Dreaming of an international degree without the heavy price tag of Western countries? Imagine studying in a vibrant, culturally rich nation where your entire monthly budget could be as manageable as ₹30,000 to ₹50,000. Welcome to Indonesia, an affordable and exciting study destination quickly becoming a top choice for Indian students.
To turn your dream into a well-planned reality, this guide breaks down the complete cost of living in Indonesia for Indian students for 2026. We’ll cover everything from university tuition and housing to your daily food and transport costs, all in Indian Rupees, so you can budget with absolute confidence.
Quick Facts: Monthly Student Budget in Indonesia in Indian Rupees (2026)
| Expense Category | Cost in IDR (Approx.) | Cost in INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Accommodation | Rp 2,500,000 | ₹13,000 |
| Private Accommodation (Kost) | Rp 3,500,000 | ₹18,000 |
| Food & Groceries | Rp 2,000,000 | ₹10,500 |
| Transport | Rp 500,000 | ₹2,600 |
| Total Estimated Monthly Cost | Rp 8,500,000 | ₹44,100 |
Disclaimer:Exchange rates are subject to daily fluctuations. The INR values provided are based on the exchange rate of 1 IDR = ₹0.0052 and are intended for approximation purposes only. Please verify the latest rates while planning your finances.
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Average Monthly Cost of Living in Indonesia: City-Wise Breakdown for Students
The cost of living in Indonesia varies significantly depending on the city you choose. While Jakarta is the bustling capital with higher expenses, cities like Yogyakarta are known for being student-friendly and highly affordable. Here’s a look at the estimated monthly living costs for students in popular Indonesian cities.
| City | Average Monthly Cost (with rent) | Key Highlights for Students |
|---|---|---|
| Jakarta | ₹50,000 - ₹65,000 | Capital city with higher costs but more part-time job opportunities. |
| Bali (Denpasar) | ₹45,000 - ₹60,000 | A famous tourist hub offering a great lifestyle with varied costs. |
| Yogyakarta | ₹30,000 - ₹45,000 | A major student city, known for its cultural heritage and affordability. |
| Bandung | ₹35,000 - ₹50,000 | A major university town with a cooler climate and a thriving creative scene. |
Detailed Breakdown of Monthly Expenses in Indonesia in Indian Rupees
Managing your monthly expenses is crucial for a stress-free study experience. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the key costs you’ll encounter as an Indian student in Indonesia.
Student Accommodation Costs in Indonesia: Hostels and Kost
Your biggest monthly expense will likely be accommodation, ranging from ₹8,000 for a university dorm to ₹25,000 for a private room (Kost). Choosing shared housing or living outside the city centre can offer significant savings.
- University Dormitories: Many universities, like the University of Indonesia, offer on-campus housing, which is often the most affordable choice. Prices can range from ₹8,000 to ₹15,000 per month.
- Private Housing (Kost): A Kost is a type of boarding house popular among students, offering single rooms with basic furnishings. The average rent for a Kost is between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000 per month, depending on the city and facilities.
- Finding Affordable Housing: To save money, consider sharing accommodation or choosing a Kost slightly outside the city centre. Always inspect the property and understand the rental agreement before making a payment.
Food & Grocery Expenses in Indonesia for Students
Indonesian cuisine is famous for its delicious and affordable street food. You can enjoy a fulfilling meal at a local eatery, known as a warung, for as little as ₹150 - ₹250. If you prefer cooking, groceries for a week can cost between ₹2,000 and ₹3,000.
Indian Student Tip: While Indonesian food is flavourful, you can find Indian grocery stores in major cities like Jakarta for spices and lentils. Vegetarian and vegan options are also widely available, with tofu (tahu) and tempeh (tempe) being popular staples.
Transportation Costs in Indonesia for Students: Gojek, Grab & Public Transport
Getting around in Indonesia is convenient and affordable, thanks to ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab. These apps are the go-to for booking motorcycle taxis (ojek) and cars at low prices. Public transport, such as the TransJakarta bus system, is also an efficient way to travel within the city. Many students also opt to rent a scooter, which can cost around ₹3,000 - ₹5,000 per month.
Monthly Utilities & Other Bills in Indonesia
When renting a private apartment or Kost, you’ll need to budget for utilities. This typically includes:
- Electricity, water, and cooking gas: Around ₹2,000 - ₹3,500 per month.
- Mobile Phone and Wi-Fi: A monthly mobile plan with data costs about ₹500 - ₹800, while home Wi-Fi can range from ₹1,500 to ₹2,500.
Healthcare and Student Insurance
International students in Indonesia are required to have health insurance, which is a mandatory part of the student visa process. The average cost of a student health insurance plan is around ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per year. This typically covers basic medical consultations, emergencies, and hospitalisation.
Monthly Budget in Indonesia: Cost for a Single Person vs. Family
While this guide focuses on student expenses, it's helpful to understand the broader cost of living. Your monthly budget will change significantly if you are a single professional or moving with a family.
Here’s a brief comparison of estimated monthly expenses, excluding rent, to help you plan.
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (without rent) |
|---|---|
| Single Person | ₹37,000 |
| Family of Four | ₹1,30,000 |
These figures can vary based on your lifestyle, spending habits, and choice of city.
