Admissions
Hebrew College seeks applicants for the Rabbinical School who demonstrate a high level of academic aptitude combined with a deep commitment to serving the Jewish people.

Basic requirements for application:
BA degree from an accredited institution
College transcripts
Three letters of recommendation, including at least one
       from a rabbi
The equivalent of at least three years of college Hebrew,
       with emphasis on classical sources

Admission to the program will require an examination in Hebrew textual skills as well as a written examination in general Judaic knowledge. Applicants who otherwise qualify but are deficient in these areas may be directed toward a one-year preparatory program.

Qualification for the rabbinate also involves a series of intangibles: a strong sense of personal integrity, a willingness to serve, sometimes in self-sacrificing ways, and a love of Jews as well as Judaism. While there is no specific theology or level of observance mandated for acceptance, the program is defined as a religious one, and a serious personal relationship to the religious language of Judaism, including the mitzvot, is understood as essential.

To assist the Admissions Committee with its decision-making, there will be a psychological profile exam as part of the admissions process. Results of the exam will be shared with the applicant and with the Admissions Committee. The information will be kept strictly confidential in all other regards.

Because ours is a transdenominational Rabbinical School, there is no specific requirement regarding religious observance. It is expected, however, that each candidate will show serious grappling with the mitzvot and the question of personal observance.

The Rabbinical School does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation. Applicants must be Jewish by birth or conversion process as recognized by at least one major rabbinic body. Because we believe in the importance of Jewish family modeling, applicants who are married to or in committed relationships with non-Jews will not be considered for acceptance to this program.

Guidelines and Deadlines for Admission


Program Requirements

Rabbinical studies at Hebrew College are understood as a full-time academic program. While you will and should work in the Jewish community during your years of study, both to support yourself and to gain supervised experience, such work should not be allowed to eclipse your studies, and full-time work positions are not appropriate.

A Master of Arts in Jewish Studies with a concentration in rabbinics will be earned in conjunction with rabbinic ordination.

Rabbinical students will spend the summer and first semester of their fourth year studying in Israel. Some may choose to stay in Israel for the second semester of their fourth year as well.


Financial Aid and Residence

Financial aid will be available on a limited basis. If you are applying for financial aid, you will need to fill out this financial aid form [PDF - 68k], as well as a Federal Student Aid form. At present, Hebrew College does not provide housing; students are assisted in finding suitable housing arrangements. Students who prefer not to travel on Shabbat are encouraged, if at all possible, to live near the College, so that they can fully participate in the life of the rabbinical students' community.

For more information about the Rabbinical School of Hebrew College or an application, please contact the Office of Admissions, 617-559-8610, or email admissions@hebrewcollege.edu.

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