FAQ'S

Questions about the Aish Yeshiva

What is the goal of Aish?

Aish's overall goal is to expose as many Jews as possible to their heritage, so they can live a more meaningful life and make a difference to the Jewish People.

The goal of the yeshiva’s Foundations program is to help young Jewish men find clarity in their Judaism and find the keys to a more meaningful life.

What is the difference between Aish and other similar programs?

In short, the diversity and flexibility.

No other program has quite as diverse a range of Rabbis, students or topics covered. And because of that, no other program offers the same level of customization - want to learn topic X, with Rabbi Y at time Z? No problem!

Alumni say it’s also the unique vibrance and joy-of-life at Aish.

Eligibility - Can I join the Foundations program if:

I’m a female?

Aish Yeshiva is male-only. However, Aish has an amazing seminary for female students. Check it out here. 

I don’t know Hebrew?

That’s fine! All classes are in English and our curriculum has intensive Hebrew courses built in to help you make progress in conversational Hebrew and accessing Torah texts in their original language. 

I’m not religious?

Being religiously observant is not a requirement to joini Aish. If you are interested in learning more about whether Judaism is relevant, or if you have concluded that it is and you’re looking to learn more, we have programs that meet you on your level. Get in touch if you want to discuss.

I’m married already?

Aish has a number of married students who commute in to yeshiva from their homes in and around Jerusalem.

I can only come for a short time?

The program is designed for a minimum of one month. Other programs may work better if you have less than that available. Contact us if you need help finding the right program.

I’m over 30?

We occasionally accept students a little over 30. Contact us to see if you would be a good candidate.

I’m under 20?

We'll occasionally accept a student under 20 who has spent a year in college. Contact us to see if you would be a good fit.

Program Details

When are the next start dates for the Foundations program?

Summer term: May 2 - Aug 7, 2022
Elul term: Aug 28 - Oct 5, 2022
Fall term: Oct 26 - Dec 21, 2022

Students join on a rolling basis while the yeshiva is in session. Although it's better to start at the beginning of a term, it's not a requirement.

What will my schedule look like?

Once you arrive, we’ll work out a schedule that best fits your level and interest. Nothing is set in stone, and you can have the flexibility to work out a schedule that is the most impactful for you.

How much free time is there?

There is a break for an hour in the middle of the day and free time in the evenings and on Fridays.

Are there rules about what I can do in my free time?

As long as you don’t break the law, you’re welcome to do whatever you want with your free time.

Who are the other students in the program?

Students in the Foundations program are generally college-educated young men aged 20-30 from across the North America, South Africa and the UK.

Is there a dress code?

No.

Do I need to live in the dorm?

No. Some students prefer to rent their own accommodations, but this is not covered by tuition costs.

What is Shabbat like at Aish?

Shabbat is one of the highlights of the week at Aish. Beginning with a ‘tish’/concert on Thursday night and VIP breakfast on Friday for those who stayed up to learn on Thursday night and Friday morning. Continuing with inspiring Shabbat meals - on campus or at local families, and ending off on a high note with an exciting ‘melava malka’ including good food, great music, and awesome company.

Can I get college credits for my time at Aish?

Some universities will give credit to yeshiva study. Speak to the study abroad office at your university and contact us for any questions.

Tuition

What are the tuition costs?

$1,600 per month, including room and board. Get in touch to ask about scholarships or payments plans. 

What is covered by the tuition costs?

All classes, full room and board, and most trips.

Are there scholarships/subsidies available?

Yes! We’d never want money to be an obstacle stopping Jews from learning about their heritage, so, where necessary, students may be eligible for needs-based grants. We’ll help you apply for other scholarships that help with tuition and even subsidized flights.

Covid 19

Is the yeshiva open as normal during the pandemic?

Most of our programs such as Foundations, the Beis Midrash program, and Gesher are all running as usual.

What precautions are the yeshiva taking?

The yeshiva follows all directives from Israel's Ministry of Health. Practically speaking, students are not required to wear masks in the yeshiva building and thankfully most of the yeshiva operations have returned to normal.

Can I attend my US college classes remotely whilst attending yeshiva?

We generally expect students to be taking six hours of yeshiva classes a day, which gives ample time for online college classes. However, doubling your academic load doesn't work for everyone. Contact us to talk it over.

Misc

Is it safe to live in the Old City?

Jerusalem on the whole is a very safe city - often much more so than most American or European cities. It is generally very safe in the Jewish Quarter. Still, the yeshiva advises students to avoid the Arab Quarter, Damascus Gate or East Jerusalem.

Can I speak to some alumni about the program?

Absolutely. Get in touch, and we’ll find you some alumni to speak to who have as similar a background to you as possible.