There are many preconceived notions surrounding the Middle East, resulting in Israel being often overlooked as a study-abroad destination. But for students with a sense of adventure who are looking to enrich their cultural knowledge and gain new perspectives while receiving a world-class education, few places rival Israel. So, don’t miss out on one of the most unique and interesting places to study abroad!
Located in western Asia, on the edge of the Mediterranean, Israel is home to rare and stunning landscapes, from snowcapped mountains in the north to the dry desert in the south, and houses some of the world’s best universities.
Curious about Israel as a study abroad destination?
Discover the top reasons why international students choose to study in Israel.
In Israel, you can wander through the alleyways of old cities like Jerusalem and Jaffa, shop in vibrant Markets like Mahane Yehuda and Carmel, swim in one of the world’s wonders, the Dead Sea (which is also the lowest point on Earth), go out and celebrate with friends in Tel Aviv, the city that never sleeps, or go for a hike in some of the stunning Israeli nature reserves and national parks. In Israel, you will experience History, Nature, culture, and Modernism, sometimes all in the same place. Its deep history and diverse culture are a source of both beauty and wonder. This small country offers unparalleled experiences for culture lovers and adventurers alike!
Israel is considered a hi-tech hub and one of the most innovative countries in the world, the most developed and advanced country in Western Asia, and the 10th most developed country in the world by some indexes.
Known as the “Start-up Nation”, it has the highest number of start-ups per capita worldwide - the perfect place for students with an entrepreneurial spirit!, and the 3rd NASDAQ-listed companies in the world (after the US and China). Furthermore, in 2022 Israel was ranked as the 4th happiest country in the world, so be prepared for a joyful experience!
All of this translates into a high-quality higher education system that boasts of some of the greatest universities, colleges, and research institutions for producing entrepreneurs. In fact, four Israeli universities offer among the top 50 undergraduate programs globally that produce the most entrepreneurs. Renowned within the fields of Innovation, Science, and Engineering, Israel has a long tradition of academic excellence and promoting research and innovation. Out-of-the-box thinkers and go-getters will feel right at home in Israel!
Ready to know more about Israel? Use the navigation pages below to discover everything you need to know about studying abroad in Israel - from how to apply to your dream program, the visa application process, the language and culture in Israel, and more!
Israel - Quick facts & figures
Capital
Jerusalem
Language
Hebrew, Arabic
Population
9 million
Currency
New Israel Shekel (NIS)
Calling Code
+972
Time Zone
GMT+2 / GMT+3
(Summertime)
More about studying abroad in Israel
Israel is known for its modernity, advanced economy, and innovation, and is part of international organizations and agreements like the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the World Trade Organization (WTO), and being part of the Horizon Europe research and innovation agreement.
If you want to meet people from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and faiths, and experience both innovation and modernity while also enjoying culture, history, and nature, then Israel is the right place for you.
Higher education institutions in Israel provide a diversity of academic programs in English for international students at the bachelor, master’s, and doctorate levels and they range from short-term courses to full-degree programs. Ph.D. and post-doctoral researchers are also welcome in Israel and will find great opportunities to work with leading researchers in their field.
There are 10 universities, 29 colleges, and 20 teacher-training colleges in Israel, all under the responsibility of the Council of Higher Education, which supervises the entire Israeli higher education system.
Of the 59 higher education institutions in Israel, 49 are funded by the government and 10 are private, making tuition fees competitive internationally. Fees will vary according to the institution and can be anywhere between $4,000 to $30,000 per year, depending on the type of program and institution.
If that sounds interesting to you, join in for the adventure of a lifetime in Israel!
Related reading: 3 Myths About Studying in the Middle East
Education System
Want to learn about how higher education works in Israel? A popular destination for international students given its high-quality education and fascinating cultural diversity, take a minute to dive into Israel’s higher education system!
Student Visas
Do you need a visa to study in Israel? Learn everything you need to know about the student visa process in Israel and the exact documents you need to enter the country.
Housing & Living Costs
No matter where you study abroad, it’s important to create a budget in advance so that you’re prepared. Therefore, we’ve detailed average living and housing costs so that you can get a better idea of what you would be paying as a student in Israel.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
Tuition fees for degree programs in Israel may vary depending on many factors, but there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available. Find out more here!
Language & Culture
Israel is rich in history, religion, cultural diversity and languages! Find out more about what the country offers in terms of language, culture, and more!
Application Process
All countries have specific admissions requirements for students to gain acceptance into a university. Learn more about the ins and outs of admission to programs in Israel, and what you need to apply.
Programs
Ready to look at education in Israel? Use our search engine to find and compare top programs in Israel today!
The content of this country guide has been developed in partnership with Study In Israel.
About Study in Israel
The ‘Study in Israel’ website is operated by the Council for Higher Education (CHE) and the Planning and Budgeting Committee of Israel, the national institution responsible for matters of higher education in the country. The CHE is a public, professional, academic, apolitical and independent entity and is responsible for regulating the higher education system in Israel.
