DARMASISWA is a one-year non-degree scholarship program offered by the Indonesian government to all non-Indonesian citizens from countries which Indonesia has diplomatic relations to study Indonesian language, arts, music, crafts and other specific subjects at 68 Indonesian Higher Institutions selected in various cities in Indonesia. This program is organized by the Ministry of Education and Culture, Research, and Technology in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The DARMASISWA program was started in 1974 as part of ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) initiative, admitting only students from ASEAN. However, in 1976 this program was extended to include students from other countries such as Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Hungary, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Sweden, and USA. In early 90’s, this program was extended further to include all countries which have diplomatic relationship with Indonesia. Until to date, the number of countries participating in this program is more than 135 countries.

The main object of the DARMASISWA program is to increase and cultivate interest in Indonesian language and Indonesian culture among citizens from other countries. It is also designed to increase mutual understanding and provide stronger cultural bonds between different nations.