If you are looking for a fully funded scholarship to study in Asia and you want an experience that combines academic excellence with cultural richness, then the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship is one opportunity you really should not ignore. This scholarship, offered by one of Indonesia’s most respected private universities, is open to international students from every country in the world. It covers tuition fees, provides a monthly living allowance, offers free dormitory accommodation, and even includes basic health support, making it one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available for students who want to study in Indonesia.
In this article, we have gathered everything you need to know about the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship, including detailed information about the university itself, the full list of benefits, eligibility requirements, available programs, required documents, GPA continuation conditions, and a clear step-by-step guide on how to apply. Whether you are a high school graduate thinking about your bachelor’s degree, a working professional looking at a master’s program, or a researcher aiming for a PhD, this scholarship has something for you.
About Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY)
Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta, widely known as UMY, is a private university founded in March 1981. It is located in Yogyakarta, one of Indonesia’s most historically and culturally significant cities. The university operates under the affiliation of Muhammadiyah, which is the second-largest Islamic organization in Indonesia and one of the most influential Muslim civil society organizations in the world.
UMY is not just a university in name. It has built a strong reputation over the decades as a place where students receive a quality education grounded in both scientific rigor and Islamic values. The university’s vision is to be a leading institution in science and technology development guided by Islamic principles. Its mission includes producing graduates who are not only academically competent but who also have integrity, moral character, and a global perspective.
In terms of rankings, UMY has consistently performed well among private universities in Indonesia. It has been ranked as the best private university in Yogyakarta and among the top three or four private universities in all of Indonesia. Internationally, UMY has entered the QS World University Rankings for Asia and has received a three-star rating from QS Stars, with five-star ratings in specific categories including teaching, employability, inclusiveness, and social responsibility. These rankings speak to the quality and reputation of the institution on a global stage.
The university also holds an “A (Excellent)” accreditation from Indonesia’s National Accreditation Board (BAN-PT), which is the highest accreditation level available for Indonesian universities. This means the degrees you earn from UMY are recognized and respected both within Indonesia and internationally.
UMY covers a broad range of academic disciplines. Its faculties include social sciences and humanities, economics and business, political science, information and communications technology, engineering, health and life sciences, and more. The university has both regular programs taught in Bahasa Indonesia and international programs taught in English, making it genuinely accessible to foreign students who may not speak Indonesian when they first arrive.
Why Study in Yogyakarta, Indonesia?
Before diving into the scholarship details, it helps to understand why Yogyakarta is a great place to study. Yogyakarta, often called Jogja by locals, is considered the cultural heart of Java. It is home to ancient temples, vibrant arts, traditional crafts, and a student population that makes it one of the most youthful and energetic cities in Indonesia. The city is known for being affordable, friendly to newcomers, and full of life.
Indonesia itself is the world’s fourth most populous country and the largest economy in Southeast Asia. Studying there gives you exposure to a dynamic, growing economy and a society that is deeply connected to both Islamic tradition and modern global culture. As an international student in Yogyakarta, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in Javanese culture, learn Bahasa Indonesia, and build connections across Southeast Asia and beyond.
The cost of living in Yogyakarta is also significantly lower than in most Western countries and even lower than in Jakarta. This makes your monthly living allowance from the scholarship go much further, giving you a comfortable and enjoyable student life while you focus on your studies.
Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship 2026: Quick Overview
- Scholarship Name: UMY International Scholarship (Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship)
- Host Institution: Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY)
- Country: Indonesia
- City: Yogyakarta
- Level of Study: Undergraduate (Bachelor’s), Master’s, and Doctoral (PhD)
- Eligible Applicants: International students from all countries worldwide
- Language of Instruction: English and Bahasa Indonesia
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory (waiver available for English-medium graduates)
- Program Duration: 8 semesters (undergraduate), 4 semesters (master’s), 8 semesters (doctoral)
Scholarship Benefits: What Does the UMY Scholarship Cover?
The Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship is one of the most generous scholarship packages available for students looking to study in Indonesia. Here is a detailed breakdown of everything that is covered.
