KNB Scholarship 2026: UNISMA Welcomes International Students from Over 50 Countries
Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA) has officially opened applications for the 2026 Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship, inviting international students from around the world to pursue undergraduate and master’s degrees in Indonesia. The application period are open from 2 February to 31 March 2026, offering fully funded study opportunities in one of East Java’s leading higher education institutions.
Under the authority of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology of the Republic of Indonesia and Nahdlatul Ulama (NU), UNISMA continues to strengthen its position as an inclusive and globally oriented university. The institution currently offers 17 study programs across bachelor’s and master’s level supported by qualified academic staff and modern learning facilities. Since 2022, UNISMA has maintained an “Excellent” institutional accreditation, with several programs also receiving international recognition.
For the 2026 KNB intake, UNISMA provides 14 undergraduate programs and 3 master’s programs across various faculties, including Engineering, Agriculture, Economics and Business, Law, Education, and Natural Sciences. Many of these programs hold national and international accreditations from reputable bodies such as FIBAA and ASIIN, reflecting the university’s commitment to academic quality and global standards. Beyond academics, UNISMA emphasizes character building grounded in the values of Islam Ahlussunnah wal Jama’ah, integrating ethical development with scientific and technological advancement. Rector Prof. Drs. H. Junaidi, M.Pd., Ph.D. highlighted that UNISMA aims to produce graduates who are not only academically excellent but also socially responsible and globally competitive.
Located in Malang City, often called the “Paris of East Java,” UNISMA offers international students a conducive learning environment surrounded by natural beauty, cultural heritage, and a vibrant academic ecosystem. The city it self are known for its affordable living costs, diverse culinary scene, and welcoming community, making it an attractive destination for students from more than 40 countries who have joined UNISMA’s academic community.
KNB scholarship recipients will receive comprehensive financial support, including tuition fees, living allowances, health insurance, round-trip airfare, settlement funds, and research and publication allowances. Students are required to undergo one year of Indonesian language preparation before entering their academic programs.
Scholarship Coverage and Duration
- Settlement allowance will be provided once to new students upon their arrival in Indonesia.
- Full tuition fee coverage is granted for both the Indonesian Language Program (BIPA) and regular academic programs (non-international class) throughout the official scholarship duration.
- Monthly living allowance will be given during the BIPA Program and academic studies, as long as students reside in Indonesia under the scholarship period.
- Monthly research and book allowance will be provided to support students’ academic and research activities throughout the program.
- Health insurance is included, covering outpatient and inpatient medical treatment as well as accidents, in accordance with the policy of the insurance provider and excluding aesthetic treatments.
- Funding for the publication of one scientific article will be provided once during the scholarship period for master’s and doctoral students.
- Economy-class international airfare will be provided, including:
- Arrival ticket from the international airport in the student’s home country to Indonesia, including local transportation to the host university; and
- Return ticket to the student’s home country after program completion or after the graduation certificate has been issued, including local transportation from the host university to the international airport in Indonesia.
- Students are required to return to their home countries no later than 60 days after the program ends, provided their residence permit remains valid. Program completion does not necessarily coincide with a graduation or commencement ceremony. The return ticket will be arranged by the host university, while students are responsible for applying for an Exit Permit Only (EPO) and completing the ticket booking process.
Requirements for Bachelor’s Degree Scholarship
- Must be a non-Indonesian citizen
- Must not exceed 25 years of age at the time of application
- Must hold a senior high school diploma or equivalent
- Must have a strong academic record
- Must demonstrate English proficiency through recognized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS
- Must submit required documents, including academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a valid passport, and a medical certificate
Requirements for Master’s Degree Scholarship
- Must be a non-Indonesian citizen
- Must not exceed 35 years of age at the time of application
- Must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Must have a strong academic background
- Must demonstrate English proficiency through recognized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS
- Must submit required documents, including academic transcripts and diploma, recommendation letters, a statement of purpose, a valid passport, a medical certificate, and a research proposal relevant to the chosen field of study
With strong international partnerships, active student achievements at regional and global levels, and a growing focus on research and innovation, UNISMA continues to position itself as a gateway for international students seeking quality education in Indonesia. Further information regarding the application process can be accessed through the official KNB portal and UNISMA’s Office of International Affairs.
More information related to the KNB Scholarship at UNISMA, the official booklet and flyer can be found through this link. The Complete Guide to the KNB UNISMA Scholarship is now available. Click this link to view the official guidebook.
