Israel’s world-class education isn’t just for Israelis. Both Olim Chadashim and foreigners come to Israel to take advantage of its elite schools while learning in a country where majestic beaches, great weather, and ancient culture come together.
These colleges and universities have produced some of the world’s leading tech innovators, medical experts, and Nobel Prize Winners, putting their courses in high demand. Join some of the brilliant minds nurtured here; open your backpacks, and let’s learn all about academics in Israel.
Class is now in session.
Top Reasons Why Students Love Studying in Israel
The following are the top reasons Israel is an exciting destination for academics:
1 Top International Universities
Israel is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges worldwide.
2 A top destination for young people
Universities are primarily located in major cities with yearlong warm weather, bars, and some of the funkiest coffee shops for you to cram for exams. Frankly, let’s face it: all that studying can work up an appetite. Luckily for students, Israel is also known for having some of the world’s finest and most diverse dining options, from our notorious hummus and tahini in a basic pita with or without falafel, or the lesser-known sabich eggplant sandwich. Guests and locals love to end their meal with a bite of a sweet Knafeh dessert.
3 Learn in English
Israel offers a wide variety of courses and academic tracks in English, accommodating foreign students looking to learn in English. Additionally, the vast majority of Israelis speak English at a decent level, making it easier for foreign academics to connect, make friends, and find their way around.
4 Step into leading innovative industries
The country boasts the highest number of companies listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange per capita. This type of success extends to other fields, such as medicine and agriculture, and therefore attracts many foreign students looking to break into the tech industry or intern with the world’s most innovative companies.
Fields of Study
Explore a world of diverse academic pursuits at Israeli universities, where innovation meets tradition. From pioneering breakthroughs in science and engineering to embracing the rich tapestry of art, culture, and Jewish studies, Israel’s institutions offer an exceptional spectrum of knowledge and opportunities for international students.
Science & Engineering
Science and Israel are virtually synonymous. Israel holds a prominent global position in the realm of science and engineering. Distinguished by their achievements, Israeli scientists have secured 4 Nobel Prizes in chemistry, 3 Turing Awards in computer science, and 1 Fields Medal in mathematics. Ranking 7th worldwide in citations per scientific publication, Israel excels notably in fields like computer science, engineering, chemistry, and life sciences. By studying in Israel, you will gain the invaluable opportunity to collaborate with leading researchers and cutting-edge facilities.
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
Israel, as the Start-Up Nation, is not only a hub for inventing some of the most cutting-edge technologies known to man but also a place where universities and educational institutions are sought after by students looking to advance their knowledge in tech-related fields. This includes computer science, programming, and digital marketing.
Agriculture & Sustainability
As food shortages and global energy prices are global concerns, Israel’s cutting-edge aggro-tech innovations are now in high demand. Israel has emerged as an innovative agricultural hub, fostering new plant species and groundbreaking agricultural technologies. Notably, drip irrigation exemplifies Israel’s triumph in this field. Israel’s academic institutions actively teach and research agriculture and sustainability topics vital to global environmental concerns.
Art, Design & Music
It is not unusual to see Hollywood actresses walk the red carpet wearing gowns designed by Israelis.
For such a small country with world-renowned art institutes like Shenkar College of Engineering and Design and the Hebrew University’s Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design, it’s no wonder that Israel has made such a significant footprint in the world of artistic fashion. With a backdrop of historical significance and diverse artistic influences, students can tap into a unique fountain of inspiration. Exploring these disciplines in Israel, students immerse themselves in an environment where tradition and innovation seamlessly blend, providing a transformative journey of discovery, self-expression, and creative growth.
Jewish Studies
As the epicenter of the Jewish world, Israel serves as a natural destination for those seeking to deepen their knowledge of Jewish religion, history, culture, and philosophy. Israel is home to the most iconic Biblical sites and the holiest sites for Jews. The bottom line is that there isn’t a more authentic place to learn Jewish studies.
