Author: Raphael

World-Class Education Recognized in the US and Beyond

A degree from TAU is not just globally recognized—it’s also a respected credential for students planning to pursue graduate studies or a career in the US. Many of our alumni have gone on to top graduate programs in the US and around the world, and we count among our academic partners universities like Columbia and Northwestern.

“At TAU, you have the opportunity to be part of something so meaningful and still get the education that you’re looking for—with all of the aspects of the American-style education of having so many classes to choose from and a great community.”—Kayla Goldberger, BA in Management and Liberal Arts

TAU alumni are also thriving at Google, Meta, Alphabet and other industry leaders. This university isn’t just a stepping-stone; it’s a launchpad for a truly international career. 

“Tel Aviv University is very well recognized. I’m glad to have this degree behind me.”—Tyla Shur, BA in Management and Liberal Arts

Affordable Education and Federal Aid Options

One of the most attractive aspects of studying at TAU is the significantly lower tuition. Compared to US-based universities, TAU’s tuition offers savings without sacrificing quality.

Plus, in addition to the many scholarships you can apply for, students from the US can use their 529 college savings plans, federal loans or even Veterans’ benefits to pay tuition at TAU, making it even easier to fund an international education. 

Shorter Program Duration = Faster Career Launch

Why wait four years when you can complete a bachelor’s degree in three? TAU’s accelerated program structure allows you to complete your undergraduate studies in less time than most US universities, while at the same time being fully equivalent (i.e., a three-year program at TAU = a four-year program in the US).

The graduation ceremony of the Liberal Arts BA program

And if you’re ambitious, TAU offers options to transition directly into a graduate program, meaning you could potentially complete both degrees in only four years. 

Real-World Experience in a Thriving Tech Hub

Israel is known for its tech innovation, and Tel Aviv is at the center of this exciting scene. TAU’s unique position in one of the world’s leading tech hubs opens doors to internships and networking opportunities.

“I was equipped through various university courses to be able to build my connections, improve my LinkedIn profile, and find internships.”—Kayla Goldberger, BA in Management and Liberal Arts

The university’s close ties with industry leaders mean that students benefit from a smaller, more intimate academic ecosystem while still gaining access to world-class opportunities. With direct pathways to internships and a strong presence in the tech and business sectors, studying at TAU gives you a competitive edge in the global job market.

A Vibrant, Coastal Place to Discover

Nestled along the beautiful Mediterranean coast, Tel Aviv offers a unique blend of rich history and lively and inclusive cultures (New York Times called us the “capital of Mediterranean Cool”). No matter your interests and background, there’s a place here for you.

TAU students enjoying a day at the beach not far from the TAU campus

At TAU, moreover, you’ll quickly find a community of like-minded people, world-class facilities (like our Olympic-sized swimming pool and spa amenities) as well as a team of community leaders dedicated to supporting you during your time with us.

Unique Program Flexibility and Admission Pathways

At TAU, you’re not limited to a single program when applying. The university allows students to apply to multiple programs simultaneously, including our dual degree programs with Columbia University or Yeshiva University and our International BA in Liberal Arts or International BA in Management and Liberal Arts. 

Our dual degree programs also mean you spend half your time in Israel and half your time in the US, resulting in a diverse academic background with global experiences. 

“The dual degree program is a perfect combination—starting at Tel Aviv University and continuing at Columbia gives an excellent international academic experience. I learn so much from other students in the classroom.”—Chloe Katz, Dual Degree with Columbia University

Need a little extra time before diving into your studies? TAU also offers a one-year deferral option for accepted students, giving you the flexibility to plan your educational journey.

Curious About TAU? 

TAU offers more than just an undergraduate degree—it’s an experience that combines global recognition, affordability and unrivaled opportunities in a vibrant, high-tech city. Plus, by doing an international degree in English at TAU through The Lowy International School, you’ll find a community of global, like-minded people here to support you and cheer you on, every step of the way.

“When I decided to go to college in Israel I definitely expected it to be at a different level than what an American University experience would be like both academically and just socially but I’ve been so pleasantly surprised from my first day arriving on campus—it’s just blown away my expectations of what an Israeli college experience could be like.”—Joe Block, Dual Degree BA with Columbia

Explore program websites for more information and send your application online.

