The Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious fully funded program offered by the Government of Indonesia. Designed for students from developing countries, the scholarship allows you to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees at top Indonesian universities.
Unlike other scholarships tied to a single region, the KNB Scholarship reflects Indonesia’s commitment to South–South Cooperation for building educational, cultural, and diplomatic ties with nations across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Whether you dream of advancing in engineering, economics, health sciences, or social studies, the KNB Scholarship 2026 offers you world-class education plus the cultural experience of living in Indonesia.
Quick Key Highlights of KNB Scholarship 2026
- Degree Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral (PhD).
- Who Can Apply: Citizens of developing countries.
- Funding: Tuition, allowance, airfare, insurance, research support.
- Universities: 20+ partners including UI, ITB, UGM, UNAIR.
- Application Period: February – April 2026 (expected).
- Program Start: September 2026.
Why Study in Indonesia?
- Affordable Living Costs → Scholarship allowance is enough for rent, meals, and transport.
- Cultural Diversity → With 17,000 islands and hundreds of ethnic groups, Indonesia is truly multicultural.
- Reputable Universities → Institutions like Universitas Indonesia (UI), Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), and Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) are among Asia’s best.
- Strategic Location → A bridge between Asia and the Pacific, easy access from Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East.
- South–South Partnership → The KNB Scholarship is not just about study, it is part of Indonesia’s global cooperation efforts.
Study Levels and Duration
Bachelor’s Program
- Duration: 4 years (+1 year prep & language).
- Ideal for those building strong academic foundations.
Master’s Program
- Duration: 2 years (+1 year prep).
- Covers research and professional skills in multiple fields.
Doctoral (PhD) Program
- Duration: 4 years (+1 year prep).
- Focus on dissertation research, academic publications, and global impact.
Benefits of KNB Scholarship 2026
The scholarship is fully funded, covering:
- International airfare.
- Full tuition fees.
- Monthly living allowance.
- Health insurance.
- Indonesian language course.
- Research and thesis support.
See the full breakdown here: KNB Scholarship 2026 Benefits Explained
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of developing countries.
- Meet age limits (21 for Bachelor’s, 35 for Master’s, 40 for Doctoral).
- Hold relevant diplomas/degrees.
- Show English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS preferred).
- Be in good health.
Read the full details: KNB Scholarship 2026 Eligibility Criteria.
Documents Required
You will need:
- Completed application form.
- Valid passport.
- Academic certificates and transcripts.
- Recommendation letters.
- Motivation letter.
- English proficiency proof.
- Health certificate.
Download the full checklist: Required Documents for KNB Scholarship 2026.
Timeline of KNB Scholarship 2026
| Stage | Tentative Period | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Online Application | Feb – Apr 2026 | Apply via official portal. |
| Shortlisting | May 2026 | Review of eligible applicants. |
| Interviews | Jun 2026 | Virtual/embassy interviews. |
| Final Results | Jul 2026 | Selected candidates notified. |
| Visa & Departure | Aug 2026 | Travel preparation. |
| Program Start | Sep 2026 | Orientation + language course. |
Check updates here: KNB Scholarship 2026 Deadline & Timeline
Participating Universities (Highlights)
- Universitas Indonesia (UI) – Social sciences, law, health.
- Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB) – Engineering, science, tech.
- Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) – Comprehensive programs.
- Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) – Health sciences, economics.
- Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI) – Education, teacher training.
Explore the full list: KNB Scholarship 2026 Participating Universities.
Life in Indonesia as a KNB Scholar
- Cost of Living → $200–$300/month is enough in most student cities.
- Language → Easy to learn, plus 1-year language course provided.
- Culture → Warm, friendly, and rich in traditions.
- Travel → From Bali beaches to Borobudur temples, endless adventures await.
Full guide here: Living in Indonesia as a KNB Scholar.
How to Apply for KNB Scholarship 2026
Steps:
- Register on official KNB portal.
- Fill the application form.
- Upload documents.
- Submit recommendations.
- Provide English scores.
- Attend interview (if shortlisted).
- Receive results.
- Prepare visa and travel.
Step-by-step guide: How to Apply for KNB Scholarship 2026.
FAQs
1. Is the KNB Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers tuition, living allowance, airfare, and insurance.
2. Can I apply without English test results?
Conditional cases may exist, but proof of English is usually required.
3. Do I need Indonesian language skills before applying?
No, a 1-year course is provided.
4. How competitive is it?
Thousands apply each year, so strong academic and motivation documents are vital.
5. Can I bring my family?
No, dependents are not covered by the scholarship.
Final Thoughts
The KNB Scholarship 2026 is more than financial aid. it’s a chance to join a global academic community, represent your country, and experience Indonesia’s vibrant culture.
If you want a fully funded degree, career growth, and cultural adventure, this scholarship is for you.