Nefesh BNefesh

TAKA is a program for students who plan on beginning or continuing their academic studies in Israel. 

TAKA programs are available at the following locations:

• Ashkelon College TAKA: The program begins on February 1, 2012 and ends on July 4, 2012. Exams take place on January 8, 2012 and January 15, 2012.
• Hadassah College TAKA: The program begins on February 12, 2012 and ends on June 28, 2012. Exams take place on January 12, 2012 and January 29, 2012. For students who arrive directly from abroad, the exam is given on February 7, 2012.

There are 2 ways for student Olim to prepare for academic studies:

1. The University preparatory programs (Mechinot)
2. TAKA

How do you know which one is for you?
First check if you are REQUIRED to do Mechina. You can do this by asking your local Aliyah shaliach, by contacting the Pre-Aliyah services of the Student Authority or by approaching the University of your choice directly.

Who is TAKA for?

TAKA is designed for students eligible for assistance from the Student Authority, who are not obligated to do the University Preparatory Program (Mechina) OR who choose to study in institutions or study tracks that do not require Mechina.

Acceptance Criteria:

1. You must be eligible for Student Authority assistance.
2. You must pass the Hebrew entrance exam with at least 60%, including the verbal exam.
3. Students already in Israel are requested to present an Ulpan completion certificate, in addition to successfully completing the TAKA entrance exam.
4. The Student Authority is NOT responsible for finding alternative programs for students who do not pass the entrance exam.
5. The program is very intense and suitable only for serious students who are willing to work hard.

Length of Program:
10 months

1. Initial Ulpan: 5 months
2. TAKA pre-academic program: 5 months

Where does TAKA take place?

What are the study tracks offered?

1. The Ashkelon Academic College – general studies track
2. The Hadassah Academic College in Jerusalem – general studies track, art track (including help preparing a portfolio)
3. The Technion – Preparation for studying science and engineering, with an emphasis on mathematics, physics & computers

What is in the TAKA Program?
About 30 weekly hours:

1. Advanced Hebrew
2. English
3. Computers
4. Mathematics
5. Introducing Research Methods
6. Preparation for the psychometric exam (dependent on sufficient demand)
7. Introduction to Art (only in Jerusalem)
8. Introduction to Engineering & Science (only in Haifa)

What do you pay for?

1. Rent for dorms
2. Registration - 220 NIS
3. Participation in preparatory course for psychometric – 450 NIS
4. Payment for subsidized art materials in TAKA Jerusalem – 100 NIS
5. Regular living expenses (food, etc.)

What else is important to know?

1. TAKA is funded & maintained by the Student Authority
2. The program is in addition to the 3 years tuition entitlement
3. Student are entitled to study in TAKA OR Mechina - NOT both

Student Housing

1. Ashkelon College Student Housing (apartments next to the campus): 580 shekels a month including utilities for a shared room. For apartments that go over the limit, students will be charged extra. Students coming from abroad must arrive before 25.1.12 for initial absorption & a Hebrew exam. Students will be allocated housing only after passing the exam. Temporary housing at the Barnea Absorption Center may be arranged in advance.
2. Hadassah College Jerusalem Student Housing, Bet Canada Absorption Center: 600 shekels per month for a shared room. Some students may be offered housing at the Mount Scopus campus (a bus ride away) at the cost of 930-1750 shekels per month.

Registration:

1. For students abroad: Open a student file and register via the language desks.
2. For any questions: aceng@moia.gov.il

Summer Ulpan

The Hadassah Academic College will have a summer Ulpan (9.7.12- 24.8.12), levels Gimel, Daled and Heh. Registration costs 100 shekels. Students who have already been accepted to an institution of higher education and are eligible for Student Authority assistance, including students who completed TAKA, can register.