Navigating higher education in Southeast Asia opens doors to world-class academics and vibrant cultural immersion. If you're looking into Indonesian institutions, Universitas Airlangga (often called UNAIR) stands out as a premier public research university. Located in Surabaya, East Java, it regularly ranks among the top universities in Indonesia and has built a strong reputation across international academic networks.
For English speakers, transitioning to a campus in Indonesia requires understanding program options, admission procedures, language requirements, and daily student life. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about studying, navigating, and succeeding at Universitas Airlangga as an international or English-speaking student.
Understanding Universitas Airlangga
Founded in 1954, Universitas Airlangga takes its name from King Airlangga, who ruled the 11th-century kingdom of Kahuripan in East Java. It operates across multiple campuses in Surabaya, with its historic campus housing the Faculty of Medicine and newer, sprawling hubs hosting science, technology, economics, and humanities departments.
Unlike the competitor claim that it is a private university, UNAIR is actually a prestigious state-owned public university. It holds accreditation from the National Accreditation Board for Higher Education (BAN-PT) and features prominently in global rankings such as the QS World University Rankings.
Key Campus Locations
- Campus A (Dharmahusada): Home to the Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Dental Medicine, located near major teaching hospitals.
- Campus B (Dharmawangsa): The hub for humanities, law, economics, psychology, and social sciences.
- Campus C (Mulyorejo): The largest and most modern campus, hosting science, technology, public health, pharmacy, advanced technology, and nursing faculties.
Academic Programs and International Opportunities
UNAIR offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees across more than 16 faculties. While the primary medium of instruction for regular domestic classes is Indonesian, the university has rapidly expanded its English-taught programs and international class tracks to attract global scholars.
Popular Fields for International Students
- Medicine and Health Sciences: Globally recognized for tropical medicine, public health, and pharmacy research.
- Economics and Business: Offers AACSB-accredited international undergraduate programs in management and accounting.
- Law: Known for international law, trade law, and human rights studies.
- Social and Political Sciences: Focuses heavily on Southeast Asian studies, international relations, and public administration.
For short-term or exchange students, UNAIR runs the Airlangga Summer Programme and various inbound mobility schemes. These short courses are delivered entirely in English and cover Indonesian culture, community development, and tropical biodiversity alongside academic modules.
Admission Requirements for English Speakers
Gaining admission depends on whether you apply as a full-degree student or an exchange participant through a partner university.
Full-Degree International Track (IUP)
International Undergraduate Programs (IUP) are specifically designed for non-Indonesian citizens or fluent English speakers. The application process generally requires:
- High School Credentials: Certified high school diploma and transcripts translated into English or Indonesian.
- English Proficiency: Proof of English capability via TOEFL (minimum score around 500-550 for paper-based, or equivalent iBT) or IELTS (minimum band 6.0).
- Academic Assessment: Passing the specific entrance test administered online or submitting recognized international standardized test scores (like SAT or A-Levels).
- Health Certificate: Medical clearance confirming fitness for study, including specific immunizations if required.
Exchange and Mobility Programs
If your home institution has a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with UNAIR, you can apply for a semester abroad through your university's international office. Nomination procedures apply, and tuition fees are typically waived under bilateral exchange agreements.
Living in Surabaya as an Expat Student
Surabaya is Indonesia's second-largest city, serving as a major economic and commercial engine in East Java. Compared to Jakarta, the cost of living is noticeably lower, making it an attractive destination for students on a budget.
Cost of Living Breakdown
- Housing: On-campus dormitories or off-campus boarding houses (kos) range from $100 to $300 USD per month depending on amenities like air conditioning and private bathrooms.
- Food: Local meals (warung) cost between $1.50 and $3.00 USD, while dining at Western-style cafes or malls runs slightly higher.
- Transportation: Public buses (Suroboyo Bus) and ride-hailing apps like Gojek and Grab make getting around affordable and efficient without owning a vehicle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
International students often stumble during their transition to Indonesian university life due to a few common oversights.
- Ignoring Basic Bahasa Indonesia: While classes in international tracks are in English, daily life outside campus requires basic conversational Indonesian. Learning simple phrases goes a long way.
- Underestimating Visa Regulations: Obtaining the correct study permit (Vitas/KITAS) takes time. Don't enter on a tourist visa if you plan to study long-term; coordinate with UNAIR's Airlangga Global Engagement (AGE) office early.
- Neglecting Cultural Etiquette: Respect local customs, dress modestly when attending formal university events, and always use your right hand when giving or receiving items.
For official updates and detailed application portals, consult the Airlangga Global Engagement office website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Universitas Airlangga free for international students?
No. Tuition fees apply for international degree-seeking students, though they vary significantly by faculty and program. Merit-based scholarships, such as the KNB Scholarship (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang) provided by the Indonesian government, are occasionally available for eligible international applicants.
Do I need to speak Indonesian to live in Surabaya?
Not on campus or in major commercial areas, as English is widely understood by university staff and younger residents. However, learning basic Indonesian is essential for navigating local markets, street food vendors, and neighborhood interactions.
Are there halal food options near the campus?
Yes. Because Surabaya has a majority Muslim population, finding halal food is extremely easy. Canteens on all three UNAIR campuses offer a wide variety of certified halal Indonesian dishes.
Can international students work while studying in Indonesia?
Indonesian immigration regulations generally restrict international students on study permits from taking formal employment. It's best to check with the university's international office regarding permitted internships or specific work-study allowances connected to your curriculum.
