The State of Israel announced Wednesday (July 22, 2020) that new international students would be permitted to enter the country in order to commence their academic studies during the 2020-2021 academic year.
“Although the coronavirus pandemic has hindered international mobility, we are glad that international students will still be able to come to Israel and we welcome them to engage in our world-class academics and research”,  Prof. Yaffa Zilbershats , Chair, Planning & Budgeting Committee, Council for Higher Education  

The announcement follows a government enacted restriction in mid-March that prevented non-Israeli visitors from entering the country. Since then, the Council for Higher Education of Israel has been working closely with senior officials in the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Population and Immigration Authority on the issue.

The new approval to open the border to all international students was lauded by the Council for Higher Education and academic institutions across Israel.

“Internationalization is one of the main strategic priorities for the higher education system in Israel and we are committed to integrating top international students in our universities and colleges. Although the coronavirus pandemic has hindered international mobility, we are glad that international students will still be able to come to Israel and welcome them to engage in our world-class academics and research.” – Prof. Yaffa Zilbershats, Chair, Planning & Budgeting Committee, Council for Higher Education.

Throughout the pandemic, Israeli universities and colleges have made significant efforts to provide the necessary support for international students and ensure their health, safety and academic success. They are now focused on guaranteeing their students’ arrival in Israel.

Many universities and colleges are still accepting applications for this upcoming year; the fall semester in Israel begins in mid-October. Information on Israeli higher education institutions and academic programs in English can be found on the official Study in Israel website.

All students will be required to complete a 14-day self-isolation period upon arrival to Israel under the supervision of their academic institution, in accordance with the Ministry of Health guidelines.