Updated August 8th, 2025
Table of Contents
General Information
Click here to review our General Information document. This document provides important details about your son's year in Yeshiva, including seforim, dorm room, Shabbos policy, electric bike policy, laundry service, sample trip schedule, tuition refund policy, visiting parents, rules and regulations, etc.
Health Insurance
Click here to access AIM's forms or visit their website at www.aim.co.il. Submit forms, payments, and any questions directly to AIM at [email protected].
You can consider using a different Israeli health insurance plan, provided your son is aware of the procedures and can communicate in Hebrew with their doctors and secretarial staff. If you choose another Israeli health insurance company, please provide us with the plan details, policy number, and expiration date.
Documentation Submission Form
Gym Use Clearance
As per the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health, we require all talmidim to have clearance from a medical professional before using our gym facilities.
If your son has AIM health insurance, he would have submitted the AIM medical form signed by a doctor (stating there are no restrictions on physical activities) and will, therefore, not be required to send us the signed fitness authorization form.
However, if your son has signed up with a different health insurance provider, please download the Fitness Authorization form here. Please have your son's doctor complete the form and then email it to us.
ETA Requirement and Student Visa Information
If your son does not have a valid student visa or has recently received a new passport, please ensure he obtains an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before returning to Israel. Print the ETA confirmation and bring it to the airport.
Although students with valid visas are officially exempt, some airlines may be unaware of this exemption and might deny boarding without an ETA. Therefore, to avoid issues, students with valid visas should also obtain an ETA. Print both the ETA and visa documents, and bring them to the airport.
Click here to apply and here for detailed instructions on completing the ETA application.
Cellphone and Technology Policy
Each year, we reassess and refine our cellphone and technology policy in light of the evolving landscape of available devices. Our goal remains steadfast: to create an environment that promotes growth in תורה and עבודת ה׳. This year, with the guidance of our Rabbanim and based on feedback from our talmidim themselves, we are implementing a clearer and more consistently enforced approach.
Effective this year: Any talmid found in possession of a non-approved phone or any internet-capable or video-enabled device will be required to return home immediately for an indefinite period of time. Parents will be responsible for arranging and covering the cost of travel. The Hanhala will determine if and when the talmid may return, and under what conditions. If a Talmid brings a second, unauthorized phone to Yeshiva, it must be given to the Av Bayis upon arrival for safekeeping.
We recognize that this is a significant shift in enforcement and may involve real inconvenience and cost. Until now, our approach to consequences was designed to be mild and unobtrusive out of respect for each bochur’s dignity. Unfortunately, this has not served our talmidim well. The Rosh HaYeshiva met with each shiur to personally explain this new approach and its purpose. We are speaking openly with the talmidim so they understand that these changes are rooted in our belief in them, and our desire to help them reach their full potential.
We ask that you join us in this effort by discussing the policy with your son and letting him know that you stand behind it. Your support is a key part of helping each bochur grow and succeed.
May we be zocheh to a year of aliyah and nachas from all our talmidim!
Phone Options and Ordering Info
As you know, talmidim are required to use a kosher phone that meets the Yeshiva’s standards. Until now, we required all talmidim to use a Fig phone in order to avoid confusion and ensure consistency. However, now that we are implementing a firmer and consistently enforced policy, we are able to offer a bit more flexibility in approved phone options.
There are now three approved kosher phone options:
A few important notes:
Click here for more details about subsidized options for the Fig phone.
Student Visa Documentation
The Israeli government requires a student visa for anyone intending to remain in the country for over three months. The Yeshiva will apply for student visas for all new Talmidim after they arrive in Elul.
To apply for your son's student visa, we will need the following:
Zman Dates
Elul Zman 5785: Elul Zman will begin IY”H on Tuesday, 2 Elul, 5785 / August 26, 2025. There is regular seder Tuesday morning, and therefore, all Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Monday evening, August 25th, 2025. The dormitory will open on Sunday.
Elul Zman concludes Motzei Yom Kippur, 5786 / October 2, 2025.
Winter Zman: Winter Zman will begin IY"H on Thursday, 1 Cheshvan / October 23, 2025. There will be regular seder on Thursday.
The Winter Zman will conclude on Thursday evening, March 12th, 2026 (23rd of Adar, 5786).
