israel trips for college students

Israel Programs

Experience the best of israel.

When choosing an Israel experience, you want to have it all – a well planned trip that combines discovery of the land, exploration of Jewish culture, and the opportunity to give back. And on top of all that, a fun time that you’ll never forget.

That’s where Young Judaea comes in! We have more than 60 years of experience creating unparalleled trips for teens, college students and young adults from diverse Jewish backgrounds.

The best part of experiencing Israel with Young Judaea is that the journey doesn’t end when the program is over. You will always be a part of the YJ family and our huge network of thousands of passionate alumni. Plus, you can return to Israel on another YJ Israel program because let’s be honest: there’s really no such thing as too many trips to the Jewish homeland!

Now go read about the best trip you’ll ever take. See you in Israel! Yalla . Let’s go!

Teen Summer Programs

Discover breathtaking history, rich culture, and the modern pulse of Israel while making new friends on our teen summer programs

For every Young Judaean who wants to experience Israel while putting leadership skills into action with friends from camp

Year Course

Expand your mind, your horizons, and your life experience as you discover another culture, volunteer, study, and develop your Jewish identity in Israel

The original gap year in Israel, gives you the opportunity to step out into the world, gain valuable life skill, and begin the transition to independence.

College & Beyond

Live like a real Israeli. With the freedom to intern, volunteer, travel, explore in Israel, you’ll feel just like a local!

The perfect way to spend a summer in Israel

Onward Israel

An immersive and transformative 6-10 week experience in Israel

School Trips

Make Israel Come Alive for Your Students!

Tailor made trip itineraries that turn lessons into life-long memories, along with our unique approach to pluralistic Zionism that ensures everyone finds their home with Young Judaea.

For information on how to reach our General Inquiries and our EMERGENCY issues lines related to participants who are CURRENTLY in Israel, please visit our Contact Us page

About birthright israel onward.

When you grow, so do your opportunities. Global experience gives you that extra competitive edge. Our programs take you Onward – personally and professionally – and allow you an authentic taste of modern day Israel while gaining experience and knowledge through an internship opportunity. Birthright Israel Onward is designed with the beginning in mind: The beginning of your success story. Start up your future in Israel.

A majority of our programs are Birthright Israel Onward- Masa programs, carried out in partnership with Masa Israel Journey. Onward, first established in 2012 as a program of the Jewish Agency for Israel, is now a department of Taglit Birthright Israel. Onward is a partnership between lead philanthropists and foundations, Jewish communities, and organizations from around the world. It also serves as a major platform for mid-length internship experiences in partnership with Masa Israel Journey.

Since January 1, 2022, Onward is part of Birthright Israel and therefore users of Birthright Israel Onward’s website are subject to Birthright Israel’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

What is Birthright Israel Onward about? Hear from our Vice President, Ilan Wagner:

What is birthright israel onward about hear from our our vice president, ilan wagner, impact at a glance.

Number of Onward Israel participants in its most recent cohort in 2022.

Number of Onward Israel participants in the first cohort in 2012.

Onward Israel alumni are 59% more likely to educate others about Israel than they were before their program.

Percent of Onward Israel participants that attended the same or more Israel and Jewish activities and events after returning home. Contrary to the general trend of declining engagement among college students.

Demand is high: there are three applicants for every available spot on an Onward Israel program

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Find Out What’s Happening at Birthright Onward Israel

Birthright Israel Onward applicants interested in interning in one of the following internship fields – STEM, Finance, Law, and Medicine – must meet the following criteria:

The applicant must be in their sophomore year of studies or beyond while applying for the Onward program

The applicant must have prior exposure to the field outside of academic studies

Prior professional experience/internship experience in the specific field of interest is desirable but not required*

*Applicants interested in an internship in the legal field must demonstrate internship and/or work experience related to the field

The applicant must have completed at least 4 courses relevant to the internship field of interest or be enrolled in said courses that will be completed by the time the Onward program begins

If the applicant is applying for a computer science or computer engineering internship, they must meet the criteria above AND must be proficient in at least in one computer programming language.

Applicants meeting all criteria have the strongest chance of securing an internship in the desired field

Applicants meeting two or fewer criteria:

Theme Based Programs: Applicants can be waitlisted or can be transitioned to a different Theme Based Program depending on availability

Hillel/Community Programs: Applicants will need to take under consideration that it is unlikely that an internship match will be made in their desired field or a related field if they do not meet the above criteria based on available internships and the applicants skills and experience and should therefore seek internships in other fields.

Onward Israel applicants interested in interning in one of the following internship fields – STEM, Finance, Law, and Medicine – must meet the following criteria:

The applicant must be in their sophomore year of studies or beyond while applying for the Onward Israel program

The applicant must have completed at least 4 courses relevant to the internship field of interest or be enrolled in said courses that will be completed by the time the Onward Israel program begins

If the applicant is applying for a computer science or computer engineering internship, they must meet the criteria above AND must be proficient in at least in one computer programming language.

Hillel/Community Programs: Applicants will need to take under consideration that it is unlikely that an internship match will be made in their desired field or a related field based on available internships and the applicants skills and experience and should therefore seek internships in other fields.

Entry & Quarantine Requirements

Currently, in accordance with the State of Israel regulations, only participants that fall into one of the following categories will be granted entrance to Israel.

