A complete guide to studying abroad in Indonesia! Costs, choosing a city, visas, and schools explained
Dec. 9, 2025

If you have opened this article, you are probably attracted to the country of Indonesia.
- I want to experience more of the unique culture, the sounds of gamelan, and the patterns of batik.
- I can't forget the smiles of the people I met on my trips to Jakarta and Bali.
- I love spicy Indonesian food like nasi goreng and sambal.
In this way, feelings of love for Indonesia must be beginning to grow.
There is a great way to deepen your love for travel and not just limit your interest to travel.
That's language study abroad in Indonesia !
Learning Indonesian will help you understand Indonesian culture better and communicate better with local people.
What's more, Indonesia is a hidden gem for language study abroad , offering many benefits not only in terms of cost, but also in terms of ease of language acquisition and future career development.
In this article, we will explain the cost of studying in Indonesia, the characteristics of study abroad destinations such as Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bali, basic visa information, and important study tips to keep in mind before traveling, while also taking into account local conditions.
Why not take your love for Indonesia and develop it even further by studying abroad?
[Free] Latest AI services recommended for learning Indonesian
If you want to learn Indonesian , we recommend "Ondoku" !
"Ondoku" is an AI reading service that is ideal for creating Indonesian listening and speaking materials .
The latest AI speech synthesis engine creates Indonesian audio with native speaker pronunciation .
What's more, "Ondoku" is free!
It's easy to use; just enter the text, so why not try using "Ondoku" to learn Indonesian?
Why study abroad in Indonesia?


If you love Indonesia, we highly recommend this language study abroad program.
First, let me explain why studying abroad in Indonesia is recommended.
1. Indonesian is an easy language for Japanese people to learn
The first reason why we recommend studying abroad in Indonesia is that Indonesian is a very easy language for Japanese people to learn .
When learning a new language, the biggest hurdle is the letters and pronunciation.
But actually, you don't need to worry about either of these things when it comes to Indonesian.
The characters used are alphabets , so there is no need to memorize any special symbols.
As for pronunciation, you can basically understand it by reading it in romaji .
You won't have to deal with complex phonetic symbols like English or tonal changes like Chinese.
What's even better is that the grammar is simple .
Indonesian is sometimes called "the easiest language in the world to learn."
I confidently recommend learning Indonesian to those who feel they are not good at languages.
Indonesian is a language with great potential
When learning a foreign language, it's important not just to memorize it but to use it.
Indonesian has a great future .
Indonesia today is a country brimming with energy for growth.
The average age is around 29 years old, and with a population of over 270 million, it is attracting attention from around the world as a huge market.
Japanese companies are also expanding into the country at an accelerated pace, and the demand for local personnel who can speak Indonesian is only increasing .
There are also increasing cases of people studying abroad to learn the language and then starting their careers as local hires in Indonesia, such as in Jakarta .
By studying abroad in Indonesia, you can not only learn the language, but also develop business acumen in Asia's rapidly growing economic sphere!
This is a major advantage that cannot be found at other study abroad destinations.
Of course, even after you return to your home country, being able to speak Indonesian will be valued as a rare skill in your career.
Indonesia is a comfortable country to live in. The security situation is also good.
It's also important to consider what kind of life you will be able to lead at your study abroad destination.
In fact, Indonesia is known as one of the most pro-Japanese countries in the world, and has an environment that makes it easy for Japanese people to live there .
There is a strong trust in Japanese culture and products, and there are many situations where people are treated kindly simply because they are Japanese.
When you are feeling anxious about living abroad for the first time, the warm welcome of the local people can be a great source of comfort.
Of course, you need to be at least a little aware of crime prevention, but there is no need to be overly concerned about public safety.
In Indonesia, where the spirit of mutual aid is deeply rooted and where someone will help you when you are in trouble, you can continue your studies with a positive attitude.
How much does it cost to study in Indonesia?


