Cost of Studying as a Foreign Student in Indonesia: An In-Depth Guide
The cost of studying as a foreign student in Indonesia can vary significantly, depending on several factors including the type of institution (public or private), the program of study, and the city where the university is located. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the estimated costs associated with studying in Indonesia.
Tuition Fees
Public universities in Indonesia typically offer more affordable options for international students, with tuition fees generally ranging from Rp. 10,000,000 to 50,000,000 per year. Private universities, on the other hand, may charge significantly higher fees, often ranging from Rp. 30,000,000 to 150,000,000 per year, depending on the program and institution.
For instance, my own experience studying law at a private Christian university showed that the full academic program, including admission fees, first semester fees, and facilities costs, amounted to approximately Rp. 57–63 million or around 4800 USD. The costs per semester range from Rp. 14–16 million for a normal semester to Rp. 7–8 million for an accelerated semester, leading to a total of around Rp. 99 million or approximately 8000 USD for the complete academic program.
Books are not a significant issue; I spent less than 500,000 IDR on books per semester, as most of the materials are photocopied and most lecturers use e-books and slides instead.
Living Expenses
Accommodation
Accommodation costs can vary widely. For shared housing or dormitories, you can expect to pay around Rp. 1,000,000 to 3,000,000 per month. Communal living spaces or kosts, which include utilities and cleaning, cost around Rp. 1,500,000 per month. If you prefer a more luxurious suite-style room, you might pay around Rp. 3,000,000 to 4,000,000 per month.
Food
Monthly food expenses can range from Rp. 1,500,000 to 3,000,000 depending on lifestyle and eating habits. For a more budget-friendly option, you can spend around Rp. 2,500,000 to 3,000,000 per month, including expenses on Netflix, Spotify, and occasional parties in the SCBD area.
Transportation
Public transportation in Indonesia is quite affordable, with monthly costs around Rp. 20,000 to 50,000. This includes various forms of transport such as buses, taxis, and trains.
Miscellaneous Expenses
Other expenses, such as entertainment, health insurance, and other miscellaneous items, can add another Rp. 500,000 to 1,500,000 per month. For a more budget-friendly approach, you might spend around Rp. 8,000,000 to 9,000,000 per month, including tuition fees, but you can live more comfortably with expenses around Rp. 11,000,000 to 13,000,000 per month.
Additional Considerations
Scholarships
Some universities in Indonesia offer scholarships to international students, which can significantly reduce the overall cost. It is advisable to research specific universities and programs to find the most accurate and up-to-date information on available scholarships.
Visa Fees
Visa application fees vary, so it's important to factor in these costs as part of your total expenses. Refer to the relevant official government or university websites for the latest information.
Conclusion
In summary, the total estimated cost of studying as a foreign student in Indonesia, including both tuition and living expenses, can range widely. For a good living standard, expect to spend around Rp. 11,000,000 to 13,000,000 per month, including tuition fees. If you prefer to live on a budget, you might manage with around Rp. 8,000,000 to 9,000,000 per month, including tuition fees.