Are you dreaming of spending time in Israel but worried about the costs? Masa Israel Journey offers significant scholarship and grant opportunities that can help make your Israel experience a reality. In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know about Masa scholarships and how to apply for them.
What is Masa Israel Journey?
Before diving into scholarships, let's understand what Masa is. Masa Israel Journey is a partnership between the Jewish Agency for Israel and the Israeli government that provides immersive experiences in Israel lasting 2-12 months. These experiences include internships, study abroad programs, volunteer opportunities, and gap year programs.
How does Masa come into play with Yahel
Yahel Israel is a Masa-approved program provider, which means participants in our programs like the Social Change Fellowship can often be eligible for Masa grants. The Masa grant is applied directly to your program fee, which means participants eligible for Masa funding pay only $1,000 for our Social Change Fellowship. In this instance, you would need to apply and be accepted onto the Fellowship, at which time you would apply for the Masa grant. As long as you are Masa eligible as per the criteria set by Masa, you will receive Masa funding provided we have accepted you onto the program.
Masa Israel Grants Available
Masa offers several types of financial support:
Universal Israel Grants
Every Masa participant automatically receives a universal grant, with amounts varying based on program length and type:
Long-term programs (5-12 months): $3,000-$4,000
Short-term programs (2-4 months): $500-$1,000
Need-Based Israel Scholarships
Additional scholarships are available based on financial need, ranging from $500 to $7,500. These consider factors like:
Family income
Number of dependents
Outstanding loans
Current financial obligations
Special Israel Scholarships
Masa also offers targeted scholarships for:
Jewish educators
Young professionals
Academic excellence
Leadership potential
Specific geographic regions
Masa Israel Eligibility
Masa Israel sets certain eligibility criteria for their scholarships, and it is worth visiting this page here to first ascertain your eligibility. However it can be broken down as follows.
To be eligible for Masa funding you have to:
Be Jewish
Not have Israeli citizenship (or if you do, you must have left Israel before the age of 14
Have not been on an organized post-high program (inc academic) of more than 4 months in Israel since Sept 2004
Have not spent more than 4 consecutive months or longer in Israel in the 24 months prior to the start date of your chosen program
How to Apply for Masa Scholarships
Step 1: Choose Your Program
First, select and apply to a Masa-approved program. You can browse options on the Masa website across various categories like internships, volunteering, or studying.
Step 2: Create a Masa Profile
Visit Masa's website and create your personal profile. You'll need:
Personal information
Program details
Educational background
Jewish involvement history
Step 3: Submit Financial Documents
For need-based scholarships, prepare:
Recent tax returns
Pay stubs
Bank statements
Financial aid forms
Student loan documentation
Step 4: Complete the Scholarship Application
Fill out the scholarship application through your Masa portal, including:
Personal statement
Financial need explanation
Community involvement
Future goals
Step 5: Interview (If Required)
Some scholarships require a brief interview with Masa representatives or local Jewish community organizations.
Beyond Masa Scholarships
Don't forget to explore additional funding sources:
Local Jewish Federation scholarships
Synagogue support
Community foundation grants
Program-specific scholarships
Jewish youth organization alumni grants
Next Steps
Research Masa programs that interest you
Start gathering your financial documentation
Create your Masa profile
Begin your scholarship application
Contact a Masa advisor for guidance
Remember, investing time in a thorough scholarship application can significantly reduce your program costs. Don't let financial concerns prevent you from experiencing Israel – Masa's scholarship system is designed to make these transformative experiences accessible to as many young Jews as possible.
Questions about Masa scholarships? Contact our program recruitment coordinator here at Yahel, Mike, for more information.
Click here to connect with Mike or send him at email at michael@yahelisrael.com
Alternatively you can get in touch with your local Masa representative or visit the Masa Israel Journey website for more information.
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