Summer Zman: Summer Zman will begin IY"H on Tuesday, 4 Iyar / April 21, 2025. Regular seder will take place Tuesday morning, and therefore, Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Monday evening, 3 Iyar / April 20.
The Hanhala is working to finalize the end date of the Summer Zman. Due to various considerations, such as coordination with summer camps and other institutions, this decision requires additional time. We will announce the date as soon as it becomes available.
Talmidim are expected to arrive at the beginning of each zman and remain in Yeshiva until the very end. We understand the current challenges in booking flights, which is why it is all the more important to secure your son's tickets immediately. Thank you for your cooperation.
Blankets, Pillows, and Linen
To make your travel to the Yeshiva more convenient, you may want to consider ordering blankets, pillows, and linen in advance. This will help lighten your luggage load. You can place your order through the following link https://blanketexpressplus.com.
College Credits Options
Yeshiva Toras Chaim is not accredited. However, like any yeshiva, we can provide a transcript listing credits for learning completed at the yeshiva. These credits can be transferred to any college that accepts non-accredited credits, subject to their requirements and limitations. Institutions like Touro, FDU (Fairleigh Dickinson University), and BTL programs recognize these non-accredited yeshiva credits.
We also offer additional college credit options. Click here for more details. The information is subject to change and is updated periodically.
Information for Your Son's Arrival
1) What is the Yeshiva's address?
The Yeshiva's address is 7 Harikma Street, Romema, Yerushalayim. We are about a two-minute walk from Center One. Click here to find us on Google Maps (please disregard the photos, they are from thirteen years ago!).
2) Is there someone I can call in case of an emergency when arriving?
In an emergency, contact Reb Avrumie Cohen, our Av Bayis, at 972-54-841-1030 (054-841-1030 in Israel).
3) How do I know which dorm room to go to? Where can I find the bedding I ordered from Blanket Express? Where do I store my luggage?
Signs will be posted in Yeshiva with all relevant information.
4) Do I need a student visa to enter Israel?
A student visa is not required for new Talmidim to enter Israel, but starting January 1, 2025, all visitors , including new Talmidim, must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) before boarding their flight to Israel.
Student visas are still required for anyone staying in Israel for longer than three months. Therefore, new Talmidim will enter Israel with an ETA-IL and apply for their student visas after they arrive in Israel.
Facial Recognition System – Early Registration
We have a facial recognition system at the Yeshiva entrance. For new Talmidim, this can cause a delay until their photo is uploaded.
You can now submit photos in advance so they are added at the start of the Zman. (It may not be ready the moment your son arrives, but shortly afterward it should be active. Instructions will be posted at the entrance for alternate entry, and usually other Talmidim are arriving at the same time to assist.)
Photo requirements:
In the subject line, write only your son’s name, last name followed by first name, and nothing else.
Student Visa Entry Note
Unlike many countries that require student visas to be issued before arrival, Israel allows and prefers Yeshivos to apply for student visas after students arrive. The Yeshiva handles this process in bulk online.
Major airlines like El Al are familiar with this policy, but occasionally, smaller airlines or uninformed gate agents may question entry without a visa.
To avoid issues:
This issue is extremely rare—but being prepared can help avoid stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend visiting our "FAQ" page here. It currently lists the 35 most frequently asked questions by parents.
Table of Contents
- General Information Document
- Health Insurance
- Gym Use Clearance
- Israel’s ETA System for Travelers
- Cellphone Policy
- Phone Options
- Student Visas
- Zman Dates
- Blankets, Pillows, and Linen
- College Credits Options
- Information for Your Son's Arrival
- Facial Recognition
- FAQs
General Information
Click here to review our General Information document. This document provides important details about your son's year in Yeshiva, including seforim, dorm room, Shabbos policy, electric bike policy, laundry service, sample trip schedule, tuition refund policy, visiting parents, rules and regulations, etc.
Health Insurance
Click here to access AIM's forms or visit their website at www.aim.co.il. Submit forms, payments, and any questions directly to AIM at [email protected].
You can consider using a different Israeli health insurance plan, provided your son is aware of the procedures and can communicate in Hebrew with their doctors and secretarial staff. If you choose another Israeli health insurance company, please provide us with the plan details, policy number, and expiration date.