Israel & Middle Eastern Studies
Situated in a region of global significance, Israel captures worldwide attention. For individuals pursuing careers related to Israel or the Middle East, Israel offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain profound insights into the region’s political, social, and economic dimensions. Academic institutions in Israel offer a broad spectrum of programs, spanning ancient to contemporary studies of Israel and Middle Eastern states and language courses in Hebrew and Arabic.
English Programs
Not everyone has a knack for languages. So, if learning fluent Hebrew isn’t in the cards, don’t worry. There are many academic programs in Israel taught exclusively in English. Some educational programs have short durations, such as summer courses or one-semester to one-year programs, while others encompass full-fledged study programs taught in English and leading to degrees.
New Olim students who are eligible for support from the Student Authority have the option to enroll in English-taught programs. These programs must be accredited by the Council for Higher Education and offer a full academic route leading to either a Bachelor’s (B.A.) or a Master’s (M.A.).
It’s important to note that tuition fees for programs taught in English are typically higher than those for standard university programs. New Olim students receive a scholarship from the Student Authority, which covers the basic university tuition. However, they are responsible for any additional costs.
Although Hebrew is the primary language of instruction in standard academic programs, much of the reading material is in English. Additionally, in many institutions and departments, students have the option to submit seminar papers in English. Therefore, having proficiency in English can be a significant advantage even in programs taught in Hebrew.
The Student Authority (Minhal Hastudentim)
Wouldn’t it be great if there was an organization that offers Olim students the support they need to thrive in Israel’s academic institutions? Well, there is one, and it’s Israel’s Student Authority. This body promotes Aliyah and academics in Israel among Olim students. It supports and guides students seeking to excel in their studies and assimilate into Israeli society. This guidance commences from overseas and continues throughout the formulation of a personalized academic plan, ensuring success up to graduation. It also provides information and advice on diverse topics, encompassing coping with anxiety, program selection, financial support, and more, including:
Scholarships from the Student Authority
The Student Authority is dedicated to promoting academics among Olim students. It supports students from the initial stage of choosing an academic path to the completion of their studies in Israel throughout every degree. Offering scholarships and a variety of programs for academic support, the Student Authority ensures Olim have the necessary resources throughout their studies. For understanding eligibility and the extent of assistance visit the link below.
Counselors providing social guidance and support
The Student Authority’s counselors initiate an initial meeting with each student to establish a personal connection and identify any areas where the student requires assistance or help.
The counselors serve as mediators between the students and various departments within the institution, facilitating their integration into the school. They connect Olim students with the relevant offices responsible for assistance while helping them navigate within the institution. Additionally, the counselors refer students to tutoring and academic support services when needed. To foster social integration, the counselors organize various events throughout the school year.
The counselors also provide assistance with various public entities such as the IDF, Social Security, government ministries, non-profit organizations, and scholarship funds. They serve as a vital source of information for students and offer assistance with their rights and accommodations.
Social workers for emotional support
For students facing challenges, social workers are available in every regional office, accepting aid applications directly from students and through their counselors. Some students receive assistance from the Student Authority’s social workers, while others are referred to other frameworks or subsidized psychological services offered by academic institutions. The social workers provide a range of services, including:
- Emotional, economic, academic, and medical support throughout the year or during a crisis
- Referrals for treatment in centers within the academic system or community
- Referrals for diagnosing learning disabilities
- Financial aid to eligible students
- Referrals of students to financial aid funds
Academic support and assistance
The Student Authority collaborates with Dean offices of academic institutions to guarantee that new Olim receive their entitled benefits and rights in accordance with the policies of the respective institution.
Check your Oleh rights based on the institution by exploring the links below:
Social activities provided by the Student Authority
During the academic year, the Israel Student Authority collaborates with guides to arrange various social activities and trips across the country. These events are designed to foster a social network among Olim students, allowing them to connect with peers and immerse themselves in unique Israeli experiences. The authority also organizes a wide array of social and cultural activities. These include excursions to discover Israel’s rich heritage, events centered around Israeli holidays, cultural festivals, movie and theater nights, and communal Shabbat meals. All these initiatives aim to enhance the sense of community among students and deepen their connection to Israeli culture and society.
