How much is the student Aliyah tuition scholarship in 2026?

The Israel Student Authority (Minhal HaStudentim) provides up to 100% coverage of standard state tuition for eligible Olim. For 2026, this is approximately ₪12,000 per year for undergraduate degrees and ₪15,800 for graduate degrees, provided you start your studies before age 27 (BA) or age 30 (MA).

What is the new 0% income tax benefit for young Olim in 2026?

Under the 2026 tax reform, new Olim and returning residents pay 0% income tax on Israeli-sourced income for their first two years (up to ₪1 million per year). This makes Israel one of the most financially attractive places for young professionals to start a career.

Can I get housing assistance as an Olim student?

Yes. Beyond the standard rent subsidy (roughly ₪400/month starting in month 7), students in 2026 may be eligible for an additional housing grant of up to ₪1,500 per month if they live in national priority areas or participate in specific community social service programs (Shahak).

What is the Shahak program for student Olim?

Shahak is a mandatory community service program for students receiving tuition funding for 2.5 years or more. Students volunteer for several hours a week in social or community organizations in exchange for their full scholarship.

Aliyah for Students & Young Professionals: 2026 Guide

All About Aliyah
Apr 14
2 min read

Updated: Apr 16

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tpBu29LA9v0

Making Aliyah as a student or young professional opens the door to incredible opportunities — from studying in Israel’s world-class universities to starting your career in a growing, innovative economy.

Whether you’re coming right after high school, during your studies, or early in your career, here’s what you need to know.

Education Opportunities

Universities and Colleges

Olim under 30 can often receive discounted tuition and scholarship options through the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. Popular choices include Hebrew University, Tel Aviv University, Bar-Ilan, Technion, and Reichman University.

Student Status

Your Oleh status may qualify you for reduced tuition, Hebrew preparatory courses (mechina - מכינה), and guidance from student advisors who specialize in helping new immigrants.

ScholarshipsMany institutions — and organizations like Masa Israel — offer grants and financial aid for degree or gap-year programs.

Tip: Click here to see which colleges in Israel offer programs taught in English.

A photo of four young Jewish professionals—two women and two men—sitting at a rustic wooden table outside a Tel Aviv cafe. Each person has a distinct look: one woman wears a maroon headwrap and a brown blazer, while the other wears a green patterned headwrap, glasses, and a denim jacket. One man has a beard and wears a dark sweater and a small patterned kippah, and the other wears a light blue button-down shirt with a black kippah. They are laughing and talking over coffee, pastries, and laptops, with a sunlit street and palm trees in the background.

Career Growth & Aliyah for Young Professionals

Job Placement Programs

The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration provides career counseling, resume translation, and job placement assistance.

Internships and Fellowships

Programs like Masa Career Israel and Gvahim connect young professionals with internships in tech, business, healthcare, and nonprofit sectors.

Recognition of Degrees

If you already hold a degree or professional license, you can apply for Israeli recognition to work in your field.

Tip 1: Keep copies of your diplomas, transcripts, and professional certificates. Bring official translations or apostilles to speed up approval.

Tip 2: The Ministry of Education allows you to submit your Evaluation of Foreign Academic Degrees online. Click here to get started.

Tip 3: Click here to check out Masa Career Israel.

Tip 4: Click here to check out Gvahim.

Housing & Lifestyle

Many young Olim prefer starting in big cities like Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, or Be’er Sheva, where jobs and social life are abundant.

Renting

Shared apartments are common and affordable. Use local sites like Yad2 or Facebook groups to find roommates and short-term rentals.

Absorption Centers

Some absorption centers offer programs specifically for young adults, providing temporary housing and Hebrew classes.

Tip: Look to join apartments through Facebook and WhatsApp groups.

Ulpan & Hebrew Learning

You’ll receive free Ulpan classes (Hebrew courses), usually available both in-person and online.

Some universities even offer student Ulpans designed around academic schedules.

Tip 1: Interested in combining Hebrew learning with community life. Click here to explore Kibbutz Ulpans across Israel.

Tip 2: Click here to see the different types of Ulpan programs available for young adults.

Social Life & Community

Community Events

Organizations like Nefesh B’Nefesh, The Lone Soldiers Center, and The OU host events for young Olim.

Volunteering

Joining community service or religious programs helps you meet people while giving back.

Religious Life

Most cities offer a range of synagogues and communities where young Olim find spiritual and social connection.

Tip: Join Facebook and WhatsApp groups for “Young Olim” in your city — it’s the fastest way to make friends and find local help.

Final Tip

Start building your connections before you arrive — join

Facebook or WhatsApp groups for young Olim, reach out to university advisors, and connect with others in your field.

Networking in Israel often opens doors faster than formal applications.