Bar-Ilan University (BIU) is one of Israel’s major public research universities, located in Ramat Gan, just east of Tel Aviv. Established in 1955, it is known for its commitment to integrating traditional Jewish values with modern academic and scientific education, blending religious and secular studies.
Founding and Mission: BIU was founded with the aim of bridging religious and secular life, encouraging a harmonious blend of Jewish heritage with contemporary academic pursuits. It is often associated with a moderate Orthodox Jewish ideology.
Academic Structure: The university has a diverse range of faculties and research centers, including:
Faculty of Jewish Studies
Faculty of Medicine
Faculty of Law
Faculty of Social Sciences
Faculty of Humanities
Faculty of Life Sciences
Faculty of Exact Sciences
Faculty of Engineering
School of Education
School of Business Administration
Research Excellence: Bar-Ilan is known for its significant contributions to various fields, including nanotechnology, brain research, and cyber security. The university hosts numerous research institutes and interdisciplinary centers focusing on cutting-edge scientific, technological, and humanities research.
Jewish Studies Program: One of the unique aspects of BIU is its extensive Jewish Studies program, which is one of the largest in the world. Students, regardless of their main field of study, are required to take some basic courses in Jewish heritage, reflecting the university’s commitment to integrating Jewish and general studies.
Student Population: Bar-Ilan has a diverse student body, including both religious and secular students, Israeli and international students, and people from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds. The campus culture encourages dialogue and interaction between these diverse groups.
Faculty/School |
Programs |
|---|---|
|
Faculty of Jewish Studies |
Bible Studies, Talmud and Oral Law, Jewish History, Jewish Philosophy, Hebrew and Semitic Languages |
|
Faculty of Humanities |
English Literature and Linguistics, Middle Eastern Studies, Comparative Literature, Music, History |
|
Faculty of Social Sciences |
Psychology, Economics, Political Science, Criminology, Sociology, Communication, Social Work |
|
Faculty of Exact Sciences |
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Biophysics |
|
Faculty of Life Sciences |
Biology, Molecular Biology, Environmental Studies, Neuroscience |
|
Faculty of Law |
Law (LLB, LLM, PhD), Business Law, International Law, Law and Technology |
|
Faculty of Engineering |
Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering |
|
Faculty of Medicine |
Medical Studies, Clinical Research, Biomedical Sciences |
|
School of Education |
Special Education, Educational Counseling, Curriculum Studies, Educational Technology |
|
School of Business Administration |
Business Administration (BBA, MBA), Marketing, Finance, Entrepreneurship |
|
Graduate School of Social Work |
Social Work, Social Policy, Child and Family Welfare |
|
Interdisciplinary Studies |
Cognitive Science, Gender Studies, Conflict Resolution, Hermeneutics |
|
School of Communication |
Journalism, Digital Media, Communication Studies |
|
Bar-Ilan Institute for Nanotechnology & Advanced Materials |
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Materials Science |
|
Music Department |
Musicology, Music Performance, Music Education |
|
Department of English Literature and Linguistics |
Literature, Linguistics, Translation Studies |
|
Multidisciplinary Studies |
Environment and Sustainability, Health Systems Management, Aging Studies |
|
School of Psychology |
Clinical Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, Social Psychology |
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Computer Science |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
$5,500 - $6,500 |
|
Business Administration |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Economics |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Psychology |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Law (LLB) |
3.5 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Biology |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Chemistry |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Physics |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Mathematics |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
English Literature and Linguistics |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Middle Eastern Studies |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Political Science |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Criminology |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Sociology and Anthropology |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Jewish Studies |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
History |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Music |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Education |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Environmental Studies |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Social Work |
3 years |
$4,500 - $5,500 |
|
Communication Studies |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Philosophy |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Geography and Environment |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,000 |
|
Biotechnology |
3 years |
$4,000 - $5,500 |
|
Industrial Engineering and Management |
4 years |
$5,500 - $6,500 |
Master’s Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| MBA (Master of Business Administration) | 2 years | $7,000 - $9,000 |
| Computer Science | 2 years | $5,500 - $7,000 |
| Electrical Engineering | 2 years | $6,000 - $7,500 |
| Mechanical Engineering | 2 years | $6,000 - $7,500 |
| Law (LL.M.) | 1-2 years | $6,000 - $7,000 |
| Biotechnology | 2 years | $5,500 - $6,500 |
| Psychology | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Clinical Psychology | 2 years | $6,500 - $7,500 |
| Educational Counseling | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Public Health | 2 years | $6,000 - $7,000 |
| International MBA | 1 year | $10,000 - $12,000 |
| Life Sciences (Biology, Molecular Biology) | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Physics | 2 years | $5,500 - $6,500 |
| Chemistry | 2 years | $5,500 - $6,500 |
| Mathematics | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Environmental Studies | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Nanotechnology | 2 years | $5,500 - $6,500 |
| Social Work | 2 years | $5,500 - $6,500 |
| Economics | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Political Science | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Middle Eastern Studies | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| English Literature and Linguistics | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Jewish Studies | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Musicology | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Philosophy | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,000 |
| Gender Studies | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Conflict Resolution and Mediation | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Communication Studies | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
| Sociology and Anthropology | 2 years | $5,000 - $6,500 |
Wide Range of Programs in English: BIU offers several programs in English, particularly at the graduate level, including master’s and Ph.D. programs in Business Administration, English Literature, Linguistics, and more. Some undergraduate programs also provide courses in English, especially in fields like Communication and Social Sciences.
