Garin Mahal

Garin Mahal is a program in Jerusalem Forest, Israel, men only.

A free, month-long live-in pre-army training program for young men (ages 18-26) from around the world preparing to volunteer for IDF service through Mahal, based at a military-style facility in the Jerusalem Forest. Established in 2010 as the first pre-army preparatory program for lone soldiers, it combines intensive Hebrew-immersion ulpan, physical and combat fitness training, special forces tryout simulations, and educational tours on Israeli military history and culture. In 2015 Israel's Ministry of Defense adopted the model and made a pre-army preparatory program mandatory for all Mahal volunteers. No prior Hebrew proficiency or fitness level is required to join, though all training itself is conducted in Hebrew. Participation does not obligate a participant to subsequently draft into the IDF.

Duration

Short (2-10 weeks) — 4 weeks

How to sign up

Apply via the online application form on the official website; the program contact, Baruch Tretiak, can also be reached directly via WhatsApp.

https://garinmahal.com/getting-started/application-form

Contact

+972-52-860-0062https://garinmahal.com/

Last updated: July 15, 2026