Yogyakarta is known as the “Student City”; this title is not just a nickname but a reflection of the city’s atmosphere, serving as a center of education. This city has long been a magnet for students from all over Indonesia, and even abroad, to pursue knowledge. With numerous prestigious universities, such as Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY), as well as various private Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII), Yogyakarta offers a wide range of options for higher education.
Characteristics of Yogyakarta as a City of Student
- Affordable Cost of Living
One of the main reasons why students are drawn to Yogyakarta is the relatively low cost of living, from affordable boarding house prices to delicious and affordable food at the Angkringan (street food stalls), as well as easily accessible public transportation like the Trans Jogja buses. All of these make students from various backgrounds feel comfortable living in Yogyakarta.
- Conducive Academic Atmosphere
Yogyakarta has educational facilities, such as libraries, tutoring centers, and cafes with quiet atmospheres perfect for studying. Additionally, there are active student communities engaged in academic discussions, arts, and social activities, allowing students to grow intellectually and socially.
- Rich Culture Life
Besides studying, students in Yogyakarta also gain in-depth experiences about Javanese culture. From events like the Malioboro Night Festival, and Sekaten (to celebrate the birth of Prophet Muhammad SAW), to art performances at the Taman Budaya Yogyakarta, they are introduced to local traditions. The harmonious coexistence of culture and modernity gives Yogyakarta its unique charm.
- Divers Student Community
Students who come to Yogyakarta hail from various cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. This creates a diversity that enriches the student experience. They not only learn formal knowledge but also learn tolerance and the value of appreciating differences.
- Entertainment and Recreation
After busy study schedules, students in Yogyakarta have many options for relaxation. From historical sites like the Yogyakarta Place and Prambanan Temple to natural attractions like Gunungkidul Beaches and Kaliurang, as well as unique cafes scattered throughout the city. All of these add to the life experience while living in Yogyakarta.
For students coming from outside the city or from abroad, UGM provides comfortable and affordable dormitory facilities. UGM has 8 unit dormitory students that can accommodate up to 2000 students. The dormitory distribution consists of:
- 3 dormitory units for male students
- 5 dormitory units for female students
The UGM dormitories are not just places to stay but also environments that help students adapt to campus life. In the dorms, students can interact with each other, and build friendships with peers from different backgrounds. For those who want to learn more about the facilities, location, and registration procedures from UGM dormitories, full information can be accessed through the official websites: https://residence.ugm.ac.id/.