Dedicated International School: The International School at BIU offers programs specifically designed for non-Hebrew speakers, such as summer courses, preparatory programs (Mechina), and full-degree programs in English.
Jewish Studies and Hebrew Language Programs: For students interested in Jewish heritage or improving their Hebrew, BIU offers specialized programs in Jewish Studies and Hebrew language courses, catering to varying levels of proficiency.
Student Support and Services:
International Student Office: Provides comprehensive support, including orientation sessions, academic advising, visa assistance, housing, and cultural integration programs.
Language Support: Hebrew and English language courses are available to help students integrate academically and socially.
Counseling and Psychological Services: Available to assist international students with personal and academic challenges.
Scholarships and Financial Aid: BIU offers various scholarships specifically for international students, including need-based, merit-based, and special scholarships for students from particular regions or academic backgrounds.
Campus Life and Integration:
BIU has a vibrant campus life with student organizations, clubs, cultural events, and extracurricular activities that promote interaction between local and international students.
Religious and cultural facilities are available on campus, catering to diverse needs, including kosher dining options, prayer rooms, and Shabbat-friendly accommodations.
Accommodation:
On-campus and off-campus housing options are available, including student dormitories and apartments. The International Office assists students in finding suitable accommodation.
Dormitories provide a multicultural environment, allowing international students to live and interact with local students.
Research Opportunities: BIU is known for its strong emphasis on research across various disciplines, including nanotechnology, cyber security, neuroscience, and more. International students can engage in research projects alongside leading academics and scientists.
Location Advantage: Situated in Ramat Gan, near Tel Aviv, BIU’s location offers easy access to Israel’s major cultural, economic, and historical sites, enhancing the study-abroad experience with opportunities for internships, part-time work, and cultural exploration.
Safety and Security: The university takes the safety of its students seriously, with a secure campus environment and services in place to ensure the well-being of all students, including international ones.
Academic Qualifications: A recognized high school diploma for undergraduate programs or a relevant bachelor’s degree for master’s programs.
Language Proficiency: For English-taught programs, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) may be required. For Hebrew-taught programs, proficiency in Hebrew is necessary, usually demonstrated through the Hebrew Proficiency Test (Yael Test).
Application Process: Involves submitting academic transcripts, recommendation letters, a personal statement, and, in some cases, a portfolio or interview, depending on the program.
Undergraduate Programs: Typically range from $4,000 to $6,500 per year, depending on the program.
Graduate Programs: Range from $5,000 to $12,000 per year, depending on the course and level of study.
Identify the Program: Explore the programs offered by BIU and ensure they meet your academic and career goals.
Check Entry Requirements: Review the specific admission requirements for the program, including academic qualifications, language proficiency, and any additional criteria such as standardized test scores or work experience.
Hebrew Programs: If applying to a Hebrew-taught program, non-native speakers must demonstrate proficiency in Hebrew, usually by passing the Yael Test (Hebrew Proficiency Test).
English Programs: For English-taught programs, applicants must provide proof of English proficiency. Accepted tests typically include TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent, unless the applicant's previous education was in English.
