In 2021, almost 10,000 international students chose to study in Israel. The number of international students interested in heading to the sunny, historic country is also growing each year, with searches for “studying in Israel” increasing rapidly between January 2022 and June 2022.
If you’re thinking about heading to Israel for your studies, you’re probably excited to start exploring the historical sites, beautiful beaches, and Middle Eastern-inspired culinary scene. But there’s one thing you also have to think about: the cost of studying in Israel.
Unfortunately for students, Israel can almost count itself as one of the world’s top 10 most expensive countries (it appears at number 11 on the list). This means that day-to-day costs may be higher than other popular study-abroad destinations like France or the Netherlands.
So, how much does it really cost to study in Israel? Let’s look at tuition fees and daily cost of living to find out.
Study in Israel: Tuition Fees
Tuition fees for programmes in Israel can vary considerably depending on the institution and course that you choose. However, in general, you can expect to pay:
- €3,600-€15,000 per year for a Bachelor’s course
- €3,100–€26,000 per year for a Master’s course
These fees are comparable to other European countries that don’t subsidise international tuition fees.
At some universities, like the University of Tel Aviv, the tuition fee for a Master’s programme covers two years, not one, making it cheaper than other universities that charge per year.
The Cost of Living in Israel
As with tuition fees, costs can change depending on where you live in Israel, as well as the lifestyle you want to have as a student. Grabbing coffee every day will add up, as well as shopping trips and travel experiences!
There are three main city regions for international students in Israel. In these cities, you’ll find the top universities in Israel and a large proportion of young people and students.
- Jerusalem: Israel’s capital, and home to top universities like the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, the city has a price tag that befits the capital.
- Tel Aviv: Known as one of the world’s most expensive cities, this is also Israel’s most cosmopolitan, known for its beautiful beach and vibrant nightlife.
- Haifa: The third-largest city in Israel on the country’s northern coastline, Haifa is a blend of history and technology, with an affordable cost of living compared to the larger cities.
So, as with most countries, there’s a large difference in cost depending on where you choose to study in Israel – whether in a city or a large town.
Now, we’ll dive into the specifics of the cost of living in Israel. Where costs are detailed, these will be an average for Israel, unless a city is specified. Also remember that, while costs here are given in Euros, the currency in Israel is the New Israel Shekel/NIS (or shekel for short).
Rent
As we’ve mentioned, costs are going to be significantly higher if you study in a large city in Israel.
In Jerusalem, a one-bedroom apartment in the city could set you back between €900-€1,500. In Tel Aviv, the same city-centre apartment will be much more – between €1,250-€1,900.
As an international student, your university will be able to help you with finding accommodation for your course. For example, most universities provide subsidised student housing for international students, though there may be a waiting list.
As an example of prices, shared dormitories at Tel Aviv University range from €580-€900 depending on the size of the apartment and the number of roommates you’ll have.
Food
Grocery shopping is going to be another big expense while you’re studying abroad. However, in Israel, you’ll find a lot of deals on street food, often for just €2-€3. This means you can spare your budget and explore the local food scene at the same time!
If you are wanting to cook at home, markets are going to be an affordable place for fruit and vegetables, where you can pick up lots of seasonal produce for less. Here are some examples of the costs of typical purchases in a supermarket (in Jerusalem):
- Loaf of bread: 4.50-16 NIS (€1.20-€4)
- 1kg apples: 9-14 NIS (€2.25-€3.50)
- 12 eggs: 9-19.20 NIS (€2.25-€4.80)
In restaurants, you’ll find a range of cheaper lunch deals consisting of one or two courses. However, as we’ve mentioned, a cheap street food meal of falafel and hummus could cost just €2.50. At casual restaurants, you’ll find plates for around €7.50-€12.50.
Entertainment
As you study in Israel, you also want to explore the beautiful country you’re living in. For that, a budget for entertainment is necessary. Remember that many places will offer student discounts, so remember to carry your student ID when you go out for the day.
For example, a trip to a museum in Jerusalem will cost around €10, while a cinema ticket will be around €10.50. If you want to get around the country while you study, a monthly public transport pass is around €50.
How Much Does it Cost to Study in Israel?
As an international student, there are some additional costs you’ll have to add to your budget for studying in Israel.
One of these is the cost of a student visa. All international students have to apply for an A2 student visa from the Israeli government, which costs 175 NIS (€44). To apply, you need the following documents:
- A letter of admission from your institution
- Proof you’ve paid tuition fees
- A valid passport
- A photo
- Birth certificate
You’ll also have to show proof that you have the financial means to study in Israel and support yourself. The student visa doesn’t allow you to work while you study.
For this, you can submit bank documents showing statements from the last 3 months. In general, it’s advised that you have between €400-€800 per month to live in Israel, not including any additional tuition fees that you haven’t paid yet.
Study IN Israel: Student Review
University of Haifa Review
This university has a diversity of people, they have a good program for new immigrants that helps with the universitiy studies after that.
The dorms for the students are well equiped, a little crowded but enought
Conclusion
Israel is rightly counted as one of the most expensive countries in the world. However, for the unique cultural experiences you can enjoy while studying, the price will be worth it for some!
Interested in finding out what the cost of studying elsewhere in Europe is like? Read our blog Study in Norway: Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in 2023.
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