Israel Programs WikiGlossary
Plain-language definitions for the terms you'll see across program listings — most useful if you're new to Israel program vocabulary.
Terms
MechinaA gap-year program that prepares young Israelis and overseas participants for army service.Read moreHesderA yeshiva track that combines Torah study with active-duty Israeli army service.Read moreYeshivaA school for the study of Torah and Jewish religious texts, traditionally for men.Read moreSeminaryThe common English term for a women's post-high-school program of Jewish religious study in Israel.Read moreMidrashaThe Hebrew/Israeli term for a women's program of Jewish study, often with more Israeli integration than a seminary.Read moreGap yearA year between high school and college, often spent studying, volunteering, or training in Israel.Read moreUlpanAn intensive Hebrew-language study program.Read moreSherut leumiA national civilian service program, often chosen by religious women as an alternative to army service.Read moreShana betA second year added onto a one-year gap-year program, at the same or a different institution.Read more
Comparisons
Gap year vs. seminaryHow a general gap-year program differs from a women's seminary program.Read moreHesder vs. regular yeshivaHow a hesder yeshiva's combined army-and-study track differs from a standard yeshiva program.Read moreMechina vs. yeshivaHow a pre-military mechina differs from a Torah-study-focused yeshiva.Read more