The Exploration, Leadership and Innovation (ELI) Gap Year

The Exploration, Leadership and Innovation (ELI) Gap Year program offers high school graduates a structured pre-college year in Tel Aviv, Israel. Combining for-credit academic coursework at Tel Aviv University with leadership development, service learning, and engagement with Israel's Startup Nation, ELI is designed for students who want their gap year to advance their academic and professional trajectory—not pause it.

Offered through The Lowy International School, the program runs August–May (full year) or as a single semester (Fall or Spring). Students complete a minimum of four for-credit courses alongside workshops in cybersecurity, AI, entrepreneurship, and Jewish peoplehood, with credits applying toward Tel Aviv University undergraduate degrees. Program highlights include hands-on research with TAU labs, mentorship from Israeli entrepreneurs, and immersive tours across Israel.

 Program Overview

The Exploration, Leadership, and Innovation (ELI) Gap Year program is for you if you're a high school graduate who, before embarking on your college career, would like to explore university life and enhance your academic, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills in a world-class environment that also nurtures meaningful engagement with Jewish life, identity, and community. The program is uniquely designed to equip you with an invaluable toolbox that will serve you throughout your college years and wherever life leads.

ELI integrates academic excellence with field trips, service-learning projects, group bonding, and other immersive experiences, including networking and mentorship opportunities within Israel's Startup Nation and with global experts across Israel's political, cultural, media, business, and technology landscapes.

You'll take a minimum of four for-credit courses during your time in the program and participate in workshops centered on TAU's areas of expertise, such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship. Credits earned during the program apply toward your studies if you continue at Tel Aviv University, and may be transferable to other universities depending on their individual policies.

Interview with the program founder, Dr. Ronen Hoffman

 What You'll Study: Four Thematic Pillars

For-credit courses, workshops, and immersive experiences in the ELI Gap Year program are organized around four interconnected themes. Together, they prepare students for university and beyond.

Israel and the Middle East

Delve into the complexities of Israeli society, politics, and culture while gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and broader geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East. Interact with TAU’s renowned experts and with influential public figures; participate in meaningful service learning across Israeli society; and join immersive tours.

Jewish Peoplehood

Explore Jewish history, tradition, and heritage with hands-on learning and service at the ANU Museum of Jewish Peoplehood. Develop leadership skills through meetings with prominent leaders and actively engage with diverse groups across Israel.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation

TAU, a driving force behind the Startup Nation phenomenon, is consistently ranked among the world’s top ten universities for producing successful entrepreneurs. Gain a foundational entrepreneurial skillset and immerse yourself in Tel Aviv’s vibrant startup ecosystem.

The Best of Science and Human Thought

For STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students, engage with labs run by top TAU researchers across various scientific fields, including cancer research, robotics, neuroscience, and astrophysics. For humanities and social sciences students, immerse yourself in close reading, writing, and critical thinking activities and explore the finest texts in philosophy and literature.

"The purpose of the program is to experience and study Israel in all its richness and multitude of complexities."

— The Times of Israel, A new kind of gap year in Israel: Inside Tel Aviv University's ELI program (January 2026)

Read the full feature.

 Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the ELI Gap Year program cost in 2026–27?

$14,000 per semester or $28,000 for the full year. Includes housing, insurance, excursions, and academic credit. Flights, food, and personal expenses are separate. Need-based aid, MASA grants, and merit-based scholarships are available: see the Scholarships section.

Who is eligible to apply?

Recent high school graduates from any country, with a GPA of 3.0 or equivalent and English proficiency for university-level coursework. The program centers on Jewish life and engagement with Israel; most participants come from Jewish or Jewish-adjacent communities. See Application Requirements for full details.

Can I continue at Tel Aviv University after the program?

Yes. ELI credits apply toward TAU undergraduate degrees, and alumni receive dedicated admissions guidance from The Lowy International School. TAU offers English-taught Bachelor's programs in liberal arts and business, as well as academic integration tracks in engineering.

Is it safe to study in Israel right now?

Student safety is our highest priority. Participants receive pre-arrival briefings, ongoing security updates, 24/7 access to the Lowy International student life team, and clear emergency protocols. For specific concerns, contact gapintl@tauex.tau.ac.il. See more information on safety and security.

Explore additional Gap Year FAQs