There are several specialized army programs available for Olim and Lone Soldiers who are interested in specific frameworks during their IDF service. These programs provide additional support, guidance, and frameworks tailored to different needs and backgrounds.
Tzofim Garin Tzabar
Garin Tzabar creates a group framework of guidance and support for young Jews and Israelis living abroad who choose to spend a significant time in Israel and serve in the Israeli army. The program includes a thorough preparation process that includes discussion, questioning, and personal reflection prior to arrival in Israel. Once participants arrive in Israel, there is a three-month absorption process before military service. During this period, participants are placed in a hosting kibbutz that becomes their home away from home.
The absorption process includes:
- Preparation for military service
- Educational activities
- Tours throughout Israel
- Hebrew studies at Ulpan
The process is monitored by a Scout member and handled by the Garin Tzabar staff, including:
- Director
- Counselors
- Hebrew teachers
- IDF soldiers
- Educators
During the 2–3 years of military service, soldiers receive:
- Personal guidance and support
- Group seminars and trips
- Weekends and holidays with adoptive families at the kibbutz
- Support from IDF officials and Garin Tzabar staff to resolve personal and military issues
Religious Army Service Options
There are several religious army service options in the IDF, including:
- Hesder
- Nachal Haredi
- Mahal Hesder
- And more
Click here to learn more.
Mahal
Mahal assists young Jews from all over the world who are not Israeli citizens to volunteer for the IDF for 18 months without making Aliyah. For more details, see: Serving in Mahal.
Atudat Olim
Atudat Olim is for new Olim who wish to complete their university studies prior to doing their army service. After completing your Tzav Rishon, you continue with your studies.
If you are studying in a technical institution (for example, engineers or technicians):
- You have one year after your arrival in Israel to begin your studies.
- You have four years to complete them.
For other academic studies programs:
- You must begin within 18 months of your arrival in Israel.
- You have three years to complete your studies.
Once you complete your studies, if the army places you in a position that is relevant to your field of studies, you may be required to serve for up to five years. According to the army’s decision, during the last 2–3 years of your service, you will receive Keva (a higher army salary).
If the army is unable to place you in a position relevant to your field of studies, you will have to serve the amount of time that you were required to before signing up for Atudat Olim.
Academezatzia
Academezatzia is an army service program that allows you to use an existing college or university degree to be placed in a relevant job in the army. The program includes an additional requirement to serve as an officer.
There are several steps involved with signing up for this program. The first step is to get your foreign degree recognized by the Israeli Ministry of Education. This process can be started by clicking here.