Mirella Pandjaitan
Feb 05, 2026
Indonesia has quietly emerged as one of Asia’s most compelling higher education destinations, with a rare combination of academic credibility, cultural depth, and regional influence. Home to some of Southeast Asia’s most respected public universities and a growing number of globally oriented private institutions, the country presents an education ecosystem shaped by scale, diversity, and ambition.
The country’s higher education landscape comprises both public and private universities, with private institutions forming the majority. All universities operate under the oversight of the Ministry of Education, ensuring consistent academic governance and quality standards. Since independence in 1945, the sector has expanded at an extraordinary pace—growing from just ten higher education institutions in 1950 to nearly 3,000 today. This expansion reflects Indonesia’s long-term investment in education as a national priority.
An Indonesian university education is more than just an academic qualification—it delivers perspective for international students. Currently, thousands of international students are enrolled across Indonesian universities. Exposure to a rapidly developing economy, multilingual environments, and a culturally rich academic setting equips graduates with adaptability and cross-cultural fluency that are increasingly valued on the global stage. Combined with competitive tuition costs, expanding English-taught programs, and strong regional networks, makes Indonesia a distinctive and future-facing university experience.
Studying in Indonesia places students at the crossroads of emerging markets, global trade routes, and one of the world’s most dynamic societies. Below are the top public and private universities in Indonesia to consider.
Airlangga University (UNAIR)
Public, Surabaya
Airlangga University stands out for its excellence in medicine, health sciences, law, and social policy. Since 1954, this public institution has been a driving force behind Indonesia’s healthcare and social development initiatives. International students are drawn to UNAIR for its research-driven programs, English-friendly courses, and opportunities to engage in real-world community impact.
Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB)
Public, Bandung
ITB is Indonesia’s iconic hub for engineering, science, and design. Established in 1920, it has produced generations of innovators and industry leaders. Beyond rigorous academics, ITB welcomes international students into a vibrant, research-intensive community where technology meets creativity amidst the scenic backdrop of Bandung’s mountains and culture-rich streets.
BINUS University
Private, Jakarta
BINUS has carved a reputation as a powerhouse in computer science, information systems, business, and creative industries. Recognised for entrepreneurship and global exposure, BINUS offers a highly international environment, including English-taught programs and cross-border collaborations, making it an attractive choice for students eager to enter the tech and startup ecosystem.
Bogor Agricultural University (IPB University)
Public, Bogor
IPB University is the nation’s leader in agriculture, life sciences, and environmental studies. Established in 1963, its research has shaped Indonesia’s sustainability and food security policies. International students benefit from its practical, hands-on programs and strong ties to government and industry, gaining expertise relevant to global agricultural challenges.
Diponegoro University (UNDIP)
Public, Semarang
UNDIP is renowned for engineering, environmental science, law, and public administration, with a special focus on sustainability and coastal management. International students appreciate UNDIP’s applied research projects and engagement with regional development, offering a rare chance to study in a university that directly impacts Indonesia’s evolving economic landscape.
Gadjah Mada University (UGM)
Public, Yogyakarta
UGM is one of Indonesia’s most prestigious and comprehensive universities, covering medicine, law, social sciences, and public policy. Founded in 1949, it balances academic rigour with community service. International students are warmly welcomed, benefiting from its vibrant student life, multidisciplinary programs, and opportunities to engage in socially impactful projects.
Islamic University of Indonesia (UII)
Private, Yogyakarta
UII combines modern academic programs with ethical and religious foundations. Founded in 1945, it offers law, economics, engineering, and Islamic studies. Its international friendliness comes through in English-taught courses and collaborative programs, allowing students to explore a unique blend of rigorous academics and values-driven education.
London School of Public Relations (LSPR)
Private, Jakarta
LSPR specialises in communication, public relations, marketing, and digital media. Since 1992, it has become a hub for practice-oriented learning, international collaborations, and industry connections. International students thrive here, with English-language programs and hands-on exposure that prepare them for careers on a global stage.
Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY)
Private, Yogyakarta
UMY stands at the intersection of faith and modern academia, offering programs in international relations, political science, engineering, and health sciences. Founded in 1981, it integrates Islamic values with civic engagement. International students enjoy a welcoming campus, English-friendly courses, and opportunities to contribute to community initiatives.
Padjadjaran University (UNPAD)
Public, Bandung and Jatinangor
UNPAD excels in law, communication, medicine, and social sciences. Since 1957, it has cultivated interdisciplinary research and graduates who excel in the professional and public sectors. International students benefit from UNPAD’s growing global network, English-accessible programs, and an academic environment that balances tradition and modernity.
Parahyangan Catholic University (UNPAR)
Private, Bandung
UNPAR is known for law, engineering, architecture, and philosophy, combining rigorous academics with ethical and intellectual depth. Founded in 1955, it offers a close-knit campus culture and is highly receptive to international students, providing English-taught courses and opportunities for cross-cultural learning in the heart of Bandung.
Pelita Harapan University (UPH)
Private, Tangerang
UPH distinguishes itself with a global outlook, professional programs, and English-language instruction. Since 1994, it has excelled in business, law, medicine, and design. International students are welcomed into a cosmopolitan campus with extensive international partnerships, exchange programs, and career-focused curricula.
Sampoerna University
Private, Jakarta
Sampoerna University delivers an American-style education with a strong international orientation. Established in 2014, it emphasises engineering, business, and liberal arts. International students benefit from English-taught programs, flexible credit transfer options, and a curriculum designed to prepare graduates for both global higher education and professional pathways.
Swiss German University (SGU)
Private, Tangerang
SGU delivers an applied-science education with international collaboration at its core. Established in partnership with European institutions, it specialises in engineering, business, and applied sciences. International students enjoy internships, English-language instruction, and a curriculum tightly connected to global industry standards.
Telkom University
Private, Bandung
Telkom University focuses on IT, engineering, business, and digital innovation. Its close industry partnerships make it an incubator for applied research and entrepreneurial talent. International students are welcomed into a tech-forward environment where practical learning and innovation are prioritised.
Trisakti University
Private, Jakarta
Trisakti has a storied legacy in economics, law, medicine, and engineering, closely tied to Indonesia’s reform era. Founded in 1965, it balances rigorous academics with civic engagement. International students are drawn to its English-accessible programs, dynamic urban campus, and opportunities to study within a historically significant institution.
University of Indonesia (UI)
Public, Jakarta / Depok
UI is Indonesia’s flagship university, with excellence across medicine, law, economics, social sciences, and research. International students are actively welcomed through English-taught programs, global partnerships, and research initiatives, making it a premier destination for students seeking world-class education in a dynamic Southeast Asian context.
Learn more about Indonesia's universities, specifically in Bandung and Yogyakarta!