Q: Is Hebrew reading a requirement?
A: No. If you need help with Hebrew reading, our staff of trained tutors will help you develop a vocabulary of basic Hebrew and Aramaic. Is is a good idea for you to attain as much practice in Hebrew reading as you can before the beginning of the Yeshivalite summer semester that will certainly enhance your Yeshivalite experience.
Q: Do I need to be observant in order to join Yeshivalite?
A: Yeshivalite is designed to help Jewish students and young professionals develop Torah learning skills and to enhance their spirituality. Yeshivalite does not require you to be observant, however, you are expected to be interested in further growth in the observance of Torah and Mitzvot. If you are completely non-observant, we recommend that you join either the Sinai Retreats
http://www.sinairetreats.com/, the JLE Israel program
http://www.jle.org/, or the Jerusalem Fellowships summer program
Q: I have experienced summer programs before. Can I gain anything from Yeshivalite?
A:Most likely, yes.
If you joined the Birthright Israel Trip or any other summer Torah study program in Israel or abroad, chances are Yeshivalite is the perfect follow-up program for you.
Even if you attended a Yeshiva study program for an extended period of time, Yeshivalite may benefit you. However, your particular level of knowledge should be discussed in detail with Rabbi Jacobovitz to determine your status.
Q: What if I can't come for the entire program? Can I participate in part of it?
A: The Yeshivalite concept is designed for a specific period of time. Unfortunately, we cannot accept students who cannot participate in the entire program. We can, however, accommodate when minor adjustments in your schedule are required. Please share your concerns with us and, whenever possible, we will try to accommodate you.
Q: What are the age requirements?
A: Most students attending Yeshivalite are of college age or are young professionals just out of undergraduate or graduate schools. However exceptions are made for older participants who are young and enthusiastic at heart.
Q: If I am married, can I join?
A: Yes. Regarding housing, you will have to make your own arrangements. (We would love to help you locate living quarters in the neighborhood.)
Q: Are there any scholarships available toward airfare?
A: Yes. There are a limited number of partial scholarships available. They will be granted according to the financial status of each participant. As in the case of tuition scholarships, you will need to submit a request for assistance.
Q: What about scholarships and other financial aid?
A: No one wishing to study Torah should be prevented from doing so due to a lack of funds. We expect you to do your best to cover the costs, however, if you experience any difficulty doing so we will provide you with a scholarship. All you need to do is submit a formal request for financial aid explaining your financial situation.
Q: Can I contact Yeshivalite graduates to gain some more insight?
A: Yes. Please email Rabbi Jacobovitz at
rabbiaj AT gmail DOT com and you will be sent contact information for alumni references.
Q: Is there any free time?
A: The daily schedule includes a long break each afternoon. Late evenings (after classes) are free. Two weekends (Friday morning- Saturday night) will be your choice to travel and/or visit family and friends. The other weekends (Friday and Shabbat) we will experience together as a group.
Q: Is the neighborhood safe?
A: Yeshivalite is located in the Har Nof neighborhood of Jerusalem. The beautiful neighborhood is nestled in the western hills of Jerusalem and is considered a safe place to live.
Q: Are trips part of the Yeshivalite program?
A: Yes. Even though the Yeshivalite program is primarily a Yeshiva study program, we believe that traveling together visiting the special and holy Land greatly enhances the Yeshivalite experience.
Q: What will it cost me to join Yeshivalite?
A: Cost - $600 per two-week session. Financial assistance available upon request.