Complete Guide to Studying Indonesian: Costs, Cities, Visas & Schools

I want to study language in Indonesia!

Since you opened this article, you are likely attracted to the country of Indonesia, aren't you?

• I want to experience more of the sounds of Gamelan, the patterns of Batik, and the unique culture
• I can't forget the smiles of the people I met during my trips to Jakarta or Bali
• I love spicy Indonesian food like Nasi Goreng and Sambal

Feelings of "liking" Indonesia must be sprouting within you like this.

There is a perfect way to deepen those feelings rather than letting your interest end with just a trip.

That is language study in Indonesia!

By learning Indonesian, you can further understand Indonesian culture and communicate more deeply with the local people.

Moreover, Indonesia is a "hidden gem for language study" that offers many benefits not only in terms of cost but also in ease of language acquisition and future career development.

In this article, we will explain the local situation, including the estimated costs of studying in Indonesia, the characteristics of study destinations like Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bali, basic visa knowledge, and essential learning points to grasp before traveling.

Why not nurture your feelings of "liking Indonesia" into something bigger through the form of studying abroad?

[Free] Latest AI Services Recommended for Learning Indonesian

If you are learning Indonesian, Ondoku is recommended!

Ondoku is an AI text-to-speech service ideal for creating Indonesian listening and speaking materials.

With the latest AI speech synthesis engine, you can create Indonesian audio with native speaker pronunciation.

Furthermore, Ondoku is free!

It is easy to use just by entering text, so why not utilize Ondoku for your Indonesian language studies?

Why is studying language in Indonesia recommended?

I want to know about language study in Indonesia!

For those of you who like Indonesia, language study is highly recommended.

First, let's explain the reasons why studying language in Indonesia is recommended.

1. Indonesian is an easy language for Japanese people to learn

The first reason to recommend language study in Indonesia is that Indonesian is a very easy language to learn for Japanese people.

When learning a new language, the biggest hurdles are usually the script and pronunciation.

However, with Indonesian, you don't need to worry about either.

The characters used are the alphabet, so there is no need to memorize special symbols.

Regarding pronunciation, it is generally understood by reading it as Romanized text.

You won't be troubled by complex phonetic symbols like in English or tonal changes like in Chinese.

[Audio Included] Explaining the points of Indonesian pronunciation! Detailed introduction of the latest free recommended learning methods

Learn Indonesian pronunciation for free! Includes an alphabet list and audio. Explaining points Japanese people should watch out for, such as the two types of "e" sounds and the difference between C and J. Also introduces how to make AI shadowing materials.

Even better, the grammar is simple.

Indonesian is sometimes called the "easiest language in the world to memorize."

For those who feel they are not good at languages, I confidently recommend learning Indonesian.

Indonesian is a language with great potential

When learning a foreign language, it is important not just to memorize it but to use it.

Indonesian has outstanding future prospects as well.

Current Indonesia is a country literally overflowing with the energy of growth.

The average age is young at around 29, and its population of over 270 million is attracting attention from all over the world as a huge market.

Expansion by Japanese companies is also accelerating, and the demand for human resources who can speak Indonesian locally is only increasing.

After studying language abroad, more cases are emerging where people start their careers as local hires in places like Jakarta.

If you study in Indonesia, you can not only acquire the language but also develop business sense in a rapidly growing Asian economic zone!

This is a major advantage not found in other study destinations.

Of course, in your career after returning home, being able to speak Indonesian will be valued as a rare skill.

Indonesia is a comfortable country to live in. Safety is also OK.

What kind of life you can lead at your study destination is also an important point.

Actually, Indonesia is known as one of the most pro-Japan countries in the world, and it has an environment where it is easy for Japanese people to live.

There is high trust in Japanese culture and products, and there are many situations where you will be treated kindly just for being Japanese.

When you feel anxious during your first time living abroad, the warm response of the local people will be a great source of emotional support.

