- When should I apply?
Atid operates on a semester system; Fall semester begins in early August and Spring semester in mid-January. It is recommended that you apply at least two-three months before you wish to begin the program.
- How do I apply?
Beginning the application process is simple. Start by completing the Preliminary Application form. Within 24-48 hours after you submit your application, an Atid team member will contact you to conduct a phone interview. Upon completion of the phone interview, you will be asked to fill out Additional Forms and post a $500 deposit. (You will receive the full $500 deposit back after successfully completing the program.)
- Who can join the program?
Program participants must be Jewish, English-speaking, between the ages of 18-19, have not been on an organized long-term program since September 2004 and have graduated high school by the program start date.
- What is the level of observance on the program?
Our program are rooted in pluralism - an approach which encourages Jewish diversity and a safe, open environment among our participants. Our groups observe the laws of kashrut and do not travel on Shabbat. We will observe Shabbat with Kabbalat Shabbat and Havdallah services, special text studies and rest.
- Can I visit my family in Israel?
Of course! Part of the Israel experience is spending time with Israelis. You will be allowed to visit with friends and family in Israel during free time and Shabbat, with the permission of the program director. We suggest that you bring a letter from your parents listing the names, phone numbers and addresses of family members in Israel. You will not be permitted to visit anyone in the areas of Israel deemed off limits for security reasons.
- What language is the program conducted in?
The program is conducted in English. All participants must have mother-tongue level English in order to take part in all activities.
- Can I learn Hebrew on Atid?
Absolutely! Part of our five-pillar structure includes Ulpan (intensive Hebrew studies).
- Who is responsible for the group in Israel?
Two counselors (both fluent English and Hebrew speakers) live on-site with our participants, and care for them with compassion and Oranim senior staff (including Atid Director and Oranim President) are in constant contact with the group and are responsible for their safety and security. On trips, the group will also be accompanied by a licensed Tour Educator, as well as a medic/security guard when necessary. Parents/guardians will be able to reach a member of our team - including the Atid Director - 24/7 throughout the duration of the program.
- What will my day look like?
The Atid schedule is full of activity - your weekly routine of volunteer work, Hebrew studies, Jewish/Israeli studies, activities with Israelis and touring will ensure that you are never, ever bored! To get a better idea of the typical program structure, take a look at our Sample Schedule.
- Will I have any free time?
Most weekday evenings and Saturdays you will have to yourself - to relax and hang out on Kibbutz-Educational Village. Twice weekly you will have a "night out" in Tel Aviv-Yafo!
- How much does the program cost?
The program cost varies based on country of residence and financial status. For a clear understanding of the cost of the program, please see the Tuition & Scholarships page.
- Is the cost of airfare included in the price?
The cost of airfare from New York to Israel AND from Israel to our trip-abroad site are included in the price. You are responsible for transportation to and from New York.
- How much money should I bring with me?
You will want some pocket money for social outings and snack food on Kibbutz-Educational Village. Remember to bring sufficient funds to cover such things as toiletries. On average, we recommend that participant bring between $50-150 a month, based on your lifestyle.
- How can I get a scholarship to participate in the program?
Atid is a recognized program of MASA Israel, and therefore, all program participants automatically receive a grant. The amount of the grant varies based on certain criteria and can be seen on our Tuition & Scholarships page. Participants are required to complete a separate application to receive the MASA Israel grants and can find this in the Additional Forms section of the application.
MASA Israel also maintains a list of additional scholarship options. . Click here to view this list.
Also, most Jewish Federations throughout the USA and Canada will offer you some funding. To see a complete list of Jewish Federations, click here.
Another resource for finding scholarships online is Fastweb.
- Do I need health insurance while on the program?
Absolutely! You can never know what can happen while abroad. Be prepared! Each participant is responsible to purchase their own health insurance package for the duration of the program. If you already have health insurance with a major provider in the USA, can check if it covers you in Israel. If you elect to use your American carrier, you must have at least $1000 at your immediate disposal (you will have to pay full cost for all medical care here, and be reiumbursed in the states). To avoid these complications, we recommend Pheonix health insurance - comprehensive traveller’s coverage which costs you only $1.50 a day.
- What are the living arrangements?
Participants live in Kibbutz-Educational Village guest houses. Two participants will share a room with a closet, two single beds, a full bathroom and cable TV. The group shares a private common kitchen and gathering area.
- What computer facilities are there and can I bring a laptop?
Your room will have wireless internet, so we encourage you to bring your laptop! Atid will not provide computers.
- Will I have a chance to get to know Israelis?
Absolutely! We will get to know a group of Israelis who are engaging in a similar Gap-Year program in facilitated mifgashim (“encounters”) and structured free time. Additionally, you will be matched with a "host-family" on Kibbutz-Educational Village, who will help make you feel at home in Israel and introduce you to Israeli culture from the kitchen and the living room.
- How can I rent a cell phone?
Atid works with Israel Phones to offer participants the best rental rates possible while in Israel. In addition to superior rates, calls within the group are free! You will receive more information about cell phone rental when you apply to Atid.
- Do I need to arrange a visas?
Tourists receive an automatic 3-month visa upon arrival in Israel. Atid will arrange visa extensions with the Ministry of Interior near the end of the first three months.
- Where can I get more details?
Still have questions that weren't answered here? Simply visit our Contact Us page to ask us your question.
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