Bali Beyond Borders: Experience Immersive Study and Adventure
Experience Bali Beyond Borders – The No. 1 Educational Adventure Program in the Heart of Bali!
Bali Beyond Borders is not just a study program; it is a journey that challenges students to think critically, act strategically, and engage deeply with the world around them. By combining rigorous academic content with practical experiences in one of the most dynamic regions of the world, this short-term program in Bali prepares participants to become global citizens and future leaders in their respective fields.
Picture yourself discovering the trendiest hotspots and Instagrammable gems while indulging in spiritual healing and wellness amidst Bali’s breathtaking landscapes. Bali Beyond Bordes program offers a unique blend of academic value and soul-enriching experiences that will expand your horizons and create lasting memories.
Secure your spot today and join us for an educational adventure that goes beyond the ordinary, where every day promises new discoveries and personal revelations. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to nourish your mind, body, and soul in the heart of paradise.
Program Overview
Program
Winter (28.12.2024 - 09.01.2025)
Spring (01.5.2025 – 13.5.2025)
Autumn (04.11.2025 – 13.11.2025)
Max credits
5 ECTS / 3 US
Program content
Lectures, assignments, case studies, workshops and excursions
Levels of study
Bachelor and GAP Year
Fees
Study Fields
Culture, History, Sustainability, Environmental Management, International Business, Leadership, Personal Development, Economy, Management

UNDIKNAS UNIVERSITY
Most modern Campus in Bali
#1
best university in Bali in 2020
AACSB member
No.1 Educational and Adventure program in Bali
Program Dates
SPRING 2025*
- Program Dates
- 01.5.2025 – 13.5.2025
- Orientation
- 01.5.2025
- Application Deadline
- 01.4.2025
- Holiday
- TBA
AUTUMN 2025*
- Program Dates
- 04.11.2025 – 13.11.2025
- Orientation
- 04.11.2025
- Application Deadline
- 01.10.2025
- Holiday
- TBA
WINTER 2025*
- Semester Dates
- 27.12.2025 - 08.01.2026
- Orientation
- 27.12.2025
- Application Deadline
- 15.12.2025
- Holiday
- TBA
SPRING 2026*
- Semester Dates
- 01.5.2026– 13.5.2026
- Orientation
- 01.5.2026
- Application Deadline
- 01.4.2026
- Holiday
- TBA
You may apply for the program in the upcoming years already.
*) Small changes possible
Program Highlights
Experience Bali’s unique traditions firsthand and meet local spiritual healers.
Learn to surf on Bali’s world-famous beaches and kick off your journey with an exciting beach club welcome party.
Enhance your fitness with personal training sessions and rejuvenate your mind and body.
Visit a turtle conservation center and witness the awe-inspiring magic of turtle hatching.
Attend university classes at Undiknas University and gain deep insights into Balinese culture, history, and contemporary issues.
Explore Bali’s leading coworking space and learn from a top social media marketing influencer.
Unwind and refresh with a serene yoga class in a picturesque Balinese setting.
Studying in the Bali Beyond Borders Program
The Bali Beyond Borders program offers an immersive and academically rigorous exploration of Southeast Asian business practices, cultural dynamics, and sustainable development. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Bali, Indonesia, this program is specifically designed for university students and gap year participants seeking to deepen their understanding of the ASEAN region’s economic landscape and to gain practical experience through direct engagement with local businesses, cultural institutions, and academic experts.
Participants will earn 3 US credits (equivalent to 5 ECTS) through a comprehensive curriculum that combines classroom learning, company visits, cultural excursions, and a capstone group project. By the end of the program, students will have developed a nuanced understanding of Southeast Asia’s economic, cultural, and political complexities, with a particular focus on the Indonesian context.
Bali offers a study abroad experience unlike any other. The island’s combination of academic opportunities, cultural richness, and stunning natural surroundings provides a holistic learning environment. Undiknas University, one of Indonesia’s premier institutions, adds academic rigor and local insights to this unparalleled experience.
Program Benefits
- Academic Rigor: The program is designed to meet the academic standards required for university credit, ensuring that participants gain valuable knowledge and skills that can be applied in their academic and professional careers.
- Real-World Experience: Through company visits and interactions with industry professionals, participants gain practical insights that bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application.