Choosing your academic institute in Israel
Israel has many outstanding colleges and universities to choose from, but before you start the application process, you might want to consider the following:
- Choose the ideal program for your academic journey
- Select your desired course and proceed to fill out and submit the necessary application forms. After receiving acceptance, an official letter with course details and start dates will be sent or emailed to you
- If you are not an Oleh, you’ll need to secure your student visa through the Israeli Embassy or Consulate in your home country
Admission Requirements for Studying
Acceptance to an academic institution opens the door to your academic future. However, admission to universities or colleges involves a series of tests, exams, and preparatory courses.
Acceptance to an Israeli university requires the completion of twelve years/graduation of secondary education.
However, if you have not completed the mandatory twelve years, there are two ways to get around this:
- Complete one year of university studies in your home country and then enroll in the first year of a bachelor’s program in Israel.
- Attend a preparatory program referred to in Israel as Mechina. These programs are designed for international students seeking to enhance their proficiency in Hebrew or English while bridging academic gaps.
Evaluation for Academic Degrees
If you’re considering having your foreign academic degree transferred to Israel, you’re taking an exciting step toward expanding your career opportunities. You will gain recognition for your academic achievements, and because of Israel’s reputation as a world leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, you will be well-positioned to take your career to the next level.
The process of evaluating foreign diplomas and secondary education certificates involves utilizing both Israeli and international criteria to determine eligibility. This service is intended to assist Olim and institutions from foreign countries in the process of enrolling in educational, training, and employment programs within Israel.
Guidelines for Evaluation
For academic degrees to be recognized in Israel, institutions must have a license, temporary license, or conditional license from the Council for Higher Education both at the time of enrollment and when the degree is awarded. The Council periodically updates and publishes a list of such licensed institutions. Students are advised to check the licensure status of an institution with the Student Authority before enrolling. Additionally, Olim students’ salary and position level in the public sector is influenced by their educational qualifications, making it crucial to ensure their degrees are recognized. If a degree does not meet specific criteria, students can fulfill the necessary requirements at the same institution where they earned their degree without needing to obtain a new one. They have the option to request a re-evaluation of their degree’s recognition within one year from the initial non-acceptance notification.
Documents to submit for degree evaluation
When applying for degree evaluation, the following documents must be submitted:
- Israeli or foreign high school diploma
- Certificate from a foreign academic institution attesting to the completion of the academic degree
- Detailed transcript from the foreign academic institution, including the following information:
- Enrollment date, starting date of studies, and completion date
- List of courses studied
- Number of frontal or other hours studied in each course and any other details required by the foreign institution
- Number of academic credits awarded for each course
- Details of any previous courses and studies recognized by the foreign institution and for which academic credits were awarded (Transferred Credits)
- The exact address of where the studies took place
- Certificates or official documents attesting to previous studies, if recognized for the degree
Discover more about the Evaluation of Foreign Degrees
Please note that the Ministry of Education offers an online system to evaluate academic degrees earned abroad. To use this system, you must first register before monitoring the status of your application.
The Division for Evaluation of Foreign Degrees
The Division for Evaluation of Foreign Degrees holds the authority to conduct, manage, and evaluate school exams. The unit also oversees a wide array of exams, such as matriculation exams, professional certification exams, technological high-school exams, and elementary-level exams.
Evaluating international credentials
If you’re considering having your foreign academic degree transferred to Israel, you’re taking an exciting step toward expanding your career opportunities. Not only will you gain recognition for your academic achievements, but because of Israel’s reputation as a world leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, you will also be well-positioned to take your career to the next level.
The process of evaluating foreign diplomas and secondary education certificates involves utilizing both Israeli and international criteria to determine eligibility. This service is intended to assist Olim and institutions from foreign countries in the process of enrolling in educational training and employment programs within Israel.