The Alexandra Ruth Seaman Scholarship Fund will provide financial assistance to up to 3 deserving female students who demonstrate academic promise and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities specifically through the arts, culture and women’s empowerment. 

“I believe deeply in the power of education, and the knowledge I gained through the program is truly priceless,” says Seaman. 

“I want more people to access what I had the privilege to learn. Understanding human nature and the mechanisms of conflict is more crucial than ever—not just for Israel, but for the world at large.”

With an initial contribution of US$25,000 a year for five years, the scholarship will support female students of all backgrounds who seek to become changemakers in their societies. 

“I also believe strongly in female empowerment,” she adds.

“I want to see more young women stepping into their unique roles and realizing their full potential.”

The scholarship selection will be coordinated in partnership with the program’s Admission Committee, and the first awards will be granted for the 2025/2026 academic year.

Alexandra Seaman (fourth from left) with Dr. Nimrod Rosler (fifth from left) and classmates in a Conflict Resolution class

Dr Nimrod Rosler, head of the MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediation, welcomed the announcement of the scholarship, thanking Alexandra Seaman for this important and meaningful contribution to future leaders globally striving for peace:

“This scholarship will open doors for students who may not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue their academic dreams. It is an investment not only in education, but in the future leaders globally.”—Dr. Nimrod Rosler.

Seaman’s own path to Tel Aviv University was unexpected, but rewarding: “A year ago I had been accepted into the MA in Global Studies at Berkeley, but I wasn’t able to get my student visa in time. I came to Israel to make Aliyah and began looking for a similar academic program so I wouldn’t lose a year that I have been allocated for studies already.” 

“I was immediately drawn to TAU’s Conflict Resolution and Mediation program, and, luckily, admissions were still open. It turned out to be one of the most meaningful decisions I’ve made.”

Seaman recalls that when she originally discovered the MA in Conflict Resolution, she spoke with her professional coach about it and was pleasantly surprised to learn that the program is considered one of the strongest in the field.

Conflict Resolution & Mediation students on one of the field trips that are included on the curriculum

Alexandra praises the program for its academic excellence and community spirit: “Our program truly felt like a family—I felt supported at every step. It went far beyond the professional excellence of Nimrod Rosler and his team, there was a profound sense of community deeply embedded in TAU’s DNA. That feeling of care and belonging became especially meaningful in the aftermath of October 7th.”

“One of the highlights of my experience is that my high expectations were not only met, but exceeded. I gained essential knowledge that enabled me to open a new chapter in my professional life.”

A lifelong humanitarian, Alexandra began her career as a television host before becoming a multidisciplinary media producer, leading social impact projects that address some of the world’s most urgent challenges, from environmental justice and climate change to human and animal rights. Her work reflects a broader vision for Israel and the region:

“My dream is to make Israel a blueprint for peaceful coexistence. I work toward that vision through my NGO, lov.foundation. Without the MA in Conflict Resolution & Mediation, I would never have fully understood what we need to do to help turn that dream into reality.” 

Alexandra Seaman, the founder of the Alexandra Ruth Seaman Scholarship Fund

Her passion for strengthening Israel’s educational ecosystem is equally clear. “I want Israel to have a strong educational system, with institutions so inspiring that the world looks to them as models,” she says.

“During my time on TAU’s campus, I noticed that nearly every building, garden, and corner bore the name of someone who shared that vision for Israel. But vision alone is not enough—you have to act on it. This scholarship is my small but meaningful step toward that future.”

Seaman holds a BA in Art History from Moscow State University and an MA in Conflict Resolution and Mediation from Tel Aviv University, with further studies at Christie’s Education. Her current focus lies in exploring how art and culture can serve as powerful tools for peacebuilding and global connection.

The Alexandra Ruth Seaman Scholarship Fund reflects her belief in action-driven leadership, inclusive education, and the transformative power of women-led change. It also aligns with the program’s ongoing mission to ensure that every student has the resources they need to understand and solve global conflicts. 

“We are part of a powerful and inspiring global community,” says Seaman about TAU alumni community. “I encourage each of us to be more proactive, to connect, and to join forces in strengthening Israel by supporting TAU and its mission. Together, we can make a real impact.”