- Cultural Immersion: The program offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Bali’s rich cultural heritage, providing a holistic understanding of the socio-cultural context in which Southeast Asian businesses operate.
- Networking Opportunities: Participants will have the chance to build a professional network with peers, business leaders, and academics, opening doors for future career opportunities in the ASEAN region.
- Personal Growth: The program’s blend of academic learning, cultural exploration, and personal development activities ensures a transformative experience that extends beyond the classroom.
By the end of the program, participants will have achieved the following learning outcomes:
- Critical Understanding: Acquire a comprehensive understanding of Southeast Asian economic and business environments, with a focus on the challenges and opportunities in the ASEAN region.
- Practical Application: Apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios through company visits and the group project, gaining hands-on experience in business strategy development.
- Cultural Awareness: Develop a deep appreciation for Indonesian culture, language, and societal norms, and understand how these elements influence business practices in the region.
- Collaborative Skills: Enhance teamwork and collaboration skills through the group project, learning to integrate diverse perspectives into a cohesive business strategy.
- Research and Analysis: Strengthen research and analytical skills by conducting market analysis, environmental assessments, and cultural adaptation plans for an SME.
Day 1: Arrival and Welcome Event
- Arrival in Bali: Check-in to the hotel and settle in.
- Optional: Evening Meeting at Canggu Beach club – relaxed, informal meet-up to get to know fellow participants.
Day 2: Orientation, Indonesian culture and history and Building a Business Strategy for SMEs in the ASEAN Market
- Orientation Session 1: Overview/Introduction Welcome to Bali! Learn about the program structure and what to expect.
- University Classes: History and Culture of Indonesia – Explore the fascinating history and cultural dynamics that shape modern Indonesia.
A comprehensive overview of Indonesia’s historical evolution, cultural diversity, and socio-political structures, providing essential context for understanding the business environment.
- Orientation Session 2: Building a Business Strategy for SMEs in the ASEAN Market (Group Project) – Begin working on business strategies that align with the ASEAN market.
Day 3: Introduction Bahasa Indonesian, Business in ASEAN and visit to Pasar Ubud
- University class: Introduction to Bahasa Indonesia – Learn the basics of the local language to help navigate your experience in Bali.
Introduction to Bahasa Indonesia, the official language of Indonesia, aimed at equipping participants with basic communication skills.
- University Classes: The Economy of ASEAN – Gain insights into ASEAN’s economic framework and the opportunities for businesses.
An in-depth analysis of the economic integration and development of the ASEAN region, highlighting the opportunities and challenges faced by member states.
- Company Visit: Pasar Ubud– Observe and learn how a local business operates within Bali’s unique market. Free time in the afternoon to continue working on your group project.
Day 4: Go-to-market strategies, visit to Krisna Oleh-oleh and Kecak dance at sunset
- University class: Life style system and social organization in Bali – Learn about the social structures that underpin Balinese life and society.
- University class: Southeast Asian Business Practices and Strategy – A look into business practices that are unique to Southeast Asia, including key strategies for success.
An exploration of the unique business strategies employed by SMEs in the ASEAN region, with a focus on market entry, competitive dynamics, and innovation.
- Company visit: Krisna Oleh-Oleh – Visit a company that embodies Balinese business practices.
- Free time in the afternoon for group project work.
- Optional: A visit to Uluwatu Temple, followed by a traditional Kecak Dance performance, offering insights into Bali’s spiritual and cultural practices.
Day 5: Recruiting and HR in ASEAN and visit to Hotel to see how HR strategies are applied in the hospitality industry in Bali
- University Class: Recruitment and HR in ASEAN – Explore human resource practices across ASEAN and how recruitment strategies differ in the region.
- Company visit: Hotel – See how HR strategies are applied in the hospitality industry in Bali. Afternoon free for group project work.
Day 6: Environmental aspects to business operations, visit to Bali Pulina
- University class: Environmental Sustainability and Business in ASEAN – Understand the critical role environmental sustainability plays in the ASEAN business landscape.
- Company visit: Bali Pulina – Learn about sustainability initiatives from a local company working on eco-friendly projects.
