The International Priority Scholarship (IPS) is a prestigious, fully funded initiative offered by Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta (UMS) to attract highly talented international students. The program is designed to foster a vibrant, multicultural academic environment by supporting degree-seeking students at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels.
By covering all major expenses—including full tuition waivers, living and book allowances, health insurance, and international airfare—the IPS allows scholars to immerse themselves entirely in their studies and Indonesian culture. Additionally, students enrolled in regular classes benefit from a complimentary one-year Bahasa Indonesia language course to aid their integration.
Benefits
100% full tuition fee waiver for the duration of the program
Monthly living allowance of IDR 1,750,000
Monthly book allowance of IDR 50,000
Comprehensive health insurance and access to on-campus health services
Coverage of VISA fees and Limited Stay Permit
Return international air flight ticket
Free one-year Bahasa Indonesia Language Course (for regular class students)
Eligibility
Must be an international (non-Indonesian) student
Must meet maximum age limits: Bachelor's (25), Master's (30), Doctoral (35)
Must have a strong academic record with a minimum GPA of 75% (75/100) or equivalent
Must hold a passport with a minimum validity of 18 months from the commencement date
Must demonstrate English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo)
Must be willing to pay a refundable visa deposit of IDR 6,000,000 (returned upon arrival)
Requirements
Submission of evaluated academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of valid English language proficiency scores
A compelling study purpose essay or motivation letter
Submission of a formal research proposal (for Doctoral applicants only)
Recommendation letters from academic and/or professional supervisors
Required Documents
Formal photo with a blue background (4x6 cm)
Academic Certificate and Official Transcripts (PDF)
Valid Passport bio-data page (PDF)
Language Proficiency Certificate (PDF)
Academic Recommendation Letter (PDF)
Motivation Letter / Study Purpose Essay (PDF)
Medical Report (PDF)
Agreement and Declaration Letter (PDF)
Programs of Study
Bachelor's Degree Programs (8 Semesters)
Master's Degree Programs (4 Semesters)
Doctoral Degree Programs (6 Semesters)
Application Process
Review all program details and eligibility criteria on the official UMS portal
Register for a new account on the UMS International Scholarship website
Log in using your credentials and access the scholarship application form
Fill out all required personal, academic, and program details accurately
Upload all required documents in colored PDF format in their designated sections
Submit the application prior to the deadline and await shortlisting for potential interviews
How to Apply
Ensure your passport has at least 18 months of validity before starting the application process
Prepare all required PDFs, ensuring your motivation letter strongly aligns with your chosen faculty
If applying for a PhD, finalize your research proposal beforehand, as it is a strict requirement
Submit your completed application early, keeping in mind the required refundable visa deposit step
Selection Process
Administrative review of all submitted documents, academic qualifications, and transcripts
Evaluation of the motivation letter, research proposal (for PhDs), and English proficiency
Assessment of recommendation letters and overall academic potential by the UMS committee
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview
Final merit-based selection with official awards announced by the university