Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), a joint venture between Xi’an Jiaotong University in China and the University of Liverpool in the UK, is reinforcing its foothold in Indonesia, which has become its largest international market. With approximately 700 Indonesian students currently enrolled and over 1,500 undergraduate applications for the upcoming September intake—accounting for about 38% of total international applications—the university is increasingly viewed as a strategic choice for Indonesian students seeking global education and career pathways.
Professor Youmin Xi, Executive President of XJTLU, highlighted the university's diverse and multicultural environment during a Media Discussion in Jakarta on 24 June 2026. “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 also emphasized the university's educational model, which focuses on agile thinking and wisdom, integrating Western and Eastern perspectives to prepare students for a future where AI is a key collaborator.
XJTLU offers over 100 degree programmes in English across disciplines such as science, engineering, business, finance, architecture, urban planning, languages, and culture. Undergraduate students receive two degrees: one from XJTLU recognized by China’s Ministry of Education and a globally recognized degree from the University of Liverpool. Postgraduate students are awarded degrees from the University of Liverpool, also recognized by the Chinese Ministry of Education. The university also offers PhD programmes across all academic departments, supporting its vision to become a research-led international university.
Alumni representative Tuty Julfa shared her positive experience, noting that XJTLU strengthened both her hard and soft skills, which have been crucial in her career as a fashion retail entrepreneur. “It’s not just about academics, but also about interpersonal skills and how we cultivate perseverance and resilience,” she said.
As part of its international expansion strategy, XJTLU established an official representative office in Indonesia in 2024 and expanded its recruitment team in June 2026 to enhance outreach. The university has also built partnerships with leading Indonesian institutions, including Binus University, Universitas Indonesia, Institut Teknologi Bandung, and Petra Christian University Surabaya, as well as education agencies and schools.
The university's approach to AI is particularly noteworthy. Professor Xi explained, “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.” He stressed that XJTLU uses AI to support education, not replace it, with the philosophy 'X plus AI' rather than 'AI plus X.' This prepares students to work alongside AI, building resilience for the future.
For Indonesian students, XJTLU offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western educational traditions, double degrees, and a curriculum that integrates AI literacy from the start. This positions the university as a key player in meeting the growing demand for globally competent graduates in Indonesia and beyond.
