The KNB Scholarship 2026 (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang Scholarship) is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarships offered by the Government of Indonesia to international students from developing countries. This scholarship program is designed to promote global education, cultural exchange, and long-term cooperation between Indonesia and partner nations by supporting students who wish to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral degrees at accredited Indonesian universities.
With generous financial coverage, access to reputable institutions, and exposure to Indonesia’s multicultural society, the KNB Scholarship stands out as an excellent opportunity for students seeking quality education abroad.
Overview of the KNB Scholarship Program
The Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship was officially established in 1992 following the 10th Conference of Heads of State of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). Initially, the program was exclusively available to students from NAM member countries. However, due to increasing global interest and the success of the initiative, the Indonesian government expanded the program in 2002, making it accessible to students from a wider range of developing countries.
Today, the KNB Scholarship is open to applicants from Asia, Africa, South America, Eastern Europe, and the Pacific region, reinforcing Indonesia’s commitment to international collaboration, diplomacy, and educational development.
Why Choose the KNB Scholarship to Study in Indonesia?
The KNB Scholarship offers more than just financial support. It provides a holistic academic and cultural experience that prepares students for global leadership. Successful applicants benefit from:
- Fully funded degree programs at top Indonesian universities
- Exposure to international academic standards
- Opportunities to build cross-cultural competence
- A chance to live in one of the world’s most diverse and culturally rich countries
- Improved career prospects and professional networks after graduation
Indonesia is home to reputable universities with strong programs in engineering, social sciences, education, public policy, science, technology, and cultural studies. Studying in Indonesia allows scholars to gain both academic excellence and real-world international experience.
Number of Awards and Host Universities
For the 2026 academic year, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia plans to award approximately 200 KNB Scholarships. These scholarships will be distributed across 34 partner universities in Indonesia, covering:
- Bachelor’s degree programs
- Master’s degree programs
- Doctoral (PhD) degree programs
This wide range of institutions and disciplines ensures that students can find programs aligned with their academic and career goals.
Vision and Mission of the KNB Scholarship
The KNB Scholarship is guided by clear objectives aimed at sustainable global development:
- To contribute to human resource development in developing countries
- To strengthen people-to-people relationships between Indonesia and partner nations
- To promote cultural understanding and academic exchange
- To improve the research capacity and global ranking of Indonesian higher education institutions
Through this initiative, Indonesia seeks to nurture future leaders who will positively impact their home countries and the global community.
KNB Scholarship 2026 Application Timeline
Applicants must strictly follow the official schedule to avoid disqualification.
Application Submission Period
Candidates must complete the online application form and upload all required documents.
02 February 2026 – 31 March 2026
Document Verification by Indonesian Embassy
The Indonesian Embassy or Consulate in the applicant’s home country will verify submitted documents.
06 April 2026 – 17 April 2026
Verification by Directorate of Institutional Affairs
Final administrative and eligibility checks will be conducted by Indonesian authorities.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
To apply successfully for the KNB Scholarship 2026, follow these steps carefully:
- Download the official KNB Scholarship Offering Letter from the scholarship website.
- Contact the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate General in your home country.
- Submit all required academic and administrative documents for review.
- Obtain a mandatory recommendation letter from the Indonesian Representative.
- Register online through the official KNB Scholarship portal.
- Upload scanned documents in .JPG or .JPEG format, each not exceeding 300 KB.
- Review all information carefully before final submission, as only one account per applicant is permitted.
Applications submitted without an official recommendation letter from the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate will be automatically rejected.
General Document Requirements
Applicants are typically required to prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Valid passport
- English language proficiency certificate (if required)
- Academic certificates and transcripts (legalized by relevant authorities)
- Academic and professional recommendation letters
Doctoral applicants must also submit:
- A recommendation letter from a potential research supervisor
- A detailed statement of research purpose
Eligibility Criteria for Bachelor’s Degree Applicants
To qualify for a KNB Bachelor’s Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be no older than 21 years by 31 December 2025
- Hold a high school diploma
- Not already possess a bachelor’s degree
- Meet minimum English language requirements: TOEFL ITP: 477, TOEFL iBT: 53
- Provide a valid passport (valid until at least 31 December 2026)
- Obtain an official recommendation from the Indonesian Embassy or Consulate
Eligibility Criteria for Master’s Degree Applicants
Applicants for the KNB Master’s Scholarship must meet the following conditions:
- Be 35 years old or younger by 31 December 2025
- Hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree
- Not already hold a Master’s degree
- Meet minimum English language requirements: TOEFL ITP: 500, TOEFL iBT: 61
- Submit legalized academic transcripts and certificates
- Possess a passport valid until 31 December 2026
Applicants from English-speaking countries or those who completed prior education in English may be exempt from submitting language test results with official proof.
The KNB Scholarship 2026 is a life-changing opportunity for students from developing countries who aspire to study abroad on a fully funded scholarship. With access to quality education, cultural immersion, and global academic exposure, this program empowers future leaders and strengthens international cooperation.
If you are eligible and motivated to study in Indonesia, the KNB Scholarship could be your pathway to academic excellence and long-term professional success.
Application Deadline: 31 March, 2026