Evaluating high school diplomas
The Unit for the Evaluation of Secondary Education assesses foreign academic qualifications, comparing them to Israeli high school diplomas (Bagrut). It uses both Israeli and international criteria to compare foreign diplomas with Israeli ones. To submit documents, send a single PDF file (up to 10MB) to ‘[email protected]‘. Make sure to submit the following documents:
- A clear scan of a government-issued ID or passport
- A scanned copy of your certificate or ‘Tamtzit Rishum‘ (a standard information form by the Interior Ministry) indicating the issuance date or a country entry and exit form issued by the Interior Ministry
- A copy of the original academic transcript (in its original language)
- A copy of the high school diploma (in its original language)
- A signed Hebrew translation, notarized (with the ‘red ribbon’) of the high school diploma and the academic transcript
Evaluating university and college degrees obtained abroad
You worked hard for your academic degree in the country where it was obtained. You will find out its local academic value upon applying to Israeli universities and colleges. The following checklist will help you find the perfect fit for your educational aspirations.
- Who requires it?
Individuals aiming to pursue further education in Israel, to present a dissertation or necessitate some recognition, which is also essential for employment linked to degree qualifications - Who is responsible?
The Ministry of Education administers this process through its Division for Evaluation of Foreign Academic Degrees - Documentary Requirements
You must prepare diplomas from secondary or academic institutions along with a grade transcript - Duration
The process usually takes up to 45 days to complete.
Recognition of your Ph.D.
For recognition of a Ph.D., you need to provide the Division for Evaluation of Foreign Academic Degrees with the relevant information regarding the foreign Ph.D. you hold. This data will be submitted through the completion of this declaration form (note this document is currently available only in Hebrew).
Prerequisites - Psychometric Exam
Psychometric Exam (‘Israel’s SAT’)
The Psychometric exam is an Israeli version of the SAT. However, unlike the SAT, this test is used to help evaluate a student’s study eligibility for a specific major rather than to get accepted to a specific university.
The exam is designed to help predict the likelihood of academic success at academic institutions. It’s also used alongside other assessment tools, such as matriculation results, and to screen applicants for different fields of study. The test allows institutions to rank applicants on a standardized assessment scale.
Various courses are available for those interested or needing to improve their score before entering their first year of college.
Taking a preparatory course for the psychometric exam
As the saying goes: “Proper prior planning prevents poor performance.” A preparatory course for the psychometric exam can provide several benefits for test-takers. Firstly, it can help them become familiar with the format and content of the exam, which may reduce anxiety and increase confidence while taking the test. Additionally, a prep course can teach test-taking strategies and offer practice questions to help students enhance their performance. It can also offer individualized instruction and feedback, which may address specific areas of weakness for each student. Ultimately, investing time and effort into a psychometric prep course may lead to a higher score and greater opportunities for admission to desired academic programs.
To take the Psychometric exam (paper-and-pencil version), examinees must complete nine sections grouped into the domains of Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, or English.
Available languages
The Psychometric exam can be taken in either Hebrew or English. It’s recommended to take the test in the language in which you are most fluent. There is a combined version that includes both English and Hebrew, and some words are translated into several other languages.
The booklet for the Combined/English version is arranged from left to right, similar to English books. For the writing assignment in the test, you must use the language of the test. However, if you are taking the Combined/English version, you can choose to write the assignment in either Hebrew, English, Russian, German, Italian, Hungarian, Amharic, Portuguese, Dutch, or Spanish.
Be advised that the test in languages other than Hebrew and Arabic may not be available on every test date. It is recommended to check the availability of the test in your preferred language on the chosen test date. Additionally, tests in languages other than Hebrew and Arabic are only offered at specific test locations. If you register for a test in another language, you may not be assigned to your desired test location.
Please note that the test scores are not affected by the language in which the test is taken.
Students with learning disabilities
Israeli academia understands the challenges facing those studying with learning disabilities. Therefore, students with learning disabilities receive special accommodations when taking the exam. In this case, documentation should include a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified professional, a description of the functional limitations related to the disability, and recommendations for specific accommodations. Disabilities include:
- Attention Deficit Disorder
- Physical Restrictions
- Mental Health Difficulties
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
Pre-Academic Preparatory Programs
Ulpan
An Ulpan, is a Hebrew immersion course offered throughout Israel where you can dive into the ancient language and learn to use it like a local. The Department of Adult Education in the Ministry of Education supervises Ulpanim of different levels throughout Israel that offer intensive Hebrew language courses that last 5 months.