• Vaccinated individuals*: individuals must have received at least two doses of the vaccination (with the exception of Johnson & Johnson which requires only one). * Please be aware that additional conditions may apply depending on each individual’s specific status.
• Recovered individuals*: individuals must have been recovered within one year of the program start date. *Please be aware that additional conditions may apply depending on each individual’s specific status.

Please note that these policies are subject to change.

In both of the above cases, certain entry and quarantine requirements will apply. Participants must refer to our Onward Israel Masa Programs – Entry & Quarantine Requirements for more information.

Prior to arrival in Israel, participants will receive detailed information regarding all COVID-19 protocols & policies in respect of their trip.

For any questions, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected]

In both of the above cases, certain entry and quarantine requirements will apply. Participants must refer to our Onward Israel Programs – Entry & Quarantine Requirements for more information.

Updated: July 27, 2021

In recent days, and despite the high rate of vaccinations in Israel, there has been a resurgence of COVID-19 transmissions in Israel, stemming from the Delta Variant. In response, the Ministry of Health has restored the obligation to wear facemasks in indoor locations and is considering limitations on entry to certain venues for only vaccinated or recovered from COVID-19 individuals. The list of countries that Israelis cannot travel to is begin updated and additional restrictions and regulations at the airport are being considered. Onward Israel obliges all of its participants to wear masks at indoor activities and is now limiting participation in future programs to only vaccinated and COVID-19 recovered participants.

Today, the US Embassy in Israel published a Level 3 Health notice about travel to Israel. It can be found here:

https://il.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/

Onward Israel’s policy is to allow early departure from our 2021 summer programs  because of anxiety or worries connected to COVID-19. In such cases there is no financial penalties for participants, although costs connected with changes to flight tickets as well as the required PCR test within 72 hours of departure remains the responsibility of each participant.

Onward Israel remains steadfastly committed to providing a meaningful, impactful, summer experience to each and every participant on all of our summer 2021 programs. We have planned the summer with the well-being of our participants as a cardinal concern.

If you have any other questions, please contact us at  [email protected]  and visit our website periodically for important updates.

Updated July 19, 2021

On May 20 th , a cease fire went to effect on Israel’s southern border with the Gaza Strip. The cease fire has been upheld since then. Due to the complexity and dynamism of the issues involved we are carefully monitoring the situation on a daily basis, and making any adjustments to our programs due to changes in the security situation.

In general, we prioritize the safety, health and security of our participants while also striving to facilitate their immersion into Israeli life and society and their exploration of the country, as key elements of the Onward Israel Experience.

Our security protocols rest on the following important elements:

• All participants receive a detailed safety and security orientation at the very beginning of the program. This orientation is repeated as a refresher during the program itself. This orientation also includes training about how to use conduct oneself in public spaces if there is an air raid siren
• All housing units have immediate and quick access to safe spaces in the event of air raid sirens. These spaces include “safe rooms” within apartments, shelters or reinforced stairwells
• Participants are shown these spaces and taken to them physically as part of the safety and security orientation
• The initial orientation at each internship site includes learning about and practicing access to the safe space at the worksite
• All educational trips and activity are vetted on the day of implementation by the Israeli Ministry of Education’s “Moked Teva”- which approves every itinerary based on updated security developments and dictates what additional security measures must be taken for each itinerary, if applicable
• All participants are part of a Whattsapp group, run by their group counselor, through which all pertinent security information is clearly communicated to participants.  In addition, participants are part of a wider Onward Israel Whattsapp group as an additional source of information
• Onward Israel is in daily coordination with Masa Israel Journey, The Jewish Agency for Israel and Birthright Israel for safety and security updates
• Participants are instructed to share individual travel plans with their program staff in order to get directions about safe and secure ways to travel in their free time
• Please see our “Contact Us” page should you have additional questions. We are happy to answer further questions (including those security related), however, ask that you direct non-emergency inquiries or those in regard to participants who are not currently in Israel to our general inquiries phone line and email address. While these avenues are only staffed during North American working hours, we will do our best to respond as quickly as possible. We have an Emergency Helpline available for urgent/immediate problems related to participants who are currently in Israel.

Ultimate Experience (College)

Make the most of your time off from classes - go with Shorashim on this classic Birthright Israel adventure for college students! 

Ultimate Experience is one of our most popular programs. You can choose from a variety of trip dates & join in to experience this balanced, fun, & exciting journey through Israel.

Travel with college students from around the country, in addition to incredible Israelis who spend the entire experience with you. 

Get ready to explore the the scenes, sites, cities, history, food, people, landscapes, & culture of Israel on this trip with Shorashim & JNF .

From the Dead Sea, Masada, & Desert, to Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Camels, & so much more, this is your ultimate Birthright Israel trip.

Why This is the Shorashim Trip for you

"I could not have chosen a better group to travel through Israel with. Shorashim is amazing in every sense of the word. Experiencing Israel with Israeli's was life changing, to say the least. Not only did the Israeli's teach us about day-to-day culture, we were also able to teach them about our life in the states. I now have life-long friends all over the U.S. and in my second home, Israel."

Upcoming Dates

Find A Trip

Israelnow   |   trips for teens   |   college & young adults, trips for teens.

Nothing makes Jewish identity and history come alive for young people like an Israel experience program. Start exploring opportunities with the sites below and you'll be on your way to the experience of a lifetime!