Documentation Submission Form
Gym Use Clearance
As per the guidelines set by the Ministry of Health, we require all talmidim to have clearance from a medical professional before using our gym facilities.
If your son has AIM health insurance, he would have submitted the AIM medical form signed by a doctor (stating there are no restrictions on physical activities) and will, therefore, not be required to send us the signed fitness authorization form.
However, if your son has signed up with a different health insurance provider, please download the Fitness Authorization form here. Please have your son's doctor complete the form and then email it to us.
ETA Requirement and Student Visa Information
If your son does not have a valid student visa or has recently received a new passport, please ensure he obtains an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) before returning to Israel. Print the ETA confirmation and bring it to the airport.
Although students with valid visas are officially exempt, some airlines may be unaware of this exemption and might deny boarding without an ETA. Therefore, to avoid issues, students with valid visas should also obtain an ETA. Print both the ETA and visa documents, and bring them to the airport.
Click here to apply and here for detailed instructions on completing the ETA application.
Cellphone and Technology Policy
Each year, we reassess and refine our cellphone and technology policy in light of the evolving landscape of available devices. Our goal remains steadfast: to create an environment that promotes growth in תורה and עבודת ה׳. This year, with the guidance of our Rabbanim and based on feedback from our talmidim themselves, we are implementing a clearer and more consistently enforced approach.
Effective this year: Any talmid found in possession of a non-approved phone or any internet-capable or video-enabled device will be required to return home immediately for an indefinite period of time. Parents will be responsible for arranging and covering the cost of travel. The Hanhala will determine if and when the talmid may return, and under what conditions. If a Talmid brings a second, unauthorized phone to Yeshiva, it must be given to the Av Bayis upon arrival for safekeeping.
We recognize that this is a significant shift in enforcement and may involve real inconvenience and cost. Until now, our approach to consequences was designed to be mild and unobtrusive out of respect for each bochur’s dignity. Unfortunately, this has not served our talmidim well. The Rosh HaYeshiva met with each shiur to personally explain this new approach and its purpose. We are speaking openly with the talmidim so they understand that these changes are rooted in our belief in them, and our desire to help them reach their full potential.
We ask that you join us in this effort by discussing the policy with your son and letting him know that you stand behind it. Your support is a key part of helping each bochur grow and succeed.
May we be zocheh to a year of aliyah and nachas from all our talmidim!
Phone Options and Ordering Info
As you know, talmidim are required to use a kosher phone that meets the Yeshiva’s standards. Until now, we required all talmidim to use a Fig phone in order to avoid confusion and ensure consistency. However, now that we are implementing a firmer and consistently enforced policy, we are able to offer a bit more flexibility in approved phone options.
There are now three approved kosher phone options:
- Fig Flip 2
- Megalife B1 Core
- Megalife F1 Core
A few important notes:
- The Megalife phones include the Gett taxi app, making it easier for talmidim to order rides in Israel.
- Fig phones are known for their sleek design and features, but repairs often require shipping back to the U.S.
- Megalife phones can be serviced locally in Israel, offering added convenience.
Click here for more details about subsidized options for the Fig phone.
Student Visa Documentation
The Israeli government requires a student visa for anyone intending to remain in the country for over three months. The Yeshiva will apply for student visas for all new Talmidim after they arrive in Elul.
To apply for your son's student visa, we will need the following:
- A clear, colored picture or scan of your son's passport.
- A high-quality, colored scan of your son's birth certificate. Note: Pictures of birth certificates are not acceptable; it must be a high-quality scan.
- If your son is under 18, he will apply for his student visa in Israel after turning 18. If he turns 18 before we apply for the Talmidim as a group, the process will be the same as for everyone else. If he turns 18 after the group application, we will provide guidance on the application process.
- If one or both of a Talmid’s parents are Israeli citizens, then according to Israeli law, he is considered an Israeli citizen. Additionally, if the Talmid or his parents were born in Israel, he may also be considered an Israeli citizen. IMPORTANT! Please let us know ASAP if you think this may apply to you. We’ll guide you through the process to the best of our ability.
