Overview
Summer semester:
1st week of April – 2nd week of July
Application deadline: January 15th
Winter semester:
2nd week of September – 2nd week of December
Application deadline: June 15th
Duration: 15 weeks
Registration fee:
€ 75
Tuition fee:
€ 2.290
Funding through BAföG:
100%
Maximum 30 ECTS credits in accordance with EU guidelines
Recognition in Europe:
100%
Study programs:
Bachelor & Master
Ongoing or completed Bachelor’s or Master’s study program in Fine Arts, Design, Fashion, Music, Dance, Theater, Performing Arts or related fields at a European or American art university and sufficient English proficiency.
- Batch #52 —> WS 2024 (09.09.2024 – 18.12.2024)
- Batch #53 —> SS 2025 (07.04.2025 – 15.07.2025)
- Batch #54 —> WS 2025 (08.09.2025 – 17.12.2025)
A semester abroad at ISI Denpasar in the Fine Arts & Design and Performing Arts faculties offers students of all design disciplines the opportunity to gain completely new creative and artistic experiences within 15 weeks. Studying in the midst of Bali’s fascinating culture is unique and unleashes undreamt-of crafting potentials and intellectual powers.
As one of the special state art universities in Indonesia, the Indonesian Institute of Arts Denpasar – abbreviated as ISI Denpasar – has stood for competence and excellence in the preservation of local Balinese art traditions in Bali since 1967. This makes the officially fully accredited institution one of the most renowned art universities in the country.
With over 3,000 students and more than 200 teaching staff, it has the right to award Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral degrees. In addition, it is networked with renowned universities around the world (Australia, Japan and the USA).
The university is made up of 2 faculties with a total of 14 design disciplines.
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Design: Fine Arts, Balinese Crafts, Visual Communication, Fashion Design, Product Design, Interior Design, Animation, Photography and Film & Television.
- Faculty of Performing Arts: Music, Gamelan Composition, Dance, Puppetry and Performing Arts.
The campus consists of 37 individual buildings, including an open-air stage, an indoor stage, a concert hall, diverse dance studios, a lecture hall, various studios and classrooms, a gamelan museum, a library, an in-house language laboratory and a Hindu temple complex, all of which are artfully arranged in an ensemble of Balinese architecture. Take a look at some videos here.
The campus offers numerous green spaces and cozy places to linger and relax, while palm trees and fauna provide plenty of shade. A small kitchen and a kiosk provide students with drinks and tasty delicacies.
The ECTS system facilitates the recognition of achievements from the studiesNetwork semester. This is because courses are assessed using the ECTS system, which guarantees comparable and transferable credits worldwide. You can complete a maximum of 30 ECTS in your semester – however, you must complete at least 16 ECTS.
In order to receive a certificate of attendance and a grade, you must attend at least 75% of each course. The last week is set aside for the project presentations, which, together with the artistic design work and project documentation, serve as the basis for assessment. The results are internationally certified and include both project and elective subjects.
The official certificates of studiesNetwork graduates are issued in digital form (PDF) directly from ISI Denpasar approximately 6-8 weeks after the final presentation. On request and for a fee, the originals can also be sent to Europe or America via DHL Express.
Daily routine
- Lectures (Monday – Wednesday usually 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
- Specialized seminars
- Exciting excursions (Thursday)
- Semester Break at your disposal
- Travel
- Learn languages
- Regional studies
- Lectures (Monday – Wednesday usually 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
- Specialized seminars
- Exciting excursions (Thursday)
- Mandatory final exams
- Certificate & credentials issued internationally recognized
Study & experience reports
What your semester abroad could look like
A typical day at ISI Denpasar includes inspiring lectures, practice-oriented seminars and excursions that bring Balinese culture to life. The campus offers numerous opportunities for creative exchange and relaxation in tropical surroundings. At the end of the semester, students present their projects and receive international certificates.
Exclusively at studiesNetwork
Free participation in the legendary studiesNetwork Welcome Party on Jimbaran Beach before the start of the semester.