Please note that funds from JUF's Israel Experience Savings Programs (SKIP, Gift of Israel, B'nai Mitzvah Certificates, Walk With Israel Vouchers) and scholarships are intended to help cover tuition/fees for approved Israel programs.  Approved Israel programs are identity-building, peer group programs run by non-profit organizations that allow participants to learn in-depth about the land, culture, and people of Israel. The list of approved Israel programs is constantly changing as new programs are developed. Since not every program is approved, please contact us ( [email protected] ) if you have a question about a specific Israel program.

Looking for a trip affiliated with a specific movement?

Check out the organizations below to find the perfect match.

• BBYO information about the BBYO programs
• Bnei Akiva the religious Zionist youth movement
• CTeen the Chabad Teen Network
• Habonim Dror  the Labor Zionist youth movement
• NCSY the Orthodox Union's National Conference of Synagogue Youth movement
• NFTY the Reform movement's North American Federation of Temple Youth
• Noar Hadash the Jewish Reconstructionist Federation's youth movement
• Camp Ramah experience Israel with Camp Ramah
• USY  the Conservative movement's United Synagogue Youth
• Young Judaea  an independent pluralistic Zionist youth movement

Need more ideas? Searching for different opportunities?

Shorashim Join Shorashim for the experience of a lifetime! Travel with Israeli peers and learn about Israel through their eyes. Take this dynamic journey through Israel and leave the tour bus behind. Hike in some of the most spectacular settings in Israel; be a part of the vibrant culture of Modern Israel. Learn about how your Israeli friends feel about politics, the army, music, movies, and more. Create friendships that will last a lifetime!

Alexander Muss High School in Israel Alexander Muss High School in Israel (AMHSI) is the only 6-week, 8-week, or full semester non-denominational, English language academic program in Israel with sessions offered throughout the year.

Jewish National Fund Jewish National Fund (JNF) programs educate the next generation of Jewish leaders about Israel through service-learning trips and leadership development.

URJ Heller High (formerly NFTY-EIE) URJ Heller High: Isaac and Helaine Heller EIE High School in Israel (formerly NFTY-EIE) is a semester long (four months) program for high school students in grades 10-12 in Israel that is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Yad B'Yad   The Yad B’Yad Israel Experience brings high school students together with Yachad members (adults and teens with special needs) on a fabulous Israel adventure.

Maccabi USA Maccabi USA is a Jewish organization that uses sports as an engagement tool to build Jewish pride, identity, community, and connection to Israel for people of all ages. The Maccabiah features 10,000 Jewish athletes from 80 countries, making it one of the largest global gatherings of Diaspora Jewry. The competition is two weeks, though athletes are brought to Israel a week early for the Israel Connect program. The curriculum was created with partners at The iCenter and JNF, and professional educators will lead the young athletes around Israel and facilitate meaningful activities and discussions. Some of the educators will stay on as a resource during the competition since athletes will have free time in between their games to explore Israel.

The Bronfman Fellowship The Bronfman Fellowship nurtures intellectually curious young Jews from Israel and North America to build a more dynamic and pluralistic future. Founded in 1987 by Edgar M. Bronfman, The Bronfman Fellowship reflects Mr. Bronfman’s early and impassioned belief that for the Jewish people to thrive, Israeli and American Jews must be engaged in open and creative discourse with one another. The alumni embody Mr. Bronfman’s vision that young people who are enriched and energized by their Judaism are poised to contribute not only to Jewish life, but to improving the world. Chetz V'Keshet (Friends of Israel Scouts)  Chetz V’Keshet (CVK) is a summer in Israel program for teens ages 15-18 that offers a unique opportunity to experience Israel - Israeli style. For one month, participants explore all that Israel has to offer side by side with Israeli peers and staff: climb Masada, float in the dead sea, participate in Gadna (army week), hike, snorkel, and so much more!

Technion- Israel Institute of Technology The Technion is Israel's premier technology university. It is ranked among the world's most innovative universities. Technion programs have special appeal to top international students and researchers as a result of a successful combination of high-level academic standards and its relevance to the needs of modern society, and proven record for educating leaders in science and technology.

Free Spirit Experience in Israel   A unique program in Israel for teens who are experiencing emotional and behavioral difficulties, including high school academic credit sessions, summer sessions, and a gap-year and college prep session. Come to Israel for 8-10 weeks and return home stronger and more confident!

Camp Kimama Israel   Kimama is the largest and leading international Jewish summer camp in Israel, offering an unforgettable experience for children and youth (ages 7-17). Since 2004, Kimama has hosted a unique encounter for Jewish children, with over 1,800 campers from 42 countries around the world. Both English and Hebrew are the official languages at Kimama.

Naale Elite Academy Naale was founded in a joint effort with the Jewish Agency for Israel, with a goal of providing Jewish high school students worldwide the opportunity to study in Israel. Teen will have a chance to expand their high school experience with a superb education infused with cultural, personal, and interpersonal growth at one of Naale's free Jewish high school programs in Israel.

Hand in Hand - Project Harmony Started in 2009 by two American college students, Project Harmony has grown into a well-established camp setting serving over 150 Arab and Jewish youth in Jerusalem each summer. The camp serves youth in grades 4 through 8 in an English immersion environment, and is staffed by English-speaking international volunteers and local high school students. Project Harmony brings Jewish and Arab youngsters together for four weeks (including a one-week staff training) of day camp during the month of July at Hand in Hand’s campus in Jerusalem.

