Where to find the best internships in Israel this year.
This Guide is dedicated to Keith Berman. May his memory be a blessing.
When I made aliya in 1998, my first stop from the airport was Young Judea‘s Mercaz Hamagshimim (“Achievers' Center”) in Jerusalem.
The Mercaz compound included two dormitories, one for new olim like myself and one for foreign students on one year programs in Israel, and a community center where us residents ran volunteer programs and events mainly for the English-speaking community.
Keith Berman founded Mercaz Hamagshimim and was still serving as the Mercaz's director during the first year of my stay. He was someone I went to often for advice and support while I prepared to join the IDF, or when I just felt like chatting.
While researching this article, I was shocked and saddened to discover that Keith tragically passed away in November 2014. He left behind a wife and 3 kids, and a legacy of educating many young adults like myself about Israel and Zionism, including founding Aardvark Israel's gap year study program in Israel (see below) after he left the Mercaz.
To commemorate Keith's work, the Keith Berman AACI Israel Scholarship Fund “was established to assist more young people in participating in the Aardvark Israel Program and other quality long-term programs in Israel.”
Keith made a massive contribution to the Jewish people, and inspired many others to do so as well. Hopefully one of the programs listed here can help you do the same.
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How to use this list
First, signup to download your spreadsheet copy.
Then, read the descriptions below.
While reading, use the spreadsheet to note which programs to apply for, and later, track your progress.
One thing you'll need to keep in mind as you go through the list is that while some of the internships listed below are paid, many have significant fees to cover besides airfare and living expenses.
Even if your parents can help out or you can dip into some of your own savings, it might not be enough. So…
How will you fund your Israel internship?
Here are some ideas on how to pay your way:
- Apply for a Masa grant – many of the internships listed here allow you to cover at least part of your fees with a Masa grant
- Apply to other funds and scholarships, such as Keith Berman's fund mentioned above
- Crowdfund your internship using Gofundme, like Molly and Sophia
Another question I've been asked:
Any internships for non-Jews?
Many of the internships do specifically say they're aimed at Jews, but not all. If you're not Jewish, avoid organizations that specifically mention Judaism or Zionism in their name or internship description.
On to the list…
Spring 2017 internships
Israel-Asia Center Jobs and Internships – The Israel-Asia Center is currently seeking intern candidates for a number of positions. Currently seeking candidates for the following positions: Communications Intern (ongoing), Leadership Programs Intern (May – August, 2017).
Israel Tech Challenge Interns – “A heavily subsidized, resume-building program for talented tech students, offering a paid internship in high-level companies while living in Tel Aviv area, and experiencing the Israeli hi-tech culture.” (Internship runs from June 11 – August 17, 2017. Total Cost: $1000 and includes accommodation in Tel Aviv and educational contents) Registration is now open.
WUJS Israel – “over 400 customized internship and arts placements. Options Include: high tech, medical research, journalism, TV, new media, marketing, human rights, politics, photography, film production, visual arts and more. As a WUJS intern you’ll learn Hebrew in our private Ulpan, and learn more about the country with weekly trips exploring different areas and themes in Israeli culture. You’ll also develop friendships with Israeli students who also join the program’s activities.” (In addition to the Masa Israel grant, WUJS provides generous scholarships, with Young Judaea alumni eligible for further discounts.)
Summer 2017 internships
Clinical Data Programming Internship – TechnoSTAT is a cutting-edge Ra'anana-based clinical research firm that offers a wide range of services to global biomedical companies. If you are interested in data and clinical research, this 3-month (mid-July through mid-October 2017) internship is right for you. Interns who excel in the internship may be offered a full-time position at the conclusion of the internship. Interns will receive a stipend and local travel expenses are covered. To apply, start by registering for one of the testing dates by writing to intern@technostat.co.il.
