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Minimum IELTS scores for scholarships in 2023 for Indonesian students

Are you an Indonesian student looking for a scholarship to study abroad? It can be a daunting task trying to hunt down the perfect scholarship to study in the course and country of your dreams.  

Take it step by step. This article will get you started with the options and the crucial English requirements, if any, including minimum IELTS scores for overseas scholarships. 

While most universities offer academic scholarships, specific study program scholarships, or awards scholarships in certain fields, government bodies also provide scholarships for students who wish to continue their education abroad. These scholarships can come from the Indonesian government or the government of the country destination. 

To make things easier, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 scholarships available for Indonesian students who wish to pursue bachelor's, master's, or PhD degrees in Australia, Ireland, Canada, the UK, or New Zealand. These scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also living expenses, airfares, and other related costs.

List of 2025 scholarships for studying abroad

Minimum IELTS scores for scholarships in 2023 for Indonesian students

1. Chevening Scholarship 

This fully funded scholarship for a one-year master’s degree is provided by the UK government and partner organisations, with the aim of nurturing future leaders, influencers, and decision-makers. 

To be eligible for the Chevening Scholarship, you need to have a compelling application that showcases your potential to become a future leader and meet specific requirements. Among them, you’ll need to secure an unconditional offer from one of your three course choices you’re applying to, which means meeting all university eligibility criteria, including any English language requirements.

If you're interested in applying for the Chevening Scholarship, plan early in preparation for the next application period in 2025 by researching the available programmes and carefully reviewing the eligibility criteria. Make sure to tailor your application to fit the requirements and highlight your achievements and leadership potential. 

2. Gates Cambridge Scholarship 

This postgraduate and doctoral scholarship to the University of Cambridge provides full financial support, including tuition fees and living expenses, as well as access to a wide range of academic and personal development opportunities.   

If your chosen field or major is considered an eligible course by Gates Cambridge, you can apply for this scholarship, provided you meet the application requirements by the university.    

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship application process is highly competitive, so you'll need to submit a strong application that includes an IELTS score of at least 7.5 or equivalent. 

Book your test now!

3. Australian Awards 

The Australian Awards offer an exciting opportunity for students from developing countries to further their education, conduct research, and develop their professional skills in Australia. This prestigious scholarship covers all tuition fees, health insurance, and accommodation expenses, providing recipients with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Australian culture and academic excellence. 

To apply for the scholarship, international students must meet specific eligibility criteria and have achieved a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 when applying for a Masters programme, or IELTS 6.5 for a Doctorate programme. 

4. Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) 

The Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) is an excellent opportunity for international students who want to pursue higher-level research programs in Australia. Funded by the Australian Commonwealth Department of Education and Training, this program provides scholarships to eligible students who wish to undertake research there.  

Formerly known as the International Postgraduate Research Scholarship (IPRS), the AGRTP program provides full funding for tuition fees, health insurance, and living expenses throughout the duration of the research program. 

International students must have achieved a minimum score of 6.5 in the IELTS test or must satisfy the standard of English required by the chosen Australian university to apply for the scholarship. Besides, they must have a strong application that highlights research potential, academic achievements, and leadership skills. 

5. UQ International High Achievers Award

UQ International High Achievers Award is an undergraduate and postgraduate scholarship provided by the University of Queensland for international students.

The scholarship provides financial assistance to help cover a portion of tuition fees per semester while studying in Australia. This allows students to focus on their academic pursuits and gain invaluable experience in an international setting. Plus, the scholarship provides a chance to become part of the vibrant and diverse community at the University of Queensland.

To be eligible for this scholarship, students must meet the university's entry requirements. Most UQ  programmes will need an IELTS overall score of 6.5 and a minimum of 6.0 in each test section, including IELTS One Skill Retake. 

Once students apply for a particular course at the university and meet the requirements, they will automatically be considered for the award.

6. Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 

The Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship for undergraduate and postgraduate study, provided by the New Zealand government, is an excellent opportunity for international students from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Commonwealth countries who are interested in studying full-time in New Zealand.   

This scholarship program provides not only full cost of tuition fees but also funding for travel, accommodation on arrival and living allowances during the study programme. Besides, scholars will have the chance to connect with other international students and professionals, learn about the unique culture and traditions of New Zealand, and gain valuable skills and knowledge that will help them achieve their career goals. 

To be eligible for this scholarship, students must have an excellent academic record and meet the English language proficiency requirements: generally, at least an IELTS overall score of 6.0 and no band less than 5.5 for undergraduate courses, or an IELTS overall score  of 6.5 and no band less than 6.0 for postgraduate courses.

7. Ireland Government Scholarship 

Have a dream to study in Ireland? If yes, then the Ireland Government Scholarship is something you should consider. Ireland actively provides one-year full-time scholarships for international students who want to pursue their studies at master’s or doctoral level in Ireland.

The scholarship covers full tuition fees and other registration fees for higher education institutions in Ireland. This means you can fully focus on your studies and not have to worry about the financial burden of your education. 

