Studying abroad has become an increasingly popular aspiration among Indonesian students in 2025. The allure of world-class education, exposure to diverse cultures, and the opportunity to build a global network are compelling reasons to pursue studies overseas. However, studying overseas can be expensive, so learning how to get a scholarship abroad is important.
Scholarships can cover tuition, living expenses, travel, and other costs, allowing students to concentrate on their studies and personal development. This article is a complete guide for Indonesian students on getting scholarships abroad, covering opportunities, application steps, and tips for success.
Benefits of Studying Abroad with a Scholarship
Cultural Experience and Personal Growth
Studying abroad lets students live in a new country and experience different cultures, traditions, and ways of thinking. This helps them become more open-minded, adaptable, and aware of the world. They also improve their language skills naturally by using the language every day, not just in class.
Academic Development and Skill Building
Students experience new ways of learning, research, and problem-solving. Studying in different education systems helps them gain more knowledge and think critically. They build key skills like independence, creativity, and teamwork valued by employers.
Career Opportunities and Networking
Studying abroad can make students more competitive in the job market. Employers appreciate graduates with international experience and a global mindset. Scholarships also help students connect with alumni, professionals, and organizations, opening doors to mentorship, internships, and career opportunities.
Financial Support and Focus on Studies
Studying in another country can be expensive, but scholarships pay for tuition, living expenses, and travel. This helps students focus on learning and personal growth without stressing about money.
Recognition and Motivation
Scholarships recognize a student’s talent and potential. Receiving one can boost confidence, motivate students to do their best, and show their dedication to academics, leadership, and community service.
Independence and Resilience
Living in another country helps students handle daily life, make their own decisions, and overcome challenges. This develops independence, resilience, and life skills for personal and career growth.
Studying abroad with a scholarship offers financial support, quality education, cultural exposure, career benefits, and personal growth for a successful future.
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Understanding the Types of Scholarships
Scholarships come in many forms to support different needs and achievements. Here are the main types:
Merit-Based Scholarships
Awarded to students with strong academic performance or exceptional achievements, these scholarships recognize and reward hard work, talent, and commitment.
Need-Based Scholarships
These help students who may struggle financially. They ensure that money is not a barrier to getting a good education.
Country-Specific Scholarships
These scholarships support students who want to study in a specific country, promoting international education, cultural exchange, and global cooperation.
Program-Specific Scholarships
These are for students pursuing a certain field of study or course. They provide support tailored to specific academic disciplines, like science, technology, or the arts.
Scholarships are diverse, designed to support students based on academic excellence, financial need, chosen study programs, or country of study. There’s usually a scholarship that fits almost every student’s situation.
How to Get a Scholarship Abroad: Step-by-Step Guide
- Start early: Research the best country, program, and scholarship for your goals.
- Check requirements: Make sure you meet criteria such as GPA, English test scores, and extracurricular activities.
- Prepare documents: Gather your Statement of Purpose (SOP), academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and language test certificates (IELTS/TOEFL).
- Stay organized: Track deadlines carefully and submit applications on time.
- Prepare for interviews – Answering Scholarship Questions with Confidence.
Top Scholarship Opportunities for Indonesian Students
Top 1: UECFOCS (Taiwan)
UECFOCS helps Indonesian students of Chinese descent apply easily to universities in Taiwan. Students can use a single application to apply to multiple universities at once. The program offers several scholarships, including the Taiwan Government Scholarship, which covers tuition fees and provides a living allowance.
Top 2: LPDP (Indonesia)
LPDP (Indonesia) provides scholarships for Indonesian students to pursue Master’s or PhD programs. The scholarship covers full tuition, a monthly living allowance, and return airfare. There are two types: regular scholarships for high-achieving students and affirmation scholarships for underrepresented groups. LPDP enables students to study at top universities worldwide while developing both academically and as future leaders.
Top 3: MEXT (Japan)
MEXT (Japan) offers Scholarships for undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs, covering tuition, living allowance, and airfare. Applications go through Japanese embassies or universities. Offers advanced education, cultural experiences, and international networking.
Top 4: Chevening (UK)
Chevening (UK) provides scholarships for Indonesian students to pursue a one-year Master’s degree in the United Kingdom. The award covers full tuition, living expenses, and airfare. To qualify, applicants must have a strong academic background and at least two years of work experience. In addition to financial support, Chevening connects scholars to a global network of alumni and leaders, creating valuable opportunities for career advancement.
Top 5: Erasmus Mundus (Europe)
Erasmus Mundus (Europe) offers scholarships for Master’s programs across multiple European countries, covering tuition, travel, and living expenses. Open to academically strong bachelor’s graduates or final-year students, with applications submitted directly to the program consortia. The program fosters multicultural collaboration and provides exposure to diverse academic environments.
Top 6: Fulbright (USA)
Fulbright (USA) provides scholarships for Indonesian students to pursue Master’s or PhD studies in the United States. The scholarship covers tuition, a living allowance, and airfare. Applicants must have a strong academic record and show leadership potential. Applications are submitted through the U.S. Embassy in Indonesia. The program emphasizes academic excellence, cultural exchange, and building professional networks in the U.S.
Why These Scholarships Matter
These scholarships remove financial barriers and give Indonesian students opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, networking, and career growth.
Challenges Indonesian Students Face When Applying for Scholarships Abroad
Challenges
- Money Problems & Hidden Costs: Scholarships don’t cover everything; students still face expenses like visas, insurance, travel, and living costs.
- Language & Study Skills: Some struggle with academic writing, reading, or speaking in a foreign language.
- Culture Shock & Homesickness: Adapting to new food, habits, and lifestyles can be hard and sometimes lonely.
- Study Pressure: Learning and grading systems abroad can be very different, which may create pressure as students adjust to new teaching styles and expectations.
- Visa & Documents: Visa processes can be confusing, delayed, or stressful.
- Scams: Fake scholarship offers sometimes trick students.
Solutions
- Money: Plan a budget, save extra money, and look for more scholarships or part-time jobs.
- Language & Study Skills: Take language classes, practice academic writing, and use university support services.
- Culture: Learn about the host country before departure, join student groups, keep in touch with family, and reach out for support if needed.
- Study Pressure: Manage your time wisely, understand course requirements early, and seek help from tutors or classmates.
- Visa: Begin applications early, keep copies of all documents, and carefully follow immigration rules.
- Scams: Trust only official scholarship sources, avoid those asking for fees, and check with past winners.
With proper preparation, Indonesian students can overcome challenges and fully enjoy the benefits of studying abroad.