50% discount on all PADI diving certificates at the Tulamben diving terminal and many other benefits for travel services & co.
Excursions to cultural productions, museums, NGOs and individual artist talks with selected Balinese artists, designers, musicians, dancers, craftsmen, spiritual and other personalities.
Fields of study, documents and information materials
- Main Project Study BA 01 (9 ECTS)
- Second Project Study BA 02 (6 ECTS)
- Elective Subject Study BA 03 (3 ECTS)
- Elective Subject Study BA 04 (3 ECTS)
- Elective Subject Study BA 05 (3 ECTS)
- Cross Cultural Management I
(Ethnic and Culture of Indonesia) BA 06 (3 ECTS) - Cross Cultural Management II (Indonesian language course) BA 07 (3 ECTS)
+ exciting excursions
+ practice-oriented case studies
- Main Project Study MA 01 (12 ECTS)
- Second Project Study MA 02 (6 ECTS)
- Elective Subject Study MA 03 (3 ECTS)
- Elective Subject Study MA 04 (3 ECTS)
- Cross Cultural Management I
(Ethnic and Culture of Indonesia MA 05 (3 ECTS) - Cross Cultural Management II (Indonesian language course) MA 06 (3 ECTS)
+ exciting excursions
+ practice-oriented case studies
Expenses in Bali
For a round trip flight to Bali from Germany
Rent a room in a villa with other students
Food & drink expenses
Scooter rental (most common way of transportation) including petrol
Costs for a used surfboard via private dealers
For a traditional Balinese massage
For a bottle of Bintang (local beer) at the supermarket
For a piece of imported cheese at the supermarket
For washing, ironing and folding 10 items of clothing through the laundry
“We had a villa with a pool. This is something you can only dream of in Germany.”
Accommodation
Bali offers a wide range of accommodation for students: Luxury villas offer shared rental costs and amenities such as pools and staff. Appartements and guesthouses are cheaper options in various districts of the island. Host family rooms enable a collaborative environment, while local agencies offer search assistance.
Monthly rent for a room in a villa with other students
Monthly rent for a room in a villa with host family
When it comes to accommodation, villas have been the most sought-after choice for students in Bali for years. These luxurious tropical homes offer more than just a place to live. With private pools, exclusive staff such as housekeepers and gardeners, they fulfill the dream of comfort and elegance. The best thing about them? The rental costs are often split between the students, and it's not uncommon to end up paying less than for a shared room at home.
Finding such a student villa is quite simple. Online booking platforms offer a wealth of options. From photos to reviews, there's everything you need to find the perfect villa for your needs. Alternatively, you can get local support from agents who specialize in student villas. These experts can offer tailored recommendations and help you find the ideal villa.
Some of these agents also have websites where you can book individual rooms in villas or find roommates to rent a villa together. These platforms make it easier to meet like-minded people and find a villa to suit your needs. They offer a wide selection of villas to suit a variety of requirements, be it in terms of location, size or budget.
Living in a villa in Bali as a student offers not only comfort, but also a community of like-minded people who share similar interests and lifestyles. It is a unique experience that makes a stay on the island something special.
When it comes to accommodation, living with an Indonesian host family is a worthwhile choice for students in Bali. This option allows for deeper cultural immersion while keeping costs low. The university or we at studiesNetwork will be happy to assist you in finding such a host family.
The financial side is a clear advantage. Compared to villas or hotels, the costs are around € 200 per month. This makes it a cost-effective option that is also attractive for students with a limited budget.
It is important to understand that living with an Indonesian family is a different experience to living in a villa. It means a relatively intense involvement in family life, which can be enriching for some and challenging for others. However, the cultural exchange and direct participation in the everyday life of the host family offer a unique opportunity to experience and learn the Indonesian culture and language at first hand.
Your stay with an Indonesian host family is a fantastic opportunity not only to improve your language skills, but also to develop a deeper understanding of the local culture. The warm hospitality and lived culture of the family will make your stay in Bali unforgettable.
An inexpensive alternative to villas are houses, often in Balinese style – these usually do not have a pool and staff. Nevertheless, they offer a great opportunity to experience the Balinese lifestyle.