Next, we will introduce the costs of studying abroad in Indonesia and living expenses.
Cheaper than Europe and the US? Average tuition and living costs for language study in Indonesia
When considering studying abroad, the biggest concern is of course the cost .
First, let's look at the specific market price.
To conclude, the cost of studying in Indonesia can be reduced to less than half, and in some cases to about one-third, of the cost of studying abroad in Europe or the United States .
Even if you combine tuition fees and living expenses, you can live comfortably on around 100,000 to 150,000 yen per month.
If you take a university-affiliated course for foreign students (BIPA), tuition fees are surprisingly reasonable, ranging from a few tens of thousands to a hundred thousand yen, even for a program that lasts a few months.
Even if you take one-on-one lessons at a private language school, it will still be cheaper than attending an English conversation school in Japan.
In terms of living expenses, the price level is significantly lower than in Japan, allowing you to save a lot, especially on food costs.
If you eat at local restaurants or food stalls, you can eat your fill for just 200 to 300 yen per meal.
Local dishes such as nasi goreng and mie goreng are cheap and delicious, a favorite among the common people.
Costs vary depending on accommodation (Kos/Hotel)
The most common accommodation for language study abroad in Indonesia is a boarding house known as "Kos."
Kos are a type of accommodation that is somewhere between an apartment and a shared house , and often come with a private room equipped with a bed, desk, and private shower and toilet.
The kitchen and living room are shared, making it easy to interact with other residents.
Rent varies depending on the facilities and area, but there is a wide range of options, from simple rooms for around 15,000 yen per month to luxury apartments with pools and gyms that cost over 50,000 yen per month.
Rent will vary depending on whether or not an apartment has air conditioning and hot water showers, so it is recommended to choose one that suits your lifestyle.
Many properties include cleaning and laundry services, making them an ideal environment for international students who want to focus on their studies without having to worry about housework.
We also recommend staying in a hotel immediately after arriving and looking around at properties before signing a contract .
Prepare your airfare and insurance costs
While the cost of living in Indonesian cities such as Yogyakarta and Jakarta is low, careful estimation of initial costs such as travel expenses is required .
Airline ticket prices, in particular, vary greatly depending on the time of purchase and the route.
It's easy to take a direct flight to Jakarta or Bali, but it's not uncommon for a round-trip fare to exceed 100,000 yen.
If you want to keep costs down, we also recommend using LCCs (low-cost carriers) that fly via Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.
It takes time, but it can save you tens of thousands of yen.
Of course, it is also essential to take out overseas travel insurance.
The medical situation in Indonesia is different from that in Japan, and medical costs at hospitals that are accessible to foreigners are often high.
It is important to choose insurance with sufficient coverage in case of illness, injury, or theft.
Yogyakarta, Bali, Jakarta: How to choose a study abroad destination that suits your goals


