sites — dress modestly and follow local guidance.
• Natural areas are spectacular but can be dangerous — hike with guides and follow all safety guidelines.
• Keep your KUI informed if you plan to travel outside the city for extended periods.

Recommended Apps for Indonesia

12Important Contacts — Emergency Numbers & Key Resources

National Emergency Numbers — Indonesia

Selected Indonesian Embassies & Consulates Abroad

Indonesian Embassies (KBRI) and Consulates (KJRI) are located in most countries. Before departing for Indonesia, contact your nearest Indonesian diplomatic mission for visa applications and country-specific advice. A full directory is available at: kemlu.go.id

Key Resources