Full Tuition Fee Waiver
The scholarship provides a complete waiver of tuition fees for the duration of your program, subject to academic performance conditions (explained in detail below). This means you will not pay any tuition fees during your first year, and as long as you maintain the required GPA, you will continue to receive the tuition waiver in subsequent years. This is a significant financial benefit given that international tuition fees at Indonesian universities can range from approximately 3,000 to 6,000 US dollars per year.
Monthly Living Allowance
In addition to covering tuition, the scholarship also provides a monthly living stipend to help cover your day-to-day expenses. The monthly allowance amounts vary by study level:
- Undergraduate students receive IDR 1,850,000 per month
- Master’s students receive IDR 2,350,000 per month
- Doctoral students receive IDR 2,600,000 per month
Given that Yogyakarta is a relatively affordable city, these monthly allowances are enough to cover a comfortable standard of living, including food, transport, and personal expenses.
Free Dormitory Accommodation
The scholarship includes free dormitory accommodation on or near the UMY campus. This removes one of the biggest financial stresses for international students, which is finding and paying for housing in a new city and country. Living in the dormitory also gives you the chance to meet other international students and build a genuine community from your first day on campus.
Health Support
The scholarship also covers basic health treatment costs. While it may not cover all medical expenses, having health support included in the package gives you peace of mind and ensures you can get basic care if you need it during your studies.
Indonesian Language Course
For students who are not familiar with Bahasa Indonesia, UMY provides Indonesian language courses as part of the scholarship benefits. This is a thoughtful addition that helps international students adapt to life in Indonesia, communicate with local students and communities, and get the most out of their time in the country.
Access to Quality Academic Programs
As a scholarship recipient, you gain full access to UMY’s wide range of programs, modern campus facilities, research centers, libraries, and student support services. You also benefit from being part of an internationally connected academic community.
GPA Continuation Requirements: How to Keep Your Scholarship
An important thing to understand about the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship is that the full benefits are guaranteed for the first year, but from the second year onward, your scholarship benefits will depend on your academic performance as measured by your Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale.
Here is how the continuation works for undergraduate and master’s students:
- If your GPA is 3.00 or above (for undergraduate) or 3.50 or above (for postgraduate), you maintain full tuition and your monthly living stipend.
- If your GPA falls between 2.75 and 2.99 (undergraduate) or between 3.00 and 3.49 (postgraduate), you receive a 75 percent tuition discount but may lose the living stipend.
- If your GPA drops below 2.75, your scholarship is revoked entirely.
This makes it clear that the university expects you to take your studies seriously. The scholarship is a privilege, and it comes with the responsibility of maintaining strong academic performance. If you are a dedicated, hardworking student, this should not be a concern. But it is important to go in with full awareness so that you can plan and stay focused throughout your program.
The good news is that UMY provides strong academic support systems, including access to faculty advisors, libraries, research tools, and student support services. The university wants its international scholarship students to succeed.
Available Programs and Fields of Study at UMY
One of the great things about the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship is that it is not limited to one or two fields. UMY offers programs across a very wide range of academic disciplines, and scholarship students can apply to any of these programs depending on their level of study and academic background.
At the undergraduate level, UMY has international English-taught programs that include the International Program of Management and Business (IMaBs), International Program of International Relations (IPIREL), International Program of Islamic Communication, and Japanese Language Education, among others. These programs are designed specifically for international students and are delivered entirely in English.
At the postgraduate level, UMY offers master’s and doctoral programs in areas such as Islamic studies, political science, communication science, business management, engineering, public health, law, and various other fields. The university’s faculty and research centers support high-level academic inquiry across both the social sciences and the natural and applied sciences.
If you are unsure which program to choose, you can explore the full list of available programs on UMY’s official international admissions website and select the one that best matches your academic background and career goals.
Eligibility Requirements for the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship
To be considered for this scholarship, you need to meet the following criteria. Read through each point carefully before starting your application.
1. You Must Be an International Student
The UMY International Scholarship is specifically for students who are not Indonesian citizens. It is open to students from all countries worldwide, including countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. There is no restriction based on nationality.
2. Academic Qualification Requirements
For undergraduate applicants, you need to have completed your high school education and hold a valid high school diploma or certificate. For master’s degree applicants, you must hold a bachelor’s degree, which is equivalent to 16 years of total education. For PhD applicants, you must hold a master’s degree, which is equivalent to 18 years of total education. All degrees must be from recognized institutions, and your academic record should demonstrate a good level of academic achievement.