Online Application: Complete and submit an online application form through the BIU application portal. This involves creating an account, filling in personal details, and selecting the desired program.
Application Fee: Pay the non-refundable application fee (usually around $100, but this can vary).
Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents, which may include:
Academic transcripts and diplomas (translated into Hebrew or English if necessary)
Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, Yael Test, etc.)
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
Personal statement or statement of purpose
Resume/CV (especially for graduate programs)
Copy of passport or ID
Portfolio or writing samples (if applicable)
Entrance Exams: Certain faculties may require entrance exams specific to the field of study (e.g., for law or engineering programs).
Interviews: Graduate programs may require a personal interview, which can often be conducted online for international students.
Work Experience: For certain graduate programs (like the MBA), relevant work experience might be required or preferred.
Undergraduate Programs: Applications typically open in the fall and close in the spring, with deadlines varying depending on the program and whether you're applying for the fall or spring semester.
Graduate Programs: Deadlines vary by department and program. It is crucial to check specific deadlines on the program’s webpage.
Review Process: Once the application is complete, the admissions committee reviews all materials. This process may take several weeks.
Notification: Applicants are usually notified of their admission status via email or the online application portal. Accepted students will receive an official acceptance letter.
Confirmation: If accepted, students must confirm their intent to enroll by a specified deadline.
Tuition Deposit: A deposit may be required to secure your place in the program.
Visa Application: International students must apply for a student visa (A-2 visa) through the Israeli consulate or embassy in their home country. The university typically provides assistance and documentation required for the visa application.
Housing Arrangements: If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus accommodation with the help of BIU's International Office.
Arrival in Israel: Plan to arrive in Israel before the start of the academic year. BIU’s International Office may offer airport pickup and orientation services.
Orientation Program: Participate in orientation sessions, which include academic advising, campus tours, and information on living in Israel.
Program Level |
Intake Periods |
Eligibility Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate Programs |
Fall (October), Spring (March) |
High school diploma or equivalent (e.g., SAT/ACT for US applicants, Bagrut for Israeli applicants) |
|
|
|
Minimum GPA as required by the program |
|
|
|
Proof of Hebrew proficiency (Yael Test) for Hebrew programs or proof of English proficiency for English programs |
|
|
|
Some programs may require entrance exams or interviews |
|
|
|
Letters of recommendation (varies by program) |
|
|
|
|
|
Graduate Programs (Master’s) |
Fall (October), Spring (March) |
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution with a relevant background to the field of study |
|
|
|
Minimum GPA as required by the program (typically above 75% or 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, but varies by department) |
|
|
|
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) for English programs, or Hebrew proficiency for Hebrew programs |
|
|
|
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3) |
|
|
|
Statement of purpose |
|
|
|
Some programs may require relevant work experience, entrance exams, or interviews |
|
|
|
|
|
Ph.D. Programs |
Rolling intake throughout the year |
Master’s degree with a thesis component (or equivalent) in a relevant field |
|
|
|
High academic achievement (minimum GPA requirements vary by department) |
|
|
|
Research proposal outlining the intended study |
|
|
|
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3) from academic supervisors |
|
|
|
Proof of language proficiency (English or Hebrew, depending on the program requirements) |
|
|
|
Interview with potential supervisors (in some cases) |
|
|
|
|
|
MBA / International MBA |
Fall (October), Spring (March) |
Bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognized institution |
|
|
|
Minimum GPA requirement (typically above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale) |
|
|
|
Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS) |
|
|
|
GMAT/GRE scores may be required for some MBA tracks |
|
|
|
2-3 years of work experience (recommended for International MBA) |
|
|
|
Letters of recommendation and a personal statement |
Ranking Agency |
Global Ranking |
National Ranking (Israel) |
Subject/Field Rankings |
|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
551-600 |
5th - 6th |
Notable in: Jewish Studies, Engineering, and Sciences |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
~800-900 |
5th - 6th |
High in: Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Coverage/Benefits |
Application Process |
|---|---|---|---|
|
BIU International Scholarship |
Available to international students in any degree program. |
Partial tuition waiver (varies) |
Apply through BIU International Office. |
|
Merit-Based Scholarships |
High academic achievements; typically requires a minimum GPA. |