These houses can often only be found locally in Bali in newspaper advertisements or in certain groups on social networks.
These houses are mostly traditional Balinese homes that offer an authentic insight into the local way of life. They offer space surrounded by the unique architecture and ambience of the island. Although they do not offer the amenities of villas, they are a more affordable option for students seeking a deeper connection with Balinese culture and daily life.
Finding these houses often requires a bit more dedication as they are not found on the usual online platforms. Local newspaper ads or special groups on social networks are often the sources to discover such housing options.
The “Indonesian Kost”, also known as “Kos-kosan” or simply “Kost”, is an extremely affordable accommodation option in Bali.
This type of accommodation usually consists of small rooms within guesthouses or special apartment buildings, which are equipped with a private bathroom and occasionally a simple kitchenette. The special thing about it is that the rent is usually paid monthly and the costs can vary depending on the facilities, location and size. This can range from basic room facilities to rooms with air conditioning, which means that rental prices also vary.
The “Indonesian Kost” is extremely popular not only among foreign students, but also among Indonesian students in particular. This form of accommodation offers a cost-effective option for living in close proximity to universities while keeping expenses low. The proximity to the educational institution allows students to save time and money on their daily commute and focus more on their academic goals.
When choosing your accommodation in Bali, you should consider the distance to the university. There can be heavy traffic, especially at peak times, which increases the daily travel time. The areas around the campus are usually cheaper than the tourist centers. For example, it can take more than 2 hours from Uluwatu or Canggu to reach the ISI campus in Denpasar.
Food & Drink in Bali
The culinary scene in Bali is a true delight for the palate. The island offers an abundance of delicious food, ranging from traditional Balinese dishes to international delicacies. “Warungs”, small local restaurants, are perfect places to experience authentic Balinese cuisine. Here you can try dishes such as “Nasi Goreng” (fried rice), “Satay” (grilled meat on skewers) or “Mie Goreng” (fried noodles).
The local specialty “Babi Guling”, grilled suckling pig, is an absolute must. It is prepared with a variety of spices and herbs and offers an incredible taste. “Lawar”, a mixture of finely chopped meat, coconut and spices, is also an unforgettable dish of Balinese cuisine.
Apart from the traditional dishes, Bali also has many cozy cafés and restaurants serving international cuisine. From Italian pasta to Japanese sushi – you will find a wide range of dishes to tantalize your taste buds.
Another highlight are the street markets, where you can sample local delicacies and fresh fruit. The variety of exotic fruits such as mangosteen, durian and salak is impressive and a treat for the senses.
For those with a sweet tooth, the numerous “patisseries” and dessert stores offer tempting treats such as “Dadar Gulung” (green pancakes with coconut filling).
Expenditure on food and drink
Tropical fruit juices: Freshly squeezed juices are extremely popular in Bali. From exotic fruits such as mango, pineapple and papaya to dragon fruit and watermelon, local juice stands offer a plethora of refreshing options to beat the tropical heat while enjoying the freshness of the island.
Coffee and tea specialties: Bali is known for its coffee, especially the world-famous “Kopi Luwak”. The island is also home to numerous coffee plantations where visitors can learn about coffee production. In addition to coffee, Bali offers a variety of teas, including the aromatic “jasmine tea” and the refreshing “lemongrass tea”.
Alcoholic beverages: Although Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, Bali has a lively bar and club scene, especially in tourist areas such as Kuta, Seminyak and Ubud. Beer is widely available and local brands such as “Bintang” are popular among tourists. Cocktails with exotic ingredients such as coconut, pineapple or mango are also available in many bars.
Arak and spirits: Arak is a local spirit in Bali, distilled from rice or palm wine. Although it is available in some bars, it is often discouraged for safety reasons as the quality and purity of this drink can vary.
Warungs: These small local restaurants are perfect for sampling authentic Balinese dishes. “Warung Ibu Oka” in Ubud is known for its delicious “Babi Guling” (grilled suckling pig). Also in Ubud is the “Warung Pulau Kelapa”, which offers excellent and inexpensive Balinese cuisine.
