Volunteering in Israel: Masa Initiative

This four-week program combines meaningful volunteer work with cultural exploration and academic enrichment. Participants will engage in both individual and group volunteering projects, contributing to local communities in various settings. In addition to hands-on volunteer experiences, the program includes guided tours and social activities, offering a deeper connection to Jerusalem and Israeli society.

Students will participate in a workshop on community volunteering in Israel. Those who choose to complete a final assignment will be eligible to receive one academic credit.

Enrolled students are expected to attend the full program, as attendance is mandatory for the entire duration.

Masa is the global leader in immersive international career development and leadership experiences in Israel for young Jewish adults from around the world. With a variety of long-term programs in Israel, Masa is able to provide meaningful, enriching experiences to young Jews from many different countries, backgrounds, levels of education, and fields. Since its founding in 2004, Masa has helped over 150,000 young adults from 60+ countries to strengthen their connection with Israel, empowering a new generation of connected, committed, and inspired young Jewish adults. These young adults are changing the face of the Jewish world and Israel, as professionals, community leaders, and advocates.

During the program, participants will take the course “Volunteering and Civil Society: Academic Perspectives and Reflective Practice”. It is designed for international students participating in a summer volunteer program in Israel. It offers an academic framework for understanding volunteering, the role of civil society, and contemporary volunteering trends. Students will engage with theoretical perspectives and real-world data while reflecting on how these insights relate to their volunteer experiences. The course consists of seven 90-minute sessions, featuring lectures, discussions, and interactive sessions. A reflective component is embedded throughout the course, encouraging continuous self-reflection.

Students have the option to receive 1 academic credit by completing the final assignment, which is optional. Participants may choose to receive a pass/fail grade for the course or, if they wish to complete the final assignment and earn academic credit, they will receive a numeric grade.

View tentative syllabus here

View tentative schedule here

Learn more about student life at HebrewU.

Apply by: July 15, 2025

Arrive on Campus by: September 2, 2025

Program Length: 4 weeks

Application fee: US$ 120 (non-refundable)
Tuition: US$ 3,080
Housing: US$ 700
Total program cost: US $3900 *

* Applicants eligible for the Masa scholarship will only be required to pay $150 of the total program cost.

Note: Students who receive the Masa scholarship are required by Masa to stay in the Hebrew University dormitories as part of the program. Students who do not receive a Masa scholarship may choose alternative accommodations.

Scholarships

Please refer to the Masa website  For information on available scholarships.

This program welcomes applications from students who have successfully completed high school.