Universitas Airlangga

Universitas Airlangga Admissions Guide for

Indonesia's premier health sciences university, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) has shaped the nation's doctors, pharmacists, and public health leaders since 1954. Ranked #308 globally by QS and 4th in Indonesia, UNAIR offers internationally recognised degrees at among the lowest tuition costs in Southeast Asia — making it a compelling destination for students seeking quality, affordability, and a genuine Indonesian campus experience in the vibrant port city of Surabaya.

Universitas Airlangga — campus in pictures

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faculty of humanities, airlangga university

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north view dharmawangsa dalam, airlangga university

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Large-leaved Lupine (Lupinus polyphyllus). Invasive species in wild in Ukraine.

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Health Sciences, Affordability & ASEAN Network

UNAIR is the undisputed leader in Indonesia for health and life sciences. With 16 faculties, 72 departments, and 174 study programmes spanning medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, nursing, veterinary medicine, law, economics, and psychology, it offers breadth rarely found at comparable cost anywhere in the world.

UNAIR's Faculty of Medicine is one of Indonesia's oldest and most respected, consistently producing doctors who lead national and regional health systems. Pharmacy, Dentistry, Nursing, and Public Health are equally strong — making UNAIR the go-to destination for future health professionals across ASEAN.

Annual tuition of approximately USD 2,500 and a total cost of attendance under USD 6,000 make UNAIR one of the most cost-effective research universities in Southeast Asia. Surabaya's living costs are significantly lower than Jakarta or Singapore, stretching your budget further.

Ranked #308 in the QS World University Rankings and 4th nationally in Indonesia, UNAIR carries genuine international recognition. It also ranks in the QS Subject top 51–100 in selected health disciplines — meaningful differentiation for students seeking competitive graduate-school pathways.

As a member of the ASEAN University Network (AUN), UNAIR's qualifications are recognised across Southeast Asia. The AMERTA student exchange programme connects you with peer institutions across the region, broadening your professional network before graduation.

With over 11,000 Scopus-indexed publications, 130 patents, and dedicated platforms like Scholar UNAIR, the university offers genuine research engagement for undergraduates and postgraduates. The Floating Hospital community-health programme provides rare real-world clinical exposure.

Indonesia's second-largest city offers an urban campus experience with lower costs and less congestion than Jakarta. Surabaya's growing economy, thriving food culture, and diverse industries — from shipping and manufacturing to healthcare — create a rich environment for internships and early career development.

UNAIR admits approximately 25% of applicants, making it selective but not hyper-competitive by global standards. Competition is highest for Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy, where demand from Indonesian and international students far exceeds available seats. International-class tracks — English-medium programmes designed for non-Indonesian speakers — have their own admission procedures and may have different competitive dynamics. Strong academic records, particularly in sciences for health programmes, significantly improve your prospects.

International students apply directly to UNAIR through the central admissions portal at ppmb.unair.ac.id. The application is qualification-based — your academic transcripts, predicted/final grades, and English proficiency are the primary factors. Submissions are processed by the International Office (int@ppmb.unair.ac.id).

Certified copies of all secondary and post-secondary transcripts. For health programmes (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy), strong science grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics are essential.

IELTS (minimum 5.5 overall), TOEFL iBT (minimum 61), or an equivalent recognised test. Some programmes taught partly in Indonesian may accept lower scores with a commitment to language study.

A written statement explaining your reasons for choosing UNAIR and your chosen programme. This is not a formal essay with rigid prompts — it is a direct, sincere motivation letter. Length and format guidance is confirmed at the time of application.

Valid passport with at least 18 months remaining. You will also need this for the subsequent study-permit (KITAS) and student visa process after admission.

Required particularly for clinical programmes (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Nursing). Some programmes may require specific health checks before enrolment.

Typically one or two letters from secondary school teachers or university supervisors attesting to your academic ability and suitability for your chosen programme.

UNAIR is fundamentally an academically-driven institution where your grades and subject background carry the greatest weight. There is no holistic 'story-building' exercise of the kind US-style admissions demand. The strongest international applicants to health programmes demonstrate exceptional science performance — Biology and Chemistry above all — alongside genuine motivation for a health career in an Indonesian-language context. For social sciences, law, and economics, strong humanities and mathematics scores are valued.

