Scholarships You Might Not Know About for Undergraduate Programs

Studying abroad is a dream for many high school students in Indonesia. However, one of the biggest concerns is often the cost. There are scholarships available that are not widely known but offer incredible opportunities for undergraduate study.

If you’re planning your journey to study overseas, here are four scholarships you might not know about but definitely should consider.

1.  ASEAN Scholarship to Singaporean Universities

Singapore has become one of the top study destinations in Asia, known for its world-class universities and strong global reputation. The ASEAN Scholarship is a great opportunity for students from ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, to study at top universities in Singapore.

The scholarship applies to Singaporean universities, such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Singapore Management University (SMU).

What makes it attractive?
The scholarship covers 100% of tuition fees (after the government subsidy), along with a generous living allowance, accommodation support, and even a one-time computer allowance.

Who should apply?
Students with strong academic results, leadership potential, and active participation in extracurricular activities are highly encouraged to apply.

2. Fast Retailing Foundation (Japan)

If you are aiming to study in Japan in an English-taught program, this scholarship is a hidden gem. Funded by the Fast Retailing Foundation, it supports students from Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines.

What does it cover?
This scholarship is highly comprehensive, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and even preparation support before your departure. The total funding can reach up to 4.5 million yen per year.

What are they looking for?
They are searching for students with a global mindset who have a clear vision of their future goals. Academic excellence is important, but so is your motivation to contribute to society.

Important note:
This scholarship is quite competitive. Strong standardized test scores (such as SAT, ACT, or IELTS/TOEFL) significantly increase your chances.

3. CIMB ASEAN

This scholarship is perfect for students who are interested in business, finance, or banking careers. It doesn’t just fund your education. It also provides a clear career pathway.

Why is it unique?
Unlike many scholarships, CIMB offers:

• Full funding (tuition, living expenses, travel, and more)
• Mentorship programs
• Internship opportunities
• Guaranteed employment after graduation

Who is the ideal candidate?
Students who are academically strong, actively involved in extracurricular activities, and passionate about building a career in the financial sector.

Beyond academics:
CIMB looks for leadership, communication skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt to change—so make sure your application reflects these qualities.

4. ASEAN–Japan Medical Programme

For students who dream of becoming doctors, this fully funded scholarship offers a rare opportunity to study medicine in Japan.

What does it include?
The program covers tuition fees, living expenses, airfare, and textbooks. It also includes a structured pathway: 6 years of medical study followed by 2 years of paid clinical training in Japan.

Who can apply?
This scholarship is designed for ASEAN students, with specific categories:

• English-only applicants
• Applicants with Japanese language proficiency

There is also a special category dedicated to female students.

What makes it special?
This program not only supports your education but also prepares you for real-world medical practice, including international exposure and clinical training.

Ready to Apply? Let’s Plan Your Journey

Many students only focus on popular scholarships like Garuda or other government-funded programs. However, exploring lesser-known scholarships can open doors to unique opportunities, smaller applicant pools, and specialized career pathways.

If you’re serious about studying abroad, start early. Build a strong academic record, get involved in meaningful activities, and prepare your application documents step by step.

Most importantly, don’t limit yourself to what everyone else is applying for. Sometimes, the best opportunities are the ones that not many people know about.

Finding the right scholarship is just the first step. Getting accepted requires a strong strategy and careful planning.

Our academic counseling program is designed to help you:

• Discover your interests and choose the right major & country
• Build a strong academic and extracurricular profile
• Create a personalized application timeline
• Get recommendations for summer programs, research, and activities
• Prepare for university and scholarship applications step by step

For more information, see this

Book your consultation with our counselors today and start your study abroad journey with a clear plan and expert guidance.