Of course, a minimum level of crime prevention awareness is necessary, but there is no need to be excessively afraid of public safety.

In Indonesia, where the spirit of mutual aid is rooted—where someone will help you if you are in trouble—you can continue your studies positively.

What are the costs and cost of living for language study in Indonesia?

How much does it cost to study language in Indonesia?

Next, we will introduce the costs of studying language in Indonesia and the cost of living.

Cheaper than the West? Market rates for tuition and living expenses in Indonesia

The biggest concern when considering studying abroad is, after all, the cost.

First, let's look at specific market rates.

In conclusion, the cost of studying in Indonesia can be kept to less than half, and in some cases about one-third, of the cost of studying in Western countries.

Even combining tuition and living expenses, you can live sufficiently on about 100,000 to 150,000 yen per month.

For university-affiliated courses for foreigners (BIPA), tuition for a program of several months is surprisingly reasonable, ranging from several tens of thousands to over a hundred thousand yen.

Even when taking one-on-one lessons at a private language school, it is cheaper than attending an English conversation school in Japan.

Regarding living expenses, price levels are considerably lower than in Japan, and you can especially save a lot on food costs.

If you use local diners and stalls, you can eat your fill for 200 to 300 yen per meal.

Local dishes like Nasi Goreng and Mie Goreng are cheap and delicious allies of the common people.

Costs vary depending on the stay method (Kos, Hotel)

The general method of staying during language study in Indonesia is a boarding house style called "Kos".

Kos is a dwelling halfway between an apartment and a share house, where private rooms are often equipped with a bed, desk, and private shower and toilet.

The kitchen and living room are shared, creating an environment where it is easy to interact with other residents.

Rent varies depending on facilities and the area, but options are plentiful, ranging from simple rooms for about 15,000 yen per month to luxury Kos with pools and gyms for over 50,000 yen per month.

Rent fluctuates based on the presence of air conditioning or hot water showers, so it is recommended to choose according to your lifestyle.

Many properties include cleaning and laundry services, making it an ideal environment for students who want to focus on their studies without spending time on housework.

It is also recommended to stay in a hotel immediately after arrival and sign a contract after actually looking at properties.

Carefully prepare for airfare and insurance costs

While the cost of living in local Indonesian cities like Yogyakarta and Jakarta is low, careful estimation is necessary for initial costs such as travel expenses.

In particular, airfare prices fluctuate significantly depending on the purchase timing and route.

Direct flights to Jakarta or Bali are easy, but it is not uncommon for round-trip prices to exceed 100,000 yen.

If you want to keep costs down, using LCCs (low-cost carriers) via Kuala Lumpur or Singapore is also recommended.

It takes time, but savings in the tens of thousands of yen are possible.

Also, of course, joining overseas travel insurance is mandatory.

The medical situation in Indonesia differs from Japan, and medical expenses can be high at hospitals at a standard that foreigners can use.

It is important to choose insurance with sufficient compensation in preparation for unexpected illness, injury, or theft.

Choosing a study destination according to your purpose: Yogyakarta, Bali, Jakarta

If I study language in Indonesia, which city should I choose!

Next, let's look at specific study destinations within Indonesia, such as Yogyakarta, Jakarta, and Bali!

1. Yogyakarta: An academic city for seriously learning Indonesian

If you prioritize the learning environment for Indonesian, Yogyakarta is the best choice!

Yogyakarta is an ancient city located in central Java and is one of Indonesia's leading academic cities where many universities gather.

It is about 450km east of the capital, Jakarta.

The entire city has an academic and calm atmosphere, attracting many international students who want to study seriously.

Prices are cheaper than in Jakarta or Bali, making it possible to keep the economic burden low even for long-term stays.

Because it is not overly touristy, there are many situations where English is not understood in daily life, allowing you to put yourself in an environment where you inevitably have to use Indonesian.