Gap Year Programs

More and more colleges and universities are encouraging teens to take a year between high school and college. Known as the Gap Year, this special year enables high school graduates to volunteer, learn, travel, and expand their horizons. Masa Israel enables thousands of Jewish young adults to spend a year in Israel by providing information, contacts, grants, and more. A directory of Gap Year programs in Israel, plus information about a universal grant and additional financial need funding, is available at Masa Israel Journey . For more information, contact Romi Rochwerger at  [email protected] .

Affording Your Program

Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago supports Israel experience programs with a wide variety of savings, incentive, and scholarship programs. Visit the Israel Experience  page to learn more.

Scholarship Applications Available

Israel Programs & Scholarships

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College and university trips to israel *.

Israel and You August 27, 2017 Tips

College and University Trips to Israel

I myself came to Israel on what is now called a “Gap Tour” – a year of study in Israel between high school and college. This is one of the most popular College and University Trips to Israel. My particular course was composed of five months of Hebrew language study in an Ulpan, three months farming on a kibbutz, one month working on a moshav, one month of volunteer work with new immigrants and of course one of the best tours of Israeli attractions. This “Gap Tour” was very meaningful for me and changed my life. Think about this seriously for yourself or your children.

Plan an itinerary that exactly suits the needs of the students and which also fulfill the school’s requirements. Here are a few samples of the kind of trips you can do for colleges and universities:

• Short programs tailored to a particular faculty (e.g., law, nursing, business, to name only a few)
• Short programs which serve as an introduction to Israeli society and which are open to the entire student body
• Immersion courses in the Hebrew language
• Programs centering around a volunteering component
• Semester-long or year-long programs arranged by collaboration with Israel’s leading academic institutions.  Can include Hebrew-language study.

The most popular college and university trips to Israel are listed below:

Birthright Israel provides the gift of first time, peer group, educational trips to Israel for Jewish young adults ages 18 to 26. Free 10-day trips to Israel to college students and young adults who have not previously traveled to Israel on a peer trip.

Masa Israel Journey gives 18-to-30-year-old Jews life-changing experiences in Israel, connecting them to programs that meet their interests, offering scholarships, providing expertise, and supporting them throughout the entire process. Your Gateway to Long-term Israel Programs, enables thousands of Jewish young adults to spend a semester to a year in Israel in over 150 approved programs by providing information, contacts, grants and more.

World Zionist Organization Hagshama offers information on various short- and long-term programs in Israel.

Livnot U’Lehibanot Livnot programs combine community service with hiking, touring and learning, allowing participants to explore their Jewish roots. Programs range from one week to five months.

Israel Summer Business Academy ISBA is a collaboration between the Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis and the Interdisciplinary Center (IDC) in Herzliya.  This is an opportunity for undergrads to study and immerse themselves in the Israeli business environment.  The ISBA is a six-week summer program and course credit will transfer back to a student’s home institution.

Undergraduate Study Abroad The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers Israel’s first and largest Undergraduate Study Abroad Program, welcoming international students who have completed one academic year of higher education study and have the desire to study in Israel for a semester or a year. A large variety of courses are offered in English in Religious, Israel and Middle Eastern Studies, Business, Psychology, Law, Brain and Behavioral Sciences. Special study tracks are available in Art, Dance, Music, Arabic Immersion, Quantitative Biology, and informal Jewish Education.

Tel Aviv University International offers a broad selection of degree and short-term programs, all taught exclusively in English. Programs are designed for students who are eager to challenge themselves with a demanding academic schedule that combines classroom study, field trips, overnight excursions, social events, and more. TAU International students gain real-world professional expertise through internships, guest lectures and workshops with Israel’s leading experts.

The Israel Experience Program    The One Year Program for Overseas students at Bar Ilan University, titled “The Israel Experience”, offers the benefits of a relatively small, intimate program (limited to 100 English-speaking students), combined with the resources an infrastructure of a top-notch University.

The University of Haifa International School academic programs grant a unique study abroad experience where students can combine challenging academics with the opportunity to immerse in an Israeli university setting and become a part of a caring community. The International School offers courses in Hebrew and Arabic languages, Contemporary Israel and Middle East Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, Psychology, Business and Economics, Communications, Sociology, Literature, Anthropology, History, Political Science, Global Law, as well as an academic internship program.

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Please note, this trip is not currently active. Check back soon for further updates.

When it comes to your homeland and heritage, Chabad on Campus has the hookup. Our in-depth IsraeLinks learning experience whisks you away to the holy land for a deep and meaningful exploration of Judaism—yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Walk in your ancestors’ footsteps. Study history where it actually occurred. Partake in contemporary, cosmopolitan Israeli life. IsraeLinks is an unparalleled way for Jewish college students of all levels of education and observance to examine the link between Israel and its people.

Speaking of people, IsraeLinks is also an amazing opportunity to laugh and learn with new friends from around the globe.

Two-Week Trip of a Lifetime.

Education and exploration included. enlightenment guaranteed..

Discover the social, religious and political makeup of Israel firsthand on this two-week spiritual journey. Guided tours of holy and historic sites are accompanied by stimulating lectures and discussions on Jewish tradition and philosophy, led by academic and rabbinic experts. 

