Question 1

What makes ELI different from other gap year programs in Israel?

Accepted Answer

ELI is based at Tel Aviv University, a research university ranked globally. Students take for-credit university courses alongside their gap year programming — not a standalone curriculum designed only for gap year participants. Credits apply toward TAU undergraduate degrees, and the program includes direct access to TAU's research labs, faculty, and campus facilities.

Question 2

How much does the program cost and what financial aid is available?

Accepted Answer

Tuition is $14,000 per semester ($28,000 for the full year), which includes on-campus housing, health insurance, all program excursions, and academic credit. Flights, meals, and personal expenses are separate. The program is eligible for MASA Israel Journey grants, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs depending on age and program length. There are also merit-based scholarships.

Question 3

Can I do just one semester instead of the full year?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Students can enroll for the fall semester (August–December), spring semester (January–May), or the full academic year. The academic and experiential programming is designed to work as either a standalone semester or a full-year experience.

Question 4

Do I need to speak Hebrew?

Accepted Answer

No. All courses, workshops, and programming are taught in English. The program includes a four-week Hebrew Ulpan at the beginning of each semester to help students build basic conversational Hebrew for daily life in Tel Aviv.

Question 5

Where will I live?

Accepted Answer

Students live in on-campus dormitories at Tel Aviv University. The campus is centrally located in Tel Aviv, a short bus ride from the city center and about a 15-minute walk from the beach. Each dorm is equipped with shared kitchens. Housing is included in the tuition fee.

Question 6

Are meals provided in the program fee?

Accepted Answer

Meals are not included in the program fee. Each dormitory is equipped with shared kitchens where students prepare their own food. Tel Aviv University's campus has cafeterias, cafés, and food outlets, and the surrounding neighborhoods offer affordable dining. Students typically budget for their own grocery and food expenses separately from tuition.

Question 7

What is the application process?

Accepted Answer

Submit an inquiry form on the TAU International website to access the application portal. You'll need a high school transcript, a one-page CV, two recommendation letters (at least one academic), proof of English proficiency if applicable, a valid passport, and a short personal essay (300–350 words). SAT/ACT scores are optional.

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