As it is also a center for traditional culture, you can deeply understand the culture behind the language through cultural experiences such as Batik and Gamelan.

2. Jakarta: The heart of Indonesian business and culture

The capital Jakarta is the center of Indonesia's politics and economy.

For those considering future employment or starting a business locally, there is a major advantage in the ease of networking and visiting companies.

However, there are also urban-specific problems such as severe traffic congestion, air pollution, and high prices.

It is a recommended language study destination for those seeking business opportunities and stimulation.

3. Bandung: A city of academics and fashion called the "Paris of Java"

Bandung, located about 3 hours by train from Jakarta, is known as a summer resort located in the highlands.

It is an attractive city where stylish streets referred to as the "Paris of Java" coexist with an academic atmosphere where many universities gather.

There are many young people with high sensitivity to fashion and art, and it is recommended for those who want to live while being exposed to the cutting edge of trends.

4. Bali: Language study while refreshing at a resort

Language learning and refreshing at a resort.

If you are interested in both, Bali is also recommended.

Beautiful beaches, sophisticated cafes, and interaction with travelers from all over the world.

Bali is packed with lots of fun.

However, there is a disadvantage that English is understood because it is so famous as a tourist destination.

Local people are also used to tourists, so even if you speak to them in Indonesian, they often reply in English.

If you seriously want to acquire Indonesian, a strong will to not rely on English and a conscious effort to create an environment where you use Indonesian are required.

English study in Indonesia? Bali and the "English Village" Pare

Actually, it is also possible to study language in Indonesia with the goal of learning English.

In particular, Bali has language schools and international schools that conduct classes in English for long-term residents and nomad workers.

The number of schools close to the "one-on-one and cheap" style like in the Philippines is increasing.

Also, "Kampung Inggris (English Village)" in the town of Pare, East Java is famous.

More than 100 English schools are concentrated here, and students from all over Indonesia who want to learn English gather.

Living expenses and tuition are very cheap, and since you will be living in a local Indonesian environment, it is also recommended for those interested in cultural exchange.

Of course, the best recommendation to deeply know local Indonesian culture is to learn not just English but Indonesian.

What is BIPA? Explaining schools and courses for Indonesian language study

When studying language in Indonesia, a common study program is "BIPA."

There are types of language study in Indonesia, such as BIPA and private language schools.

University-affiliated Indonesian language course "BIPA"

A common thing in Indonesian language study is to participate in a program called "BIPA".

BIPA is a language course for foreigners established at national and private universities in Indonesia, where you can learn Indonesian with a systematic curriculum.

Since classes are organized in units of half a year or a year, you can acquire grammar, conversation, reading, and listening in a balanced way.

Since international students gather from all over the world, another major attraction is being able to build an international network through interaction with classmates.

Moreover, you can use university facilities such as libraries and cafeterias.

However, because the enrollment timing is fixed at once or twice a year, you need to match your own schedule to the university's calendar.

Application procedures often take time, so it is important to prepare early.

Short-term language study is also possible at private language schools

When you want to study with a more flexible schedule, private language schools are also recommended.

Enrollment is possible from as short as one week, and the enrollment timing can often be handled flexibly.

The biggest feature is the focus on one-on-one lessons.

Another strength is being able to adjust the curriculum to individual needs, such as "focusing on travel conversation" or "wanting to learn business terms."

It is also recommended for study abroad using short-term holidays for working adults or for use as a preparation period before BIPA enrollment.

Types and precautions for visas required for Indonesian language study

What is important in Indonesian language study is what kind of visa is required.

The type of visa required changes depending on the method of study.

Visit Visa (C6): A visa that allows entry only once

The Visit Visa (C6), commonly known as "Sosial Budaya," is a visa for staying for the purpose of cultural exchange or education (changed with the introduction of the new visa index in January 2024).

A 60-day stay permit is granted initially, and by performing extension procedures locally, you can continue your stay for up to 180 days (about half a year).