1. Basic Ulpan
Ulpan courses cover basic speaking, comprehension, reading, and writing skills and take place 3-5 days a week, depending on the Ulpan’s location and program setting. New Olim are typically exempt from tuition fees but may be required to pay registration fees and fees for social activities.
In some cases, universities may request prospective students to undertake an Ulpan course even if they have already taken them.
There are three main types of Ulpan programs:
- External city Ulpan that do not include accommodations
- Ulpan in absorption centers, which include accommodations
- Kibbutz Ulpan combining study, work, and room and board on a kibbutz
The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration has also expanded options for study in smaller groups, different hours, including evenings, and shorter duration of studies to meet the needs of various Olim groups.
All Ulpan programs begin sessions throughout the year based on the number of new Olim who register.
Enrolling in one of the youth Ulpan programs is highly recommended for students and young academics who want to learn Hebrew quickly. These include Ulpan for young academics such as Etzion (located in Haifa, Jerusalem, Ramla, and Be’er Sheva) and youth Ulpan like Beit Brodetsky and Ra’anana. Additionally, the Israel Student Authority offers a TAKA Ulpan in Ashkelon and Tel Aviv. These programs are designed specifically for younger students and academics and offer basic and advanced levels of instruction in Hebrew.
The Student Authority provides students in these Ulpanim with information and explanatory sessions, personalized advice throughout their studies, meetings with educational institutions, and tours, among other resources.
For more information vie our page about Hebrew Studies here
2. Where Ulpan Meets Master’s Degrees
The Israel Student Authority, in collaboration with several prominent academic institutions and the Jewish Agency, has introduced several exceptional program options for new Olim who wish to pursue a master’s degree.
In these programs, the first year is dedicated to learning introductory and prerequisite courses in English alongside an intensive Hebrew Ulpan course that includes over 800 hours of study. It’s a combined program of Hebrew Ulpan and academic courses for master’s degree seekers.
During the second year, students are integrated into the Hebrew-speaking program alongside other students.
This program offers a “soft landing” on campus, with support from the academic institutions and the Student Authority as well as subsidized housing for the first year, or partial assistance with rent. Additionally, eligible students can enjoy other subsidized benefits provided by the Israel Student Authority.
3. Summer Ulpan
Summer Ulpan is offered by the Ministry of Education to assist Olim with obtaining ‘exemption’ status in Israeli universities. The exemption status indicates that Hebrew proficiency is at the minimum level required to learn in Hebrew at a university. The levels range from 1-5 (Alef-Hey) and require a minimum number of interested students for the program to commence.
Held in July-August, the Summer Ulpan is from 4-5 weeks long, 5 days a week, with 5 learning hours per day.
Who can participate?
- Prospective college and university students
- Mechina and TAKA graduates
- Students who reach an ‘exemption’ level as a final requirement for university acceptance
- Ph.D. students under the age of 30
Curriculum
The Ulpan’s curriculum is designed to help students advance at least one level closer to exemption status. The program is recommended for students in Ulpan Level 2 (Ramah Bet) to prepare for the preparatory program, which is contingent on a minimum number of participants.
Be advised that payment for Summer Ulpanim is separate from the regular tuition fee and that the Student Authority does not cover the cost, except for TAKA graduates in some institutions. Also, the Student Authority extends support beyond funding tuition by partially subsidizing Hebrew/English language courses up to the exemption level offered throughout the academic program and in accordance with the class schedule.
Mechina
If you never took matriculation exams in Israel but still want to attend an Israeli college or university, don’t sweat over it. A Mechina is a program designed for new Olim who wish to attend university in Israel. Its purpose is to help students achieve the necessary levels of Hebrew, as well as an equivalency to the Israeli Bagrut necessary to qualify for regular university studies. However, some universities may not require a Mechina for students who do not have a Bagrut but meet other academic requirements. So, it’s essential to speak with a student advisor at the university to which you are applying before enrolling into a Mechina.
Mechina programs are offered by most academic institutions, such as:
Certain universities, such as the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, waive the psychometric test requirement for Mechina graduates.