For more information about the scholarship or how to apply, please visit the website. 

Applications for the Conflict Resolution and Mediation MA are now open. Learn more about the program and apply online.

A Team Built Across Disciplines

Led by Shir Shance and Idan Eyni, third-year undergraduate students in biotechnology and in biomedical engineering respectively, the TAU iGEM team brings together campus collaboration across disciplines like medical sciences, computer science, mathematics, biotechnology and biomedical engineering. 

“Synthetic biology is a combination of molecular biology and sophisticated engineering tools,” explains Eyni.

“So iGEM is really all about interdisciplinary teams and bringing all these different strengths together.”—Idan Eyni, biomedical engineering undergraduate

The TAU IGEM program was founded by Prof. Tamir Tuller from the engineering faculty (an expert in computational and synthetic biology), who is the lead supervisor of the program. The team is also supported by a scientific steering committee that includes Profs. Avigdor Eldar, Uri Gophna, Martin Kupiec and Itai Benhar.

Members of TAU’s iGEM team join Startup Nation Central for mentorship on entrepreneurship.

In addition, it is supported by an entrepreneurship committee that includes Yair Sakov (founder and managing director of TAU’s Entrepreneurship Center) and the team at Startup Nation Central. 

A New Approach to Cancer

Oncoligo targets a fundamental weakness in cancer cells: their faulty mRNA. Rather than trying to destroy cancer cells via their mutated – proteins, as many current therapies do, the team is working to target cancer cells via the mutations in the mRNA molecules. The key lies in molecules known as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), which can bind to mutated RNA and deactivate it.

“Think of DNA as a recipe book, RNA as like a single recipe out of this book … and the protein is the final dish.”—Shir Shance, biotechnology undergraduate

“In cancer cells, the DNA has mutations, meaning the recipe is often damaged, leading to defective proteins … and so we’re thinking about how to kill cells with errors in the recipe so the damaged, cancerous proteins can’t exist anymore,” explains Shance.

Oncoligo members in the lab (from left to right): Roni Zarakhovsky, Oren Haviv, Shir Shance and Gal Aziel.

By designing novel ASOs that specifically bind to cancerous mRNA, the team hopes to offer a therapy that selectively targets tumor cells while leaving healthy tissue unharmed. This approach diverts from most current therapies, which target the cancer cells via chemotherapy and other nonspecific methods. 

Powered by Modeling, Guided by Experimentation

One aspect that makes the project especially innovative is the use of computational modeling to design the most effective ASO sequences. 

Michael Kovaliov, a master’s student in applied mathematics, leads the modeling team. “RNA can be difficult to distinguish and so we want to build a computational model that knows how to target certain areas” he explains.

“So, we’re first coming up with the computational model … then running some sequences in vitro in an actual cell line to test how effective it is. Once we get our results, we plug them back into the computer, we analyze them, and we try to make the model better once again.”—Michael Kovaliov, graduate student in applied maths

The team is currently testing their ASOs in model organisms like yeast and in human cell lines, with plans to eventually move into human cancer cell lines in the months ahead. If successful, their approach could offer a template for developing RNA-targeting therapies across a range of cancers.

Building Community, Locally and Globally

In parallel, the team has helped organize ISRA-GEM, a local version of the iGEM competition that took place in June and invited Israeli high school and university students from across the country to submit their own synthetic biology projects. This year, the competition saw over 250 participants from both central and peripheral regions of Israel.

TAU’s iGEM team members award winners of the 2025 ISRA-GEM competition.

The team is also holding an international online meetup on August 28, connecting iGEM teams from more than 17 countries—including Egypt, France, India, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, Zimbabwe and Ghana. “The idea is to share ideas and collaborate and also practice for the iGEM grand final in Paris,” says Shance. 

Looking Ahead to Paris—and Beyond

With the main iGEM competition approaching, TAU’s iGEM team is focused on preparing a proof of concept and finalizing a research tool they’ve built to help others design ASOs for different diseases. While the team is hoping to once more bring home gold (TAU won a gold medal at last year’s competition), they’re also just excited for what the opportunity will bring.