For international-class tracks specifically, evidence of English proficiency meeting or exceeding the minimum is non-negotiable. UNAIR values students who are genuinely curious about Indonesia and Southeast Asia — those who come not merely for a credential but to engage with a country undergoing rapid development in healthcare, infrastructure, and the digital economy.

UNAIR operates on Indonesian academic calendar cycles. International students should apply through the central portal (ppmb.unair.ac.id/en) and contact the International Office directly to confirm current-cycle deadlines, as exact dates vary by programme and year. The university typically opens applications in the first quarter of the calendar year for intake commencing in August/September.

Always confirm exact deadlines with the UNAIR International Office at int@ppmb.unair.ac.id — dates shift annually. Allow additional time for Indonesian student-visa (KITAS) processing after receiving your admission letter.

Online portal ppmb.unair.ac.id/en — verify each cycle

Full document set including English proficiency scores

UNAIR's campuses are spread across Surabaya — Indonesia's second city and the commercial capital of eastern Indonesia. The main Kampus A, B, and C are in Surabaya proper, with newer campuses in Gresik and Lamongan for specific faculties. This multi-campus model means student life varies by faculty, but the university ties everything together with centralised student-support services.

Surabaya is a working Indonesian city, not a tourist hub — which is precisely why studying here offers an authentic immersion into Indonesian culture, language, and professional life that more internationalised campuses cannot provide. Street food is extraordinary and inexpensive, public transport is improving, and the city's port-city heritage gives it a distinctive multicultural character. Living costs average around USD 250 per month, meaning your total annual cost of living (USD 3,000) covers comfortable student accommodation, meals, and transport.

The AMERTA (Academic Mobility Exchange for Undergraduate at Airlangga) programme brings international exchange students to UNAIR, and the Airlangga Science Olympiad (OSA) connects students nationally. Student organisations span academic clubs, cultural groups, and community-service initiatives including the university's celebrated Floating Hospital programme, which deploys student volunteers to underserved coastal communities.

UNAIR's graduate employment rate stands at 82%, with average starting salaries around USD 6,500 per year — competitive within the Indonesian market. Health-science graduates are in high demand across Indonesia and Southeast Asia, where physician and pharmacist shortages remain acute. Economics, law, and management graduates find strong opportunities in Surabaya's growing financial and logistics sectors.

For international students, an UNAIR degree carries weight across ASEAN — particularly in health-sector roles in Malaysia, Singapore, and other Southeast Asian markets that recruit Indonesian-trained health professionals. The ASEAN University Network membership bolsters mutual recognition of qualifications across member countries. Graduate-school pathways to leading universities in Japan, South Korea, Australia, and the Netherlands are well-established, with UNAIR alumni succeeding in top postgraduate programmes globally.

Is tuition at UNAIR really as affordable as stated?

Yes — tuition is approximately USD 2,500 per year for most programmes, with a total cost of attendance (including living costs) of around USD 5,800. This is substantially lower than comparable programmes in Australia, the UK, or Singapore, and competitive even within Southeast Asia.

Is UNAIR taught in English or Indonesian?

Most undergraduate programmes are taught primarily in Indonesian (Bahasa Indonesia). International-class tracks exist at both undergraduate and postgraduate level and are taught in English. Non-Indonesian speakers applying to regular programmes should be prepared for Indonesian-medium instruction and may be required to attend language classes.

Can I study Medicine or Dentistry at UNAIR as an international student?

International students can apply to medicine and health programmes. These are highly competitive and admission is primarily based on strong science grades (Biology and Chemistry) and an Indonesian language readiness plan. Contact the International Office at int@ppmb.unair.ac.id to confirm current capacity and requirements.

The minimum is IELTS 5.5 overall or TOEFL iBT 61. For English-medium international-class tracks, higher scores are generally expected. Check with the specific faculty for programme-level requirements.

How do I get a student visa for Indonesia?

After receiving your admission letter, you apply for a student visa (Visa Pelajar) at the nearest Indonesian embassy or consulate, then convert it to a Limited Stay Permit (KITAS) after arrival. UNAIR's International Office provides guidance on this process. Allow 4–8 weeks for processing.

