Israel: Tel Aviv University
Study abroad in Israel at Tel Aviv University.
Study in the cultural and economic heart of Israel at Tel Aviv University (TAU). With a booming and vibrant population, beautiful beaches and a 24-hour lifestyle, the city has a cosmopolitan flair and distinct personality.
Founded in 1956, Tel Aviv University is one of Israel’s premier institutions with 30,000 students, including 1,000 international students, and globally recognized faculty. Visiting study abroad students are housed within the Overseas Students Program.
Why study abroad in Israel?
“Reflecting on my study abroad experience in Israel has profoundly shaped my ability to respond to future cultural misunderstandings and conflicts... I gained a deep appreciation for the nuances of Israeli society, its history, and the diversity of perspectives within it.” - Rollins Study Abroad Alum
Academic Information
Courses
- Ulpan Language Study (6 Credits Fall, 4 Credits Spring): The semester at Tel Aviv University (TAU) begins with a required intensive language study in Hebrew or Arabic called an Ulpan. It runs for 6 weeks in the fall and runs for 4 weeks in the spring.
- Overseas Students Program Courses (3 Credits): After the Ulpan, most students enroll in five English-taught courses for 15 credits total.
- For a full listing of courses and full course information, please visit the TAU website.
Special Programs
- Rollins students also have the option to participate in TAU's specialized programs: the Voyage to Medicine semester program, which has a special focus on healthcare, the Law Study Abroad program, or the Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship program.
- Direct Enrollment Courses: Students with strong Hebrew may take up to two regular, direct enrollment courses with Israeli students.
Transfer of Credit
- Courses on this program appear on the Rollins transcript as transfer credit; the grades are displayed and are factored into the Rollins GPA.
- It can take up to three months for grades to be processed and appear on the Rollins transcript.
- Students can take major and minor courses abroad (with approval from the academic department) and can also take competencies and rFLA200-level seminars abroad (with approval from the Registrar).
- This program has Registrar approved rFLA200 seminars and competencies, check them out here!
What It’s Like to Study Abroad in Israel
Housing & Meals
- Students live in the Broshim Dormitories, which are shared apartment style with double occupancy bedrooms. All living spaces are furnished, with a kitchenette, bathroom, Wi-Fi, A/C and heating, and cable TV. A self-service paying laundry facility, student lounge, full-size grocery store, café, and are more are nearby.
- The following items are not supplied by TAU: blankets, pillows, towels, kitchen utensils and household goods.
- Students can cook in their shared kitchens as there are supermarkets and shops nearby. University cafeterias serve kosher meals at a reasonable price. There is no meal plan.
Activities & Excursions
- TAU Buddy Program: pairs visiting and Israeli students.
- The Elite Sports Center at TAU: venue for intercollegiate sports and Israeli league activities, featuring an Olympic-size swimming pool, tennis courts, a basketball court, a running track, and soccer stadium. Small fee required for use.
- The Goldreich Multipurpose Sports Building: fitness and weight rooms, squash courts and a gymnastics hall. Small fee required for use.
- The Overseas Students Program offers two three-day trips each semester and a one-day trip to Jerusalem. Locations vary from term to term. Students may also choose to travel independently throughout Israel during breaks and free weekends.
Things to Consider
Although there are no legal restrictions on same-sex relationships attitudes toward members of the LGBTQIA+ community vary. While Tel Aviv is progressive, LGBTQIA+ students are encouraged to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings, especially when entering religious or socially conservative areas. Make sure to check the US Department of State LGBTI Travelers page and ILGA Sexual Orientation Laws in the World for more information as well as the resources on the IP Your Identity Abroad page in MyRollins for resources..
Students with mobility disabilities may find accessibility and accommodations different from the United States. Check the US Department of State Travelers with Disabilities and specific to the country, Mobility International USA, and the IP Your Identity Abroad page in MyRollins for resources.
Program Calendar: Fall 2024
Dates | |
|---|---|
Sept 8 | Arrival at TAU |
Sept 9 | Mandatory Welcome Orientation |
Sept 10 | Hebrew Ulpan |
Sept 10 | Mandatory Academic Orientation |
Sept 29 | Last Day of Hebrew Ulpan |
Sept 30-Nov 3 | Fall Holiday Vacation |
Nov 4 | Fall Semester First Day of Classes |
Dec 19 | Last Day of Classes |
Dec 20 | Program Ends |
Program Calendar: Spring 2025
Dates | |
|---|---|
Jan 17 | Arrival at TAU |
Jan 18 | Mandatory Orientation |
TBD | Hebrew Placement Exam - online |
Jan 21 | Hebrew Ulpan |
Feb 6 | Mandatory Spring Semester 2024 Academic Orientation |
| *Note that Voyage to Medicine students have a mandatory orientation TBD |
Mar 4 | Classes Begin |
April 17-30 | Passover Vacation |
May 13 | Yom Hazikron (Memorial Day) - No Class |
May 14 | Yom Ha'atzmaut (Independence Day) - No Class |
May 23 | Program End Date |
Requirements for Admission
- Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors
- Clean record with the Office of Community Standards and good academic and college standing
- Professional application: materials are submitted on-time, are edited before submission, and are thorough and thoughtful
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Required advising session (30 minutes) as part of the application process. Visit MyRollins to schedule an advising appointment.
Getting There
Flight
- TAU arranges two optional group flights out of NYC where students are accompanied by TAU staff and are provided transportation to their dorms in Israel.
- Students can also arrange their own flight, but they must arrange their own transportation to their dorm upon arrival.
Orientation
Orientation includes information about TAU and adjustment to life in Israel, post-program social event, campus tour, and social activities to meet other students.
Visa
- U.S. citizens must obtain a Tourist Visa to study at TAU.
- The Tourist Visa is valid for three months, is issued upon arrival in Israel and must be extended once on-site. TAU staff will assist with this process.
- For general information about the visa process and visas for non-US citizens, see our Passports & Visas Page in MyRollins.
Costs
Program Fee
Most Rollins financial aid and scholarships will apply to the semester abroad.
Tuition: $30,290
Housing: $5,115
Also Includes
Orientation, cultural activities excursions, program administration, and emergency insurance.
Estimated Additional Costs
Transportation: Round-trip airfare from FL $1,100, onsite $600
Meals/food: $3,030
US Passport: $165
Visa fee: $50
Books, course materials, supplies: $185
Personal expenses: $1,500
Federal student loan fees if applicable: $40
Professional licensure, certification or credentials costs: $0
Need-Based Scholarships
Scholarships based on financial need are available to off-set costs associated with international airfare and other costs associated with study abroad. Students can apply for scholarships through the Rollins program application. Students are also able to apply for scholarships directly through Tel Aviv University.
Living and Working
Having a credit card while abroad is very helpful. Israel has a high cost of living compared to the United States.
Connect with an Advisor, Apply or Learn More
Ready to see the world? Click below to learn more, apply or schedule a virtual or in-person advising session with one of our expert study abroad advisors.