At YULA, we strive to educate and instill within our students a solid Jewish foundation with an everlasting connection to Torah values. We therefore strongly encourage our students to further solidify this foundation by studying for a year in Israel.
Our Directors of Israel Guidance help students throughout the Israel gap year research and application process. The College and Israel Guidance Departments work together to create a seamless transition from YULA to Israel to college.
- Network and build relationships with Yeshivot and Seminaries in Israel
- Counsel students on program options for their gap year
- Organize campus visits for Israel Programs
- Help students through the application and interview process
- Advocate for each and every student throughout the acceptance process
- Organize and lead student trips to Israel
There is no single “year in Israel” experience; rather, there is a wide array of programs available. We work to find the best fit for each student. This pivotal year is uniquely focused on growth in Torah learning. The immersive experience of living in Israel intensifies the student’s dedication and passion about being a Jew, as well as his/her connection to the land of Israel. Aside from the unique opportunities for religious growth, the gap year has been proven to increase the students’ independence and maturity, which improves their college experience.
There is ample opportunity throughout the year to arrange for private meetings with our Directors of Israel Guidance, who are available to assist in every aspect of the Yeshiva and Seminary application process.
More than 85% of our graduates spend at least one year learning in Israel before they enter college. Our Directors of Israel Guidance lead 12th-grade trips to Israel to acquaint students with yeshivot and seminaries, and, in cooperation with parents, advise students on which school is the right fit for their learning experience.
Important Dates
August
- College Boot Camp
September - October
- Israel / College Night
- Individual meetings with students regarding their plans for the upcoming year
November
- Yeshiva and Seminary recruitment visits and interviews
December
- Seminary application deadline (Dec. 1)
- Seminary interviews continue
- Yeshiva recruitment visits continue
January
- Yeshiva application deadline (Jan. 12)
- Boys Division 12th Grade Israel trip
- Girls Division 12th Grade Israel trip
February
- Seminary acceptances received
- Students notify Seminary of decision and register
- Yeshiva interviews
- Yeshiva acceptances received
March
- Students notify Yeshiva of decision and register