Partial to full tuition coverage |
Automatically considered upon application. |
|
Need-Based Scholarships |
Financial need demonstrated through documentation. |
Varies based on need assessment |
Application with financial statements. |
|
President’s Scholarship for Excellence |
High-achieving master’s and Ph.D. students with outstanding research potential. |
Stipend plus tuition waiver |
Application with academic credentials. |
|
Faculty-Specific Scholarships |
Enrolled in specific faculties like Law, Engineering, or Sciences. |
Partial to full tuition support |
Apply through the respective faculty. |
|
MASA Israel Scholarship |
For Jewish students under 30 studying in Israel. |
Up to $5,000 based on program duration |
Apply through the MASA Israel website. |
|
Jewish Studies Scholarship |
For students enrolled in Jewish Studies programs. |
Partial tuition assistance |
Apply through the Jewish Studies Faculty. |
|
Erasmus+ Scholarships |
For students participating in Erasmus exchange programs. |
Varies – typically covers travel and living expenses |
Apply through BIU’s International Office. |
|
Research Scholarships (Graduate) |
For master’s and Ph.D. students involved in significant research. |
Stipends and research grants |
Application with research proposal. |
|
Women in Science Scholarship |
Female students in STEM fields with high academic achievement. |
Partial tuition and research support |
Apply through the Faculty of Sciences. |
|
Israeli Government Scholarships |
Offered by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs for international students. |
Varies – tuition, living stipend |
Apply through Israeli embassies or consulates. |
|
Dean’s Scholarships |
Awarded based on academic excellence within each department. |
Tuition reduction |
Automatically considered based on performance. |
|
Bar-Ilan University Rector's Scholarship |
High-achieving Ph.D. candidates across all fields. |
Full tuition waiver and stipend |
Apply through the Ph.D. program coordinator. |
|
Special Regional Scholarships |
For students from specific regions (e.g., Africa, Eastern Europe). |
Varies; often includes living stipends |
Apply through the International School. |
Facility |
Description |
Cost (USD per Month) |
|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Dormitories |
Shared dormitory rooms for undergraduates and graduates; options include 2-4 students per room. |
$350 - $550 |
|
Single Rooms (On-Campus) |
Limited availability, usually for graduate students or special needs; private room with shared facilities. |
$500 - $700 |
|
Family/Married Student Housing |
Apartments for married students or students with families; includes basic kitchen facilities. |
$600 - $800 |
|
Off-Campus Apartments |
University-assisted rentals located near campus; options range from shared to private apartments. |
$600 - $1,000 |
|
International Student Housing |
Dedicated housing blocks for international students; promotes cultural exchange and networking. |
$400 - $600 |
|
Studio Apartments (Off-Campus) |
Private studio apartments with kitchenette and bathroom; suitable for graduate students. |
$800 - $1,200 |
|
Amenities |
All accommodation options include basic furniture, Wi-Fi, study areas, and access to communal kitchens and lounges. |
N/A |
|
Meal Plans |
Optional meal plans available at campus cafeterias offering kosher food options. |
$150 - $250 (per month) |
|
Utilities |
Water, electricity, and internet usually included in on-campus housing costs; off-campus costs vary. |
Included (on-campus); $50 - $100 extra (off-campus) |
|
Security |
24/7 security and maintenance services in all on-campus accommodation. |
Included |
|
Laundry Facilities |
Shared laundry rooms available in dormitories and student housing. |
Pay-per-use (~$2 per load) |
|
Student Lounges and Study Areas |
Common spaces for socializing and studying, available in dorms and student apartments. |
Included |
|
Recreational Facilities |
Access to university sports facilities, gym, and cultural centers. |
Included |
Category |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Student Organizations and Clubs |
BIU hosts numerous student-run clubs and societies catering to a wide range of interests, including academic, cultural, religious, social, and sports-related groups. Popular clubs include debate clubs, entrepreneurship groups, and cultural societies that celebrate the diverse student body. |
|
Social and Cultural Events |
The university frequently hosts events such as lectures, workshops, music performances, film screenings, and holiday celebrations, reflecting Israel’s rich cultural tapestry. BIU’s multicultural environment encourages participation in various national and international festivals. |
|
Sports and Recreational Activities |
BIU offers a range of sports facilities, including gyms, basketball courts, tennis courts, and a swimming pool. The Sports Center provides opportunities to participate in fitness classes, intramural sports, and recreational activities, promoting physical wellness. |
|
Religious Life and Services |
BIU is known for its integration of Jewish values with academia, providing a unique atmosphere where students can observe their religious practices. The campus includes synagogues, prayer rooms, and kosher dining facilities. The Beit Midrash offers Torah study sessions, and there are various religious clubs and support services for Jewish students. |
|
International Student Community |