A Smooth Path to Mechina
To enter a preparatory program, follow these steps:
- Check document submission deadlines (usually in June)
- Complete an online application on the program’s website
- Pay the registration fee
- Gather, translate, and notarize required documents
- Submit documents to the university
- Await an official acceptance letter to the preparatory program
- Pay the course tuition fee
Necessary Documents:
- Hebrew test results (a link will be provided after completing an online application)
- Mathematics test results (a link will be provided after completing an online application)
- Completed and signed medical questionnaire by your physician
- Confirmation of English proficiency for non native speakers: Amiram (Amirnet) exam score— 60 and above, or equivalent IELTS and TOEFL scores
- High school diploma together with a grade transcript
Olim Students who meet these specific criteria may be exempt from the Mechina program:
- UK students who have a GCSE and at least 3 A-level exams in specific subjects
- Canadian students who have an OSSD or a high school diploma and a CEGEP diploma in specific courses
- US students who have taken at least 4 AP exams in certain subjects
For admission to a Mechina program, a minimum A2 level of Hebrew is required. If you have no prior knowledge of the language, you’ll need to take a summer language course at an Ulpan.
Please note this is a general list. Visit your selected program’s website for precise requirements. Additionally, some universities require knowledge of English at the A2B1 level, even for programs in Hebrew.
TAKA – A Prep Program for Academic Hebrew
Similar to the Mechina, Taka is an all-inclusive program designed to prepare Olim who are exempt from Mechina for academic life in Israel. TAKA is more specialized than Mechina as it focuses specifically on technology-related knowledge and skills. This bi-annual program, lasting 5-10 months, comprises of Olim from across the globe. It is open to students aged 18-32 with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Additionally, individuals with a high school diploma from abroad, equivalent to Israeli matriculation, can also apply. All applicants must meet the requirements set by the Student Authority.
Yael Hebrew Test
Hebrew proficiency is a prerequisite for admission to universities and colleges in Israel for those who wish to study in Hebrew. The YAEL Test assesses your Hebrew language proficiency and is intended for students without an Israeli Matriculation Certificate (Bagrut) or for those who have not taken a psychometric test in Hebrew. Achieving success on the YAEL Test can enable admission into various academic institutions in Israel and bring students closer to an exemption from taking further Hebrew language courses during their studies.
The YAEL preparation course is the most effective way to improve Hebrew language skills in a fun and engaging environment that caters to Olim. To be eligible for the course, students must be Olim who qualify for assistance from the Israel Student Authority. The course is designed to expand vocabulary, teach time-management skills and academic writing techniques, while fully preparing students for the YAEL test.
The Israel Student Authority also offers the option of taking the course during the TAKA program at academic institutions in addition to other assistance and scholarships it provides.
The Ofek Program - Career Placement for Graduates
The “Ofek” program is designed for graduate Olim students who are motivated to secure a fitting job placement that utilizes their skills and education. Throughout the program, the participants receive individual mentoring by volunteer mentors who have senior positions in the student’s area of study, and together they build a strong social network with employers in the Israeli job market. The goal here is to integrate new Olim graduates into suitable careers.
Opportunities for Interning in Israel
Israel stands as the premier destination for internship opportunities. Boasting top-tier academic institutions and organizations, the country provides access to a diverse range of internship programs in dynamic fields like high-tech, business, consulting, government, nonprofit organizations, and more. In Israel you can gain hands-on experience while pursuing your studies to jumpstart your future career.
Post-Doctoral Research
Israel is a leader in cutting-edge research in various fields, consistently ranking among the world’s top countries. The Israeli government has established partnerships with numerous institutions and countries worldwide, providing funding opportunities for collaborative research. Israeli faculty members welcome international students and researchers to pursue Ph.D. or Post-Doctoral research, making it an excellent destination for academic study.
If you wish to engage in research in Israel, the initial step involves identifying an academic supervisor specializing in your field who is willing to oversee your research. Once you have identified a supervisor, you can commence the registration process through the host institution. Also, a postdoc fellowship in Israel provides resources and opportunities for international researchers to connect with supervisors, ensuring a fulfilling educational experience.