- Optional: Tegalalang Rice Terrance – Tegallalang Rice Fields is situated in a valley that offers extraordinarily scenic lookouts over the terraces and surrounding green landscape.
Day 7: Political dynamics in Indonesia and visit to Devi’s Silver
- Morning class: Political dynamics of Indonesia – Delve into Indonesia’s political systems and how they influence the region.
- Company visit: Devi’s Silver – Experience a unique company combining wellness and business strategies.
- Free time for group project work.
Day 8: Group project presentations, rare cultural experience with Ubad-Ubud/Ketut Liyer visit and Farewell Dinner
- Group project presentations – Present the business strategies you’ve been working on throughout the program.
- Optional: Experience with Ubad-Ubud/Ketut Liyer – Visit Ubad-Ubud/Ketut Liyer for a rare cultural experience.
- Farewell Dinner at Bale Udang Mang Engking Ubud: Celebrate the completion of the program with a farewell dinner at one of Ubud’s renowned restaurants.
Day 9: Departure
- Morning Free Time – Spend the morning as you wish, reflecting on the program or enjoying Bali one last time.
- Check-out and Departure
Project Title: “Building a Business Strategy for SMEs in the ASEAN Market”
Objective:
The capstone of the academic component is a group project, where participants will dedicate 12.5 hours to developing a comprehensive business strategy for an Indonesian SME seeking to expand into the ASEAN market. This project requires the integration of theoretical knowledge and practical insights gained throughout the program.
Project Components:
- Market Entry Strategy:
- Objective: Analyze an ASEAN market where the SME could potentially expand. Develop a market entry strategy that includes a detailed analysis of consumer behavior, competition.
- Tasks: Conduct a SWOT analysis, identify potential local partners, and design a go-to-market plan tailored to the chosen ASEAN country.
- Sustainability and Environmental Impact:
- Objective: Create a sustainable business model for the SME that addresses a specific environmental issue in Indonesia or the target ASEAN country.
- Tasks: Propose a sustainable product or service, assess its environmental impact, and develop a strategy for integrating sustainability into the company’s core operations.
- Cultural Adaptation:
- Objective: Develop a cultural adaptation plan to ensure the SME’s successful integration into the new market. This includes adapting products, marketing strategies, and workplace practices to align with local cultural norms.
- Tasks: Research cultural norms and values, identify potential cultural challenges, and propose strategies to mitigate them.
- HR and Workplace Culture:
- Objective: Design an HR strategy that enhances workplace culture and employee engagement in the new ASEAN market.
- Tasks: Design HR practices such as training and employee wellness programs, and ensure the strategy aligns with ASEAN cultural values.
- Marketing and Promotion:
- Objective: Develop a marketing campaign to promote the SME’s products or services in the market while taking into account the culture of the region the product is promoted in.
- Tasks: Design a marketing strategy that effectively communicate the SME’s value proposition.
Final Presentation:
Participants will present their business strategies in a formal academic setting, demonstrating their ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. This presentation will be evaluated by a panel of experts, providing feedback to enhance students’ understanding and skills.
Bali Beyond Borders Tuition fee
Tuition fee: 2,000 EUR
Application fee: 75 EUR
See what’s included in the fees.
What’s Included
- All academic activities
- Cultural immersion
- Company visits
Registration and Payment
- Price: €2000 per student (accommodation not included)
- Registration Deadline: October 1, 2024
Earn 5 ECTS / 3 US credits from Undiknas University while enjoying a vibrant blend of education, adventure, and wellness in one of the world’s most captivating destinations in “Bali Beyond Borders”.
Course Structure (3 US Credits / 5 ECTS)
- Orientation: 2 hours
- Lectures: 12 hours (8 sessions, 1.5 hours each)
- Company Visits: 10 hours (5 visits, 2 hours each)
- Group Project Work: 12.5 hours (5 sessions, 2.5 hours each)
- Cultural Excursions: 8 hours (4 excursions, 2 hours each)
- Total Contact Hours: 45 hours
Who can apply to Undiknas University
To apply, you need to have at least
- a minimum age of 18 years
- a high school diploma or a similar certificate
- sufficient English skills. You’re not required to take an official language test, however.
See the additional requirements.