Program Highlights

Educational.

Explore your heritage and your homeland with top scholars and like-minded students from around the world. 

Inspirational

Engage in enlightened conversations. Connect with your Judaism. Learn how others connect with theirs.   

Experiential

Oh, the places we’ll go:.

• Travel to Israeli cities including Jerusalem, Tzfat, Teverya, Tel Aviv, Golan and Rosh Hanikra
• Visit the Tower of David, Mount Scopus and Kefar Chabad
• Celebrate Shabbat at The Western Wall and Jaffa Gate

Link Up with Us in Israel

Tour in Israel, Study in Israel

Israelinks faqs.

IsraeLinks is an educational trip for Jewish college students. The two-week experience blends classroom study, hikes, tours, and group discussions into one amazing trip.

In addition to classes and discussions related to Torah, Jewish history, Israel and contemporary Jewish issues, IsraeLinks puts a special emphasis on learning and understanding Kabbalah and Chassidic mysticism and theology. Additionally, IsraeLinks upholds the legendary Chabad emphasis of Ahavat Yisrael – truly loving and being there for every Jew without any strings attached.

IsraeLinks is selective about the students it accepts. IsraeLinks is searching for students who are seeking an educational opportunity. Those selected are expected to participate fully in all classes, discussions and other aspects of the trip.

This trip is open to all Jewish students, whether affiliated or not. It is also open to those interested in furthering their Jewish education. All classes and readings will be in English.

You can redeem your $350 Sinai Scholars stipend to pay for the entire $500 IsraeLinks trip.

Here’s how: Join the trip

Apply and get accepted to IsraeLinks.

Once accepted, pay the $500 IsraeLinks registration fee.

Enjoy the trip!

Request Reimbursement

Request reimbursement by emailing [email protected] and stating you just completed the IsraeLinks trip. Ask to reimburse your $500 registration fee in place of your $350 Sinai Scholars stipend.

You will receive a check for the full cost of your IsraeLinks trip. If you already received your stipend, you will receive a check for the $150 difference between your stipend and the IsraeLinks registration fee.

No. The trip is intended to be an educational experience.

Yes. Although most of the students are undergraduates, there is usually a contingent of graduate students on each trip.

No. This trip is for current students.

In general, mornings will be dedicated to learning. Trips will be in the afternoon. Guest lecturers and interactive seminars will be interspersed throughout the trip, mostly during the evening.

No. The trip itinerary is very full. While students will have some free time, it will be difficult to schedule worthwhile visits. In addition, due to security concerns, students must remain with the group at all times. Therefore, if you would like to see friends/family in Israel, we recommend that you extend your trip.

Your safety is our number one priority. Our program does not travel to or through certain higher risk areas. While traveling, we will be accompanied by an armed guard whenever necessary. Furthermore, we will constantly monitor safety updates, and we will cancel or modify specific trips as needed.

The $499 fee (₤249) covers room, board and all activities. Students are encouraged to bring some spending money for souvenirs and snacks. In addition, there will be an occasional lunch/dinner in town for students to sample local restaurants. There will also be a minimal fee for laundry and tips for the Israeli staff ($75).

$499 (₤249) includes airfare from New York or London and all trip costs (food, lodging and travel). There may be additional meals costs. It is your responsibility to have a cell phone for the duration of the trip, travelers insurance and a $75 tip money for your local Israeli staff. There is a fully refundable $150 security deposit that will be returned once the trip and post-trip survey is completed.

You will have the option of renting a cell phone for a reasonable rate.

Thank you for your application. It is now being reviewed by the acceptance committee. They may follow up with your references and/or call you for a phone interview. 

There are many factors which the acceptance committee takes into consideration, including but not limited to: demographic, school, quality of application, involvement in local Chabad and references, etc.

Applications will be processed on a rolling basis. If you have not heard from us within three weeks of applying, feel free to email [email protected] . 

We will send a series of email updates to accepted students in the lead up to the trip. If you have been accepted and are not receiving email updates, please call our office at 718-510-8181 to ensure we have the correct email listed for you. 

If you have been accepted to the program, you will be notified about how to proceed with submitting your payment and confirming your place. Be sure to follow those steps to secure your place.

Students need valid passports. American citizens do not need visas. If you are not an American citizen, you will need to contact our office to arrange the necessary documents. Your passport will need to be valid for at least six months from the date of your return to the US.All students need a passport valid for at least six months from the date of your return to the US. American citizens do not need visas. If you are not an American citizen, please contact our office to arrange the necessary documents.

No, All students are responsible for making their own way to and from New York.

Yes, tickets can be extended. Once you are accepted and ticketed, you will receive information on how to extend your ticket.

Rabbi Yossi Witkes

Rabbi Zalman Bluming

Mrs. Yehudis Bluming

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Welcome to your one-stop online resource for a choice of subsidized trips to Israel, Poland and many other destinations, for Jewish college students and young professionals.

There are many trips which are not listed on our website. we suggest that you contact us for an updated list of all local and international trips..

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An Israel trip for college students that shows the Israeli hi-tech start-up culture – up close and personal.

Every year tens of thousands of students and young people touch down at Ben Gurion Airport to experience the spirituality, history and excitement of Israel, the homeland and nation of the Jewish people. For each of these individuals their time in Israel has a meaningful impact: some get a chance to experience their spirituality in a new way, others get to reconnect with the ancestors of the Jewish people, and all get to bond with their Jewish peers.

