Best Universities for Computer Science in Indonesia
Looking to break out of the ordinary for your computer science studies? Then Indonesia should definitely be on your list! This incredible archipelago nation is a true melting pot of cultures, with over 600 ethnic groups calling the 17,000+ islands home.
But Indonesia also has a thriving modern side. A booming economy, vibrant tech scene, and near-universal internet access with 80% of the population online and socially connected. The atmosphere buzzes with energy and opportunity.
Indonesian universities are widely respected in the region for their excellent computer science and IT programs. You’ll receive top-tier technical training to accelerate your career.
With so much ethnic diversity, modern connectivity, cultural richness, and natural beauty – not to mention those low costs – Indonesia offers a truly unique and memorable study abroad experience. You’ll gain unmatched global perspectives along with a world-class CS education.
Over 200,000 international students were drawn to Indonesia last year alone so don’t wait, enrol at the top computer science universities in Indonesia.
Table of Content
- Why Study Computer Science in Indonesia?
- Course Curriculum of Computer Science in Indonesia
- List of Colleges For Computer Science in Indonesia
- Admission Requirements and Eligibility Criteria for Studying Computer Science
- Documents Required to Study Computer Science in Indonesia
- Requirements for the Student Visa to Study in Indonesia
- Admission Intake to Study in Indonesia for Computer Science
- Scholarships in Indonesia for International Students
- Cost Of Living In Indonesia
- Conclusion
- Best Universities for Computer Science in Indonesia – FAQs
Why Study Computer Science in Indonesia?
Affordable Country for Higher Studies
Indonesia is one of the cheapest countries for higher education. The average cost of living is quite affordable at $900 per month.
Multicultural Melting Pot
This diverse archipelago offers a rich multicultural experience for students. Indonesia’s unique cities expose you to varied cuisines and cultures. It’s an excellent destination to travel, explore, and gain new perspectives.
Quality Education
Indonesian universities provide good quality education at lower costs. Many top universities here rank highly in Asia by QS and THE Rankings. These accredited programs open doors to great employment opportunities.
Variety of Reputed Computer Science Programs
Whether bachelor’s, master’s or PhD, there are many programs available. Prestigious Indonesian universities offer well-rounded computer science curriculums. You’ll find motivating faculty and an excellent infrastructure for learning.
Making Education Accessible Yet Engaging
Tuition fees at public universities are subsidised by the government. This makes higher education quite affordable for both domestic and international students. Yet the classroom experience remains interactive and immersive.
Immersive Technology Hubs
Several Indonesian cities are emerging as vibrant technology hubs. Places like Jakarta, Bandung, and Yogyakarta offer immersive environments for computer science students. You can easily network, attend relevant events, and even find internships in these bustling tech ecosystems. This practical exposure complements classroom learning
Cost-Effective Living for Students
On-campus housing, food, and other amenities are all economical. The lower living costs allow students to focus on academics. You can enjoy an enriching educational experience without overspending.
Course Curriculum of Computer Science in Indonesia
BSc Computer Science Curriculum
- Introduction to Digital Electronics
- Basics of Computer Science
- Environmental Sciences
- Foundation Course of Mathematics
- Discrete Mathematics
- Computer Organization
- Fundamental of Open Source Software-LINUX
- Front Office Management
- Object-Oriented Programming using C++
- Functional English-I
- Technical Writing
- Analytical Skill Development-I
- Value and Ethics
- Database Management Systems
- System Analysis and Design
- Analytical Skill Development-II
- Operating Systems concepts
- Python Programming
- Introduction to Data Structures
- Introduction to Software Engineering
- System Software
- Introduction to Computer Network
- System Programming
- Numerical Analysis
- Introduction to Web Technology
MSc Computer Science Curriculum
- Data Structures
- Operating Systems
- Structured and Object-Oriented Programming
- Mathematical Foundations of Computer Science
- Computer Organization and Architecture
- C++ Programming Laboratory
- Operating Systems Laboratory
- Unix and Shell Programming
- Computer Graphics
- Design and Analysis of Algorithms
- Database Management System
- Computer Networks
- Visual and Dot Net (.NET) Programming
- Database Management and Case Tools Laboratory
- Dot Net (.NET)
- Software Engineering
- Java Programming
- Web Technology
- Web Tech/ Java Laboratory
List of Colleges For Computer Science in Indonesia
Here are our top colleges for computer science in Indonesia for international students:
College Name |
Acceptance Rate |
Courses Offered |
City Name |
---|---|---|---|
University of Indonesia |