Next, let's take a look at some specific study abroad destinations in Indonesia, such as Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bali!
1. Yogyakarta: A university town for serious Indonesian language study
If your top priority is the Indonesian language learning environment, Yogyakarta is the perfect choice!
Yogyakarta is an ancient city located in central Java and is one of Indonesia's leading academic cities, home to many universities.
It is located about 450 km east of the capital, Jakarta.
The entire city has an academic and relaxed atmosphere , and is home to many international students who are serious about their studies.
Prices are cheaper than in Jakarta or Bali, so even long-term stays can be kept to a minimum.
Because it is not too touristy , there are many situations in daily life where English is not spoken, and you will inevitably find yourself in an environment where you have no choice but to use Indonesian.
As it is also a center of traditional culture, it is possible to gain a deeper understanding of the culture behind the language through cultural experiences such as batik and gamelan.
2. Jakarta: Indonesia's business and cultural center
The capital, Jakarta , is the political and economic center of Indonesia.
For those who are considering finding employment or starting a business locally in the future, there is a major benefit in that it makes it easier to build up connections and visit companies.
However, cities also face problems such as severe traffic congestion, air pollution, and high prices.
This is a recommended language study destination for those seeking business opportunities and excitement .
3. Bandung: A city of learning and fashion, known as the "Paris of Java"
Bandung , located about three hours by train from Jakarta, is known as a summer resort located on the plateau.
It is an attractive city that combines stylish streets known as the "Paris of Java" with an academic atmosphere due to the many universities that are located there .
There are many young people who are sensitive to fashion and art, so this area is recommended for those who want to live at the forefront of trends.
4. Study abroad and refresh at a resort in Bali
Study a language and relax at the resort.
If you're interested in both, I recommend Bali .
Beautiful beaches, sophisticated cafes, and interactions with travelers from all over the world.
Bali has a lot to offer.
However, one drawback is that it is such a famous tourist destination that English is widely spoken there .
The local people are used to tourists, so even if you speak to them in Indonesian, they will often reply in English.
If you are serious about learning Indonesian, you need a strong will to not rely on English and to create an environment where you consciously use Indonesian.
Study English in Indonesia? Bali and the English Village, Pare
In fact, it is possible to study abroad in Indonesia to learn English .
Bali in particular has a wide selection of language schools and international schools that teach in English, catering to long-term residents and nomadic workers.
There are also an increasing number of schools that offer a style similar to "one-on-one, low-cost" study abroad in the Philippines.
Kampung Inglis (English Village) in the town of Pare in East Java is also famous.
There are over 100 English language schools concentrated here, attracting students from all over Indonesia who want to learn English.
Living costs and tuition fees are very low, and you will be living in a local Indonesian environment, so it is also recommended for those interested in cultural exchange.
Of course, the best way to gain a deeper understanding of Indonesian culture is to learn not only English but also Indonesian.
What is BIPA? Explaining Indonesian language study abroad schools and courses

A common language study abroad program in Indonesia is the "BIPA" program.
There are various types of language study abroad programs in Indonesia, such as BIPA and private language schools.
Indonesian language course "BIPA" affiliated with the university
A common way to study Indonesian language is to participate in a program called "BIPA."
BIPA is a language course for foreigners offered at Indonesian public and private universities , where students can learn Indonesian through a systematic curriculum.
Classes are organized in six-month or one-year increments, allowing students to acquire a balanced range of grammar, conversation, reading and listening comprehension .
Another great attraction is that students from all over the world come to the school, so you can build an international network through interactions with your classmates.
In addition, you can also use the university's facilities such as the library and cafeteria.
However, since admission dates are fixed at once or twice a year , you will need to adjust your schedule to match the university's calendar.
The application process can take time, so it's important to start early.
Private language schools also offer short-term language study abroad programs
If you want a more flexible schedule, private language schools are also a good option.
Students can enroll for as little as one week, and enrollment dates are often flexible.
The biggest feature is that it focuses on one-on-one lessons .
Another advantage is that we can adjust the curriculum to meet individual needs, such as "focusing on travel conversation" or "learning business terminology."
It is also recommended for working adults who wish to study abroad during their short vacation, or as a preparation period before enrolling at BIPA.
Types of visas required for Indonesian language study abroad & points to note

An important thing to know when studying abroad in Indonesia is what type of visa you need.
The type of visa you need will vary depending on how you plan to study abroad.
Visitor visa (B211A) - Single entry visa
The Visitor Visa (B211A) , commonly known as the "Social Budaya", is a visa for cultural and educational purposes.
You will be granted a 60-day stay permit initially, and can extend your stay up to 180 days (approximately six months) by completing an extension procedure locally.
It may take some time to obtain a visa, so it is recommended that you obtain one well in advance of your travel plans.
Student Visa (C316) Official visa for studying abroad
The official visa for studying abroad is a student visa (C316) .
This visa is for studying at an Indonesian educational institution such as a university, and you will need to submit documents certifying your study destination.
You are not allowed to work in Indonesia.
Please note that it may take some time to obtain a visa.
Studying abroad is not permitted with a tourist visa (VoA)
Japanese tourists can enter Indonesia without a visa.
If you are staying for a long period of time, it is common to use "VoA (Visa on Arrival)" , which can be obtained at the airport.
The VoA is a visa that allows you to stay for 30 days, and can be extended to a maximum of 60 days.
However, VoA is a visa only for tourism, short-term business trips, and visiting relatives, so it is not suitable for full-scale language study abroad.
Enforcement of illegal employment and the misuse of visas is becoming stricter every year, so we recommend obtaining a regular visa to avoid any problems.
Is it bad to study Indonesian without prior study? Tips for studying Indonesian before studying abroad

