🇮🇱 Understanding the Education System in Israel: A Guide for Expat Families

Israel’s education system is a cornerstone of its society, reflecting the nation’s diverse cultural tapestry and commitment to academic excellence. Whether you’re relocating to Israel or considering educational options for your children, it’s essential to understand how the system operates and what choices are available.

Structure of the Israeli Education System

Israel’s education system is divided into three main tiers:

• Primary Education (Grades 1–6, Ages 6–12): The foundation of formal education, focusing on core subjects and social development.

• Middle School (Grades 7–9, Ages 12–15): Building upon primary education with more specialized subjects.

• High School (Grades 10–12, Ages 15–18): Preparation for higher education or vocational training, culminating in the Bagrut (matriculation) exams. 

Education is compulsory and free for all children from ages 3 to 18. The school year typically begins in September and ends in June, with a shorter school day on Fridays. Schools are closed on Saturdays (Shabbat) .

Types of Schools in Israel

Israel offers a variety of educational institutions to cater to its diverse population:

• State Secular Schools (Mamlachti): The majority of students attend these schools, which provide a standard curriculum emphasizing science, mathematics, literature, and social studies.

• State Religious Schools (Mamlachti Dati): These schools integrate Jewish studies with the standard curriculum, focusing on Jewish traditions and religious observance. 

• Independent Religious Schools (Haredi or Ḥinuch Atzmai): Primarily serving the ultra-Orthodox community, these schools emphasize religious education, with limited instruction in secular subjects. 

• Arab Schools: Instruction is in Arabic, with a curriculum that includes Arabic language, literature, and history, alongside standard subjects.

• Private and International Schools: These schools may offer curricula in English or other languages, following international education standards. They are often preferred by expatriate families seeking instruction in their native language . 

Language of Instruction

Hebrew is the primary language of instruction in most schools, while Arabic is used in Arab schools. For expatriate students or those not fluent in Hebrew, private international schools offer instruction in English or other languages, providing a smoother transition .

Higher Education

Israel boasts a robust higher education system, with institutions like the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology and Tel Aviv University gaining international recognition. The Bagrut exams serve as the primary qualification for university admission. However, access to higher education can vary, with disparities observed among different ethnic and religious groups .

Educational Equity and Challenges

Despite the emphasis on education, disparities exist within the system. Arab students often attend schools with fewer resources, leading to lower academic performance and reduced access to higher education. Similarly, Haredi schools focusing on religious studies may provide limited secular education, affecting students’ future employment opportunities .

Considerations for Expat Families

For expatriate families, choosing the right educational path involves several factors:

• Language Proficiency: Consider the language of instruction and the child’s proficiency in that language.

• Curriculum Alignment: Determine if the school’s curriculum aligns with your home country’s educational standards.

• Cultural Integration: Evaluate how the school supports cultural integration and understanding.

• Location and Logistics: Factor in the school’s proximity to your residence and the availability of transportation.

Private and international schools often cater to expatriate needs, offering curricula in English and other languages, and providing a familiar educational environment .

Final Thoughts

Israel’s education system is diverse and multifaceted, reflecting the country’s rich cultural landscape. For expatriate families, understanding the various educational options and considering factors like language, curriculum, and cultural integration are crucial in making an informed decision. Whether opting for public, private, or international schools, the goal is to ensure that children receive a quality education that supports their academic and personal growth in their new environment.