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Study in Israel

Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.

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About studying in Israel

Thinking about studying in Israel? The country is on the eastern Mediterranean, with higher education centred on cities such as Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa. Programmes range from bachelor’s degrees to master’s and doctoral study, depending on the institution, and cover fields from engineering and computing to health, business and the arts.

Students interested in digital technology, biotechnology and scientific research may find the local context especially relevant. Teaching is often in Hebrew and Arabic. English is also used in many graduate programmes. The sections below cover subjects, intakes, costs, funding and student visas so you can plan your next steps.

Before planning a move, read your government's current travel advice for Israel and ask institutions how they support international students.

Why study in Israel?

What makes Israel worth considering depends on what you want from your studies. Its location on the eastern Mediterranean, the local language and the subjects on offer all shape the experience, alongside your budget and career goals.

  • Industry context: Digital technology, biotechnology and scientific research matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
  • Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Computing & Information Technology, Biological & Life Sciences and Science, with options differing between universities.
  • Cities and campus life: Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
  • Culture and language: living in Israel means everyday contact with Hebrew and Arabic and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.

Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.

Top subjects to study in Israel

Below is an editorial selection of subject areas often worth exploring in Israel. It is not a ranking: the best subject is the one that fits your interests and goals.

Courses connected to digital technology, biotechnology and scientific research can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for Israel on this site, with its specializations.

When choosing between these areas, think about what you enjoy studying, the entry requirements for each course and the kind of work you would like to do afterwards. A specialization can matter as much as the broad subject.

Subjects to study in Israel

Explore subject areas available for students planning to study in Israel.

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Universities in Israel

Explore universities in Israel and discover study options for international students.

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Scholarships to Study in Israel

Finding funding for Israel takes time, so start looking as soon as you have a shortlist of courses.

  • government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Israel
  • universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
  • foundations, charities and international organisations
  • research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students

Funding is never guaranteed: check eligibility, deadlines and what the award includes, and have a plan in case you are not successful. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.

Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.

Intakes to study in Israel

In Israel, the main intake for many programmes is usually around October. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.

Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.

Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.

A simple planning checklist:

  • shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
  • prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
  • apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
  • allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation

Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.

Cost of studying in Israel

Tuition in Israel varies widely: public and private institutions, subjects and study levels can all have different fees.

When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:

  • application and registration fees
  • course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
  • health insurance and any visa or permit costs
  • accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme

Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.

It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.

Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.

Student visa requirements to study in Israel

Rules on studying in Israel as a foreign national depend on your citizenship and course, so the first step is to find out which category applies to you.

Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:

  • an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
  • a valid passport and passport photos
  • evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
  • health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
  • proof of language ability or previous qualifications

Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Israel in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.

Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.

Cost of living in Israel

Planning your living budget for Israel early helps you avoid surprises during your first months. Costs in Jerusalem can differ noticeably from those in Tel Aviv or Haifa and smaller towns.

The main costs to plan for are:

  • Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
  • Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
  • Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
  • Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
  • Insurance and health: any required health cover
  • Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life

Current cost estimates from your institution and official sources will help you build a realistic budget for the whole course.

Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.

FAQs about studying in Israel

What are the advantages of studying in Israel?

It depends on your goals. Israel offers programmes across many subjects, a location on the eastern Mediterranean and study in Hebrew and Arabic (with some English-taught options). Students interested in digital technology, biotechnology and scientific research may find the local context especially relevant.

What subjects can I study in Israel?

Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Computing & Information Technology, Biological & Life Sciences, Science and Engineering. The subjects page for Israel lists every subject available here with its specializations.

When should I apply to universities in Israel?

Many programmes start around October. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.

How much does it cost to study in Israel?

Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.

Do international students need a visa to study in Israel?

Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Israel.

Are scholarships available for international students in Israel?

Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.

Where do international students live in Israel?

Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and Haifa are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.

Can I study in English in Israel?

Many courses are taught in Hebrew and Arabic. Some institutions offer English-taught programmes, but availability varies, so check the language of instruction and language requirements for each course.

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