Masters Study in Israel – A Guide for 2026

Famous as a cultural melting pot and for its crucial place in different world religions, Israel is also a pioneer in modern science and research. Studying a Masters in Israel will allow you to make the best of both worlds. Israel supports its internationally-renowned technology sector with world-class education from prestigious specialised universities. International students from around the world head to the country in search of expert teaching, particularly in Engineering and the Sciences.

Israel is a global hub for research and innovation across disciplines ranging from Science and Engineering to Theology and Politics. The country is a leader in solar energy, geothermal energy and water conservation, and higher education plays a key role in national economic and technological development.Israel is a hotbed and global hub for all major research areas, from Science and Engineering to Theology and Politics. Leading the world in solar energy development, geothermal energy and water conservation, higher education plays a pivotal role in the economic and social development of Israel and the wider region.

Here are a few of the best reasons to consider a Masters in Israel:

• World-class institutions – With a well-earned reputation for excellence in Science and Engineering (as well as the Arts and Humanities), Israel is an excellent postgraduate destination.
• Start-up culture – Israel has a proud start-up culture and encourages entrepreneurial spirit at its many tech companies.
• 4,000 years of history – You’ll be able to immerse yourself in an array of diverse cultures that have left their mark on Israel over the centuries.
• International outlook – There are over 13,000 international students in Israel, and many courses are taught entirely in English.
• Excellence in STEM subjects – In addition to strong Humanities and Social Sciences courses

Israel has nine public universities, alongside a growing number of private colleges and several international branch campuses. Public institutions are largely state-funded but maintain control over their academic programmes.

Higher education is overseen by the Council for Higher Education, which accredits universities and authorises degree awards.

Leading universities in 2026 include:

• Tel Aviv University
• University of Jerusalem
• Technion – Israel Institute of Technology (established 1912)
• Bar-Ilan University
• Ben-Gurion University of the Negev

Despite the relatively small size of its higher education system, Israel performs strongly in major global rankings such as Times Higher Education, QS and ARWU.

Private colleges, often specialising in Business or Law, tend to charge higher tuition fees as they do not receive government funding.

Masters programmes in Israel typically:

• Last two years
• Run from October to August
• Follow a two-semester system (with some January/February start options)

The academic week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday observing Shabbat.

Most Israeli students begin their studies after completing compulsory military service, meaning postgraduate cohorts often have a mature and focused atmosphere.

Although Hebrew and Arabic are Israel’s official languages, English is widely spoken and many Masters programmes are delivered entirely in English.Regional Politics, Religion, and Middle Eastern Society make for popular topics of Masters study in Israel.

Israeli universities are also notable for attracting postgraduates to study a Masters in Engineering, Science and Technology in particular. With four Nobel Prizes in Chemistry and a reputation for excellence elsewhere in the Sciences, Israel has an impressive track record in STEM subjects.

Israel is also well-known for its start-up culture and innovative tech companies, so it’s also a great place to study a Masters in Business.

Tuition fees

International students at public universities can expect to pay:

• USD $10,000 - $30,000 per year (approximately ILS 37,241 - 111,725)

Application fees usuall range from ILS 390 - 544.

Private colleges may charge higher fees.

Scholarships

International postgraduates can apply for:

• Israeli government scholarships (full or partial tuition, monthly allowance and basic health insurance for one academic year of research)
• University merit-based scholarships (often linking to specific fields of study)

To apply for a Masters degree in Israel you’ll need a relevant undergraduate degree. It is common for universities to expect a B grade average or 3.0 GPA (grade point average). However, some specific programmes may require higher grades.

For MBA applications to Business Schools in Israel, the GRE or GMAT test may be required.

Language requirements

Israel’s official languages are Hebrew and Arabic. Additional courses can be taken at most Israeli universities should you wish to study either language.

If English is not your first language and you wish to study an Israeli Masters degree delivered in English, you will likely need to submit a language test score.

Israeli universities will normally accept either the IELTS (International Language Testing System) or TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) tests.

Score requirements will normally be as follows:

• An IELTS score of 6.5 or better
• A TOEFL score of 79 (internet-based)

Most Masters programmes in Israel will take two years to complete. As such, students will need to get an A/2 student visa before arrival in Israel.

Visa application and fees

When applying for your A/2 student visa, you will need to present the following documents to your local Israeli Embassy or Consulate:

• A completed application form
• Two current passport photos
• An original letter of acceptance from an Israeli university
• Passport valid for at least a year
• Proof of sufficient funds to financially support yourself while studying in Israel

Health insurance

All international students must have valid health insurance. Some universities include this within tuition fees, while others require students to arrange private cover.

Banking

Opening a bank account typically requires your passport and student visa. Most banks request a small initial deposit (around ILS 100).

Transport

Israel has an efficient rail network connecting major cities — for example, travel between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv takes around 30 minutes by train. Within cities, buses and sherut (shared taxi) services are common and affordable.

The cost of living in Israel is relatively high, comparable to Western Europe or Nordic countries. Typical expenses include:

• Restaurant meal: ILS 70 (approx. USD $18.69)
• Monthly transport pass: ILS 225 (approx. USD $60)
• Cinema ticket: ILS 45 (approx. USD $12)

While costs are significant, Israel is often regarded as offering one of the highest qualities of life in the Middle East.

Masters students typically choose between:

University accommodation

Often more affordable and conveniently located, with utilities and taxes included. In Tel Aviv, university housing generally costs ILS 2,415–4,310 (USD $650–1,160) per month.

For example:

• Dormitories at Technion – Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa may cost around USD $320 per month.
• Housing at Tel Aviv University can range from USD $650–$1,160 per month.

Private rentals

Sharing an apartment is popular among postgraduates. Private rentals offer more choice, but utility bills are usually not included.