Since acquisition may take a certain amount of time, it is recommended to obtain the visa with plenty of time to spare according to your travel plans.

Student Visa (E30B): The formal visa for studying abroad

The formal visa for studying abroad is the Student Visa (E30B) (changed by the Ministerial Decree of Immigration and Correction effective June 2, 2025).

This is a visa for studying at educational institutions in Indonesia such as universities, and submission of documents proving the study destination is required.

Employment locally in Indonesia is not permitted.

Be careful, as it may take time to obtain the visa.

Studying on a Tourist Visa (VoA) is NG

When Japanese people visit Indonesia for tourism, they can enter without a visa.

Also, when staying for a long period, it is common to use "VoA (Visa on Arrival)", which can be obtained at the airport.

VoA is a visa that allows a 30-day stay, and by performing extension procedures, a stay of up to 60 days is possible.

However, since VoA is strictly a visa for tourism, short-term business trips, or visiting relatives, full-scale language study is NG.

Crackdowns on illegal work and use of visas outside of their purpose are becoming stricter year by year, so to avoid trouble, we recommend obtaining a formal visa.

Is no prior study NG? Points for learning Indonesian before language study

Finally, we will introduce recommended methods for learning Indonesian before departing for your language study!

It is recommended to memorize words and basic expressions before studying abroad

What is recommended for spending your language study in Indonesia meaningfully is to solidify the basics while in Japan.

By memorizing basic words and basic expressions, you can experience Indonesian in a living environment as soon as you arrive in Indonesia.

We introduce Indonesian words and expressions in this article, so please take a look at it as well!

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Listening & Shadowing are recommended for learning Indonesian

If you want to improve your Indonesian communication skills, the point is to learn using audio.

Listening study using Indonesian audio and shadowing, where you pronounce while listening to the audio, are recommended.

[Complete Guide] How to do English shadowing? Explaining how to make materials that can be done for free!

Efficiently boost your English skills with shadowing! Explaining the learning method that improves listening, pronunciation, and speaking simultaneously for beginners. Also introduces how to create materials with free AI audio.

However, in Indonesian language learning, you often can't find materials that match your level, right?

It is very difficult to find practical listening materials, as the content of audio attached to commercially available texts is old or the variation in conversation content is low.

In such cases, it is recommended to make your own materials using the latest AI services!

With the latest AI speech synthesis services, you can read aloud Indonesian text with native speaker pronunciation.

Since you can create Indonesian materials for your favorite topics such as travel, hobbies, or business, you can proceed with your Indonesian studies while maintaining motivation.

[Free] Ondoku is recommended for learning Indonesian!

If you are making materials for Indonesian language learning, Ondoku is recommended!

Ondoku is an AI service that can read aloud Indonesian text with the latest AI speech synthesis engine.

With female and male voices featuring native pronunciation, you can create easy-to-hear Indonesian audio files.

Usage is very simple.

After pasting the Indonesian text on the top page of Ondoku,

Select "Indonesia (Indonesia)" in language.

Select the type of voice (speaker) (Audio samples here).

Then, just by pressing "Read Aloud," the Indonesian audio will be played immediately.

Audio files can be saved to your smartphone or PC in MP3 or WAV format.

Moreover, Ondoku is free!

Since it can be used easily just by opening the top page, why not utilize Ondoku for your Indonesian language studies?

Why not study language in Indonesia yourself?

Studying language in Indonesia is a very attractive option.

Not only for those who love Indonesian culture, but the rapidly developing Indonesia is also a recommended study destination for those interested in business and skill improvement.

The experience will change significantly depending on where you study in Indonesia, such as Yogyakarta, Jakarta, or Bali, so please use this article as a reference to choose your study destination.

To make your language study more meaningful, it is recommended to start learning Indonesian using AI services from now on.

Why not utilize Ondoku to learn Indonesian yourself?

I sincerely hope that your Indonesian language study abroad will be a success.