University Tuition Fees in Indonesia for Indian Students
Tuition fees in Indonesia are significantly more affordable than in many Western countries. Public universities are generally cheaper than private ones. Here’s an estimated range of annual tuition fees for popular courses.
| Course | Public University (INR) | Private University (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | ₹2,50,000 - ₹4,00,000 | ₹4,50,000 - ₹7,00,000 |
| Business/Management | ₹3,00,000 - ₹5,00,000 | ₹5,00,000 - ₹8,00,000 |
| Arts & Humanities | ₹2,00,000 - ₹3,50,000 | ₹3,50,000 - ₹6,00,000 |
One-Time Costs in Indonesia: Visa, Flight, and Setup Expenses
Before you begin your studies, you'll need to account for several one-time expenses. These pre-arrival costs include:
- Flight Tickets: A one-way flight from major Indian cities like Delhi or Mumbai to Jakarta or Bali can cost between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000, depending on the airline and how far in advance you book.
- Student Visa (KITAS): The application fee for the Indonesian student visa can range from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000.
- Accommodation Deposit: Most landlords require a security deposit, usually equivalent to one month's rent.
- Textbooks and Supplies: Depending on your course, budget around ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 for the year.
How to Save Money in Indonesia: 7 Student Budgeting Tips
Living on a student budget is manageable in Indonesia with a few smart strategies. Here are seven tips to help you save money:
- Eat at Local Warungs: Cooking at home is cost-effective, but eating at local eateries is also very affordable and a great way to experience the culture.
- Use Ride-Hailing Apps: Master apps like Gojek and Grab for affordable and convenient transportation, especially motorcycle taxis.
- Shop at Local Markets (Pasar): Buy fresh produce and groceries from local markets instead of supermarkets to get better prices.
- Use Student Discounts: Always carry your student ID and ask for discounts at cafes, cinemas, and tourist attractions.
- Choose an Affordable City: Living in a city like Yogyakarta can cut your expenses by nearly half compared to Jakarta.
- Share Accommodation: Renting a shared apartment or Kost with friends is a great way to reduce your living costs.
- Manage Bank Fees: Look for banks that offer low fees for international transfers to avoid unnecessary charges.
Cost of Living in Indonesia vs India: Detailed Comparison
While the cost of living in Indonesia is generally affordable, it's helpful to compare it to India. Overall, living costs in Indonesia are slightly higher than in India, especially for rent in major cities. However, public transportation and local food can be cheaper. Tuition fees at Indonesian public universities are often comparable to private universities in India, making it a competitive option for higher education.
Scholarships for Indian Students to Reduce Cost of Living in Indonesia
To make studying in Indonesia even more affordable, several scholarships are available for international students. One of the most prominent is the Kemitraan Negara Berkembang (KNB) Scholarship, offered by the Indonesian government.
The KNB Scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees
- A monthly living allowance
- Round-trip airfareeand grants for deserving international students. Be sure to check the websites of your shortlisted universities for more details.
Conclusion
With monthly living costs ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹50,000 and affordable tuition fees, Indonesia offers an excellent balance of quality education and a low cost of living. Its vibrant culture, friendly people, and stunning natural beauty make it an attractive and budget-friendly destination for Indian students.Ready to start your academic journey in Indonesia?
Speak to one of our expert counsellors today to get personalized guidance on universities, applications, and financial planning!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How much INR is enough for a student in Indonesia per month?
Ans. A student can live comfortably in Indonesia for around ₹35,000 to ₹50,000 per month. This budget covers accommodation, food, transport, and other basic expenses. Costs are lower in student-friendly cities like Yogyakarta compared to Jakarta.
Q. Is Indonesia cheaper than India for students?
Ans. The overall cost of living in Indonesia is slightly higher than in India, particularly for accommodation in major cities like Jakarta. However, tuition fees at public universities can be comparable or even more affordable than at many private universities in India.
Q. Can Indian students work part-time in Indonesia?
Ans. Generally, a student visa (KITAS) in Indonesia does not permit students to work part-time off-campus. Some universities might offer on-campus work opportunities, but you should not rely on this as a primary source of funding.
Q. What is the average rent for a student in Indonesia in rupees?
Ans. The average monthly rent for a student room, known as a Kost, is between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000. The cost varies depending on the city, location, and the facilities provided.
Q. How much does a student visa for Indonesia cost?
Ans. The total cost for the Indonesian student visa (VITAS/KITAS) process, including various administrative fees, typically ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000.
Q. Is Jakarta expensive for a student from India?
Ans. Yes, Jakarta is the most expensive city in Indonesia. An Indian student should budget around ₹50,000 - ₹65,000 per month to live comfortably in Jakarta, which is significantly higher than in other student cities like Yogyakarta or Bandung.
Q. How much are tuition fees in Indonesia in Indian Rupees?
Ans. Annual tuition fees for bachelor's degrees for Indian students can range from ₹2,50,000 to ₹7,00,000, depending on whether it is a public or private university and the chosen course.
Q. Is it easy to find vegetarian food in Indonesia?
Ans. Yes, it is relatively easy to find vegetarian food. While Indonesian cuisine features a lot of meat, many dishes are based on tofu (tahu), tempeh (tempe), and vegetables (sayur). Learning these local terms will make it easy to order vegetarian meals at local eateries.
Q. Which cities in Indonesia are the most affordable?
Ans. Cities like Yogyakarta and Bandung are known for their low living costs, making them ideal for students. For those seeking even cheaper options, cities in Eastern Indonesia like Makassar and Manado are significantly more affordable than Jakarta and Bali. To give an idea, rent in Jakarta is over 312% higher than in Manado.
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