Zman Dates
Elul Zman 5785: Elul Zman will begin IY”H on Tuesday, 2 Elul, 5785 / August 26, 2025. There is regular seder Tuesday morning, and therefore, all Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Monday evening, August 25th, 2025. The dormitory will open on Sunday.
Elul Zman concludes Motzei Yom Kippur, 5786 / October 2, 2025.
Winter Zman: Winter Zman will begin IY"H on Thursday, 1 Cheshvan / October 23, 2025. There will be regular seder on Thursday.
The Winter Zman will conclude on Thursday evening, March 12th, 2026 (23rd of Adar, 5786).
Summer Zman: Summer Zman will begin IY"H on Tuesday, 4 Iyar / April 21, 2025. Regular seder will take place Tuesday morning, and therefore, Talmidim are required to be in Yeshiva by Monday evening, 3 Iyar / April 20.
The Hanhala is working to finalize the end date of the Summer Zman. Due to various considerations, such as coordination with summer camps and other institutions, this decision requires additional time. We will announce the date as soon as it becomes available.
Talmidim are expected to arrive at the beginning of each zman and remain in Yeshiva until the very end. We understand the current challenges in booking flights, which is why it is all the more important to secure your son's tickets immediately. Thank you for your cooperation.
Blankets, Pillows, and Linen
To make your travel to the Yeshiva more convenient, you may want to consider ordering blankets, pillows, and linen in advance. This will help lighten your luggage load. You can place your order through the following link https://blanketexpressplus.com.
College Credits Options
Yeshiva Toras Chaim is not accredited. However, like any yeshiva, we can provide a transcript listing credits for learning completed at the yeshiva. These credits can be transferred to any college that accepts non-accredited credits, subject to their requirements and limitations. Institutions like Touro, FDU (Fairleigh Dickinson University), and BTL programs recognize these non-accredited yeshiva credits.
We also offer additional college credit options. Click here for more details. The information is subject to change and is updated periodically.
Information for Your Son's Arrival
1) What is the Yeshiva's address?
The Yeshiva's address is 7 Harikma Street, Romema, Yerushalayim. We are about a two-minute walk from Center One. Click here to find us on Google Maps (please disregard the photos, they are from thirteen years ago!).
2) Is there someone I can call in case of an emergency when arriving?
In an emergency, contact Reb Avrumie Cohen, our Av Bayis, at 972-54-841-1030 (054-841-1030 in Israel).
3) How do I know which dorm room to go to? Where can I find the bedding I ordered from Blanket Express? Where do I store my luggage?
Signs will be posted in Yeshiva with all relevant information.
4) Do I need a student visa to enter Israel?
A student visa is not required for new Talmidim to enter Israel, but starting January 1, 2025, all visitors , including new Talmidim, must obtain an ETA-IL (Electronic Travel Authorization) before boarding their flight to Israel.
Student visas are still required for anyone staying in Israel for longer than three months. Therefore, new Talmidim will enter Israel with an ETA-IL and apply for their student visas after they arrive in Israel.
Facial Recognition System – Early Registration
We have a facial recognition system at the Yeshiva entrance. For new Talmidim, this can cause a delay until their photo is uploaded.
You can now submit photos in advance so they are added at the start of the Zman. (It may not be ready the moment your son arrives, but shortly afterward it should be active. Instructions will be posted at the entrance for alternate entry, and usually other Talmidim are arriving at the same time to assist.)
Photo requirements:
- Current, clear, front-facing headshot
- No smiling
- Sharp focus
In the subject line, write only your son’s name, last name followed by first name, and nothing else.
Student Visa Entry Note
Unlike many countries that require student visas to be issued before arrival, Israel allows and prefers Yeshivos to apply for student visas after students arrive. The Yeshiva handles this process in bulk online.
Major airlines like El Al are familiar with this policy, but occasionally, smaller airlines or uninformed gate agents may question entry without a visa.
To avoid issues:
- Use major airlines when possible
- Carry your Yeshiva acceptance letter and print our visa procedure letter here
- Arrive early in case of check-in delays
- If questioned, explain this is standard for Yeshiva students and ask for a supervisor
This issue is extremely rare—but being prepared can help avoid stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
We recommend visiting our "FAQ" page here. It currently lists the 35 most frequently asked questions by parents.