GAP YEAR PROGRAMS FOR CANADIANS
A gap year in Israel is unlike anything else. Whatever you want to gain from this year, you can do it in Israel! Check out the types of Israel Gap Year programs available.
FOR TEENS
We know that deciding your first step after high school can be intimidating. There’s a lot of pressure to make a choice that will set you up for a successful future. So why not take the time to make it the right first step?
AN ISRAEL GAP YEAR CAN UNLOCK ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
• Spend the year in beautiful Israel, live like a local, and immerse yourself in the energy and opportunity of this special country.
• It’s a year to explore what’s important to you and what you want for your future.
• Try out volunteering, exploring, interning, and more—there’s a program to get you there.
• Connect with peers from Israel and around the world and build a close network of like-minded friends.
• Return home better prepared to take the next step in your journey.
FOR PARENTS
For generations, countless Jews have discovered that a year in Israel enriched their lives in ways they never could have imagined. While programs in Israel have dramatically evolved and expanded over the years, what hasn’t changed is the lifelong impact of a year spent growing, learning, and exploring in this dynamic country.
AN ISRAEL GAP YEAR BEST PREPARES YOUR CHILD FOR COLLEGE/
UNIVERSITY
• They’ll gain real-life experience interning, volunteering, or learning, boosting their resume and building their first professional network.
• They’ll experience Israel like a local, strengthening their connection to the country and their Jewish identity.
• They’ll build independence, strong social skills, and a lasting circle of peers who share their values.
• They’ll return home to start college/university with new abilities and confidence, ready to make the most of this important stage in their life.
MASA ISRAEL GRANTS AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Masa Israel offers grants and scholarships for Jewish high school graduates participating in an Israel Gap Year. Visit their website to learn more about eligibility and how to apply.
LOCAL SCHOLARSHIPS
Many Federations across Canada offer scholarships for Israel Gap Year programs. For more information on funding options, please reach out to your local Federation or get in touch with one of our Gap Year Advisors.
FAQs
ISRAEL GAP YEAR OVERVIEW
Why should I consider a gap year in Israel?
Spending a year in Israel between high school and college/university can have lifelong benefits! It’s a year to explore you—your passions, your talents, and what you want from your future. Whatever you hope to gain from the year, there’s a program to get you there—whether it’s career experience, college/university credits, exploring the country, or more. You’ll spend the year in beautiful Israel, live like a local, and immerse yourself in the energy and opportunity of this special country. At the end of it, you’ll return home with independence, confidence, and new skills, better prepared to take the next step in your journey.
What types of Israel Gap Year programs are there?
We have a variety of gap year programs on offer—all taking place in beautiful, vibrant Israel. Programs are based around different interests, including academics, volunteerism, sports, leadership development, religious learning, and classic gap year experiences. Each program also includes opportunities to experience Israel like a local, gain skills, explore the country, and connect with your Jewish identity.
Will I be safe and supported during my time in Israel?
One of the benefits of being part of a formal gap year program is you’ll have access to qualified professionals and a strong system of support to deal with any unexpected issues, and to ensure you have a safe and meaningful experience.
ELIGIBILITY AND PROGRAM DETAILS
Who is eligible to go on an Israel Gap Year program?
Canadian high school graduates ages 18-22 are eligible to participate in an Israel Gap Year program.
How long are the programs?
Each program varies, lasting anywhere from six to 10 months. A typical program will last around 10 months, from September until June—similar to a school year—but some are shorter. Speak to a Gap Year Advisor to learn more about specific programs and their duration times.
What are the costs?
Costs vary for individual programs. Please speak to a Gap Year Advisor for specific details on program costs.
There are many funding options available that can help with affordability. Learn about subsidy and scholarship options here.
What is included in the costs?
The costs covered differ for each program. Typically, program costs will include the program itself, accommodations, most meals, trips and tours, ulpan (Hebrew lessons), and more. Flights are additional for all programs. You can learn more about what tuition covers for specific programs by speaking to a Gap Year Advisor.
Are there scholarships available?
Yes! Masa Israel provides every eligible participant with a grant towards participating in a program in Israel. Grant amounts are determined by factors such as age, home country, and length of program. In addition, they offer need-based scholarships.
Your local Federation may offer scholarships and subsidies. You can learn more about scholarships offered through Masa or local Federations here or speak to a Gap Year Advisor, who can guide you through the funding options out there.
I’ve already been accepted to college/university. Can I defer for a year in order to participate in an Israel Gap Year program?
Yes! Many colleges/universities accept deferments for a year. Please contact the admissions department at your college/university in order to learn their policy or get the deferment process started.
Have a question you don’t see answered?
Get in touch with a Gap Year Advisor here.
SPEAK TO A GAP YEAR ADVISOR
Our Gap Year Advisors are here to help you throughout the entire process. They can answer any questions, provide guidance about program options, and connect you to scholarships and grants that you may be eligible for.
Get in touch with a Gap Year Advisor any time!
By submitting your information, you hereby consent to the collection, use, and storage of your Personal Information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, located at https://www.jewishtoronto.com/privacy-statement, which is incorporated into and forms part of this notice.
Please note your name and email will be shared with Masa Israel Journey (“Masa”) if you register for the Gap Year Program (“Program”). Your Personal Information disclosed to Masa will be used in accordance with Masa’s privacy policy, located at https://www.masaisrael.org/privacy-policy.