Livnot Galilee Trek & Connect – Livnot, in partnering with the Israel Antiquities Authority and Onward Israel, is offering a community service program in the heart of the Galilee. You will be involved in various archaeological and volunteering activities that will let you explore Israel’s ancient past, impact its present, and preserve its future. Connect with the diverse population of northern Israel and your own personal and Jewish identity. Upcoming Program Date: Summer 2017, July 9th – August 20th
Summer iEngage Internship – The Shalom Hartman Institute iEngage Summer Internship Program offers a dynamic learning and research experience in a diverse, pluralistic community of fellow interns. During the six-week internship students have the opportunity to attend classes with Shalom Hartman Institute faculty and spend 20 hours/week supporting the research of a member of the Shalom Hartman Institute team. Interns who successfully complete the iEngage Summer Internship Program will receive a $2,000 stipend. Stipends are paid in full after completion of the program. Internship Dates: June 19, 2017 – July 27, 2017
AMIRIM – The WUJS Summer Experience – The perfect blend of structure and freedom to explore Israel on your own. You choose the length! 4 or 8 week options. You choose the location! Tel Aviv, Bat Yam and Jerusalem. Option to combine Jerusalem and Tel Aviv in one summer. Rich itinerary of inspiring day and overnight tours relating to Judaism, Israel and the Middle East. Live in apartments with Israeli students your own age!
Summer in Jerusalem – “OU-JLIC and Orayta are organizing an opportunity for college students to live, learn and work in Jerusalem. Join us as we create an exciting social and religious summer community in the heart of the Old City!” For Religious Jewish college-aged men and women. Participants will live together in the Old City, work in an internship during the day and study Torah in the evenings. ($800 if you set up an internship with Career Israel/$350 if you set up your own internship.) When: June 21 – August 6, 2017.
Taglit Birthright Israel's Business Experience Program – a 10-week internship program for students pursuing careers in business and technology. Candidates who are accepted into the program are assigned to an internship in Israel in fields such as finance, venture capital, consulting, and technology. Throughout the summer internship, Fellows can expect to gain in-depth knowledge and experience from high-level executives. Birthright Israel Excel Fellows become an integral part of the team in the office.
The Culinary Institute of Israel Study & Intern programs – The Culinary Institute of Israel Study & Intern programs are intended for students in the field of Hospitality/Tourism/ Culinary Arts/Lodging. You must have completed at least 1 year of study to quality. Students must be able to speak and study in English and will require an Israeli Student Visa. Internship start date: August 2017. Price: $1,500 USD, covers the price of the entire program (separate application fee may apply).
Jesus Trail Internship Program – The Jesus Trail is a 40-mile hiking trail in the Galilee region of Israel that connects sites from the life of Jesus. The trail is marked and open to the public. We work to create hiker resources, orient and educate hikers, network and develop local businesses, and conduct PR to raise awareness about the trail. The Jesus Trail intern will be expected to work 40 hours per week with at least two days off per week. Some travel required. Interns to receive a monthly stipend. (No posted internship periods yet)
Year-round internships
Aardvark Israel – Participants of our Israel gap year programs are given a wide range of choices and are placed at sites that match their interests and skills for the duration of each semester. You will volunteer three to four mornings a week, giving you the chance to build your resume, interact with the Israelis, and contribute to Israeli society. In addition to the numerous options you will be given, the staff is available to identify additional options to suit your individual preferences. The 2017-2018 program starts August 29, 2017.
Big Idea Gap Year – BIG IDEA Gap Year PLUS is a five-month internship extension program. Use your knowledge in developing mobile and web application and gain more hands-on work experience. Be a part of the Israeli hi-tech industry, intern in Israeli Hi-tech company. Travel and explore Israel, work on your Hebrew and live independently with your friends. Participants who sign up for BIG IDEA Gap Year PLUS will participate on the 5 month gap year program in Be'er Sheva and then continue for another 5 month internship program extension in Tel Aviv or Be'er Sheva. $200 application fee. Fall semester: September 4, 2017 – February 5, 2018. Spring semester: February 19, 2018 – July 23, 2018. Special Spring discount of $500 available until April 9. $200 application fee + $13,750 for full tuition! Extra $200 discount for MASA grant. $1000 scholarship for BIG IDEA Israel Summer Camp alumni. Masa grants are applicable.
