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Welcome to Bar-Ilan University!
Bar-Ilan University’s International Student Exchange Program offers a unique opportunity to experience one of Israel’s leading universities, centrally located in the metropolitan area of Tel Aviv.
Students from all academic levels who are enrolled at our partner universities are invited to join us and become part of our exceptional academic institution, characterized by a warm sense of community and a remarkable fusion of Jewish heritage and academic excellence.
Exchange students from partner universities enjoy the benefit of tuition-free education and can choose from a wide variety of English courses.
As part of your experience at Bar-Ilan and in Israel, you will have the chance to explore a small yet diverse country that offers unique attractions for travelers of all ages and backgrounds. Israel boasts scenic desert landscapes, lush forests, and breathtaking beaches.
The semester at Bar-Ilan University spans 13 weeks (approximately three months), with an additional three weeks dedicated to examinations.
Lecture period: Mid-October to mid/end of January.
Exam period: End of January to mid-March.
Lecture period: Mid-March to end of June.
Exam period: July to August.
For the exact dates of the different semesters, please refer to the Academic Schedule provided by the university.
The course credits you earn at Bar-Ilan University may be transferable toward your degree, subject to approval by your home institution.
Undergraduate students: 2 Israeli credits equal 3-5 ECTS
Graduate students: 2 Israeli credits equal 6-10 ECTS
The credit conversion can vary depending on the degree and intensity of the course.
An accurate evaluation of credits will be determined by both your home and hosting institutions.
| A+ | 96-100% |
| A | 86-95% |
| B | 76-85% |
| C | 66-75% |
| D | 60-65% |
| F | Failed |
Our application process is designed to guide you step by step, ensuring a seamless and comfortable experience as you navigate the requirements.
First, your home university, through its Student Exchange Program, must nominate you for Bar-Ilan University’s Student Exchange Program.
Note: If you are a staff member from one of our partner universities, please make sure to send your students’ nominations to [email protected] and copy [email protected].
Nomination deadline for the Fall semester and full academic year: June 1.
Nomination deadline for the Spring semester: November 15.
After receiving the nominations, we will reach out to you with an official application. You’ll be asked to provide essential documents, including:
Our Student Exchange team will review and process your application. You will then receive an email confirming your acceptance to the exchange program at Bar-Ilan University. In addition, you’ll receive an official acceptance letter.
Once you have received an official application letter from us, you should start your visa application process and explore accommodation solutions.
Application deadline for Fall semester and full academic year: July 1.
Application deadline for Spring semester: December 15.
Once you have completed Step 1, you will be able to choose your courses, an important aspect of your academic journey as a student!
You can start by reviewing our university’s comprehensive Course Catalog, which provides a list of English and Hebrew courses available in various disciplines or fields of study. This catalog includes information such as the course description, prerequisites, credits, hours, and the names of the faculty members who teach the courses.
When looking in the catalog, please make sure to indicate the course language and semester (A for Fall, B for Spring, or yearly) in the “Advanced Search” section.
While choosing your courses, please take into consideration that the course list is finalized about two months before the academic year begins (around August). Once your home university approves your selected courses, please make sure to send your Learning Agreement to [email protected].
We highly recommend scheduling a visa appointment at your local Israeli embassy as soon as you receive your official application letter.
Please prepare the following documents:
Please visit our Visa Information page or email [email protected] for more detailed information and further assistance.
Bar-Ilan University offers various dormitory options on campus, providing a comfortable living environment. Visit our Dormitories page or reach out to [email protected] with any questions regarding pricing or additional information.
Health insurance is mandatory for international students and must be arranged before arriving in Israel. While you can choose your insurance provider, we recommend considering “Harel Yedidim”, a company that specializes in serving international students. Please visit our Health Insurance page for further information.
We are excited to have you join us as part of Bar-Ilan University’s Student Exchange program. Whether you are here for a semester or an entire academic year, we want to ensure that your time at our university and in Israel will be fulfilling and memorable.
We’ve provided information for you on some essential things you need to know when you arrive and will find useful while you’re here.
There are many ways to get to Bar-Ilan University from the airport. You can take a taxi, bus, or a combination of train and bus. BIU doesn’t have a train station nearby yet, so you will need to take the train to Tel Aviv Hashalom train station and catch a bus from there. Bus numbers 68, 69, 45, 61, and 161 will take you to BIU.
The best way to determine your route if you plan to use public transport is to download the “Moovit” app. It provides fairly accurate details of routes, times, bus numbers, and where to find them. The app is a great help to find your way around Israel with ease.
If you’d like to use a taxi, you need to look for the taxi stand outside the arrivals section on your left. According to regulations, only taxis at this stand have been approved to take passengers from the airport. There is a taxi coordinator who will give you a printed approval ticket for the driver.
Note: Charges are billed by meter only. Taxis charge per person and per bag. You will be able to see the prices at the taxi stand.
On the Israel Airports Authority website under Airports > Ben Gurion, you will find information about transportation, travel documents, and more. You will also be able to calculate the approximate fare to the university.
The Rav-Kav card is a smart card used to make electronic payments for buses and trains throughout Israel. Buses require payment through the card and won’t accept cash. You can get one at the airport upon your arrival. The Rav-Kav office is situated in the reception hall next to exit gate 2.
You can also buy the bus card at any central bus station, or you can order one online. These are personal cards and you will be eligible for student benefits.
To buy the card at a central bus station, you will need to show your passport. To change the status of your card to student, you will need your passport and a certificate of study.
Alternatively, there is an app called Rav-Kav Online, which you can download to your phone. This app allows you to scan your card so that you can load cash onto the card, view your history, check your balance, apply for a student discount, and more.
