Basic training courses in the IDF vary depending on your job placement and the location of your training base.
There are different levels of training for combat soldiers (Kravi), who complete training levels 03, 05, or 07, and non-combat soldiers, who complete 02 training. Within each of these groups, the approach to basic training tends to be different on each base.
What Can I Expect from Basic Training?
Despite the differences between the levels of training within the groups, certain elements are constant to basic training. Every course includes gun training, physical training and requires soldiers to help guard the base. You will be trained in matters of discipline and expected to complete tasks within defined time periods. Some of these tasks include how much sleep you get, your breaks, the time you spend eating, and even your speed at getting into line. There will be a sense of distance between you and your commanders, which means that you will need to learn how to approach them appropriately and ask permission for a range of requests.
Before you start basic training, it is important to speak to friends and hear their experiences, so that you will have a broader idea of what to expect during your course.
Keep in mind that ultimately, which basic training course you do depends on the job you are given in the army, and this relates directly to your Hebrew level and physical profile. Many positions in the IDF will require you to take a course. Depending on your placement, the length of your course can be anywhere from one to seven months long or longer.
Training Levels (Rova’i)
The IDF classifies basic training using a numbered scale known as Rova’i (רובאי).
The training levels are:
| Training Level | Description |
|---|---|
| 02 | Non-combat soldiers. Basic training generally lasts one month or longer. |
| 03 | Soldiers serving in Shiryon, Totachim, and Hagnash units. |
| 05 / 07 | Combat (Kravi) soldiers. Includes approximately seven months of basic and advanced training. |
| 08 | Soldiers who successfully complete the combat commanders course. |
| 12 | Combat officers course. |
| 13 | Pilots course. |
If you have additional questions about basic training, please email army@nbn.org.il.