“It’s a great experience for us to present our project and to reach other researchers from all over the world to learn from them.”—Idan Eyni. 

The TAU team additionally hopes that the iGEM competition marks the beginning of a lasting contribution to cancer research, one that can be continued in the form of a startup: “iGEM is designed to prepare you for the industry,” says Kovaliov. “Good science needs to come in conjunction with a coherent business plan; if this project matures enough, we would love to open a company.” 

Learn more about TAU’s 2025 iGEM team and the Oncoligo project.

The call for outgoing exchange for Spring 2026 opens July 1. Whether you’re an undergraduate, graduate, or PhD student, TAU’s University-wide student exchange program can take you to new places academically and personally. Still not sure it’s for you? We asked someone who’s been there. 

Here we break down what to expect, with insights from Oren Vaserman, TAU student in East Asian Studies BA who just recently returned from a semester in Beijing at Peking University.

Is exchange only for certain students or programs?

The exchange program is open to the vast majority of TAU students, spanning all faculties and degree levels, from undergrad to PhDs, with only a few exceptions of programs that have special schedule limitations.

“I went to Beijing because I wanted to live and study in East Asia. Since I was studying Chinese at TAU, it made sense to go to China and experience the culture firsthand.”

Peking University even has a lake on campus!

Whether you’re studying environmental studies, history, business, biology, or other fields, there’s a destination that fits. Browse the catalog to find your perfect match.

Will I fall behind in my degree at TAU if I go abroad?

Not if you plan ahead. At TAU, all courses must be pre-approved before departure, and exchange credits count toward your degree. 

“I’m graduating on time because I got course approvals from my department before I left. But if not, I probably would’ve needed to put in extra effort this semester or take extra courses to finish on time. Planning ahead really paid off.”

The key is coordination with your academic advisor and with the TAU Outgoing Student Exchange Office at the Lowy International School. Students are expected to complete their degrees on time, and exchange should not extend your study period.

How can I shape my exchange to fit my goals?

Your destination and course selection can (and should) align with your academic and personal interests.

“I didn’t just pick a random place. I knew I wanted to be somewhere where I could improve my Chinese and experience the culture.

“The program in Beijing was intense, but that’s exactly what I wanted. Now when professors at TAU mention certain places in class, I can say, ‘I’ve been there.’ It made my studies way more real. My Chinese has also become much more fluent.”

Peking University campus

You can prioritize research, language immersion, or cultural experiences and choose courses in the fields that excite you.

Do I need to speak the local language to go on exchange?

Not at all. Most partner universities offer plenty of courses in English, even in non-English-speaking countries.

Oren studied Chinese before going, but that didn’t mean it was smooth sailing from the start:

“I handed the taxi driver a note with the dorm address because I didn’t really know how to pronounce it properly. In Chinese, if you don’t pronounce something exactly right, people won’t understand you.”

“But over time, I got more confident and started talking to locals. I even joined a club that brought together international and Chinese students for activities like group dinners.”

Even if you don’t speak the language, you’ll be fine. Students manage well with English in countries like Germany, the Netherlands, Korea, France, and others.

Is it just about taking classes?

Far from it. Exchange is about life beyond the classroom.

“I took 20 hours of Chinese a week, and the classes were quite intense. But I also traveled a lot around China. During a national holiday, I went to Shanghai alone for five days.”

“That was the first time I took a trip completely alone. I almost missed the train, everything was a mess, but I managed. And when I saw the Bund, the place you always see in pictures… that moment, I thought, ‘It’s not a picture, it’s real. I’m really here.’”

Travelling solo around China—done.

From cultural immersion to exciting trips and new friendships, the exchange experience shapes who you become.

Is it expensive to go on exchange?

It’s more affordable than you think. You don’t pay tuition to the host university, and scholarships are available.

“I thought going abroad would be really expensive, but living costs in Beijing were actually pretty low. Ordering food was easy and cheap once I figured out the apps.

“I’d screenshot the Chinese and translate it later. Once I liked something, I just kept ordering the same thing.”

TAU and other organizations offer scholarships to make exchange accessible to more students.

Is the application process long and complicated?

Not at all. It’s straightforward and user-friendly.