Another way to pay for public transport is to download one of the public transport payment apps (like Moovit), scan your phone on the bus or train, and pay for all travel at the end of the month.
So, it’s up to you to decide whether you want to pay using a Rav-Kav card or using your Smartphone. Full details are available at this link, Scan and Go.
These amounts are, of course, a general guideline. Your actual expenses will depend on your spending habits.
Average monthly costs (all values approximate):
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (in ILS/NIS/₪) |
| Accommodation (Private room in a shared apartment) |
₪ 2,300 – 2,400 |
| Food and Groceries | ₪ 600 – 800 |
| Health Insurance | ₪ 150 – 300 |
| Study Materials | ₪ 100 – 200 |
| Personal Expenses and Leisure | ₪ 600 – 800 |
| Total | ₪ 3750 – 4500 |
The map of the campus is available also online – Campus Map, together with the list of campus buildings (all numbered). The closest entrances to the International School are through Gate 1 (vehicle entrance, must be pre-arranged) and Gate 2 (pedestrians’ entrance). After working hours, you can access Gate 1 on foot. All gates are closed to vehicles on Saturdays (Shabbat) and holidays.
Bar-Ilan International School’s Student Services Center is here to support you and give you the best university experience possible. We aim to ensure there is a vibrant social community on campus and, to do this, we organize engaging social activities and other events for all students.
The Dean of Students Office promotes student welfare on campus, providing a range of services designed to help all students with their personal, financial, social, and academic needs. The office provides equal opportunities for students and applicants coping with physical, mental, social, and/or academic disabilities.
Students who seek additional assistance other than what is provided by the university departments are welcome to contact the Dean of Students office and request special consideration. Any student with a medical disability is entitled to assistance, academic tutoring, counseling, and technical support during exams.
If you need more information about the services offered, please get in touch with the Dean of Students Office directly:
Location: Building 509
Tel: +972-3-531-8274/5
Email: [email protected]
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the campus.
For more information, please visit our section on Online Systems.
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Bar-Ilan University stands as a beacon of excellence, renowned for its commitment to academic rigor, innovation, and cultural diversity. Located in the vibrant city of Ramat Gan, Israel, this esteemed institution offers a transformative educational experience that nurtures intellectual curiosity and fosters personal growth.
Established in 1955, Bar-Ilan University has evolved into a world-class institution, attracting students from across the globe who seek to expand their knowledge and engage in cutting-edge research. With a comprehensive range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, law, business, and medicine, the university provides an extensive array of academic opportunities tailored to individual passions and aspirations.
The faculty at Bar-Ilan University is comprised of distinguished scholars, researchers, and industry professionals who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of knowledge. Their expertise and guidance provide students with a stimulating learning environment that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and intellectual exploration.
Bar-Ilan University prides itself on its research-intensive environment, fostering groundbreaking discoveries and innovations that have a significant impact on various fields. From pioneering advancements in nanotechnology and neuroscience to influential studies in Jewish philosophy and Middle Eastern studies, the university’s research initiatives contribute to the global academic community and address pressing societal challenges.
In addition to academic excellence, Bar-Ilan University offers a vibrant campus life that complements the pursuit of knowledge. Students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, including cultural events, clubs, and sports, which foster a sense of community and create opportunities for personal growth and networking.
As a participant in the Bar-Ilan Student Exchange Program, you will not only have the chance to immerse yourself in a world-class academic environment, but you will also be able to embrace the rich cultural heritage of Israel. Exploring the country’s historical landmarks, engaging with its diverse population, and deepening your understanding of its complex social fabric will leave you with an adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Join us at Bar-Ilan University and unlock your full potential as you embark on an unforgettable educational journey that will shape your future and broaden your horizons. Experience the synergy of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and personal growth in the heart of Israel.
You will need to follow the application process outlined under the “Before your Arrival” tab.
The duration of the program can vary, but Student Exchange programs at Bar-Ilan University typically range from one semester to a full academic year. You can see the specific semester dates in the Academic Schedule.
Yes, credits earned during the exchange program will be transferred back to your home institution by you. Each student can issue an official transcript through the Inbar system.General Credit Conversion from Israeli Credits to ECTS:
Undergraduate Courses: 1 Israeli credit equals 4-6 ECTS
Graduate Courses: 1 Israeli credit equals 5-7 ECTS
The credit conversion can vary depending on the degree and intensity of the course.
An accurate evaluation of credits will be determined by both your home and hosting institutions.
Bar-Ilan University offers newly renovated, on-campus dormitories for exchange students. The specific availability and application process will be communicated to you during the application process. You can visit the “Before Your Arrival” tab or Dormitories for International Students for more information.
The Erasmus+ International Credit Mobility program supports students from EU countries studying abroad. Students who come using Erasmus+ grants are selected by their home universities.
Other scholarships, if available, are provided by your home university.
Absolutely! Bar-Ilan University encourages student involvement in extracurricular activities and offers a vibrant campus life. You will have opportunities to participate in clubs, cultural events, and sports activities, allowing you to engage with fellow students and explore Israeli culture.
Once accepted into the Student Exchange Program, you will receive detailed pre-arrival information, including guidance on visa requirements, health insurance, and accommodation arrangements. It is advisable to stay in touch with the program coordinators and carefully follow the instructions provided and the information found on BIU’s International School website under the Student Exchange section. We also recommend that you read our detailed Student Orientation Guide, which includes a great amount of relevant information. It is available for you to download or print.
Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the academic, cultural, and social aspects of the university and Israel. Engage with the local community, participate in campus activities, and explore the country’s rich history and landmarks. Don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow students, faculty members, and the International School’s support services whenever you have questions or need assistance.