Transferring Academic Licenses
Are you a physician, dentist, pharmacist, nurse, veterinarian, lawyer, or accountant looking to be licensed in Israel? Lucky for you, the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration helps organize and fund preparatory courses for licensing exams for new Olim. It also offers a wide variety of helpful courses to help foreign professionals obtain an Israeli license in their field of expertise.
Doctors
The Ministry of Employment hosts 2 preparatory courses per year for medical doctors to obtain their licenses from the Ministry of Health. Each course lasts for 6 months and consists of medical terminology and professional studies in the field of medicine. The courses take place in one of the country’s hospitals, and upon completion, participants undergo an internal exam. Those receiving a score of 70 or above are entitled to a 10% bonus added to their governmental exam score.
The course is funded by the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration’s Department of Employment. Eligible participants receive assistance with living expenses and transportation in accordance with the Ministry’s regulations. Licensing is the
responsibility of the Ministry of Health.
Dentists
Dental professionals who are required by the Ministry of Health to pass a government exam to obtain a license will receive a voucher. The voucher is given to one of the two preparatory courses for the licensing exams – theoretical or practical – according to the candidate’s choice. The preparation courses for dental professionals’ licensing takes place at one of the institutions recognized by the Ministry of Health as listed below:
- The School of Dental Medicine, Tel Aviv University
- The Faculty of Dental Medicine, Hadassah Ein Kerem in Jerusalem
- The Institute for Continuing Education, Haifa
- The College of Health Sciences and Behavior, Ramat Gan
Prospective candidates who wish to receive assistance should contact the admission advisor in their regional area to check their eligibility for the voucher. They can also submit an online request. Licensing falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Health.
Pharmacists
The Ministry of Labor offers government licensing exams preparatory courses covering professional and relevant material for pharmacists twice a year. The Ministry of Health administers these tests and is responsible for licensing. Eligible participants receive financial assistance for living and travel expenses in accordance with the Ministry’s guidelines. The courses last for six months and include an internal exam. Participants who receive a grade of 70 or above get a bonus grade added to their total score.
Nurses
The Ministry of Labor, in cooperation with the Nursing Administration in the Ministry of Health, offers preparatory courses for accredited nurses. The opening of the courses is subject to a minimum number of participants. During the course, participants are entitled to assistance with living expenses and transportation in accordance with the regulations set by the Ministry.
Nursing Program stages:
- Prior to immigrating to Israel, individuals can submit an application for the recognition of professional status in nursing. The request involves providing the required documents to the Nursing Administration, as outlined on their website, available in 6 different languages.
- Eligible graduates of nursing study programs abroad need to attend the Knowledge Complementation Program for the Functioning of a Registered Nurse in Israel. This program focuses on nursing matters specific to Israel. Successfully completing the program is a threshold for obtaining eligibility for the governmental registered nurse licensing exam. This requirement may be completed in several ways, including an online course or taking an exam.
Veterinarians
The Ministry of Labor conducts a preparatory course annually for the veterinarians’ licensing exam. The exam date is set by the Ministry of Agriculture, the entity responsible for licensing. Participants who are eligible for funding also receive assistance with living expenses and transportation according to the Ministry’s regulations.
Opening the course is subject to the number of registered participants. It is hosted at the School of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine in the Faculty of Agriculture in Rehovot, and covers medical terminology and professional studies in the field of veterinary medicine. The course lasts 6 months, and participants take an internal exam upon its completion. Participants who receive a grade of 70 or above receive a bonus of 10 points, added to their total score on the Ministry of Agriculture’s exam.
Attorneys
Aspiring lawyers and legal practitioners in Israel, including those with foreign licenses, must complete 9 state law exams successfully. The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration provides biannual preparatory courses for these exams, comprising secondary courses in diverse legal professions. The initial course fee is exempt, but participants are responsible for the costs associated with the second course in the study cycle.
The courses are conducted during evening hours and eligible participants are assisted with travel expenses in accordance with Ministry regulations. The course is held in the Tel Aviv area and is contingent on the number of participants.