Does UNAIR offer scholarships for international students?

UNAIR offers limited scholarship support for international students. Indonesian government scholarships (such as LPDP) are primarily for Indonesian nationals. The Darmasiswa programme, funded by the Indonesian Ministry of Education, provides scholarships for international students to study Indonesian language and culture at UNAIR. Bilateral and faculty-specific scholarships may also be available — check with the International Office.

AMERTA (Academic Mobility Exchange for Undergraduate at Airlangga) is UNAIR's student exchange programme. It allows students from partner universities worldwide to spend one or two semesters at UNAIR studying alongside regular students and attending Indonesian language/culture classes. It does not lead to an UNAIR degree but provides recognised credit.

Is Surabaya safe and liveable for international students?

Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city and generally safe for international students. It has a relatively low cost of living, excellent local food, improving public transport, and a warm local community. International students should exercise standard urban safety awareness. Campus support services and the international student community provide a good network of assistance.

Universitas Airlangga is a research-intensive public university where academic achievement is the primary selection criterion. For international students, your secondary-school qualifications, predicted grades, and subject profile carry the most weight. The IB Diploma, A-Levels, and equivalent national curricula are all accepted. Health-programme applicants face the steepest academic bar — Biology and Chemistry are non-negotiable foundation subjects.

These are indicative minimum thresholds. Competitive programmes — particularly Medicine, Dentistry, and Pharmacy — typically require scores well above these floors. Verify current programme-specific requirements with the UNAIR Admissions Office.

UNAIR operates a test-optional policy with respect to SAT and ACT scores — these international standardised tests are not required and are not a significant factor in the Indonesian university admissions system. Admission decisions rest on your national secondary qualifications (IB Diploma, A-Levels, national diplomas) and your academic transcript rather than on SAT/ACT performance.

If you have strong SAT or ACT results, you may submit them as supplementary evidence of academic ability, but they will not substitute for the required academic transcripts and will not confer preferential treatment in the UNAIR selection process.

Unlike US universities, UNAIR does not require SAT or ACT scores. International students are assessed primarily on their secondary school results — IB Diploma, A-Levels, national baccalaureates, or equivalent qualifications. Focus your preparation on achieving strong grades in relevant subjects rather than preparing for SAT/ACT.

UNAIR accepts both the IB Diploma Programme and A-Level qualifications for international admissions. The indicative minimum for IB is 27 points overall, though competitive health programmes (Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy) will expect scores considerably higher — typically 32+ with strong Higher Level science scores.

For IB applicants targeting health programmes, Higher Level Biology and Chemistry are strongly recommended, with Mathematics Analysis & Approaches or Applications & Interpretation at Standard or Higher Level depending on the programme. For A-Level applicants, Biology and Chemistry at A-Level are essential for health sciences. Three A-Level subjects at grades B and above meet the general minimum, but again, health programmes are more demanding.

The IB's emphasis on the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) provides good preparation for UNAIR's research-oriented environment and community engagement ethos — but these holistic components carry less weight in the Indonesian admissions process than they might at UK or US institutions. Your final IB score is what matters most.

Verify programme-specific subject requirements directly with individual faculties at admissions@unair.ac.id — requirements differ between, for example, Medicine and Economics.

Biology (HL for IB / A-Level) is essential. Chemistry at Higher Level / A-Level is equally critical. Mathematics is important for biostatistics and research courses. Physics helps in Medical Physics units. Aim for consistently high grades across all science subjects.

Chemistry is the central science subject — aim for the highest possible grade. Biology provides essential context. Mathematics underpins pharmaceutical calculations and epidemiological statistics. Strong English language skills are important for scientific literature access.

Biology and Chemistry at higher level. Animal Science or Agriculture subjects, if available in your curriculum, are advantageous though not required. Indonesian language preparedness is particularly important as veterinary clinical placements occur in Indonesian-speaking contexts.

Mathematics is the most important subject — both Microeconomics and Macroeconomics at UNAIR are quantitative. Economics and Business Studies at secondary level provide useful preparation but are not always required. Statistics and data-analysis readiness is valued.