Yet most of these young visitors do not see even a glimmer of the exciting and rapidly-expanding start-up scene that is revolutionizing the Israeli economy and bringing innovation to world markets. Most people are more familiar with Israel for Dead Sea skin products than the countless Israeli innovations that have revolutionized the fields of hi-tech, health, energy and agriculture. Many amazing technologies that are saving lives or simply making life better are being launched from the "Start Up Nation."

We visited Google Israel and Microsoft Israel, where some of the Internet’s coolest technology is being developed.

In May 2012 I touched down at Ben Gurion as a participant in the Bizrael Student Experience, a brand new Israel trip for business students. I'm a 19-year-old from Needham, Massachusetts studying business at New York University's Stern School of Business. This was not my first time in Israel, but Bizrael was unlike any other trip I had taken or even heard about because of the unique experience it offers students professionally and personally.

A component of the trip is developing a sense of pride and passion for the developments and innovations that characterizes the name "Israel." Israeli start-ups are trending big. And by big I mean, New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ big. Besides American companies, Israelis have the most companies listed on NASDAQ – pretty amazing for a country the size of New Jersey with a population of less than 8 million people.

We went for a test drive at Better Place, the electric car company that has raised nearly one billion in VC and is destined to revolutionize the way we drive.

Regardless of why Israeli entrepreneurs have been so successful, their vantage-point and ideas regarding innovation are amazing to witness. Bizrael takes college students interested in entrepreneurism into the conference rooms, labs, and work floors of the companies that aren't only changing Israel, but the world too. And learning how they do it.

As a student I was inspired by the Israeli business leaders, scientists, and government officials we met and their awe-inspiring dedication to making their dreams of change come to fruition. It is especially exciting to see how Israel went from a struggling agricultural economy to one that is blossoming because of innovative thinking and entrepreneurial risk-taking. On top of it all I got the chance to tour the mystical city of Tzfat, have an inspirational Shabbat at the Aish Center overlooking the Western Wall, and deepen my relationship with a country that is so historically, religiously and intellectually amazing.

Bizrael helped us explore and think outside the box.

Bizrael gave me an experience that I couldn't find anywhere else. It's hard to express how different Bizrael is from any other student experience; the trip is a journey that challenges you to reach your highest professional, intellectual, and spiritual levels in the best of ways.  Bizrael helped us explore our interests and potential as individuals and encouraged us to think in new and creative ways, as well as network with motivated students and Israeli entrepreneurs. I loved sitting down and getting a chance to understand how Israeli entrepreneurs transferred their army experience to hi-tech.

We had hands-on breakout sessions for Business Plans and Coaching that taught us lessons that are not found in our classrooms. We held a "pitch night" where fellow students pitched business real-life ideas. All of these experiences were so exciting, inspirational, and impactful to the group.

Experiencing the Israeli business life and culture created a strong bond between the students and Israelis in the business arena, one that most students are never exposed to. Bizrael students campaign and advocate for the innovation that Israel delivers to the world market, a subject they can defend even when sparring with critics of Israel's politics.

From this connection some students spent more time in Israel and worked as interns while others built a network planning to return one day looking for work or investment opportunities but we all returned to our campuses with a renewed sense of pride in Israel. Any student who is interested in a revolutionary experience in Israel should think about the Bizrael Student Experience.

Bizrael is running four trips this December for undergraduate and graduate students. For more information and to apply, visit www.bizrael.org

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Share your Birthright Israel gift with fellow students from Northwestern University.

Based on our flagship Quest itinerary, get ready to explore Israel’s natural beauty, its epic 3,000-year history, and its many colorful cultural traditions. As an active travel experience, you’ll be spending less time on the bus and more time on the go—discovering the past, present, and future of Israel with all your senses!

Travel with friends (or soon-to-be-friends) from Northwestern University , along with a group of Israeli peers who meet us along the way, and immerse yourself in the fascinating sights, sounds, flavors, and feelings that you can only get on a Birthright Israel experience with Israel Outdoors!

LAUNCH YOUR REGISTRATION

You’ll be taken to the Birthright Israel website to register. Remember to select Israel Outdoors as your trip organizer!

UPCOMING DATES

Explore our trips.

• Ancient and modern Jerusalem
• Negev and Judean Deserts
• Sea of Galilee and Golan Heights
• Tel Aviv and the Mediterranean Coast
• The Dead Sea and Masada
• The mystical city of Tsfat
• Watch the sunrise from Masada
• Gain a new perspective at Yad VaShem
• Celebrate an Israeli-style Shabbat
• Be inspired by models of co-existence
• Experience floating in the Dead Sea
• Tap into the innovative spirit of Tel Aviv
• Camel care and desert tent dinner
• Raft down the Jordan River (summer)
• Explore archeological tunnels
• Beach time and night life in Tel Aviv
• Browse colorful open-air markets
• Cool off under a desert oasis waterfall
• Bond with fellow travelers
• Forge friendships with local Israelis
• Gain insights from your staff team
• Discover a rich culture and diverse people
• Experience current events first hand
• Develop a deeper sense of perspective

SAMPLE ITINERARY

Each itinerary is unique according to your exact dates, the time of year and so many other factors. Browse the sample itinerary below for a taste of the journey that awaits you

You’ll meet your group at one of our gateway airports and spend the night above the clouds — and headed to Israel. It won’t be easy, but try to get some rest for the journey ahead!