Bali Beyond Borders Required Documents
- An official transcript of records, or if you are not currently enrolled at an institution of higher education, a copy of your high school diploma. This should preferably be submitted in English, but we also accept these documents in German, French, Finnish, and Spanish.
- A copy of the identification page of your passport. The passport needs to be valid for 12 months after the end of the semester. If your passport expires earlier, please apply for a new passport as soon as possible. Please note that applications sent without a valid passport cannot be processed.
- A pass color photo of 4 x 3 cm. The photo must be taken wearing a nice collar shirt, without glasses, and with no smile (neutral face). In addition, the photo should appear different from the one on your passport. See example.
Application Instructions
Apply to study abroad at Undiknas University
DOCUMENTS
Get the required documents
APPLICATION
Fill out and submit the online application form together with the required documents
CONFIRMATION
You’ll get a confirmation of your study placement within 1-7 days
Flexible application:
- You can apply even if you’re not yet certain of your plans. Cancel at no extra cost up to 1 month before the semester starts.
- When you apply for two semesters: 100 EUR discount on the second semester
- Get access to comprehensive information materials such as an Asia Exchange Guide and an interactive orientation webinar after you apply
INSTRUCTIONS
- Scan the required documents (1–2) to your computer.
- Finally, fill out the online application form below and submit it with all the documents.
- Uploading and submitting the attachments
- Please upload the attachments in PDF format.
- If possible, please submit all the attachments together with the application. If you’re missing some attachment(s) when you first apply, you can later send the missing document(s). However, please note that we won’t process applications without any attachments whatsoever.
- All attachments must be sent to us by the application deadline at the very latest, preferably as soon as possible.
- You can submit all the documents electronically. Please don’t send anything via regular mail.
- There is a late application fee for applications or attachments submitted after the application deadline.
- Confirmation, official acceptance letter and visa
You’ll get a confirmation of your study placement in 1-7 days, starting from when your application is complete with all the required documents. You’ll receive the electronic official acceptance letter approximately 1,5 months before the semester starts. You need to print the official acceptance letter for your student visa application.
Fees
The application fee invoice will be sent to you soon after the initial acceptance letter. This fee will be due within 10 days of receiving your confirmation. The application fee is non-refundable even if you decide to cancel (see below). You’ll receive the invoice for the tuition fee about 2.5 months before the semester starts.
Cancellation
If you’re unable to participate in the study abroad semester, you have the right to cancel your participation up to 1 month before the semester starts with no extra cost (the application fee will not be refunded, however). Let us know about your cancellation by writing us an email at info[at]asiaexchange.org. Cancellations notified via phone, SMS or by any other means will not be considered. For more detailed information on our cancellation policy, please see the terms and conditions for cancellation. We also reserve the right to cancel your participation if any of your fees becomes overdue. For more information, please see our terms and conditions.
Travel insurance
You are required to have valid accident and health insurance from your home country for the whole duration of the program. The university may request a copy of the insurance certificate at the beginning of the semester. See our recommended travel insurance providers.
Universitas Pendidikan Nasional Bali, abbreviated as UNDIKNAS and the University of National Education, is a private university founded on February 17th, 1959. It is ranked as the best private university in Bali, West Nusa Tenggara, East Nusa Tenggara, and among the top universities in Indonesia. The university has four faculties and 11 study programs, of which eight are at the undergraduate level and three at the graduate level. Most of the study programs have received the highest Indonesian (BAN-PT) accreditation of A. The intimate and most modern campus with highly advanced facilities in Denpasar host and serve students worldwide, which makes UNDIKNAS an attractive study abroad choice!
Undiknas University Address
Jl. Bedugul No.39 Sidakarya Denpasar 80224 Bali Indonesia
University’s contact person
Ida Nyoman Basmantra, M.Pd. (Head of International Office)
Undiknas University Accreditations
- Indonesian National BAN-PT accreditation for the university and study programs
CO2 OFFSETTING
Unfortunately, traveling by plane to study abroad increases the carbon footprint of each student. Over the past years, it has become more apparent than ever: we face a climate crisis and air transport is responsible for up to 10% of humankind’s contribution to global warming. But should students stop pursuing their dreams of studying abroad and sacrifice their future goals? We don’t think so!