Legal licensing is the responsibility of the Israeli Bar Association.
Accountants
New Olim who want to continue working as accountants must pass exams given by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. These exams cover commercial law, corporate law, income tax, and VAT. The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration offers preparatory courses for these exams. The first course is exempt from payment, but the second course does require a fee.
The courses are held in Tel Aviv, and their opening is subject to the number of participants. The courses take place in the evening and participants receive assistance with transportation according to the Ministry’s regulations.
Certification is under the responsibility of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Teachers
Transferring your teaching credentials in Israel can be done in the following 4 easy steps:
- Contact your district counselors – Available as your main resource for any requests or questions you may have. The initial meeting with the district counselor will include a personal interview to gather information while entering it into the Ministry of Education’s database. Additionally, you will receive comprehensive explanations and guidance regarding the absorption process for Olim teachers.
- Recognition of foreign degrees – Academic degrees will be acknowledged upon submission of the original documents or certified copies, accompanied by Hebrew translations. These translations must be notarized by an Israeli notary. If required, free assistance with translation can be obtained through the Ministry of Aliyah and Immigration.
- Successful internship year – This is one of the prerequisites before receiving a teaching license.
- Professional advancement – The issuance of a teaching license is contingent upon meeting the following criteria:
-
- Owning a recognized academic degree
- Owning an acknowledged teaching certificate
- Successfully completing the various requirements of a yearly internship
Israel's Leading Universities and Colleges
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Tel Aviv University
Bar-Ilan University
The University of Haifa
The Weizmann Institute of Science
Ben-Gurion University of the Negev
Technion – Israel Institute of Technology
The Open University of Israel
Ariel University
Reichman (IDC) University
Shalem College
Jerusalem College of Technology (JCT)
Emuna-Ephrata - Academic College of Arts and Design
Afeka Academic College of Engineering in Tel Aviv
Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design Jerusalem
Jerusalem Academy of Music and Dance (JAMD)
Achva Academic College
Ashkelon Academic College (AAC)
The Academic College Levinsky-Wingate
Beit Berl College
Western Galilee College
Hadassah Academic College (HAC)
Shaanan College (Hebrew website)
Herzog College
Hemdat Hadarom Academic College of Education (Hebrew website)
Kinneret College
Braude College
The Sami Shamoon College of Engineering (SCE)
Givat Washington (Hebrew website)
Tel Hai College
Gordon Academic College of Education
David Yellin Academic College of Education
Kaye College
Ramat Gan Academic College (Hebrew website)
Netanya Academic College
Sapir Academic College
Yezreel Valley College (YVC)
Zefat Academic College
The Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo
COLMAN - The College of Management Acdemic Studies
Academic Center for Law and Business
NB Haifa School of Design
Peres Academic Center
Ruppin Academic Center
The Academic College of Law and Science
Ono Academic College
HIT Holon Institute of Technology
The International School at Oranim College
Orot Israel College of Education
Jerusalem College (Hebrew website)
Sakhnin Academic College
Kibbutzim College
Azrieli College of Engineering
Shankar
Talpiot College (Hebrew website)
Rights & Benefits for Olim Chadashim
Israel’s Student Authority offers guidance and assistance to new Olim students who have made Aliyah, understanding that the transition to student life can present various challenges. The Student Authority goes beyond merely offering scholarships and tuition assistance; it strives to address the diverse needs of students. This approach aims to support students in succeeding in their studies, optimally completing their degrees, and seamlessly integrating into both employment and Israeli society upon graduation.
Scholarships
Expenses shouldn’t hold back your education.
Israeli academic institutions are currently offering over 1,000 scholarships to help fund your educational journey. Whether you’re interested in science, engineering, the arts, or any other field, these scholarships can provide the financial aid (Hebrew site) you need to chase your academic dreams. So why wait? There are scholarships available for every student looking to learn in Israel.
Services and Assistance Provided by the Student Authority
Israel’s Student Authority offers a network of counselors offering social guidance and support. This includes social workers who provide emotional support in various situations as well as social and cultural activities.