Strong analytical reading and writing ability in secondary school is the best preparation. History, Social Sciences, and Languages demonstrate the reasoning skills UNAIR Law faculty seek. Note: most UNAIR Law teaching is in Indonesian — language readiness is critical.

Biology and Social Sciences provide the best subject foundation. Mathematics (for research methods and statistics) is important. Psychology is partly taught in Indonesian at undergraduate level, so language preparation matters.

All international students must demonstrate English proficiency. These are minimum thresholds — individual programmes, especially those taught in Indonesian, may have differing requirements. Always confirm with the specific faculty.

No band below 5.0 recommended; English-medium programmes expect higher

Internet-based test; PBT scores also accepted — confirm equivalent

Acceptance of DET not confirmed — contact International Office

Indonesian-medium programmes require language study — BIPA classes available at UNAIR

Decide your programme direction early. If you want Medicine, Pharmacy, or Dentistry, commit to Higher Level Biology and Chemistry in IB (or A-Level equivalents) by Grade 10. Switching science subjects late wastes precious preparation time.

Take an IELTS or TOEFL diagnostic test by the end of Grade 10. If you are below 5.5, allocate structured preparation time. Aim to clear the minimum by mid-Grade 11 so you can focus on academics in Grade 12.

Grade 11: Start Indonesian language basics

Even if you are admitted to an English-medium international-class track, basic Bahasa Indonesia skills will dramatically improve your day-to-day campus experience in Surabaya. Apps, online courses, and language classes are all viable options.

For health programmes: hospital or clinic shadowing, community health work, or science olympiad participation strengthen your motivation letter. For business and law: debating, Model UN, or economic research projects demonstrate analytical capability.

UNAIR's international admissions cycle typically opens early in the calendar year. Complete your online application at ppmb.unair.ac.id/en as soon as it opens. Gather recommendation letters and health certificates in advance — processing takes time.

Applying to Medicine or Dentistry without Higher Level Biology and Chemistry — these are effectively non-negotiable subject requirements

Underestimating language requirements: many programmes are taught in Indonesian, not English, at undergraduate level

Assuming an IB score of 27 is competitive for health programmes — the minimum floor is much lower than actual competitive intake averages for Medicine/Dentistry/Pharmacy

Not verifying whether your intended programme has an international-class (English-medium) track or requires Indonesian proficiency

Leaving the English proficiency test until the last minute — IELTS/TOEFL registration and results take time, and many UNAIR intake deadlines fall in April–May

Ignoring the Indonesian visa process — converting an admission letter into a KITAS study permit takes 4–8 weeks and requires planning

Not contacting the International Office directly to confirm programme-specific requirements — published information can be general, and specifics vary by faculty

Universitas Airlangga is one of the most affordable research universities in Southeast Asia. Annual tuition of approximately USD 2,500, combined with Surabaya's low cost of living, makes the total annual cost of attendance around USD 5,800 — a fraction of what equivalent programmes cost in Australia, the UK, or Singapore. For families budgeting carefully, UNAIR represents exceptional academic value.

All figures are approximate annual estimates in USD. Exact tuition varies by programme and year of enrolment. Living costs depend on housing choice and lifestyle in Surabaya.

Varies by programme; health programmes may differ

Cost of Living (Accommodation, Food, Transport)

Surabaya is low-cost vs. Jakarta or Singapore

Per year; includes tuition + living essentials

Non-refundable, paid online at ppmb.unair.ac.id

Government visa fees apply; budget ~$100–200 for processing

As a public Indonesian university, UNAIR's primary financial-aid programmes are structured around supporting Indonesian citizens. International students are generally not eligible for the main Indonesian government scholarship funds (KIP-Kuliah, LPDP) which are reserved for Indonesian nationals.

However, UNAIR does offer some scholarship support for international students, and the Indonesian government's Darmasiswa scholarship programme specifically funds international students to study Indonesian language and culture at Indonesian universities including UNAIR. Average aid coverage is approximately 10% of costs for those who qualify — meaning the primary affordability advantage at UNAIR is the inherently low base cost rather than large scholarship packages.

For most international students, the financial case for UNAIR rests on its extremely low tuition and living costs compared to any Western alternative, rather than on institutional aid.