Seafood on the beach: Visit the beach restaurants in Jimbaran for fresh, grilled fish and seafood right by the sea. “Jimbaran Bay Seafood” offers a wide selection of fresh seafood.
International cuisine: In Seminyak you will find many restaurants with international cuisine. “La Lucciola” offers stunning sea views and Mediterranean cuisine.
Vegetarian/vegan options: “Alchemy” in Ubud is a popular place for vegetarian and vegan food. The menu offers fresh and healthy dishes made from organic ingredients.
Coffee and breakfast: Try the many cafés and brunch spots in Canggu such as “The Loft” or “Crate Café” for delicious coffee and breakfast.
Fine Dining: If you are looking for an upscale culinary experience, restaurants like “Mozaic” in Ubud are perfect. They offer exquisite food and a first-class selection of wines.
Street food and local markets: The night markets like “Pasar Malam Sindhu” in Sanur are great places to try local delicacies and street food.
Balinese cooking classes: Some restaurants also offer cooking classes, such as the “Paon Bali Cooking Class” in Ubud, where you can learn how to prepare Balinese dishes.
Our tip
It is important to note that alcohol in Bali can be more expensive than in other countries due to taxes and import duties. Therefore, you can be smart by taking appropriate drinks with you from the duty free store. However, be aware of the (customs) import limits. In addition, the consumption of alcohol in public is not always appropriate and is not welcomed in some culturally sensitive areas.
Location
Culture and Religion
Welcome to Bali, the island of the gods, where breathtaking landscapes meet a rich culture! If you want to experience a semester abroad full of cultural depth, spirituality and adventure, Bali is your perfect destination. Bali’s rich culture is characterized by impressive traditions and rituals that are deeply interwoven into the daily lives of its inhabitants.
Tradition & rituals
Temple festivals and ceremonies: Temple festivals (“Odalan”) are important occasions where believers come together to pray, make offerings and perform religious ceremonies. The ornately decorated temples glow in a spiritual atmosphere.
Dances and music: Traditional dances such as the “Barong” and the “Kecak” are cultural treasures that depict epic stories. The colorful costumes and rousing gamelan music fascinate visitors and carry deep cultural messages.
Offerings and rituals: Daily offerings (“Canang Sari”) of flowers and incense sticks demonstrate the spiritual bond between man and divinity. This gesture of gratitude is an omnipresent part of Balinese life.
Nyepi – The Balinese New Year: Nyepi, a day of silence and self-reflection, is one of the most important holidays. The island comes to rest while people stay at home and worship nature, symbolizing purification and renewal.
Bali’s handicrafts are a living heritage that has been passed down through generations of artisans. The island is famous for its artistry in various crafts ranging from intricately carved woodwork to traditional batik fabrics and finely crafted silver jewelry.
The wood carvings in Bali are a fascinating art form, often depicting religious or mythological motifs. In villages such as Mas and Tegallalang, you can watch the craftsmen at work as they create true masterpieces from a simple piece of wood. The skill and precision with which they practice their art is admirable.
Batik making is another traditional art in Bali. This technique of dyeing fabric by applying wax to selected areas of the fabric and then dipping it in dyes produces beautiful patterns and designs. In villages such as Tohpati, you can watch the batik masters at work and perhaps even take part in workshops to make your own batik fabrics.
Religion in Bali is at the heart of Balinese culture and shapes the daily lives of the islanders in profound ways.
A central practice in Balinese Hinduism is offerings, known as “Canang Sari”. These ornately designed baskets contain flowers, incense sticks and food and are laid down as an expression of gratitude to the gods and spirits.
The offerings are not only spiritual acts, but also symbols of harmony between man and divine forces.
Bali’s Hinduism is unique and displays a remarkable blend of Hindu, animist and Buddhist influences.
Believers worship a variety of gods and spirits, including Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma, as well as local deities and spirits. This spiritual connection is reflected in a rich spectrum of rituals and ceremonies.
