VOLUNTEER IN ISRAEL - APPLICATION INFORMATION
Apply for the
Yahel Social Change Fellowship
Program Dates: September 15, 2026 - June 30, 2027
Application Process
STEP 1: INITIAL CALL
Schedule a conversation with our team to learn about the fellowship and see if it's right for you.
STEP 2: SUBMIT APPLICATION
Complete your application including:
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Personal information, education and work background and health questions
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Four short personal statements covering community experience, Jewish background, motivation, and relationship with Israel
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Resume upload
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Contact information for two professional references
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$100 application fee
STEP 3: INTERVIEW PROCESS
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Interview with our Executive Director
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Conversation with a Yahel alumni
STEP 4: ACCEPTANCE & ONBOARDING
If accepted:
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$900 program fee payment
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Apply for Masa scholarship (if eligible) or Gesher scholarship
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Submit medical and background check forms
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Complete any specified steps for non-Masa visa (e.g. background apostille, visa application form)
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Join pre-program webinars with your cohort
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until spots are filled.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Application Fee: $100
Program Fee: $900
Total: $1,000
The actual cost per fellow to Yahel is over $14,000 - This price is heavily subsidized by Israeli municipalities, Jewish federations, foundations, and Masa-Israel Journey / Gesher Scholarship Fund.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Housing & Living:
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Fully furnished apartments
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Monthly stipend of 1,000 shekels
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Free health insurance
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Transportation to volunteer placements
Programming:
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Hebrew and Arabic language courses
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Profession and personal development programming
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Educational seminars and day trips
FINANCIAL AID
1. Masa-Israel Journey Grant:
Available for eligible Jewish young adults from participating countries. Apply directly from Masa website once accepted onto Fellowship.
Masa is the global leader in immersive international experiences in Israel for young Jewish adults. Since 2004, Masa has helped over 150,000 young adults from 60+ countries strengthen their connection with Israel through meaningful programs.
2. Gesher Scholarship
Available for those not eligible for Masa grants. Application included in onboarding stage once accepted onto Fellowship.
The Gesher Scholarship helps exceptional changemakers from around the world take part in Yahel’s 9-month Social Change Fellowship in Israel - especially those not eligible for traditional funding such as Masa. Founded by a former Yahel fellow, it has already supported 15 participants from 8 countries, fueling a more inclusive and globally diverse movement for meaningful service and social impact in Israel. Learn more >
CANCELLATION POLICY
Application fee: Refunded if not accepted; non-refundable if you withdraw after acceptance
Before July 1, 2026: Full refund minus $500 cancellation fee
After July 1, 2026: No refund
