🌍 General Overview
What is the Hevruta Gap-Year program at the Shalom Hartman Institute?
The Hevruta Gap-Year is a unique, immersive experience in Jerusalem for 70 recent high school graduates—half from North America and half from Israel—brought together by the Shalom Hartman Institute to learn, volunteer, and live in a vibrant Jewish community. The program is rooted in Jewish values, pluralism, learning, and a commitment to shaping future Jewish leaders.
Who is the program for?
The program is designed for recent high school graduates (ages 17–19) seeking a meaningful year of exploration before beginning university, military service, or other paths. We welcome participants from a wide range of Jewish backgrounds, beliefs, and practices.
What makes this program different?
As part of the Shalom Hartman Institute, the program offers a unique combination of deep intellectual inquiry, ethical leadership development, and cross-cultural community-building between Israeli and North American peers. By bringing Israelis and North Americans together, Hevruta cultivates Jewish leaders who will develop both a critical and personal understanding of the issues and perspectives shaping Jewish Peoplehood.
🧠 Classes and Academics
What kind of learning takes place during the year?
Participants engage with Jewish texts, philosophy, and modern thought, as well as core questions about identity, peoplehood, democracy, and Israel—drawing from the Shalom Hartman Institute’s scholarship and methodology. All classes are taught by renowned Hartman faculty members.
Is the learning religious or academic?
Both. The Hartman approach combines rigorous study with open, values-driven dialogue. Learning is text-based, critical, and deeply pluralistic. Having a diverse group of participants living together in Jerusalem also brings the learning to life.
Are there electives or options for specialization?
Yes. Students can select from various elective tracks aligned with their interests—such as Israeli politics, ethics and society, or traditional Jewish text study. Those who are interested in more rigorous study of Talmud beyond what is included in our regular program can join our Yeshiva Track within the program.
Is there homework or grading?
There are no formal grades. The emphasis is on active engagement and personal growth. Occasional readings or reflections may be assigned.
How does the program prepare its students for undergraduate education?
Hevruta empowers students to engage deeply in learning through personal growth, meaningful connections, and guided reflection. While the program does not use formal grades and assigns only occasional readings outside of class, its seminar-style approach mirrors the intimate, discussion-based learning environment that many students will encounter in their undergraduate studies. Hevruta’s supportive culture and staff and emphasis on independent living equip students for undergraduate life as well as academic success.
✡️ Prayer and Observance
How does the program approach prayer and Jewish practice?
As a pluralistic community, we honor and explore multiple modes of Jewish expression. Communal prayer is offered regularly, especially on Shabbat and holidays, and participation is encouraged but not required.
Will I feel comfortable if I’m not religious—or if I am?
Yes. The Hartman Institute’s commitment to pluralism ensures that students of all levels of observance feel respected and included.
Are holidays and Shabbat celebrated together?
Absolutely. Shabbat and holidays are core moments in our communal life. Celebrations reflect a variety of traditions and are co-created by participants. Throughout the program year, we alternate between “in Shabbats,” when participants celebrate Shabbat together, and “out Shabbats” when participants can choose where to spend Shabbat. Many of the North American participants spend out Shabbatot staying in the homes of their Israeli peers, visiting family, or travelling the country.
🏡 Living Arrangements
Where do participants live?
Students live in shared apartments in central Jerusalem, arranged and supervised by the program. Apartments are grouped by gender and designed to support independent living.
Is there staff oversight?
Yes. Hevruta madrichim (program counselors) live in apartments in the same building. Staff live nearby and are available for support. Students are given autonomy while still benefiting from adult guidance and structured routines.
Are meals provided?
Weekday meals are included during programming hours. For other times, students receive a stipend and cook together in their apartments. Program staff support the students in managing their budgets and feeding themselves as they transition into independent adulthood.
✈️ Trips and Tours
Are there educational trips throughout Israel?
Yes. Students travel regularly to explore the land, people, and complexity of Israel—including hikes, city tours, encounters with diverse communities, and multi-day seminars.
What are the major trips?
Core trips include:
Can students travel independently?
During designated free weekends and breaks, students may travel independently within Israel, with prior approval and safety guidelines.
🗓️ Major Dates
When does the program begin and end?
The program typically begins in late August or early September and ends in mid-June.
Are there breaks during the year?
Yes. The program observes major Jewish holidays and offers winter and spring breaks.
Can I go home during breaks?
North American students may choose to return home during longer breaks, though many opt to remain in Israel to deepen the experience.
💸 Tuition and Financial Aid
What is the cost of the program?
Tuition for Hevruta is $33,000. The cost includes housing, meals, all programming, trips, staff support, and health insurance.
Are scholarships available?
Yes. The Hartman Institute is committed to accessibility. Limited need-based financial aid is available.
Are there additional costs?
Participants may have additional expenses for personal items, travel outside the program, or optional recreational activities.
🩺 Health and Insurance
Is health insurance provided?
Yes. All students are covered by Israeli health insurance while in the program.
What if I need to see a doctor or counselor?
Staff assist students with medical appointments, and we provide access to mental health professionals as needed.