8% |
Bachelor of Computer Science Bachelor of Information Systems Bachelor of Computer Science (International) Master of Computer Science Master of Information Technology (E-Government) Master of Information Technology Doctor of Computer Science |
Kota Depok, Jawa Barat |
Bandung Institute of Technology |
8% |
Master’s in Computer Science Master’s in Software Engineering Master’s in Information system Master’s in Information Technology |
Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat |
Telkom University |
10% |
Bachelor Informatics Bachelor Information Technology Bachelor in Software Engineering Bachelor PJJ Informatics Bachelor Data Science Postgraduate Informatics Postgraduate Forensic Science Postgraduate Informatics |
Kabupaten Bandung, Jawa Barat |
Sepuluh Nopember Institute of Technology |
10% |
Bachelor’s in Information Technology Bachelor’s in Computer Science Master’s in Software Engineering Master’s in Informatics |
Surabaya, Jawa Timur |
Bina Nusantara University |
75% |
Artificial Intelligence Computer Science – Global Class Information Systems Computer Science Computer Science – Software Engineering Data Science Business Information Technology Cyber Security Information Systems Information Systems Accounting and Auditing Mobile Application and Technology Game Application and Technology |
Jakarta, Indonesia |
Brawijaya University |
10% |
For Bachelor’s – Informatics Engineering Computer Engineering Information System Information Technology Information Technology Education For Master’s – Computer Science |
Lowokwaru, Kota Malang |
Sebelas Maret University |
10% |
Bachelors in Informatics |
Kota Surakarta, Jawa Tengah |
Admission Requirements and Eligibility Criteria for Studying Computer Science
So you want to study computer science at one of Indonesia’s top universities? Before you get started, you’ll need to meet a few key eligibility requirements. Here are the main ones to keep in mind:
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Programs:
- Completed nationally accredited high school education or equivalent like A-Levels, IB Diploma, etc.
- SAT scores (if not holding A-Level or similar certification)
- Diploma from an accredited program may also qualify
Proving English Proficiency:
- TOEFL score of minimum 500 (paper-based) or 60 (internet-based)
- IELTS score of at least 5.5
- Higher scores around 550 TOEFL/6.0 IELTS for international degree programs
- Additional Tests:
- Some universities require GRE, GMAT or other entrance exam scores
- Especially common for graduate program applications
For Master’s (Postgraduate) in Computer Science:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering or closely related field
- Relevant work experience can sometimes compensate for gaps
- Other Application Requirements:
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement/statement of purpose
- Academic transcripts showing good performance
- Portfolios or writing samples (program-specific)
Documents Required to Study Computer Science in Indonesia
Here are the main documents to keep in mind:
For Graduate Diploma Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts
- English test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Updated resume highlighting experience
- Two to three recommendation letters
- Purpose statement or research proposal
For a Bachelor’s Programs:
- High school transcripts/diploma
- IELTS/TOEFL English scores
- SAT/ACT scores (if required)
- Two to three recommendation letters
- Personal statement of goals/interests
For a Master’s Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree transcripts (related field)
- English proficiency test scores
- GRE/GMAT scores if needed
- Work experience documents if applicable
- Two to three recommendation letters
- Detailed statement of purpose/research plan
For Doctoral/PhD Programs:
- Master’s degree transcripts (same field)
- Minimum IELTS/TOEFL scores
- GRE scores as required
- Extensive work/research experience proof
- Three to five recommendation letters
- Comprehensive research proposal
Those are the major documents you’ll likely need for each level of study as an international student in Indonesia. The requirements can vary a bit between universities, but this covers the essentials.
Requirements for the Student Visa to Study in Indonesia
One important step is getting your student visa or KITAS (Kartu Izin Tinggal Terbatas) sorted out.
- A valid passport that doesn’t expire for at least 18 months after your planned arrival in Indonesia
- A completed visa application form – your university can provide this
- Your official acceptance letter from the Indonesian university you’ll be attending
- Proof that you have enough funds to cover tuition, living costs, etc. while studying here
- Health insurance policy that’ll cover you during your entire stay in Indonesia
- Some recent passport-sized photos
- Flight details showing your travel to and from Indonesia
- A certificate confirming you have no criminal record
- Medical exam results
The process may seem a bit intense, but it’s just to make sure you’ve planned properly as an international student. Your university will likely provide checklists and guidance.