“I thought applying would be a huge deal, but it was manageable. The hardest part was picking the right courses and making sure they’d be approved. TAU Outgoing Student Exchange Office at the Lowy International School helped me figure that out.

“After that, it was just logistics with the visa, flight, and paperwork. The Chinese university was super clear about what to do.”

The application guide walks you through the steps, and staff at the TAU Outgoing Student Exchange Office are there to support you.

What kind of support is available and when do I need it most?

You’ll have guidance from the TAU Outgoing Student Exchange Office and the host university, but independence is an important part of the experience.

“TAU helped a lot before I left, especially when I was trying to navigate the Chinese university’s website and figure out which courses I could take.”

Once I got to Beijing, it was mostly up to me. The university offered dorm options in advance, and I got lucky with a great room. I also contacted an Israeli student who was already there. She met me the next day after I arrived and helped me get settled. That made a huge difference.”

The sprawling campus of Peking University

You’ll learn how to handle new situations, build new connections, and grow more capable with every challenge.

What if I feel unwelcome as an Israeli student?

It’s a valid fear, but not what most students actually experience.

“A lot of people worry about how they’ll be treated abroad because of where they’re from. But honestly, I didn’t feel any hate or tension in China. Most of the international students just wanted to be friends and study together.”

“I did talk about my background with a few people, and everyone was respectful, even curious. The media doesn’t always reflect what’s really happening between students.”

Your experience will depend more on who you meet than where you go, and the exchange community tends to be open-minded and inclusive. Importantly, during each semester, TAU Outgoing Student Exchange Office opens a WhatsApp group where you can contact the staff personally in any emergency.

Does going on exchange help my career?

Without a doubt. Exchange adds serious value to your resume and worldview.

“Before this, I thought studying abroad was only for people from big-name universities or with perfect grades. But being in China made me realize I can do more than I thought.

It also opened my eyes to the possibility of doing a master’s abroad. I didn’t know how many options were out there, or that international students are sometimes even more welcome than you’d expect.”

Whether you’re aiming for grad school or your first job, international experience gives you an edge.

So… should you apply?

Yes! Exchange is for anyone curious enough to take the leap. And as Oren’s story shows, it can completely reshape your confidence, your academics, and even your future.

Curious to see what opportunities are available for you? 

Explore the range of programs, destinations, and partner universities here. 

Please note that applications are open until July 31, 2025. 

For detailed application guidelines, click here. 

Still unsure? Reach out to the TAU Outgoing Student Exchangу Office and we’ll help you find the right fit, guide you through the application process, and support you throughout your time abroad. 

Because this isn’t just about one semester abroad. It’s about who you’ll become when you get there.

“Israel is the best place to study,” says Tyla. “It’s the place where you can experience it all. You can have the student life and the parties. You can have a good education. You can meet people from all over the world. You have the beach right here. And of course, there are a lot of opportunities to give back.”

The Perfect Academic Balance

Coming from Johannesburg, Tyla knew she wanted to continue her studies in English but wasn’t entirely sure which direction to take. The unique structure of TAU’s International BA program proved to be exactly what she was looking for, a degree that wouldn’t force her to choose between her interests.

“I really didn’t know what field exactly I wanted to go into, so I felt like this was a good, broad way to approach it,” she explains. The program combines business fundamentals from the world-class Coller School of Management with liberal arts courses from the Faculty of Humanities, allowing students to take courses in economics, marketing, and entrepreneurship alongside psychology, philosophy, literature, and Middle Eastern studies.

“What’s unique about this degree is how it allows you to mix the arts and the business side. It gives you a broad background to go into the business world with a good understanding of other areas.”

“I did psychology, for example, and that’s really helped me understand the way people function. I think this understanding adds to my management skills,” she says.

The academic rigor of a double major BA might seem daunting at first glance, but Tyla found her balance. “It’s definitely a challenging degree, but it’s manageable,” she comments. “Every semester, we only have three management classes, and usually a maximum of two of those will be numbers-heavy, while one will be more management-oriented. With the liberal arts side, you’re using a different part of your brain: it’s more essay writing and assignments.” 

“The balance makes it doable and fun.”

Applications for Management & Liberal Arts BA for 2025/26 academic year are open!