Shalom! And welcome to Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport!  Today you’ll meet your Israeli staff team and begin traveling north along the coast.

Start with a welcome ceremony at the beach-side amphitheater in ancient Caesarea and then on to Haifa to see the beauty, grandeur, and inspired design of the Bahai Gardens on Mt. Carmel. Continue north for a view of the Kinneret, or the Sea of Galilee, from above. Spend the evening relaxing and getting to know your fellow travelers.

OVERNIGHT: Kibbutz Guest House in the Galilee

Start the day off right with a hike on Mt. Meiron, the highest point in the Galilee and a mountain rich with history. Then wander through the mystical city of Tzfat where you will meet with a local Kabbalistic artist and enjoy free time walking the cobblestone streets and exploring the colorful artists colony.

If you’re on a winter trip, you’ll visit the Hula Valley migratory bird sanctuary, and if it’s summer, get ready to cool down rafting the Jordan River. No matter the season, spend the evening unwinding at the Hamat Gader hot springs.

OVERNIGHT: Kibbutz Guest House in the Galilee

Ascend the beautiful Golan Heights for a spectacular view of the region from Mt. Bental. Then the views get even more breathtaking as you hike down the water-filled Zavitan Canyon. Follow that with a visit to Beit Ha’Gefen, Haifa’s Arab-Jewish Cultural Center, or enjoy a fantastic tour (and tasting!) at the Golan Heights Winery.

End the day traveling south to Jerusalem via the Jordan Valley (part of the great Syrian-Africa Rift Valley), where you’ll spend the evening getting acquainted with Jerusalem.

OVERNIGHT: Jerusalem Hotel

Get oriented to Jerusalem with a panoramic view of the city from the Haas Promenade. Then, see it up close as you scale the Rampart Walls surrounding the Old City. You’ll tour the legendary Jewish Quarter and have time for personal reflection at the Western Wall, also known as the Kotel. If it’s summer, you’ll visit the City of David complex and discover the joy of splashing through Hezekiah’s water tunnel; if you’re traveling in winter, you’ll go to the Davidson Center and the Southern Wall excavations.

As the day comes to a close, there’s no better place to get a feel for Jerusalem than the hustle and bustle of the Machane Yehuda open-air market. Local Jerusalemites fill the market just before Shabbat begins. Explore, eat, shop. Take it all in!

Friday night marks the beginning of Shabbat, and we’ll celebrate it together in Jerusalem, the historic center of Jewish life.

It’s Shabbat in Jerusalem! If you choose, you can partake in a Shabbat service at a Jerusalem synagogue or celebrate the Day of Rest sleeping in. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon taking a walking tour of Jerusalem’s colorful neighborhoods and having some fun at a local park. End Shabbat with a Havdallah ceremony to mark the start of the new week.

The stars are out now, and it’s time for a group night out to the famous Ben Yehuda Street pedestrian mall as Jerusalem comes alive.

Today begins with a somber visit to the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and Museum, then continue on to Mt. Herzl – Israel’s National Cemetery. After time of reflection, you’ll descend from the heights of Jerusalem into the Judean Desert and check-in to our accommodations in the vibrant desert city of Arad

In the evening, you’ll spend time engaging in a  mifgash  (cross-cultural) discussion with the Israeli peers who join the journey while enjoying the pure desert air.

OVERNIGHT: Dead Sea Hotel

Wake up long before the sun comes up for your pre-sunrise ascent to Masada via the Roman Ramp (it’s worth the early hours). Explore the desert mountaintop fortress, and then cool off swimming under the desert waterfalls at the Ein Gedi oasis reserve.

And no trip to Israel is complete without a surreal float in the Dead Sea. You’ve got to feel it to believe it! Then travel westwards through the Negev Desert wilderness where you’ll get to ride a camel, enjoy a traditional hafla dinner feast, and then spend the night in an open-air Bedouin tent.

OVERNIGHT: Bedouin Tent, Negev Desert

Start the morning with a desert hike in Nahal Haverim canyon, and then visit the desert community of Sde Boker to learn about David Ben Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister, and his vision for a blossoming desert.

Then experience the realization of Ben Gurion’s vision for yourself at Shvil Hasalat, the Salad Trail, an incredible desert farm where you’ll lunch on what you harvest. Continue north to the dynamic metropolis of Tel Aviv – Israel’s cultural and financial capital. Celebrate the spirit of Tel Aviv at the Nahalat Binyamin street festival and Carmel Market. End the evening with a night out in one of Tel Aviv’s trendy neighborhoods.

OVERNIGHT: Tel Aviv Hotel

Our final day in Israel begins learning about what it meant to establish the modern State of Israel at Independence Hall. And then reflect on Israel’s democratic ideals and future at the Rabin Square Memorial. Unwind with some well-deserved beach time in Tel Aviv followed by a walking tour of the historic Jaffa seaport, a model for co-existence in Israel. Our day concludes looking to the future with a visit to one of Tel Aviv’s innovative start-ups.

Sadly, tonight is also your farewell dinner and closing session, where you’ll have a chance to process everything that you’ve experienced – and make plans to keep in touch with all the amazing people you’ve met on your 10 days in Israel.