3. English Language Proficiency
The scholarship does require that you have a working command of English, especially if you are applying to one of UMY’s English-taught international programs. Accepted English proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, and TOEIC.
However, there is an important waiver available. If your previous education was conducted entirely in English (for example, if you attended a school or university where English was the medium of instruction), you may be eligible to apply without submitting an English test score. This is a significant advantage for students who do not have access to IELTS or TOEFL centers in their home countries or who find the cost of language tests to be a barrier.
4. Interest in International Cultural Exchange
UMY values diversity and cross-cultural understanding. Applicants are expected to show a genuine interest in international cultural exchange. This means being open to learning about Indonesian and Javanese culture, engaging with a diverse student body, and contributing positively to the international campus community.
5. Good Physical and Mental Health
Applicants must be in good physical and mental health. You may be required to submit a health certificate as part of your application documents confirming that you are fit to study full-time abroad.
Required Documents for the UMY Scholarship Application
Before you start your online application, make sure you have all the following documents ready and prepared in digital format. All documents should ideally be in English or Indonesian. If your documents are in another language, you will need to provide an authorized translation into English or Indonesian.
- A completed online application form (filled through the UMY international admissions portal)
- A valid passport copy
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- High school diploma and academic transcripts (for undergraduate applicants)
- Bachelor’s degree diploma and transcripts (for master’s applicants)
- Master’s degree diploma and transcripts (for doctoral applicants)
- English language proficiency test result (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or TOEIC) or proof of English-medium education for the language waiver
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) outlining your academic and professional background
- A personal statement or statement of purpose explaining your motivation to study at UMY and your chosen program
- Health certificate from a recognized medical authority confirming you are physically and mentally fit
- Any other supporting documents requested by UMY during the application process
Make sure all documents are clear, properly scanned, and in the accepted file format before uploading them. Incomplete or unclear applications may not be processed.
How to Apply for the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship: Step-by-Step
The application process for the UMY Scholarship is done entirely online. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to walk you through it.
Step 1: Choose Your Field of Study
Before you begin your application, decide which program you want to apply for at UMY. Take time to research the available undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs and choose one that aligns with your academic background, interests, and career goals. Visit the official UMY international admissions page to explore all available programs.
Step 2: Create an Account on the UMY Online Application Portal
Go to the UMY International Admissions portal and register for an account. You will need to provide a valid email address. After registering, verify your email address using the verification link sent to your inbox. This step is required before you can access the application form.
Step 3: Log In and Complete Your Application Profile
After verifying your email, log in to your account on the portal. Complete all sections of the application form with accurate, up-to-date information. This includes your personal details, academic background, chosen program, and language proficiency information. Double-check all entries before moving on.
Step 4: Upload Your Required Documents
Upload all the required documents as listed in the previous section. Make sure each file is clear and properly named. Incomplete document submissions can delay or disqualify your application, so take this step seriously.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Once you have filled in all the details and uploaded all documents, review your entire application one final time. Make sure everything is correct and complete. Then submit your application through the portal before the official deadline.
Step 6: Wait for the Admission and Scholarship Decision
After submission, UMY will review your application. If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview, which is typically conducted online. After the interview stage, the university will notify successful candidates of their admission and scholarship offer. If you receive a letter of acceptance, you will need to validate your documents at the nearest Indonesian embassy in your country before traveling to Indonesia.
Step 7: Send Required Documents to the International Affairs Office
After your online submission, you should also send copies of your required documents to the Cooperation and International Affairs Office (BKLN) at UMY via email at bkln@umy.ac.id. This step confirms your scholarship interest and helps the international office process your application alongside your online submission.
To begin your application, visit the UMY International Admissions portal and start the process today.
Application Deadlines for the UMY Scholarship
The UMY Scholarship accepts applications in different batches throughout the year, with different deadlines for different intake periods. In previous cycles, deadlines have fallen around August 15 for one intake batch and around November for another batch. For the 2026 to 2027 academic year, you should check the official UMY international admissions page regularly for the most accurate and current deadline information, as these dates may change slightly from year to year.