Various scholarships are available for international students. New olim are eligible for tuition scholarships from the Israeli Student Authority.

Visit the program website and contact the program manager at mgmtla2@tauex.tau.ac.il for more details.

A Global Classroom Experience

Students in the first cohort come from Russia, Germany, the Netherlands, the USA, Italy, England, South Africa, Brazil, and beyond.

Class of 2025: The first cohort of Management & Liberal Arts BA

“For a lot of people English isn’t even their first language. At the Lowy International School, we’re all learning in English together, gives us  this natural common ground and allows us to connect so well,” Tyla reflects.

“What stood out most is how amazing it is to be in a class surrounded by people from all over the world, getting to know their different backgrounds and cultures, and finding out how much we actually have in common.”

Expanding Horizons with Study Abroad in London

The program’s international focus extends beyond the diverse student body. Tyla took advantage of Tel Aviv University’s extensive partnership network to spend a semester at NYU London.

“I did three management classes—International Economics, Money and Banking, and Operations Management—plus one psychology class, Social Psychology,” she recalls. “I only took four classes so that I could have free time to explore and get to know London.” 

“It was an amazing experience academically, but also an opportunity to experience exciting life in London, which felt like the center of the world.”

The experience of commuting via the London Underground during rush hour gave her and her TAU roommates “the feel of a local,” while university-organized activities like hiking in Surrey Hills and West End theatre trips enhanced the cultural immersion.

A Supportive Community Away from Home

Living independently for the first time, thousands of miles from family and friends, could feel isolating. But Tyla found that Tel Aviv University and its surrounding community offered multiple layers of support that helped her not just survive, but thrive.

The Jewish Life organizations on campus played a particularly significant role. “The JLIC community became a second family. Eitan and Elana, TAU’s rabbinical couple, have created a warm community with Shabbat dinners and activities,” she explains. 

“When I was living in dorms, I could go there any Shabbat, and now they do kiddush on Saturdays too. There are lots of different talks and events going on throughout the week, so you get to connect with other people that aren’t necessarily in your degree. 

“It forms a base of consistency that really makes you feel at home.”

These connections proved especially meaningful during challenging times. Tyla recalls powerful speakers who visited through JLIC and Thrive, including discussions about anti-Semitism on university campuses and deeply moving presentations from individuals directly affected by recent events in Israel.

“I miss my family and friends back home, but being in Israel, everyone’s so open and welcoming,” she concludes.

Practical Independence and Learning Life Skills

The transition to complete independence wasn’t without its challenges. “At the start, it’s definitely an adjustment. You learn that you need to spend a lot more time doing chores and cooking,” Tyla admits. But like many aspects of her university experience, she found her rhythm.

“Eventually, you work out a balance. One day you make school lunch in advance, the next day you buy on campus, and the next day you go to a JLIC event where they’re giving you dinner,” she explains. “I’ve also started doing online grocery shopping, which is much easier and a time saver.”

“I wouldn’t trade the independence I’ve gained for anything. Living here has made me more resilient and more grounded.”

Along the way, Tyla has also discovered several favorite spots on campus and in Tel Aviv that have become integral to her daily routine and sense of belonging. “Aroma is definitely a favorite,” she says of the popular campus café. “I love the vibe there. It’s always full, there’s good music, and it’s just a good place to study.” 

Tyla Shur (on the right) and Ariella Roitman, also a Management & LIberal Arts BA graduate, at a student meetup

Beyond campus, she’s found her rhythm in the city’s diverse offerings, from studying at Cafe Daisy in Tel Aviv (“a very good spot to work and just order a coffee”) to dining at Pankina for Italian food and Kanki for sushi. Her absolute favorite spot remains the Tayelet at Gordon Beach, where she goes both to relax by the water and attend Zumba classes. And when she’s craving the acai, she heads to Fruit Kingdom, “right outside the Shuk on Shenkin,” which she insists serves “the best acai” around. 

Real-World Applications with Internships and Career Preparation

Internships are an integral part of the program, connecting students with Tel Aviv’s startup ecosystem and offering workshops on CV writing, networking, and career planning.

“After doing internships in both large and small companies, I realized I prefer more structure, but I also loved the creative aspects I found in startup work. Now I’m looking for something that combines both,” she says. 