Finally, we will introduce some recommended ways to learn Indonesian before you set off on your language study abroad trip!
It is recommended to learn vocabulary and basic expressions before studying abroad
To make the most of your language study abroad in Indonesia, we recommend that you solidify your foundation while you are in Japan .
By learning basic vocabulary and expressions, you will be able to experience Indonesian in a real-life environment as soon as you arrive in Indonesia.
This article introduces Indonesian words and expressions, so be sure to check it out!
Listening and shadowing are recommended for learning Indonesian
If you want to improve your Indonesian communication skills, the key is to study using audio .
We recommend listening practice using Indonesian audio, or shadowing, where you practice pronunciation while listening to the audio .
However, when learning Indonesian, it is often difficult to find learning materials that are appropriate for your level.
It is very difficult to find practical listening materials, as the audio content included with commercially available textbooks is often outdated and there is little variety in the conversation content.
In such cases, we recommend creating your own teaching materials using the latest AI services !
The latest AI speech synthesis service can read Indonesian text aloud with native speaker pronunciation.
You can create Indonesian language learning materials based on your interests, such as travel, hobbies, and business, so you can stay motivated while continuing to learn Indonesian.
[Free] We recommend "Ondoku" for learning Indonesian!
If you want to create learning materials for Indonesian language, we recommend "Ondoku" !
"Ondoku" is an AI service that can read Indonesian text aloud using the latest AI speech synthesis engine .
You can create easy-to-listen Indonesian audio files using native-sounding female and male voices.
It's very easy to use.
If you paste some Indonesian text on the top page of "Ondoku" ,

Select "Indonesia (Indonesia)" as the language.

Select the audio type (speaker) (audio sample here) .

All you have to do is press "Read aloud" and the Indonesian audio will be played immediately.

Audio files can be saved in MP3 or WAV format on your smartphone or PC.
What's more, "Ondoku" is free!
It's easy to use, just open the top page, so why not try using "Ondoku" to learn Indonesian?
Would you like to study abroad in Indonesia?
Studying abroad in Indonesia is a very attractive option.
Indonesia is a recommended study abroad destination not only for those who love Indonesian culture, but also for those who are interested in business and skill development as the country is rapidly developing.
Your experience will vary greatly depending on where you study abroad in Indonesia, such as Yogyakarta, Jakarta, or Bali, so use this article as a reference when choosing your study abroad destination.
To make your language study abroad experience more meaningful, we recommend that you start learning Indonesian now using AI services.
Why not try learning Indonesian using "Ondoku" ?
I sincerely hope that your Indonesian language study abroad experience will be a success.
■ AI voice synthesis software "Ondoku"
"Ondoku" is an online text-to-speech tool that can be used with no initial costs.
- Supports approximately 50 languages, including Japanese, English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, French, and German
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- No installation required, can be used immediately from your browser
- Supports reading from images
To use it, simply enter text or upload a file on the site. A natural-sounding audio file will be generated within seconds. You can use voice synthesis up to 5,000 characters for free, so please give it a try.
Email: ondoku3.com@gmail.com
"Ondoku" is a Text-to-Speech service that anyone can use for free without installation. If you register for free, you can get up to 5000 characters for free each month. Register now for free

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