The general advice is to apply as early as possible. Early applications give the university more time to review your documents, and they also give you more time to gather any additional materials if requested. Do not wait until the last moment.
Internal and External Scholarship Options at UMY
Beyond the main international scholarship program, UMY also offers several internal scholarship categories that are worth knowing about.
UMY has internal scholarships such as the Muhammadiyah Cadre Scholarship, the Alumni Scholarship, and Achievement-Based Scholarships. These are primarily designed for students with Muhammadiyah organizational connections or for students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance while already enrolled at the university. They typically provide benefits such as tuition and development fee waivers and have their own specific GPA and eligibility criteria.
There are also external partner scholarships facilitated through UMY from organizations such as PT Adaro and LazisMU. These vary in coverage, amount, and eligibility, so students who are already enrolled or who have received admission offers should check with the university’s student affairs office about what external funding might be available alongside the main international scholarship.
In the 2025 to 2026 academic year alone, UMY allocated a scholarship fund worth Rp19.8 billion across more than 300 different scholarship schemes, covering both high-achieving and financially underprivileged students. This shows the university’s serious commitment to making education accessible and affordable for as many students as possible.
Life on Campus at UMY
UMY offers a modern, well-equipped campus environment in Yogyakarta. The university has invested significantly in its facilities over the years, and students have access to libraries, research labs, computer facilities, sports centers, and student organization rooms. Campus life at UMY is active, with student clubs, international events, cultural exchange activities, and community service programs that help international students feel at home quickly.
The university also runs the UMY Virtual Reality Lab and a range of executive education and research programs that give students access to cutting-edge learning experiences. Faculty at UMY include both Indonesian and international academics, which adds to the diverse intellectual environment on campus.
Living in the UMY dormitory means you will be surrounded by other international students from across the world. This creates a genuinely multicultural environment where you will build friendships and professional connections that last long after you graduate.
Tips to Strengthen Your UMY Scholarship Application
Since the scholarship is competitive and open to students worldwide, it helps to think carefully about how to present yourself as a strong candidate. Here are some practical tips.
Start with a well-written personal statement. Explain clearly why you want to study at UMY specifically, why you chose your program, and how the education you receive will contribute to your career goals and your home community. Admissions committees appreciate specific, thoughtful answers over vague or generic ones.
Make sure your academic transcripts are strong. The scholarship renewal conditions require maintaining a GPA of 3.00 or above for undergraduates, so applicants who already have a solid academic record are naturally better positioned to maintain that standard once enrolled.
If you do not have an IELTS or TOEFL score, check whether your previous institution qualifies for the English-medium waiver. If it does, gather the necessary supporting evidence early so there are no delays in your application.
Demonstrate your interest in cultural exchange genuinely. UMY is looking for students who will engage with Indonesian culture and contribute to the campus community, not just use the scholarship as a financial stepping stone. Show that you are genuinely excited about studying in Indonesia and being part of the Yogyakarta academic community.
Apply early and check your email regularly. The admission process involves multiple stages including email verification, document review, and potentially an interview. Being responsive and proactive throughout the process makes a positive impression.
Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship?
Absolutely, yes. If you are an international student who is serious about pursuing higher education and you are open to the experience of studying in Asia, the Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta Scholarship is a genuinely exceptional opportunity. It covers not just tuition but also accommodation and monthly living costs, which are often the two biggest barriers for students who want to study abroad.
UMY is a respected institution with strong academic programs, a diverse international community, good university rankings, and a campus environment that actively supports international students. Yogyakarta itself is a city that has something special about it. It is affordable, culturally rich, safe, and welcoming to students from all over the world.
The scholarship does come with academic performance expectations, so it is designed for students who are genuinely committed to their studies. If that describes you, then there is very little reason not to apply.
Take the time to prepare your documents carefully, write a thoughtful personal statement, and submit your application well before the deadline. The process is straightforward and entirely online, which makes it accessible regardless of where you are in the world.
To begin your application and get all the latest details about available programs and deadlines, visit the official UMY International Admissions page. You can also visit the UMY Scholarship Information page to review the full range of scholarship options available to international students.
Good luck, and we hope this guide has given you the clarity and confidence you need to take the next step toward your dream of studying in Indonesia.
