Haredi Academic Enrollment Surges with New Support and Guidance Programs

Nearly 19,000 students from the Haredi education system are currently enrolled in Israeli higher education institutions, with around 67,000 graduates already integrated into the workforce. The Council for Higher Education (CHE) is working to clarify common questions about academic entry for Haredi students, including how to enter without a full matriculation certificate, available preparatory tracks, and what to expect during their studies.

Historically, many Haredi graduates viewed academia as inaccessible, often due to lack of information rather than ability or willingness. The CHE highlights that Haredi graduates with academic degrees have significantly higher employment rates, over 85%, and earn substantially more than their non-academic peers, with male graduates earning double and female graduates 1.5 times more on average.

To address barriers, the CHE runs the "Zerikor" program, offering free personalized counseling nationwide to help prospective Haredi students choose suitable fields, institutions, and understand admission requirements, scholarships, and cultural accommodations. Preparatory tracks include pre-academic "mekhinot" for those without full matriculation, with options to bypass some stages through the Mimad exam. Special accelerated tracks exist for certified teachers seeking a B.Ed degree.

Women have distinct pathways, often shorter, including one-semester preparatory courses for those with partial matriculation or external exams, and exemptions for certified teachers. Over 100 dedicated Haredi academic programs operate across Israel, providing cultural sensitivity and gender separation.

The CHE also emphasizes choosing fields aligned with labor market demand, which can improve employment prospects and scholarship eligibility. Financial aid includes the "Tnua" scholarship for first and select second degrees, the "Mil-Go" scholarship for preparatory students, and merit-based awards for advanced degrees.

Many Haredi graduates pursue advanced degrees, with about 3,000 enrolled in master's programs and 200 doctoral candidates involved in research. Master's degrees can be professional or research-oriented, the latter serving as a gateway to doctoral studies and academic careers.

The CHE stresses that informed decision-making, early professional guidance, and institutional support are key to successful academic integration and career advancement for Haredi students, transforming higher education into a viable and accessible opportunity.