Always verify current aid availability with the UNAIR International Office at int@ppmb.unair.ac.id — aid landscape changes annually.

Darmasiswa Scholarship (Indonesian Government)

The Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture's Darmasiswa programme funds international students from countries with diplomatic relations with Indonesia to study Indonesian language, arts, and culture at accredited Indonesian universities including UNAIR. It covers accommodation and living allowances. Applications are made through Indonesian embassies in your home country.

KNB Scholarship (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang)

The Developing Country Partnership scholarship targets students from developing countries for postgraduate study (Master's and Doctoral) at selected Indonesian universities. UNAIR is among the eligible host institutions. Check with the Indonesian embassy in your country for current eligibility and application rounds.

UNAIR maintains bilateral academic cooperation agreements with universities in Japan, South Korea, Australia, the Netherlands, and other countries. These may include limited scholarship provisions for exchange or full-degree students. Contact int@ppmb.unair.ac.id to enquire about any available institutional awards for your nationality.

LPDP is Indonesia's premier scholarship fund for postgraduate study domestically and abroad. It is available to Indonesian citizens only, not international applicants. It is mentioned here because international students with Indonesian family connections or dual citizenship may be eligible.

The numbers are genuinely striking: studying Medicine or Pharmacy at UNAIR costs less per year than a single semester at many Western universities. The caveat is that the degree will carry greatest weight within the Indonesian and ASEAN job market — for students intending to return to Southeast Asia, this is an excellent return on investment.

For international students who plan to practice medicine in their home country, they will typically need to pass their home country's medical licensing exams regardless of where they trained. Research whether an Indonesian medical degree is recognised for licensing in your specific country before committing — this is especially important for students from India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and African countries with specific foreign medical graduate regulations.

Living costs in Surabaya are lower than in most Indonesian cities and dramatically lower than in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Sydney. Student accommodation (boarding houses or kos) near campus typically costs USD 80–150/month, local meals USD 1–3 each, and city transport is inexpensive.

Apply to Darmasiswa or KNB via your embassy

These Indonesian government scholarships are the most accessible external funding routes for international students. Applications are processed by Indonesian embassies in your home country — find the Indonesia embassy website and check scholarship pages 12–18 months before intended enrolment.

Contact UNAIR International Office about bilateral opportunities

Email int@ppmb.unair.ac.id asking specifically about any scholarship or fee-waiver arrangements for students from your country. Bilateral agreements are often under-publicised.

Explore home-country scholarships for overseas study

Many countries have government or foundation scholarships for citizens studying abroad. Some are not restricted to specific destinations, meaning an UNAIR enrolment could qualify. Research your own Ministry of Education or national scholarship boards.

Even without scholarship support, UNAIR's all-in cost of approximately USD 5,800 per year is manageable for many families. Create a detailed budget accounting for tuition, accommodation, food, visa fees, travel, and health insurance.

Ensure you have comprehensive international health insurance covering Indonesia before departure. The Indonesian national health scheme (BPJS Kesehatan) may be available to registered students at low cost — enquire with UNAIR upon enrolment.

Is the USD 2,500 tuition accurate for health programmes like Medicine?

The USD 2,500 figure is the indicative tuition rate from available data. Health programmes — particularly Medicine and Dentistry — may have different fee structures. Contact the UNAIR Admissions Office or the specific faculty to confirm current tuition for your programme.

Are there hidden costs I should budget for?

Beyond tuition and living costs, budget for: student visa and KITAS processing (~USD 100–200), international health insurance, textbooks and supplies (~USD 200–400/year), and potential clinical placement fees for health programmes. A 10–15% contingency buffer is prudent.

Can I work part-time while studying in Indonesia?

Indonesian student visa (KITAS) regulations generally do not permit international students to work. Confirm current regulations with the Indonesian Directorate General of Immigration or the UNAIR International Office before planning to work.

Is financial aid available without Indonesian citizenship?

Institutional aid is limited for non-Indonesian international students. The Darmasiswa and KNB external scholarships are the most viable routes. Budget planning based on the actual (low) cost of attendance rather than expected aid is the prudent approach.

How does UNAIR's cost compare to medical schools elsewhere in Southeast Asia?

