Duration of Ulpanim

The standard initial ulpan lasts for about five months. Studies usually take place five days a week. In addition there are a variety of other both shorter and longer ulpanim taking place in the summer or through private institutions and organizations or connected to a program or academic institute. Most ulpan students do not become fluent upon completing the first level ulpan and might want to consider more advanced courses available throughout the country.

Types of Ulpanim

There is a large variety of ulpanim they include Initial Ulpanim which are taught in Absorption Centers for new immigrants, or External Ulpanim located in community settings, which are open to both new immigrants and tourists. These Ulpanim are generally non-residential, and classes are taught on all levels, from beginners to advanced. Each facility has its own registration and payment criteria, and is sponsored by various bodies such as the Ministry of Education or local municipalities. There are also private ulpanim and ulpanim connected to an organization, institutions, program or academic institute (some are open to non-students or program participants and must be individually checked).

In addition there are special ulpanim for the elderly, for the hearing-impaired and deaf, for the sight impaired and blind, for the mentally challenged as well as specifically geared ulpanim for professionals such as doctors, teachers, lawyers and accountants.

For information, see the list of ulpanim or contact your local shaliach.  In Israel you may contact one of our Information centers.

Kibbutz Ulpan offers a low-cost, low-commitment way for young adults to really get to know an aspect of Israeli society. Kibbutz Ulpan combines intensive language instruction with work and life in the unique environment of kibbutz. Open to both new immigrants and tourists. For additional information click here.

For information particular to tourists click here, for information for new immigrants click here.