History of Rothberg International School

Rothberg students looking at Isawiya

International students have been coming to HebrewU since opening in 1925

The first program specifically for international students opened in 1956. The School for Overseas Students was formally inaugurated in 1971, and it became the Rothberg International School (RIS) in 1981 in honor of Sam Rothberg, whose vision, initiative, and drive were major factors in the school’s creation and development. Today, RIS has become an international arena, attracting students from around the world. The school has an accomplished faculty, with an annual student population of more than 2,000. Hebrew University brings students from over 90 countries together in Jerusalem to share a common experience. 

Rothberg International School - Then Rothberg International School - Today

Hebrew University Quick Facts

Founded: 1918 (opened 1925)
Senior Faculty Members: 1,000
RIS Students: 2,300
Total HebrewU Students: 22,000
Faculties: 7
Schools: 14
Academic Departments: 315
Research Centers: 100+
Alumni: 100,000
Nobel Prizes: 8
Fields Medal for Mathematics: 1
Israel Awards: 269
Wolf Prizes: 9
EMET Prizes: 33
Rothschild Prizes: 89

Apply to RIS

Hebrew University’s Rothberg International School offers you a challenging and rewarding academic environment to help you achieve your goals. Our tailored, flexible programs offer short- and long-term study opportunities.

Take a look at our pages for prospects, students, faculty and staff, alumni, and parents – or contact us!

TrackSAT ACT Psychometric Test
(General or QE)
Business & English1310 28629
Business & Liberal Arts131028629
English & Liberal Arts102019516
Pre-Semester Program: “Encountering Jerusalem” 2023-24
Spring
Practical Hebrew Beginners 4 credits
Israeli Society3 credits
Pre-Semester Program: “Encountering Jerusalem” 2023-24
Autumn
Practical Hebrew Beginners4 credits
Modern Standard Arabic Beginners 5 credits
Jerusalem: A Journey Through Time and Space3 credits
Pre-Semester Program: “Encountering Jerusalem” 2023-24
Autumn
Practical Hebrew Beginners4 credits
Modern Standard Arabic Beginners 5 credits
Jerusalem: A Journey Through Time and Space3 credits
Pre-Semester Program: “Encountering Jerusalem” 2023-24
Spring
Practical Hebrew Beginners 4 credits
Israeli Society3 credits