Review
Established in 2000, INCULS is a language service under the auspices of the Faculty of Cultural Sciences at Universitas Gadjah Mada. It replaces an older institution, the Center for Indonesian Studies (PSI), from 1987.
It has a more formal atmosphere given that this service is belongs to the university. Students study in classes based on their level and there are three levels: beginner, intermediate and advanced classes. Students are funneled into levels based on the results of written and oral placement tests.
INCULS offers a Regular Program and Intensive Program.
The Regular Program is held for one semester, which is 15-17 weeks.
Students will need to take 12 hours per week, consisting of various language classes (reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary, conversation, translation and Indonesian for Research). They have two semesters each year for the regular program. The first semester begins in mid-August or the first week of September; the second semester begins in mid-January or the first week of February.
The Intensive Program can begin at any time.
Tuition for the Regular Program is USD $800 a semester, which only covers academic fees such as course books and exercise books.
Students will need to pay for an additional fee for tentative additional courses. For the intensive program, they can design a program suited to a student’s length of study and budget. At the end of both programs, students will receive a certificate of completion.
Location
INCULS is located at Gadjah Mada University.
Part of the student area, there are many accommodation options for students around the campus, so it could be walking distance depending on where you choose to live while you study. Gadjah Mada University has two main campus separated by Kaliurang street. One on the west side of the street, another on the East side.
Reputation
As part of one of the biggest and the best universities in Indonesia, INCULS has a great reputation for professionalism. The language teachers and tutors at INCULS use both the ‘Natural Approach’ and Communicative Teaching methods, which emphasize the pertinence of real life situations and constant interaction. They also provide culture teachers who are all qualified faculty members of various departments at Gadjah Mada University. It is great for those who enjoy learning in big classes. However, for those who need smaller class or even one-on-one classes, INCULS might not be the best option.
Atmosphere
The atmosphere of this school is like the atmosphere of a general campus in Indonesia. You will learn with many students from all over the world and meet with many other Indonesian students at the campus. It’s a great chance to practice your language outside of classes.
There is so much to say about Yogyakarta, but this review is not intended to delineate its expansive beauty and majesty. Suffice to say, we believe Yogyakarta to be the finest entry point into Indonesia. Close to Borobudur and Prambanan, students have the best chance of experiencing the very best of Indonesia while studying at Yogya. It has a beautiful volcano to the North, Merapi, and charming beaches to the South. Along with Surakarta, it is a centre of Javanese culture.
It is highly populated, especially in the city center, but it is still less crowded and much less choked up with traffic than Jakarta. A motorbike is the most popular mode of transportation in the city.
Opportunities
The opportunities that can come with studying at Indonesia’s premier university are extensive. Aside from the intellectual thrill, you’re sure to make some wonderful friends and meet with some of Indonesia’s sharpest and brightest.
Asia Options Verdict
We love to see connections between young Australians and Gadjah Mada University, and encourage everyone to consider UGM as a possible study option.
Pros:
- Located in Yogyakarta
- A part of one of Indonesia’s best universities
- You’ll interact with Indonesian students
Cons:
- Unlikely to receive intimate, one-on-one instruction
Beautiful old school campus, the first university in Indonesia
A wide range of faculties from almost all disciplines
Top-tier reputation / prestige
More international students than any other city / party atmosphere etc...
Oversaturation of foreigners means more competition for various expat opportunities
Distractions
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