English On Stage – At English On Stage, internships are available for those men and women who have studied in the field of theater and would like to gain experience in various aspects of an established professional English-language theater while in Israel. Interns from abroad are also welcomed, and have the chance to do a bit of everything with the theater. Since English On Stage includes a small troupe and staff, interns can gain direct experience in various fields, including stage production, assistant directing, writing, marketing, set & costume design, acting, and more. With workshops and performances all over the country, interns will also get a chance to travel across Israel with English On Stage’s productions. Internships are available through internship programs (e.g. Masa or Career Israel). In some cases, independent internships are also available. PLEASE NOTE: Next internship positions will be available for Fall 2017.
Hospitality, Hotel & Tourism Internship in Eilat, Israel – Students participate in four courses along with an internship valued at 14 academic credits in the field of Hospitality and Tourism from Ben-Gurion University. 5 Month Program: $3500 (All interns receive a $200 monthly stipend so actual cost is $2500). Application deadline for September 2017 internships is 06/06/2017.
Tikkun Olam Internship Track – Tikkun Olam's new Internship Track lets you gain valuable career experience in the non-profit sector, while living among the populations you work with, studying the complex issues facing Israeli society and gaining important skills for social entrepreneurship. The Internship Track is the only internship program in Israel that specializes in non-profit work, so you can prepare yourself for a future career while making a difference in the lives of others! $100 non-refundable Application Fee. Masa grants are applicable. Tikkun Olam Full Year 2017-18 runs from September 3, 2017 – June 15, 2018, Tikkun Olam Fall 2017 runs from September 3, 2017 – January 25, 2018
The Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) Internships – “We offer internship positions to graduate students and academics with backgrounds in international relations, strategy, the Middle East, or Israel's national security… tasks range from basic data collection to pure research and publication… Interns are not paid and do not receive money for expenses.” (NO FEES)
The Interfaith Center for Sustainable Development Internships – for university/college students and graduates. ICSD is a Jerusalem-based non-profit that carries out its mission through multiple programs: A cross-cultural (Jewish and Arab) women’s environmental group; seminars on faith and ecology for seminary students and religious leaders; group tours on the connection between ecology, faith teachings, and the Holy Land; and an international faith and science cohort that works through media and discourse to address climate change. (NO FEES)
TopIsraelInterns.com – “provides prestigious internships in a wide variety of fields and professions. Their 6-week Summer programs, and 5-month programs (Spring, or Fall), are perfect for those looking to boost their career, and enter the job market. Explore their internship options today.” (Costs: $7500 USD excluding Masa grant, $3000 – $4500 with Masa grant). NO FEES. Fall Session: August 2017 – January 2018. Spring Session: January 2018 – June 2018)
JCPA Internship Program – “The Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs is a leading Israeli think tank dealing with Israel's security needs. Interns may engage in research and/or marketing/social media activities.” (NO FEES)
African Refugee Development Center (ARDC) Internships – Volunteering in different education and coordinator-type roles. (NO FEES)
Amira Margalith Research Internship Program – An internship with the Moshe Dayan Center provides a unique experience to work intimately with a group of world-renowned scholars and experts in Middle Eastern and African Studies. Applications will be accepted up to February 28 of each year, with decisions made by March 30. (NO FEES)
Jinternship.com – Internships with Jerusalem-based companies in every field for Jewish college students who want a unique opportunity to intern in Israel and explore their Jewish heritage. Costs range from $350 up, depending on the length of the program, and include room and other amenities.
Did you download your spreadsheet copy yet? It contains all the internships listed here and their contact information in an easily sortable format you can use to track which internships you applied for.
The Global Intern – An internship abroad is an amazing experience that will have a profound influence on you today and throughout your future as a professional. For the same cost as just three to six credits at an American university, a global internship will: Make you stand out from the crowd, both in your resume and graduate school application; Offer you an authentic experience abroad, where you immerse yourself in a unique culture as a local, not just as a tourist; Give you a leg up in the job market with highly-valued international work experience, something especially important to international firms; Put your classroom lessons into action by applying them to real world situations; Start your lifelong process of building quality professional contacts, essential to your career growth now and in years to come.
Peres Center for Peace – The Peres Center offers exciting, challenging and hands-on internships and volunteer opportunities. If you are looking to gain real insight and experience into the operation and activities of Israel's leading non-profit organization promoting peace building between Israelis and Palestinians, Jews and Arabs, then the Peres Center is the place for you!
