Israel is a haven for lovers of culture, wondrous landscapes, and unique experiences. Though often underrated, this quaint Mediterranean country is a hub for learners and is actually one of the most innovative nations!

Today’s generation of international students are surely into innovation and technology, and Israel provides the education and eco-system for such pursuits. Israel’s deep religious roots and forward-thinking economy make an exciting academic experience – perfect for adventurous international students. In this article, we will be looking at the best universities in Israel for international students.

Is Israel good for international students to study in?

Israeli universities are known worldwide for academic excellence, with several institutions ranking among the highest in the world. Most of them offer programs in English as well, so international students can adjust more easily. They can pursue diverse programs at bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate levels, as well as short-term courses. Moreover, Ph.D. researchers have the opportunity to work with experts in their fields.

The World Economic Forum Global Competitive Index ranked Israel the third most innovative country and it became known as the “Start-Up Nation”. Those with entrepreneurial spirits will find the country an excellent training ground, especially since four Israeli universities are ranked among the top producers of entrepreneurs.

Israeli universities can either be state-funded or private, but students can expect competitive and reasonable fees ranging from 4000 – 30000 USD per year. But don’t forget various scholarships and financial grants, too. When it comes to living costs, accommodation would be the largest expense. Shared private housing is a common option in addition to university dormitories. All in all, students only need between 470 – 940 USD per month for comfortable living.

Check Also: Available Programs for International Students

Can international students work in Israel while studying?

The Israeli government does not presently allow undergraduate university students to engage in part-time work. Nonetheless, you are encouraged to participate in internship opportunities from a wide range of programs and gain exposure to the country’s industry sectors.

On the other hand, students undertaking graduate degree programs or Post-Doctoral studies are allowed to work part-time. You can take jobs like research and teaching assistants at the university.

Can international students stay in Israel after graduation?

After graduation, international students will have to change their student visas to a different type, such as a visitor visa, Aliya visa, or work visa. However, you may be required to leave the country first, apply for renewal or change of visa type from your home country, and then return to Israel.

Best Universities in Israel

1. Tel Aviv University (TAU)

Tel Aviv University is the best university in Israel for international students, located in a city of the same name in Israel. It serves as the center of intellectual activity in the region as it comprises nine faculties, 27 schools, 128 research centers, 17 teaching hospitals, and 400 laboratories in an 89-hectare campus. While high-ranking in general, TAU is most regarded for Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Economics, and Engineering programs.

The university is known globally for TAU International, where programs are fully taught in English to make it more accessible to a greater number of international students. There is even an option for housing near the university. In addition to regular degree programs, the school offers Semester or Year abroad and Specialized exchange agreements.

2. Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI)

The second-oldest Israeli university, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem was established in 1918 – three decades before the State of Israel was even formed. It manages the National Library of Israel, which has the largest collection of materials for Jewish studies. The university acknowledges great minds, such as Albert Einstein and Sigmund Freud, as one of the first board members of the institution. Today, HUJI comprises seven faculties and 14 schools, teaching medicine, business, law, mathematics, and sciences.

This top university in Israel has a total of six campuses. Three of which are located in the beautiful city of Jerusalem, and Rehovot and Eilat. The main campus in Mount Scopus houses the HUJI’s Rothberg International School that guides international students in language studies and Israeli culture.

3. Technion – Israel Institute of Technology

When it comes to science and engineering, the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology is the leading university in Israel. It is a primary contributor to the country’s high-tech industry as evident in their own start-up nation, the Silicon Wadi. The university also offers degrees in allied disciplines, such as architecture, industrial management, education, and medicine. The Technion International is the department that caters to international students especially, offering English-taught courses, campus residences, and cultural trips.

Technion is proudly associated with several faculty members who are renowned in their fields. In fact, the institution has also won the Nobel prize for Chemistry four times! Presently, the university’s research work focuses on space science, energy, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and stem cell science. Students will have the chance to work with the finest scientists in these areas.

4. Bar-Ilan University (BIU)

The Bar-Ilan University is a public research institution with Jewish-American roots. This top university in Israel for international students was described as a cultural link between Israel and America, and subsequently, the whole world. Today, it blends the values of Jewish heritage with the global modern technologies. The BIU is organized into eight faculties: Life, Social, and Exact Sciences, Medicine, Humanities, Engineering, Law, and Jewish Studies.

The BIU was the first university in Israel to take steps towards internationalization. They first offered International B.A. programs that are taught in English to be more accessible to international students. Moreover, students from all over the world will enjoy the award-winning “Green Campus” in Ramat Gan, Israel.

5. University of Haifa

The University of Haifa, one of the best universities in Israel for international students, is a public university with a specialization in humanities, social sciences, law, and education. Its research focus spans the same areas, including the study of the family, the Holocaust, psychological stress, as well as information processing, environmental resources, and maritime studies. Besides these unique subjects, the university is proud to have one of the most diverse student bodies, welcoming different nationalities and faiths.

Sitting atop Mount Carmel, the University of Haifa offers a conducive learning environment, with panoramic views of the Mediterranean and other beautiful sights. International students who like nature and the outdoors will enjoy Haifa’s own diving facility, school of marine sciences, and institute of archeology.

 

We hope that this article on the best universities in Israel for international students was helpful. To know more information like this, check out the Available Programs for International Students!

About the Author: Hyun Lee

Hyun is the founder at Global Scholarships. He has received a full-tuition scholarship at Birmingham-Southern College as well as $1,000 Burger King Scholarship for his undergraduate degree and has been offered a fully funded scholarship consisting of tuition, living stipend, and health insurance for computer science Ph.D. program at North Carolina State University. Read more about his scholarship journey here.

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