Description

The Israel Government Fellows Program (IGF) is an initiative of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center and is endorsed by the Office of the Prime Minister of Israel. The governmental track focuses on the governance of the Jewish state and the implementation of policies. The non-governmental track focuses on helping to influence and develop government policy from the outside, as well as organizations working in Israel advocacy. IGF is the only existing program which allows non-Israelis to intern in the Israeli government. In addition to their internships, Fellows study Hebrew intensively, attend weekly seminars, and participate in joint activities with Israeli counterparts. Fellows travel throughout the country and meet with a wide range of public figures. IGF is a unique opportunity for aspiring Jewish leaders to develop their abilities while contributing to Israeli politics and society, learn about Israeli history and culture, and strengthen their connection to the Jewish state.

Highlights

* Proffessional internships.
* Meetings with high level officials.
* Intensive Hebrew study.
* Trips around the country.

Qualifications

Applicants must be between 22-30 years old and have a Bachelor's Degree plus work experience OR a Master's Degree. (A part-time job or other internship can also be considered as work experience for these purposes.) Applicants must have fluent English and be eligible according to MASA's guidelines.

Intern Types

• Political Science/Politics
• Public Admin, Public Pol, Govt

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

15,000 (includes housing)

Program Fees Include:

- An intensive Hebrew study course throughout the first 4 months of the program.
- A month long orientation to facilitate a "soft landing" into Israel and the Israeli Government.
- Weekly seminars with leading public figures, and experts from a wide range of fields.
- A series of tours in Jerusalem providing historical, cultural and religious background enhancing the understanding of the city.
- A series of tours around the country ( all expenses included) - throughout the various regions in the State of Israel.
- Monthly social events throughout Jerusalem.
- A dialogue weekend with Israeli counterparts (all expenses included).
- Meals will be provided during all scheduled program activities for no additional cost.
- A monthly bus pass for unlimited use throughout Jerusalem.
- A rich program of social, cultural and educational activities organized by MASA - all provided with no extra cost (concerts, weekend seminars, tours and many more).
- A team of professional staff that will guide the participants on both professional and personal matters throughout the year.

* Fellows who are eligible for the MASA grant (most are) will receive a standard USD4,500 towards the tuition of the program.
* Fellows may also apply for a needs-based MASA grant.
* In addition to this, all Fellows automatically receive a USD2,000 grant from the Begin Center.

Experience Required

no

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently

Application Process Involves

• Essay
• Letters of Reference
• Other
• Phone/Video Interview
• Physical Exam/Health Records
• Resume
• Transcript
• Written Application

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network

Israel Government Fellows - Menachem Begin Heritage Center's Mission Statement

The Israel Government Fellows Program (IGF) is an initiative of the Menachem Begin Heritage Center in collaboration with Masa Israel Journey. The program is endorsed by the Office of the Prime Minister of Israel and offers outstanding and highly motivated young Jews an experience in the heart of the Israeli government establishment, combining internships in government offices, educational seminars and Hebrew language instruction. It is the only existing program of its kind, and is open to university graduates worldwide, ages 22-30. The program is based in Jerusalem. Participants are placed in internships in various ministries and government branches, and are mentored by a government official. Fellows attend weekly seminars and activities. Fellows travel throughout the country and meet with Israeli officials, policy makers, journalists, and a wide range of other public figures. This program provides Fellows with invaluable work experience and leadership training. It is a unique opportunity for aspiring Jewish leaders to develop their talents while contributing to Israeli politics and society, learning about Israeli history and culture, and strengthening their connection with the Jewish State.

Year Founded

2007