Windows – Channels for Communication (AKA Windows for Peace) – Interns and volunteers with Windows are offered a unique opportunity to work within an organization with 25 years experience of peace building education: learn about the complexities of the Palestinian-Israeli reality and contribute to the promotion of just peace. Internships are available at our Tel Aviv-Jaffa office or at one of our partners in the West-bank doing social media, fundraising, events coordination, web development or translation work. Minimum of 3 months/15 hours per week. There are still internship positions available starting May or June 2017.
Ma'ase Olam Israel Teaching Fellows – Ma'ase (“deed” or “action” in Hebrew) is an award-winning non-profit organization that was established in 2004 to promote equal opportunity and civic leadership among young adults from Israel’s peripheries through volunteer and follow-up programs. Ma'ase Olam, a project of Ma'ase, runs joint 10-month service learning programs bringing together young adults from Israel and the Diaspora to do meaningful service work in communities in Israel’s geographic and social periphery. Ma'ase Olam organizes Israel Teaching Fellows, an opportunity for exemplary college graduates to teach English in Israel on a 10-month service program. Our goal is to address Israel’s educational achievement gap and the widespread under-performance of youth in low-income communities. (Fee: $1,050. A 10-month program that runs annually from approx. August 27-June 30)
Israel Story Internship – Israel Story is a documentary storytelling radio show/podcast, and we’re looking for interns for the English version of our show. Now is an especially exciting time to join— we recently finished our second English season in co-production with Tablet Magazine, and distributed by PRX! For this position, you could choose to live in Jerusalem or Tel Aviv-Yafo. Either way, you’ll get to explore the country as you help us find and tell the stories of Israel’s most interesting characters. Positions require a 4-5 month commitment, which could lead to a longer-term, paid job. The position is unpaid, but outside funding may be available, for instance via a Masa grant. Summer 2017 internships are filled, check back in August regarding Fall 2017 internships.
Career Israel 5-Month Program – “You will intern 25-30 hours each week at your internship, and you will still get to travel and see parts of Israel you have never experienced. The next Career Israel session runs from August 29, 2017 – January 15, 2018.
Israel Forever Foundation – Internships are an incredible way to expand your professional experience. As an intern with Israel Forever, you will be actively involved in the fulfillment of our mission to connect Jews around the world with Israel. Opportunities are available in our main centers of Washington DC and Israel, or as a part of our “virtual office” from your corner of the world, allowing our team to reflect the international nature of our global community.
Israel Outdoors NEXT Enterprise Internship – Whether you’re interested in launching your own business, saving the environment, or developing your artistic talent, we’ll help you find the perfect experience… (FEES, possible to get a Masa grant)
Arava Institute for Environmental Studies – Each year, the Arava Institute accepts interns for 2-12 months who focus their research in one or two of the research centers. Interns contribute substantively to trans-boundary research through a defined project under the direction of a faculty member, while gaining a valuable professional, academic, and personal experience. Interns develop skills in environmental research and development, environmental policy, and project management; gain important professional contacts and build effective community based partnerships; and become a vital part of the global network of accomplished Arava Institute alumni. The Arava Institute welcomes interns from varied backgrounds, including the social and the natural sciences. Now accepting internship applications for Fall 2017 and Spring 2018 semesters. To apply for an internship, and to learn more, click here. Masa grants are applicable.
Israel by Design – Your Israel by Design program gives you the chance to work in a wide variety of skilled volunteer or professional work placements, providing a unique hands-on experience of Israeli society. We arrange your volunteer or internship activities according to your needs, skills and interests, and you decide how many hours per week you want to commit to. Of course, you can choose to volunteer or work in one place or several and divide your time accordingly. Masa grants are applicable.
Way More Israel – co-ed, ages 19-28. “You’ll spend an incredible seven weeks living in Jerusalem’s historic Old City while learning Hebrew, volunteering and building your career. You’ll have an authentic Israel experience as you live like a local. With trips, classes/workshops on timely Jewish topics and amazing internship positions, you’ll get way more than you ever imagined.” Now accepting applications. Summer 8 Week Session June 18 – August 10 2017. Costs $3300 after Masa and WMI grants (doesn’t include airfare). Masa grants are applicable. Fall/Winter: September 3 2017 – January 31 2018, fly out date is September 3rd, 2017. Spring/Summer (2018): January 30 – June 28 2018, fly out date is January 30, 2018.