UNAIR's medicine programme is substantially cheaper than comparable programmes in Malaysia, Singapore, or Australia. Philippine and Indonesian medical schools compete on cost for international students; compare specific programme costs, duration, and licensing recognition carefully.

Unlike US universities, UNAIR does not use a formal essay application system with standardised prompts. International students apply through a direct admissions portal and typically submit a motivation letter alongside their qualifications. This tab guides you through what that statement should contain, how the application process works, and what the university looks for beyond grades.

Universitas Airlangga is a public Indonesian university. Domestic Indonesian students are admitted through the national entrance examination system (SNBT — Seleksi Nasional Berdasarkan Tes) and related tracks. International students follow a separate, direct-application pathway managed by UNAIR's International Office.

The international application is submitted through the central admissions portal at ppmb.unair.ac.id/en. The process is primarily qualification-based: your secondary-school transcripts, predicted/actual IB Diploma or A-Level results, English proficiency scores, and supporting documents are the central selection inputs. There is no formal essay system equivalent to the Common App or UCAS personal statement.

However, most programmes ask for a motivation letter (sometimes called a personal statement) as part of the documentation package. This is a free-form written document — typically 300–600 words — explaining why you want to study your chosen programme at UNAIR and what you intend to do with the degree.

UNAIR does not publish standardised essay prompts — the motivation letter is a free-format document. Based on UNAIR's admissions priorities and the Indonesian higher-education context, your letter should address the following themes. Verify exact requirements with the International Office for your specific programme cycle.

No standardised prompt is published. Address: Why have you chosen this specific programme (e.g. Medicine, Pharmacy, Economics) and what drew you to it as a field of study?

Be concrete and specific. 'I want to help people' is generic. Describe a specific experience — a clinical observation, a family health situation, an economic problem you witnessed — that directed you toward this programme. For health programmes especially, depth of motivation matters because the programmes are demanding and dropout from non-committed students is a real concern for UNAIR faculties.

No standardised prompt is published. Address: Why have you chosen to study in Indonesia, and specifically at Universitas Airlangga rather than other institutions?

Authenticity matters here. Indonesian universities prefer students who have a genuine connection to Indonesia or a clear rationale for choosing it — regional ties, ASEAN career goals, research interests, cost considerations honestly stated. Reference UNAIR's specific strengths (its health-sciences heritage, its Surabaya setting, its ASEAN network) rather than producing a generic 'best university in Indonesia' statement.

Your Academic Background and Relevant Experience

No standardised prompt is published. Address: What in your academic background and extracurricular or work experience has prepared you for this programme?

Keep this factual and specific. List the key subjects you have studied and how they relate to your chosen programme. Mention any relevant work, volunteering, or research experience briefly. Do not exaggerate or claim experiences you cannot verify — UNAIR may ask for supporting documentation.

No standardised prompt is published. Address: What do you intend to do after completing your degree, and how does study at UNAIR connect to those goals?

State clear, realistic goals. If you plan to return to your home country, explain how an UNAIR degree serves that goal. If you plan to work in Indonesia or Southeast Asia, explain your reasoning. Vague goals ('make a difference in the world') carry less weight than specific ones ('I plan to pursue postgraduate training in infectious disease and return to practise in [country]').

The motivation letter for UNAIR should be clear, direct, and honest — not the literary personal narrative that US-style applications encourage. Indonesian academic culture values precision, respect, and clarity of purpose. Here is how to write a letter that works:

Open with a clear statement of purpose: the programme you are applying for and why. Do not start with a philosophical quote or a vague opening — admissions officers read hundreds of letters and appreciate directness. Then move systematically through your motivation, academic preparation, and post-graduation plans.

Write in formal English. Proofread carefully. A well-structured, error-free letter signals the language proficiency and attention to detail that UNAIR programmes require. If English is not your first language, have a native or near-native speaker review your letter before submission.

Keep the tone respectful but not sycophantic. You do not need to write 'Your esteemed institution is the greatest in Asia' — factual acknowledgement of UNAIR's national and regional standing is more effective.

Target 300–500 words unless the faculty specifies otherwise. Longer does not mean better. Every sentence should carry specific information, not padding.

