Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Technology Brian Yuliarto stated that the implementation of the 2026 National Test-Based Selection (SNBT) was deemed more transparent and conducted with greater integrity compared to previous years.
The number of SNBT participants this year reached approximately 871,000, marking an increase compared to last year’s implementation.
According to Brian, the high number of participants reflects the strong interest of Indonesia’s youth in pursuing higher education.
He views this increase in participation as a positive sign in the effort to cultivate high-quality human resources for Indonesia’s future.
The majority of 2026 SNBT participants are high school graduates, followed by vocational high school and Madrasah Aliyah graduates.
The government is also continuing to expand access to higher education through the KIP Kuliah assistance program.
Of the more than 251,000 applicants for the program, approximately 86,000 participants have been designated as prospective recipients of educational assistance.
The distribution of assistance is carried out using the National Social and Economic Single Data (DTSEN) to ensure it is more targeted and aligned with community needs.
To maintain integrity during the selection process, the committee has tightened supervision using various modern technologies.
Some of the technologies used include metal detectors, AI-based facial recognition, and a system for randomizing exam schedules and locations.
The government has emphasized that integrity is a core principle in the administration of the national selection process, and that no form of cheating will be tolerated.