Ministry of Aliyah and Integration — Ulpan Hebrew Study, Voucher Program, and School Registration

Source: Israeli Government Guide for New Immigrants · 2026-05

19 adjusted for specific groups: pensioners, young academics, the ultra-orthodox sector, and others. The ulpanim vary in other aspects: A morning ulpan (ulpan boker) versus an evening ulpan (ulpan erev), and so forth. The duration of studies in ulpan is about five months. According to the most recent temporary order, the eligibility period for ulpan classes is ten years from the date of aliyah, or from the date of eligibility for becoming a new immigrant. For additional information about Hebrew study options and registration to an ulpan consult with an absorption counselor. After registration you will receive a referral to an ulpan that exempts you from tuition. As of the time of this publication, eligibility for ulpan studies is for ten years following the receipt of a new-immigrant status or eligibility as a new immigrant. At any rate, it is highly recommended to study Hebrew as soon as possible. For more information about ulpan options, contact a local branch office of the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. Once you have registered in the ulpan, you will receive a voucher for the ulpan exempting you from payment. The Voucher Program for Hebrew Study In addition to Ministry of Education subsidized ulpans, there are privately operated Hebrew-language study courses. In order to enable appropriate learning programs for new immigrants, the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration offers vouchers - i.e., participation in the costs of studying in private frameworks- before, after, or instead of - the studies in “ulpan alef “ (initial ulpan studies). The private frameworks that operate these programs are listed in a pre - set data base of institutions that is published on the website of the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration. One must inquire about eligibillity for the Voucher Program with the personal absorption counselor at the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration branch near one’s residence. Living Subsidy during Ulpan Study A living subsidy during the period of studying at an ulpan, during the first six months after aliyah, is included within the Absorption Basket. In certain cases, new immigrants may be eligible for a

20 payment of assured income during the period of ulpan study, and until the end of the first year: Consult with the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration for details. Transportation Expenses Payment for transportation to the ulpan is included in the absorption basket. If the ulpan is in a regional council, there is usually an option for transportation to the ulpan from neighboring communities. A new immigrant who does not receive the Absorption Basket can be eligible for participation in the costs of transportation if the ulpan is outside of their community and there is no ulpan nearby. Learning Hebrew online Ministry of Aliyah and Integration operates a website called “Absorbing Hebrew” (Koltim Ivrit) for the study of the Hebrew language as part of the “Language Empowerment” project. This project is aimed at new or veteran olim who want to improve their command of the Hebrew language, understand the origins of the language, and learn about Israeli culture reflected in the language. In Hebrew: https://govextra.gov.il/moia/learn-hebrew-he/he/ In English: https://govextra.gov.il/moia/learn-hebrew/en/ Registering Children in School and Day Care The “Compulsory Education Law” The “Compulsory Education Law” - 1949 (also known as “Compulsory Learning Law”) requires all children in Israel to be in an educational framework (kindergarten or school) from ages 3-17 (from kindergarten until the end of 12th grade). In accordance with the law the State provides free education to children who are in kindergartens, primary, and high schools. See the chapter “Education” in this publication.