The most important things are having that acceptance letter, financials sorted, and a valid passport. Once you submit all those documents, you’ll be approved for your KITAS student visa!
Admission Intake to Study in Indonesia for Computer Science
Most universities in Indonesia have two main intake periods when international students can begin their studies. The February intake runs from February through July. This could be a good option if you’re finishing up previous studies in late fall.
The other intake period is August through January. With this schedule, you’d have a nice summer break before classes start in August. It continues through the end of the year until the following January. Depending on your timing and preferences, one intake or the other may work better for you.
No matter which intake you choose, just be sure to apply several months in advance. That’ll give you plenty of time to get your visa, housing, and other logistics sorted out before classes begin.
Scholarships in Indonesia for International Students
There are several scholarships which can help you fund your computer science studies in Indonesia. Here are the top two scholarships you can apply for:
Indonesian Government Scholarships
These are scholarships directly from the Indonesian government aimed at attracting top academic talent. If awarded, they’ll cover all kinds of expenses – tuition fees, cost of living, book allowances, even health insurance! Having those bases covered means you can truly focus on your studies.
LPDP Scholarships
The Indonesia Endowment Fund for Education (LPDP) offers another great scholarship program. Their awards are specifically for graduate degrees – Master’s and PhD programs across all fields, including computer science. These tend to be quite competitive but provide generous funding.
Cost Of Living In Indonesia
Transportation Costs
Getting around Indonesia is quite affordable using public transit. For example:
- Monthly local bus pass: 200,000 Rp (₹1,090)
- One-way local bus ticket: 5,000 Rp (₹27)
- Taxi base fare: 7,000 Rp (₹38)
- Taxi rate per km: 5,000 Rp (₹27)
With an extensive transportation network of railways, roads, and ferries, it’s easy to get where you need to go without breaking the bank.
Food Costs
One of the highlights is Indonesian cuisine – it’s diverse, delicious, and surprisingly cheap! Eating out or cooking at home, food is very affordable:
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: 25,000 Rp (₹137)
- Mid-range restaurant meal for two: 200,000 Rp (₹1,090)
Housing Costs
Your biggest expense will likely be housing, but even this is quite reasonable compared to many countries:
- Basic utilities for an apartment: 1,035,937 Rp (₹5,660)
- 3-bedroom apartment rental in Kuta: 91,600,000 Rp (₹40,950)
- Housing rentals in Jakarta: 183,200,000 – 1,832,000,000 Rp (₹81,900 – ₹819,000)
Education Costs
Tuition fees for international students are also very affordable:
- Undergraduate tuition: $2,650 (484,240,000 Rp / ₹217,115)
- Master’s tuition: $2,650 (484,240,000 Rp / ₹217,115)
- Doctoral tuition: $3,150 (575,360,000 Rp / ₹258,045)
The exact costs will vary a bit by program and university. But overall, Indonesia offers an extremely low cost of living, especially for essentials like food and transportation.
Conclusion
Indonesia truly shines as an exceptional place to study computer science. World-class yet affordable universities, immersive tech hubs, diverse cultural experiences – it offers unmatched opportunities for personal and professional growth. The low living costs also make achieving your academic dreams far more feasible. From the engaging classroom environments to the rich heritage waiting to be explored, Indonesia provides the complete study abroad package. Computer science students who crave unconventional perspectives and broadening their horizons will find Indonesia to be the ideal setting. An unforgettable cross-cultural adventure complementing a top-tier technical education – what more could you ask for?
Best Universities for Computer Science in Indonesia – FAQs
Isn’t the cost of living in Indonesia quite high for a student?
It’s surprisingly affordable! Indonesia is one of the most wallet-friendly study destinations. On an average student budget of $900 per month, you can live comfortably. That covers rent, meals, transportation – everything you need. Your money stretches super far in Indonesia.
What are the main requirements to get accepted into an Indonesian university for computer science?
For a bachelor’s program, you’ll need your high school diploma and to prove English proficiency, usually through tests like TOEFL. Some universities may require entrance exams like the SAT too. But don’t worry, the university will provide you with a checklist of everything required. Just follow that and you’ll be all set.
When should I start the application process for studying in Indonesia?
Most Indonesian universities have two main intake periods – one from February to July, and the other from August to January. My recommendation? Submit your application at least 6 months before your target intake. This allows plenty of time to get your student visa, find housing, book flights, and get everything sorted.