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Hesegim Scholarships — Academic Excellence in Jerusalem
Stipend scholarships for Ethiopian-Israeli undergraduate students at multiple universities, with personal mentoring and excellence workshops. Distinct from ISEF (graduate+) — Hesegim focuses on undergraduates.
About Jerusalem
Jerusalem, Israel's capital, hosts a large Israeli-Ethiopian community concentrated historically in the Gondar neighbourhood in the north and with significant presence in Kiryat HaYovel and other areas. The city is home to the Centre for Ethiopian Jewish Heritage and several traditional synagogues led by kessim, alongside a broad housing market.
What's included
- Monthly stipend: ₪1,500-3,000 (varies by year and circumstances)
- Personal mentor: a coordinator assigned to each student
- Excellence workshops: academic writing, English, leadership, entrepreneurship
- Career placement: partnerships with Olim Beyahad post-graduation
- Alumni network: 500+ graduates in industry and academia
Entry requirements
- Active undergraduate student (before year 4)
- Adequate GPA (typically 80+, higher in competitive fields)
- Socioeconomic status that justifies aid
- Community-service commitment during studies (5-10 hours weekly)
How to apply
- Online: hesegim.org.il → "Candidacy"
- Form + documents: transcript, student confirmation, socioeconomic data
- Interview: with admissions committee (~30 min)
- Results: within 4-6 weeks
Important: Applications open once a year — check dates. Usually May-June for the next academic year.
Related rights
Student Aid for Ethiopian-Israeli Students
Scholarships and mentoring for community undergraduate / graduate / doctoral students via ISEF, Hesegim, ENP, and university-specific funds.
Matriculation Grant for Ethiopian-Israeli HS Students
Budget supplement for HS students preparing for matriculation. Covers tutoring, exam fees, and study materials. Available via ENP in schools across 32 cities.
Advanced Ulpan (Bet / Gimmel) — Hebrew Beyond Basics
Continued Hebrew studies beyond basic ulpan. Ulpan Bet (everyday), Gimmel (academic). Free / subsidized via Ministry of Aliyah. Every immigrant is eligible during the first 10 years.
Daycare Subsidy for Working Families
Subsidized daycare (ages 3 months – 3 years) for families where both parents work. Amount calibrated by combined income.
