Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), an international joint venture between Xi’an Jiaotong University in China and the University of Liverpool in the UK, is solidifying its foothold in Indonesia, which has emerged as its largest international market. With approximately 700 Indonesian students currently enrolled and over 1,500 undergraduate applications for the upcoming September intake—accounting for 38% of total international applications—XJTLU is positioning itself as a strategic gateway for Indonesian students seeking global education and career opportunities.
At a Media Discussion in Jakarta on June 24, 2026, XJTLU Executive President Professor Youmin Xi highlighted the university’s diverse campus environment. “Currently, XJTLU has faculty members from more than 60 different countries and regions around the world. Our students also come from nearly 100 different countries and regions, creating a campus environment where they are well accustomed to a diverse, multicultural atmosphere,” he said. Professor Xi emphasized the university’s educational model, which focuses on fostering agile thinking and wisdom by integrating Western and Eastern perspectives.
XJTLU offers over 100 degree programmes across disciplines such as science, engineering, business, finance, architecture, urban planning, languages, and culture, all delivered in English. Undergraduate students earn two degrees: an XJTLU degree recognized by China’s Ministry of Education and a globally recognized degree from the University of Liverpool. Postgraduate students receive a University of Liverpool degree, also recognized by the Chinese Ministry of Education. All academic departments offer PhD programmes, supporting XJTLU’s vision to become a research-led international university.
Alumna Tuty Julfa shared her experience: “I feel very fortunate to have studied at XJTLU, primarily because it not only strengthened my hard skills but also developed the soft skills essential for my career growth. It’s not just about academics, but also about interpersonal skills and how we cultivate perseverance and resilience.” Now running a fashion retail business, Tuty credits XJTLU for shaping her career.
To strengthen its international expansion, XJTLU established an official representative office in Indonesia in 2024 and expanded its recruitment team in June this year. The university has also built partnerships with leading Indonesian institutions, including Binus University, Universitas Indonesia, Institut Teknologi Bandung, and Petra Christian University Surabaya. Collaborations extend to education agencies and international schools.
Professor Xi underscored the university’s forward-looking approach: “This year marks the 20th anniversary of our university. The future world requires new pillars—individuals who are able to work alongside AI. From the first year, our students are introduced to what AI is, how to use it, and the ethics surrounding it. In the second year, they begin learning how to apply AI appropriately in subjects such as Mathematics, Engineering, and the Social Sciences. By the third year, they are supported by AI in conducting research. We use AI to support education—upgrading, restructuring, and reshaping it. However, we do not aim to use AI to replace education. Our philosophy is ‘X plus AI,’ not ‘AI plus X.’ AI is not only about learning, but also about building resilience for the future.”
For more information about XJTLU, visit https://www.xjtlu.edu.cn/en.