Currently, Tyla’s interning writing for a newsletter called The Relisher, crafting articles about Michelin-starred chefs and their favorite restaurants, a role that combines her improved writing skills from liberal arts coursework with her management studies.

As graduation approaches, Tyla feels confident about her prospects: 

“Tel Aviv University is very well recognized. I’m glad to have this degree behind me.”

Her post-graduation plans involve staying in Israel and finding work that incorporates her diverse interests. “I would like something that incorporates a bit of psychology and creativity, while still in a business environment,” she explains. 

Message for Future Students

For students from South Africa, the US, UK, or Latin America considering a similar path, Tyla’s advice is unequivocal: 

“Don’t hesitate. You’ll grow so much academically and personally. It’s a journey worth taking.”

Applications for Management & Liberal Arts BA for 2025/26 academic year are open!

Various scholarships are available for international students. New olim are eligible for tuition scholarships from the Israeli Student Authority.

Visit the program website and contact the program manager at mgmtla2@tauex.tau.ac.il for more details.

Hear from Haneen  Abu-Khet About Her Journey:

“Five years ago, after completing my BEd at Beit Berl College, I struggled to choose an academic program that aligned with my future goals and interests. I remember reaching out to former instructors and my college peers to seek advice. 

Eventually, after a prolonged period of contemplation and hesitation I decided to register for an MA in English literature and Creative Writing at Bar Ilan University, since I enjoyed both fields equally and was very enthusiastic about composing my writing in a creative, innovative way.  

I finished my MA in 2022 and completed my thesis with a plan to pursue a PhD soon. However, not too long after the graduation ceremony, I felt lack of motivation to proceed with a PhD. That sense of demotivation stemmed from the realization that I was drifting away from the field I was most passionate about and dedicated to, the thing that fills my sense of purpose which is teaching English. I soon came to the realization that this academic path had reached its conclusion and that my aspirations for further professional and intellectual growth would need to be pursued through a different avenue. 

One day, during one of my daily scrolls on Facebook, I came across a Facebook account on my friends’ suggestion list, and it was of one of my old friends.  I remember how my attention was fixated on where she did her MA, and it says “TESOL program at Tel Aviv University.” 

Instantly, I felt this intense rush of adrenaline, and I was ecstatic. I recall the numerous voices echoing in my head. It was hard to keep up: “How come I haven’t come across this program before?”, “Is it new?”  How come I never heard of it? “I NEED TO DO THIS”. 

As a fresh MA graduate from Bar Ilan University in 2022, deciding to sign up for another MA at a different university one year later was challenging.  

However, I was certain that this was the right next move for me.   

We began the program in August 2023, during the summer semester, with four intensive courses to complete by September. Despite the time constraints and the challenges of balancing work, particularly my responsibilities as an elementary school teacher, the experience was deeply fulfilling.  

The sense of professional growth and being part of a like-minded community with a shared vision was truly inspiring. 

Throughout the program, I was fortunate to deeply explore the multifaceted field of English language teaching through theoretical, pedagogical, and practical lenses. The program developed different aspects of my teacher identity, equipping me with essential tools to navigate educational institutions with knowledge, skills, and confidence.  

Courses like Teacher Identity helped me immensely to embrace and understand the challenges educators face on both personal and universal levels.  

In addition, courses like Curriculum Design and the Practicum enhanced my understanding of the Israeli education system and provided me with valuable insights on how to address Israeli learners’ needs, navigate diversity, and use it as an asset to enrich the learning experience—never allowing it to become a barrier to instruction. 

Diversity was also a hallmark of our TESOL classroom.  

It was truly wonderful to share this experience with individuals from around the world; this added significant value to my learning and allowed me to witness the beauty of diversity up close. Each person contributed a unique perspective shaped by their own cultural background, opening our minds and hearts to the richness of “the other.” This experience reaffirmed the importance of embracing diversity in our own classrooms.”

Applications for MA TESOL for2025/26 academic year are still open and you have a chance to apply!

Various scholarships are available for international students. New olim are eligible for tuition scholarships from the Israeli Student Authority.

Visit the program website and contact the program manager at tesol@tauex.tau.ac.il for more details.