The island is dotted with thousands of temples that form the religious center of Balinese life. These temples are not only places of prayer, but also of gathering and cultural exchange.
Temple festivals, known as “Odalan”, are significant occasions where community and spirituality come together in colorful ceremonies.
Our tip
A fascinating way to immerse yourself in Bali’s culture is to take part in a “Melasti” ceremony. This is an important Hindu purification ritual that often takes place on the beaches of Bali. Before important festivals such as Nyepi, communities gather to symbolically cleanse themselves of impurities and sins.
Getting around Bali
Getting around Bali
On Bali, scooters and motorcycles offer the most flexible means of transportation for students. They are affordable and allow you to explore the island at your own pace. Apps such as GO-JEK and Grab offer cheap car and scooter transportation services, while Bluebird cabs with their app are a reliable option for pre-arranged pick-up times.
Road network & traffic
The road network in Bali varies greatly. While some main roads are well developed and wider in tourist areas, many rural areas can be characterized by narrow, winding roads.
Traffic in urban centers such as Denpasar, Kuta and Ubud can be hectic at rush hour, with a variety of vehicles including mopeds, cars, vans and traditional bemos.
Rent a scooter (most useful means of transport) including gas
In Bali, various means of transportation offer students the opportunity to move around and explore the island. These means of transportation play a crucial role in discovering Bali’s many sights and cultural treasures.
In Bali, scooters and motorcycles are the preferred means of transportation, especially for exchange students. The flexibility to set your own schedule and be independent of public transportation is a huge advantage. Not only are scooters affordable, but they also allow you to soak up Bali’s atmosphere as you cruise leisurely through the busy streets.
Riding a scooter in Bali is not just a means of transportation, but an experience in itself. It allows you to fully experience the freedom and charm of the island while moving seamlessly through the different districts and attractions. There are countless small local stores that will provide you with a “scooter” for a longer stay. Of course, the longer you rent the scooter, the lower the costs. You can also find some rental companies online. However, we recommend that you inspect the scooter on site.
The GO-JEK and Grab apps also offer cheap car and scooter transportation services in Bali, while Bluebird is the recommended cab company, which is also available via an app to schedule your pick-up time in advance.
These apps are extremely convenient and give you quick access to transportation. GO-JEK and Grab offer a wide range of transportation options, including motorcycle cab services for short distances or car services for longer journeys. This makes them a convenient option for traveling around Bali flexibly and affordably.
Bluebird cabs are known for their reliability and safety. With their app, you can schedule the pick-up time in advance and make sure you arrive at your destination on time. The drivers are often reliable and know the roads of Bali well, making traveling stress-free and enjoyable.
These apps offer a great alternative to riding a scooter, especially for longer distances or if you simply prefer a more comfortable option. They are easy to use and allow you to plan your transportation in advance to make your stay in Bali even more enjoyable.
The option of renting cars or hiring a driver is a popular choice for tourists, especially those who prefer not to drive themselves.
Not only can local drivers serve as reliable navigators, but they can also offer local knowledge, insider tips and recommendations for lesser-known attractions.
Important!
Wear a high-quality (full-face) helmet at all times and never ride your scooter under the influence of alcohol! You also need a valid international driving license, which must be presented at police checks. You must apply for this in your home country before you leave.
Feedback from previous students
“My semester abroad with studiesNetwork was one of the best experiences of my life. From providing important information to correctly issuing the certificates, everything worked out perfectly! Thanks for everything!”
“A semester abroad in Bali is a clear recommendation. Just swim against the tide and not to Australia or the USA! With studiesNetwork, I was able to spend a semester on what is probably the most tropical campus in the world and expand my knowledge.”
“When you arrive in Bali, you are overwhelmed at first: the traffic, the climate, different processes at the university. You have to adapt and embark on an adventure and be open to new things. If that's you, pack your bags and go!”
“The courses were challenging and practice-oriented, and the ECTS system allowed me to easily earn 30 credits, which were fully recognized in my home country. I was particularly impressed by the combination of excellent education and the opportunity to dive into the fascinating culture of Bali.”