A dedicated International School supports international students, offering orientation programs, language support, and social activities that help them adapt to life in Israel. International students often form tight-knit communities, participating in special events designed to celebrate their cultures. |
|
Student Dormitories and Housing |
The on-campus housing offers a social living environment, facilitating interactions among students from various backgrounds. Dormitories are equipped with lounges and study areas, promoting both academic and social engagement. |
|
Student Union and Representation |
BIU’s active Student Union advocates for student rights, organizes social events, and provides services such as academic support, career counseling, and legal advice. The Union also arranges student trips, parties, and charity events, enhancing the overall campus experience. |
|
Volunteering and Community Engagement |
Students are encouraged to participate in community service, reflecting BIU’s emphasis on social responsibility. Volunteering opportunities are available through various campus programs, including tutoring, environmental initiatives, and support for disadvantaged communities. |
|
Dining and Cafeterias |
Multiple dining options are available on campus, including kosher cafeterias, coffee shops, and food stalls that cater to diverse dietary needs. The dining areas serve as social hubs where students gather between classes. Meal plans are also available for on-campus residents. |
|
Career Services and Networking |
The Career Development Center offers workshops, job fairs, and one-on-one counseling sessions to help students prepare for the job market. BIU’s strong industry connections provide students with internship and networking opportunities, enhancing their career prospects post-graduation. |
|
Health and Counseling Services |
The university offers on-campus health services, including medical clinics, psychological counseling, and wellness workshops. These services aim to support students’ mental and physical health, ensuring they have access to the resources they need during their studies. |
|
Academic Support Services |
BIU provides academic support through tutoring centers, writing workshops, and study groups. Libraries equipped with extensive resources and quiet study spaces are open to students, facilitating a conducive learning environment. |
|
Public Transportation Access |
The university is well-co |
Service/Aspect |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Career Development Center |
BIU’s Career Development Center offers a range of services, including career counseling, resume building workshops, job search strategies, mock interviews, and networking tips to help students prepare for the job market. |
|
Job Fairs and Recruitment Events |
The university regularly organizes job fairs and recruitment events, allowing students to connect with leading companies, startups, and government organizations. These events are crucial for direct engagement with potential employers. |
|
Internship Programs |
BIU places a strong emphasis on internships, which are often integrated into academic programs, particularly in fields like business, engineering, computer science, and law. Internships provide hands-on experience and are a gateway to full-time employment. |
|
On-Campus Recruitment |
Several companies visit the BIU campus to conduct recruitment drives, presentations, and interviews, offering students immediate access to job opportunities. Notable sectors include tech, finance, healthcare, and legal services. |
|
Industry Partnerships |
BIU has established collaborations with various industries, including technology firms, financial institutions, research centers, and government bodies. These partnerships facilitate internships, collaborative projects, and employment opportunities for students. |
|
Alumni Network |
BIU’s strong alumni network is an invaluable resource for current students. Alumni often participate in mentoring programs, offering guidance, job leads, and networking opportunities. This network is particularly active in fields such as technology, law, and business. |
|
Professional Workshops and Seminars |
The university conducts workshops and seminars on various professional skills, such as entrepreneurship, leadership, communication, and digital skills, which are essential for career growth. |
|
Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centers |
BIU’s innovation and entrepreneurship hubs provide support for students interested in launching startups. These centers offer mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to incubators and accelerators, fostering a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem. |
|
Research Opportunities |
Graduate students, particularly those in science and technology fields, have opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects, often leading to job offers in academia, industry, or research institutes. |
|
Placement Statistics |
While specific placement rates can vary by program, BIU consistently reports high employability rates, particularly in fields like computer science, engineering, and law, where graduates are in high demand. |
|
Language and Integration Support for International Students |
BIU offers language courses and integration support to help international students improve their Hebrew and English skills, making them more competitive in the Israeli job market. |
Campus Address:
Bar-Ilan University
Ramat Gan 5290002
Israel