Students must meet the academic and English language requirements of the Irish higher education institution when applying. Most universities in Ireland require a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.5.  

8. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is a prestigious doctoral scholarship for health research, natural science, engineering, social sciences, and humanities. This scholarship is open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, and international students who have desire to conduct advanced research in Canada. 

The scholarship covers a wide range of benefits including CAD $50,000 annually for three years to support doctorate research, access to professional development programs, and networking opportunities with scholars and professionals across Canada. 

To be eligible for this scholarship, students must demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills. Applicants are also required to meet the language proficiency requirements mentioned by the chosen program. 

9. Beasiswa Indonesia Maju 

Looking for an opportunity to take your academic and non-academic achievements to the next level? Look no further than the Beasiswa Indonesia Maju (BIM) scholarship, provided by the Ministry of Education and Culture (Kemendikbud) to outstanding students and graduates in Indonesia. 

This scholarship offers two programs to fit your educational needs: the degree scholarship, which funds undergraduate and graduate studies both domestically and abroad, and the non-degree scholarship, which provides preparatory programs for undergraduate studies abroad, specifically for the first semester in the secondary education level. 

To be eligible for this program, you must have a proven track record of achievement at the national and/or international level in: 

  • science, research, technology and innovation,  

  • art, culture and language,  

  • sports and physical health,  

  • vocational and entrepreneurship fields. 

Along with academic excellence, applicants are also required to meet certain language proficiency requirements, including a minimum IELTS score that aligns with the selected institution's requirements. 

10. LPDP (Education Fund Management Institution) scholarship

Funded by the Ministry of Finance (Kemenkeu), the LPDP scholarship is a highly sought-after scholarship for Indonesian students. This scholarship provides opportunities for prospective students to pursue master's or doctoral degrees in Indonesia or other countries. 

In addition to relieving you of the burdens of tuition fees and other expenses, the LPDP scholarship also covers living expenses and research grants for masters and doctoral students.  

Beside financial benefits, this scholarship also provides networking opportunities with professionals and access to various programs and workshops to enhance your skills and knowledge. 

You’ll need an excellent academic record and meet specific criteria, including the minimum IELTS score. For example, to continue a domestic master's program as a regular scholarship applicant, you’ll require a minimum IELTS score of 6.0. Meanwhile, for regular applicants pursuing an overseas master's program, a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is needed.

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Language test requirements for study abroad scholarships

With this list of the top 10 scholarships for studying abroad, the next step is to pass an English proficiency test.

Trusted by over 12.000 universities and organisations worldwide, IELTS is the most popular English test for higher education and immigration, and will be recognised for the scholarship you apply for. Here is the rundown of the required minimum IELTS scores for the overseas scholarships mentioned. 

Scholarships 

Country destinations 

IELTS scores 

Chevening Scholarship 

United Kingdom 

Follow the requirements of chosen programs.

Gates Cambridge Scholarship 

United Kingdom 

7.5 

Australia Awards 

Australia 

6.0 (master’s programme) and 6.5 (doctoral programme)

Australian Government Research Training Program (AGRTP) 

Australia 

6.5 

UQ International High Achievers Award

Australia 

Overall 6.5 and minimum 6.0 in each test section (most UQ programmes)

Manaaki New Zealand Scholarship 

New Zealand 

6.0 (bachelor’s degree) and 6.5 (master’s degree) 

Ireland Government Scholarship 

Ireland 

6.5 (most universities) 

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship 

Canada 

Follow the requirements of chosen programs. 

Beasiswa Indonesia Maju 

Australia, America, Belgium, China, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Switzerland, UK, France, South Korea, Japan, Sweden, Canada, Singapore, Taiwan, Denmark, Italy, Germany, Finland 

No specific score or follow the requirements of chosen programs. 

LPDP scholarship 

United States, United Kingdom, Switzerland, China, Canada, Singapore, Japan, Australia, France, Hong Kong, Germany, South Korea, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Finland, Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Russia, Austria, Ireland, Italy, Malaysia, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Qatar, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Uni Arab Emirates, Brazil, Chile, Hungary, Mexico, Türkiye 

6.5 (general master’s program) and 7.0 (general doctoral program) 

Book your test now!

Pass IELTS for your scholarship

Minimum IELTS scores for scholarships in 2023 for Indonesian students

While you are applying for a scholarship, it is important to note that achieving a higher IELTS score can increase your chances of being awarded. Therefore, it’s recommended to aim for a score higher than the minimum, particularly for competitive scholarships. 

Make sure you have enough time to prepare for and ace the IELTS for your best results. Don’t worry, IDP is here to help. 

As a co-owner of the IELTS test, IDP has free test preparation materials that will equip you to achieve your best possible score. Our resources are readily accessible, providing the flexibility to study at your own pace and schedule. Whether you prefer to learn from articles, watch webinars, or practice with test questions, you’ll find what you need to prepare. 

Once you’re ready, you can schedule your IELTS test and get started on completing your scholarship application!