We see it as our responsibility to preserve our environment, live a sustainable life, and minimize the carbon footprint of each of our students. Consequently, Asia Exchange has chosen to work with Atmosfair, a non-profit organization that actively contributes to CO₂ mitigation and offers Co2 offsetting. You can now easily donate a free amount of money to Atmosfair’s projects dedicated to offsetting Co2 emissions. During the application process for your study abroad program, you have the opportunity to donate and mitigate your flight emissions.
Simultaneously, Asia Exchange will support your efforts to reduce their carbon footprint when studying abroad by doubling your donations and contributing equally. Let’s make this world a better place!
Click here to find out more about offsetting your flight emissions
Explore virtually – interactive destination tour
MOST FREQUENT QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Q: Are there mandatory courses? A: Yes, the program is set entirely and has no optional elements.
Q: How does the weekly schedule look like? A: The program schedule is set in the “detailed itinerary” section. Day 1 is a Sunday.
Q: When do the exams take place? A: There are no exams in this program.
Q: What kind of costs are there regarding study materials? A: All educational costs are included in the program fee
Dress code: You should always cover your shoulders, belly, knees and toes when on campus. Please bring enough proper, lightweight clothes with you from home as it can be difficult to find especially bigger clothes or shoes in Bali.
During company or site visits, dress code is more casual, however, should be respectful (no bikini, surf pants)
Q: What is the correct type of visa for studying at Undiknas University?
A: You can enter Bali with a Visa on Arrival
Q: When can I apply for my visa?
A: You can apply and pay for your visa directly at the airport in Bali
Q: Should I book accommodation in advance or after arriving in Bali?
A: It is completely up to you. As the program duration is short, we recommend staying in a hotel.
Q: Do I need an International Driver’s License to drive a scooter in Bali? A: Yes, you do. If you don’t yet have one, please order it from your national car union’s website. Bear in mind that driving a scooter in Bali requires a motorbike license. Without one, you might have problems with your insurance company in case of an accident.
Q: Which vaccinations do I need to take?
A: We recommend MMR, Tetanus-diphtheria and hepatitis A and B. You can ask your doctor for possible other recommendations if you wish to travel to more rural areas. Bali is not a malaria-endemic zone, so most likely, you will not need to purchase anti-malaria medication.
Q: Can I bring prescription medicines to Bali?
A: That shouldn’t be a problem if you bring the doctor’s prescription with the medicine. Some medicines can be very hard or impossible to find in Bali, even though there are plenty of pharmacies in the more touristy areas of Bali.
Q: Do I need to have travel insurance?
A: You are required to have a valid accident and health insurance for the whole duration of the study abroad program. The university may request a copy of the insurance certificate at the beginning of the semester. Additional information and recommended insurance packages.
Q: How are the hospitals in Bali?
A: There are many international standard hospitals in Bali, for example, BIMC, Siloam and Kasih Ibu. Please ask your insurance company for their partner hospital in Bali, as most insurances have one which they prefer. With minor worries, you can usually visit the local clinics that can be found everywhere.
Q: How are the hospitals in Bali?
A: There are many international standard hospitals in Bali, for example, BIMC, Siloam and Kasih Ibu. Please ask your insurance company for their partner hospital in Bali, as most insurances have one they prefer. With minor worries, you can usually visit the local clinics that can be found everywhere.
Q: Do I need to have travel insurance?
A: You are required to have a valid accident and health insurance from your home country for the whole duration of the program. The university may request a copy of the insurance certificate at the beginning of the semester. See our recommended travel insurance providers.
Q: Should I prepare for additional costs?
A: In addition to tuition fees, you should be prepared to pay for the visa, flights, accommodation and other living costs.
Q: I need to have my learning agreement/certificate of enrollment signed. What should I do?
A: Please fill out the document and send it to info@asiaexchange.org and we will forward it to Undiknas University for signing.
Q: When will I receive my Official Acceptance Letter? The electronic official letter of acceptance will be delivered to you approximately 1 month before the semester starts.
Q: When will I receive my participation certificate?
A: You will receive your participation certificate at the end of the program.
Q: Which other essential items should I bring with me from home?
A: Sunscreen, contact lenses, tampons, underwear, power bank, USB stick and dry shampoo.


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