Intellectual Safe Haven

International students at campus party.

The International School

Intellectual Safe Haven

In response to the shocking surge in antisemitism on college campuses around the world, the International School helped multiple Bar-Ilan departments launch new undergraduate programs that combine excellence, an immersive Israel experience, and a positive atmosphere for the expression of Jewish identity.

Bar-Ilan’s International Undergraduate Programs  

B.A. in Multidisciplinary Jewish Studies and English Literature

B.A. in Multidisciplinary Jewish Studies

B.A. in Linguistics

B.A. in Communication and English Literature

B.A. in Communication and Political Science

B.Sc. in Engineering

B.Sc. in Computer Science

B.Sc. in Life Sciences

B.A. in Law

Open Arms

In the months after October 7th, Jews around the world were astounded by the unprecedented antisemitism that erupted on their college campuses, often without action—or even condemnation—from university leadership. Bar-Ilan’s International School wants the young people among them to know: You don’t have to choose between academic excellence and your Jewish identity. Thanks to four innovative Bar-Ilan undergraduate programs in engineering, computer science, life sciences, and law that were designed especially with them in mind, they can now earn a prestigious degree while at the same time enjoying a supportive and fulfilling social experience.

 

“We understand what Jewish high-school and college students are facing in North America and around the world, and in keeping with Bar-Ilan’s commitment to a united Jewish people, we accelerated these solutions to that pressing challenge,” said Deputy President Prof. Moshe Lewenstein. He explains that the four subjects of study were chosen based on extensive surveys of Jewish families abroad, as well as with an eye toward trends in the global workplace. As for students’ concern about language, Lewenstein assures them: We’ve got you covered.

 

“During the summer before they begin their studies students will be part of an intensive Hebrew-studies program to develop their language ability, and throughout their first year their classes will all be taught in English. Then, in their second and third years, students will transition into the regular Hebrew program with ongoing assistance as needed,” he explains. He points out that the format is intended to produce graduates who not only boast sought-after academic skills but are also equipped with the linguistic and cultural understanding required for professional and personal success in the Jewish state. “Whether or not our international Jewish students ultimately choose to stay in Israel, we want to enable their integration into Israeli society and make their university experience a time of meaningful and truly enjoyable growth.”

Deputy President Prof. Moshe Lewenstein

Coming—and Staying—Home.

In the months after October 7th and before the academic year began, international student Jessica Scalisi stayed in Israel to help raise money for soldiers and run activities for the children of displaced families. “It has crossed my mind to go back [to New York], but my heart is here in Israel,” she says. “I feel very connected to my Jewish identity, now more than ever.”