Provide certified copies with official English translation if the originals are in another language. For IB students, include your predicted grades certificate from your school as well as your actual diploma when available. Highlight strong science grades for health-programme applications.

Ask teachers who know your academic work in relevant subjects — science teachers for health programmes, economics or mathematics teachers for business/economics. Brief your recommenders on the programme you are applying for and UNAIR's focus on practical healthcare and community impact. Give recommenders at least 3–4 weeks' notice.

Submit your IELTS or TOEFL score report directly. Ensure the test date is within the validity period accepted by UNAIR (typically within 2 years of application). If you are applying to an Indonesian-medium programme, also enquire about BIPA (Bahasa Indonesia) level requirements.

Medical fitness is required for clinical programmes. Get your health certificate from a certified physician. For medicine and dentistry especially, some conditions may affect eligibility for clinical training — consult the faculty about specific requirements.

A clear copy of your valid passport biographical page and a recent passport-sized photo complying with the university's specifications. Your passport must have sufficient validity to cover your intended period of study.

The most effective UNAIR applications from international students share a few characteristics. First, they demonstrate a clear, informed understanding of what studying in Indonesia actually means — not a romanticised view, but a realistic one that acknowledges language immersion, cultural adaptation, and a lower-resource environment compared to Western universities.

Second, they show how the specific academic strengths of UNAIR — health sciences, veterinary medicine, Indonesia's growing pharmaceutical sector, ASEAN economic integration — connect to the applicant's specific goals. Generic admiration for 'a top Indonesian university' is less compelling than 'I chose UNAIR's School of Pharmacy because the institution's strong partnerships with Indonesian pharmaceutical companies align with my intention to work in drug development for tropical-disease contexts.'

Third, they are pragmatic about language. If you do not yet speak Indonesian, acknowledge this honestly and describe your plan to learn. UNAIR values students who approach the language challenge proactively rather than ignoring it.

Submitting a motivation letter clearly written for a US or UK application, with references to 'supplemental essays' or US admissions language

Vague motivation: 'I want to become a doctor to help people' without specific experiences or goals that demonstrate genuine commitment

Ignoring the Indonesian-language dimension: applying to Indonesian-medium programmes without any plan to acquire language skills

Applying to Medicine or Dentistry without the required science subjects in your secondary curriculum

Missing the application window: UNAIR's international admissions cycle is shorter than many Western universities — check and track deadlines proactively

Submitting untranslated documents: all documents must be in Indonesian or English — other languages require certified translation

Forgetting to budget and plan for the KITAS visa process after admission — it takes additional time and paperwork

Assuming Indonesian medical degrees are automatically recognised for medical licensing in your home country without checking

Frequently Asked Questions about the Application

Does UNAIR use the Common App or any centralised international application system?

No. UNAIR uses its own direct admissions portal at ppmb.unair.ac.id/en. There is no Common App, UCAS, or similar centralised system for Indonesian public universities.

Is the motivation letter really necessary?

Yes — while the primary selection criterion is your academic qualifications, most programmes ask for a motivation letter as part of the documentation. It is an opportunity to contextualise your grades and demonstrate genuine commitment to the programme.

What language should my motivation letter be in?

English is appropriate for international student applications. Some applicants choose to include a version in Bahasa Indonesia as well, which signals language commitment and can be favourably received, but is not required.

Can I apply to multiple programmes simultaneously?

Check current portal rules with the UNAIR Admissions Office. Some Indonesian universities allow preference rankings within a single application; others require separate applications. Confirm via int@ppmb.unair.ac.id.

Is there an interview as part of the international admissions process?

Some health-programme applications may include an interview or selection test. This is not confirmed universally — ask the specific faculty whether an interview is required for your programme.

How long does it take to get an admissions decision?

Typically 4–8 weeks after the document submission deadline. UNAIR's International Office can provide status updates — email int@ppmb.unair.ac.id if you have not received a decision within the expected timeline.

After receiving your admission letter, you will enrol formally through the portal, pay your first-semester tuition, and then begin the Indonesian student visa (Visa Pelajar / KITAS) application at the nearest Indonesian consulate. UNAIR will provide a letter of acceptance and supporting documents required for the visa application.