You are required to have a LOCAL Israeli cell phone number while on the program for security reasons. A foreign number that works in Israel is not sufficient.

Easiest option: Arrive in Israel with an unlocked phone and to purchase a sim once you get here. You can go to the closest mall once you arrive and get a sim straight away.  Phone contracts are much cheaper in Israel, so it is very easy to get a contract with a lot of data. Contact your phone company before, unlocking your sim and ask if you can transfer your number to a pay as you go sim to keep your original number.

6 major phone companies in Israel: Pelephone, Cellcom, Partner, Hot Mobile, Golan Telecom and we4G. Hot Mobile and Golan Telecom are two of the more popular choices.

You will be provided with mandatory Israeli medical insurance for the specific dates of your participation on this program. This insurance does not cover pre-existing conditions and prescription medications from doctors outside of Israel. If you are taking prescription medication of any kind, please make sure to bring adequate dosages to cover the length of this program.  Dental care is not covered by our program insurance. The medical insurance coverage provided is only valid within Israel.

As a Masa Israel Teaching Fellow, your rent and apartment bills (including water, electricity, wifi, excluding food) will be covered by Masa Israel Journey and the Ministry of Education.

We suggest you budget $300-$600 a month for food and personal expenses throughout the program. 

Opening of bank accounts will take place during the first few weeks of the program. To open a bank account, you must bring your passport, a copy of their passport, a second form of picture ID (i.e. drivers’ license) and provide their social security number. It is recommended to bring a credit card with you from your country in case of delays in opening your bank account.