English Courses, Hebrew Courses, and Mechina
Is it mandatory to learn Hebrew for the programs taught in English?
No. The programs we offer in English are all taught in English.
I am not a native Israeli, but I would like to study in Hebrew. What is required?
You will find all the requirements and scores needed for each degree here (Hebrew).
What is the Mechina program and how can I apply for it?
Mechina is a preparatory program that aims to familiarize students with university study methods and prepare them for further studies in various higher education institutions in Israel.
You can find more information about the program and registration here.
If you’d like to get in touch with the Mechina office directly, please email [email protected] or call +972-3-531-8653.
Can I take a course in Hebrew if I am studying in English?
Yes. You are able to take any course in Hebrew as long as you pass the YAEL Hebrew exam and receive a minimum score of 105.
Applications
Is it possible to start my studies in the second semester?
This will depend on the faculty. While most degrees start in the fall, some faculties start their degree programs in spring (the second semester).
Do I need to take an English Exam to apply?
Applicants from Australia, UK, USA, New Zealand, Ireland, Canada (mother-tongue English-speakers), and South Africa are exempt from an English Proficiency test.
All applicants from other countries need to take one of the following English proficiency tests and pass with the minimum score as mentioned below:
TOEFL – 90 / IELTS – 6.5 / SAT EBRW – 600 / ACT – 49 / Amir-Amiram – 120
Is it possible to defer my studies for a year, if necessary?
Yes, it is possible to defer your studies. Students who are registered for the upcoming academic year and decide to withdraw from their studies, for any reason, must inform Curriculum Planning (Talam) in writing either using the student app, In-Bar > administrative requests > submit request > withdrawal from studies, or using the Curriculum Planning (Talam) request form.
When do applications open and close each year?
Applications open around mid-January and close around the end of July for the academic year starting the following October.
Some graduate degree programs start in March, in which case, applications open around mid-June and close around the end of December.
Student-Exchange and Study-Abroad Programs
Can I do a study-abroad semester at Bar-Ilan University?
Yes, of course. Bar-Ilan University is happy to welcome students from all parts of the world and offers placement opportunities for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate studies. You can find out more here.
What is Erasmus+?
The EU’s Erasmus+ program provides students with the opportunity to experience an international education. Erasmus+ students from Bar-Ilan University study at a partner university in Europe while European students study at Bar-Ilan University for three to 12 months during their degree.
Outgoing BIU students can find more information and register here.
Incoming international students can find out more information and register here.
Student Life
What kind of activities does Bar-Ilan University offer international students?
We offer many different fun and social activities. You can see some of our past activities here. We also value our students’ ideas, so if you want to plan an activity, please email [email protected] and our representatives will be more than willing to help.
Tuition
Do new immigrants receive a scholarship from the Ministry of Aliyah and Absorption?
Yes. However, these scholarships are not determined or operated by Bar-Ilan University. You will need to contact the Student Authority in the Ministry of Aliyah and Absorption at [email protected] or check their website.
Does tuition include health insurance?
No. Health insurance needs to be purchased separately. You can find more information about buying health insurance here.
Does Bar-Ilan University offer any scholarships?
Yes, there are plenty of scholarships available for international students. You can find them here.
What are the tuition costs per year?
Please check the tuition handbook here.
Visas
How can I get a student visa?
Bar-Ilan University has a coordinator dedicated to helping students get their student visas. You will find detailed information and the relevant forms under our Visa section, which can be found here.
You can also email [email protected] for further help.
Dormitories
Who can I contact about the dormitories?
You can email [email protected] or call +972-3-738-4246 for short-term accommodation.
If you’re interested in accommodation for a full year, please email [email protected] or call +972-3-736-4867/+972-3-736-4865.
Are there dormitories for short-term programs?
Yes, there are dormitories saved specifically for short-term programs. To reserve a spot in the dormitories and find out more information, please click here.
Are there dormitories for international students?
Yes, there are dormitories available at Bar-Ilan University. These are provided and managed by Electra. You can find out more about the dormitories and the different options here. Please note that dormitory units are in high demand and therefore, space may be limited.
About the Programs
What programs does Bar-Ilan University offer?
Bar-Ilan University offers undergraduate degrees, graduate degrees, doctoral degrees, postdoctoral research, summer programs, and short-term programs, including study-abroad or student-exchange.
Where can I find a list of all of the courses taught in English at the university?
You will find a list of all the courses taught in English in our course catalog here. Some courses may require background knowledge in the topic.
What is the structure of the degree program?
Each degree is made up of courses from the relevant department, or from two departments for a double major, along with basic Jewish Studies courses and/or General Studies courses. (Non-Jewish students are not required to take Jewish Studies courses.)