Israel Government Fellows – The heart of the IGF program is the fellowship experience in the Israeli government and in related organizations. Fellows are placed in serious positions of genuine responsibility, where they are placed based on their skills, preferences and interests, as well as their relevance to the various positions. Fellows will managed and guided by their mentors, who are unit, department, or division directors. Fellows will also be mentored by the program deputy director, who is in contact with both Fellows and their mentors. Both will be working together with the Fellows to ensure a fulfilling, professionally challenging and rewarding fellowship experience. Masa grants are applicable.
iTrack – iTrack is a personalized 5-10 month Israel experience program that is designed for young adults between the ages of 18 and 30. The goal is for each participant to build a program that suits his or her specific needs and desires. Every participant, together with the iTrack staff, builds a program that suits the experience that he or she wants to have while in Israel. All programs include Ulpan and monthly excursions and cultural events in order help you to get to know Israel. Program costs range from $4500 (without food, flight, and stipends) up to $8000. MASA grants are available which can help significantly reduce the cost of your program and priority is given to participants receiving grants.
Pardes Learn+Intern – Spend 4.5 months immersed in the study and discussion of core Jewish texts, while developing vision and setting goals for both your personal and professional future. Gain practical hands-on experience through an enriching 9-10 week internship in your field of interest (business, medicine, high-tech, Jewish education/non-profits, the arts, social justice, coexistence). During the summer internship period, participants will come together once a week to reflect and learn. Program Dates: Year: Sept. 4, 2017 – Aug. 12, 2018, Spring: Jan. 17 – Aug. 12, 2018. Masa grants are applicable.
Tel Aviv University Study Abroad and Internship Program – Are you looking to gain global professional experience while studying abroad? Tel Aviv University and Masa Israel Journey are excited to announce the launch of a new initiative that connects international students with a professional internship in their field of interest. Program dates: January – July (Spring), June – December (Fall), June – May (Year).
The Lirom Academic Study and Internship Program – The program covers six days of activities per week, where two days are dedicated to academic studies and four days to professional internships. At the end of the 5 months internship and semester, you qualify for 14 academic credits from Ben Gurion University in Eilat. Internship start date: August 2017
Go Eco International Internships – In addition to volunteering, GoEco offers excellent internship opportunities for those who want to gain international work experiences. Interns will receive personal attention, guidance and feedback from their mentors while participating in these specially designed programs. Upon completion, interns will have a professional reference and be able to set themselves apart from others when applying for jobs or promotions.
Research Intern (AI) at Facebook Tel Aviv (2017) – Facebook is seeking Research Interns to join Facebook AI Research (FAIR). This internship has a minimum 12-week duration with summer, fall, and winter start dates… Internships will be awarded on a rolling basis and candidates are encouraged to apply early. Applicants are expected to be pursuing a PhD… outstanding masters and bachelors students may also be considered.
Intern with ACRI – For law students or lawyers: we offer internship positions for a period of 8-12 weeks usually in our main office in Tel Aviv. In some cases the internship can also be full or part time from our Jerusalem and Nazareth offices. Please note that internships are unpaid and applicants are therefore encouraged to secure public interest fellowships or other sources of funding. The internship is open to applicants from Israel and from overseas. For winter 2018 (January-May 2018) please submit applications by August 1st, 2017. Primary response to these applications will be sent by e-mail only after due date (August 1st, 2017). For Summer 2018 (June-September 2018) please submit applications by January 1st, 2018. Primary response to these applications will be sent by e-mail only after due date (January 1st, 2018).
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Question of the article
Heard of any other internships to add to the list? Tell us in the comments.
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Lynn Tulip is a career management and HR professional running her own HR consultancy. She’s worked with numerous job search candidates and has presented job search topics at different conferences. Find her online or follow her 
Jennifer Feldman is a speech and language expert and blogger at