You’re flying over the sea now and back home after 10 amazing days with Israel Outdoors. During your time in Israel, you’ve been challenged by new ideas, discovered an extraordinary culture, and are returning home with a renewed understanding of your history.

And once you’re home, there’s still more to discover.   Explore your post-trip options .

Tax tips for college students and their parents

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NEW YORK (AP) — There are lots of things college students and their parents should keep in mind before filing their taxes, and while tax pros say it’s great for college students to start filing their own forms, parents and students should double check everything carefully before anyone pushes the “submit” button.

Be clear on who is a dependent

For dependent students filing taxes for the first time, it’s easy to overlook checking the “dependent” box, and they cannot then be claimed on their parents’ tax forms without the long and arduous task of amending the return merely for failure to check a box.

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“College students need to be very careful that they understand whether or not their parents are eligible to claim them as a dependent,” says Tom O’Saben, director of tax content and government relations at the American Association of Tax Professionals. Merely not claiming a dependent does not make that taxpayer independent, he says.

Claim all eligible college and other education tax credits

There are two kinds of education tax credits. The American opportunity credit is for up to $2,500 a year (based on at least $4,000 spent on tuition, books and fees) for the first four years toward an undergraduate degree.

The second, a lifetime learning credit, can be used toward an undergraduate, graduate or professional degree and is for up to $2,000 (based on 20% of qualified education expenses.) A parent cannot claim both for the same dependent child (or a student can claim it) on a return for the same year, but if there are multiple dependents on the return they could be using either of the credits (but not both at the same time) for each student.

Double check that all forms are in hand

While most tax-related forms arrive dependably in the mail, college students tend to work multiple jobs each year, and some college tax forms may need to be printed out from the college portal and are not mailed at all. So before filing, make sure your dependent student has confirmed that all tax forms are in for all jobs worked, and they’ve checked with the college for any additional tax forms.

Be clear about state residency

If a student is paying at least half of their own costs and is planning on claiming in-state tuition at their college in a state other than the one in which their parents live, they might want to check with the college financial aid office about residency requirements, O’Saben says.

In some cases, claiming your child as a dependent might not be the best move once the entire financial picture is taken into account.

“Just providing an address in the state your child’s college is in may not be enough to claim in-state tuition,” O’Saben says.

Make sure your college student files, if needed

Sometimes college students are still required to file their own return even if their parents claim them. Students and parents should check the rules for dependent filing and determine if the student is required to file their own return based on their gross income, says Kathy Pickering, chief tax officer at H&R Block.

Make the most of your 529 account

Qualifying distributions from a 529 account are tax-free and are not included in the child’s income, Pickering said. And while only eligible tuition, fees and books are included in the tax credit calculations, for 529 accounts, room and board are also included as eligible for withdrawals.

Find more of AP’s tax season coverage here: https://apnews.com/hub/personal-finance

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The experience, a trip to israel is a rite of passage, regardless of age or season of life., it’s not just for students. it’s for you too..

That's why we're introducing Friends of Passages – life-changing trips to the Holy Land designed for non-students.  

Walk where Jesus walked, trace the steps of notable biblical figures, and become a part of Israel’s incredible story.  

On the friends of Passages trips, you'll witness the redemptive narrative of the Bible firsthand.

You’ll immerse yourself in its sights, sounds, and flavors of the land. You’ll explore modern Israel, learn the history of the Jewish people, and delve into the vibrant culture of this miraculous nation.  

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! See your faith come to life in a whole new way .

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There is nothing in the world quite like a trip to Israel - and JUF has the tools help you get there. Whether you're a student looking for your first experience or someone who travels regularly, there are plenty of options available to you. Best of all - some of them are completely free!

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• Birthright Israel provides the gift of first time, peer group, educational trips to Israel for Jewish young adults ages 18 to 26.
•   Masa Israel Journey gives 18-to-30-year-old Jews life-changing experiences in Israel, connecting them to programs that meet their interests, offering scholarships, providing expertise, and supporting them throughout the entire process. Click here to learn more.
• Kefiada   is an English-speaking day camp and runs for approximately 5 weeks, from late June until the beginning of August in JUF’s Partnership Together Region of Kiryat Gat-Lachish-Shafir in the Northern Negev. JUF sends college students from Chicago to be volunteer camp counselors. While working for the camp counselors stay with an Israeli host family at no cost and there is a $1200 stipend available for airfare.  There is also an observant camp in Shafir called Kefiada-dati for observant campers and counselors.  For more information or for an application email [email protected]

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Israel calls off school trips, puts forces on full alert amid Iran threat

JERUSALEM — Israel on Saturday called off school trips and other youth activities planned for the coming days, the beginning of the Passover festival, and placed the armed forces on full alert due to a possible attack by Iran.

Announcing the measures in a televised briefing, chief military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said dozens of combat planes were airborne as part of the state of readiness.

President Joe Biden announced he would return to Washington on Saturday afternoon to consult with his national security team a day after saying that  he expects an Iranian attack  against Israel “sooner, rather than later.”

Biden cut his weekend trip to Delaware early, the White House said Saturday, to discuss events in the Middle East. Tehran has vowed to retaliate for Israel’s attack on  Iran’s embassy compound last week in Damascus  that killed a senior commander in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps’ overseas Quds Force and six other officers.