Israel has been ranked the second most literate country globally, rising above developed countries like Japan and the US. It also boasts one of the lowest unemployment rates for citizens under 30. With so much academic and professional success, it’s natural to be curious about Israel’s educational system.

Whether you’re hoping to complete your postgraduate studies in Israel or are simply wondering if it’s a viable option to bring your children to the country, here are some interesting facts about schooling in Israel.

Boarding Schools Are Not For The Elite

When we think of boarding schools, we often imagine large private establishments usually reserved for the elite class. However, when it comes to boarding schools in Israel, they’re mostly reserved for the underprivileged.

Nearly 9% of government-funded schools in Israel are boarding schools, and the main purpose is to take in disadvantaged youth who can otherwise not afford an education. The boarding school gives them the necessary resources to get not only an education but also the basic amenities to lead a decent life once they graduate.

Tests Aren’t Prioritized

Did you know that students take around 112 standardized tests during their school life? The constant testing can be incredibly stressful and takes the focus away from learning for information retention and places it on high grades. Unlike this prevalent and predictable system in educational institutions worldwide, Israel’s education doesn’t place high importance on standardized testing. A lot of grading is allocated towards assignments rather than tests, making for a fair distribution that takes the pressure of constant exams and surprises quizzes off students.

Local Youth Movements Are Encouraged

To assimilate children into Israeli society and give them a chance to participate in extracurricular activities, a local youth movement is set in place that can be joined as early as 4^th grade.

The program helps promote social change and action within the youth. Each movement has its own political or religious philosophy that they carry out through activities. The program helps build social awareness and life-long friendships, and by the time students are in high school, they can become youth movement leaders themselves!  

Want to help you and your family assimilate into Israeli society as well? Get in touch with us at Ulpan-Or for our immigration immersion program. We provide Hebrew language learning classes that can help you be more comfortable in Israel. Contact us today for more information.