Ulpan for Olim

Every new Oleh is entitled to intensive Hebrew classes funded by the Misrad Haklita (Ministry of Aliyah and Integration). This right is neither automatically used nor unlimited in time — better to plan it from day one.

• HoursAbout 500 hours of classes, spread according to the format chosen.
• Validity18 months from your Aliyah date (not from when you register at the Ulpan) — the clock starts the day you land. If you receive the Bituah Leumi subsistence allowance (dmei kiyum), this window extends to 24 months. Register early so you don't lose useful time.
• CostFree for the covered hours and duration. Beyond that, classes become paid.
• Who is eligibleAnyone holding a Teoudat Oleh. School-age children follow a different track (Kita Kelet) — see the Education guide.
• Seniors / pensionersLighter-paced formats (fewer weekly sessions) sometimes exist for older Olim — ask your Misrad Haklita advisor what is available for your profile.

A placement test at registration sets your starting level — no need to start from zero if you already have some basics.

• 1AlephComplete beginner: alphabet, reading, basic vocabulary and grammar.
• 2BetLower intermediate: simple everyday conversations.
• 3GimelIntermediate: more spoken autonomy, everyday text reading.
• 4DaletUpper intermediate: more complex discussions, simplified press.
• 5Hey / VavAdvanced to fluent: near-native level, often targeted for studies or a role requiring strong Hebrew.

The same 500-hour right can be used in several ways — the right choice depends on your schedule and goal.

1. 1
   Contact the Misrad Haklita — As soon as you register with the Misrad Haklita (ideally at the airport or within the first days), ask for the list of Ulpanim in your city and your participation voucher.
2. 2
   Choose an Ulpan and a format — Compare Ulpanim near you (municipal, university, community) and pick the format that fits your schedule.
3. 3
   Take the placement test — A short oral and written test sets your starting level — bring your Teoudat Oleh.
4. 4
   Start classes — Sessions start on fixed dates (often September, January, and summer for Ulpan Kayitz) — register ahead, spots are limited.

After 500 hours or 18 months, several paths exist to keep progressing without it necessarily being expensive.

• Reduced-rate municipal UlpanimSome municipalities offer continuation classes at a symbolic cost for residents.
• Private or small-group lessonsMore flexible, but budget case by case depending on the teacher and format.
• Community conversation groupsOften free, organized by nonprofits or community centers — good for pressure-free practice.
• Apps and self-studyDuolingo, Pimsleur, HebrewPod and others — useful as a complement, rarely enough on their own.

• Attend classes from week one — the beginning is the easiest part to catch up on, not the end.
• Switch your phone and everyday apps to Hebrew once you have the basics.
• Practice out loud even at a low level — shopkeepers and neighbors are generally forgiving with Olim who try.
• Take the OlimAid Hebrew level test before registering so you arrive with a clear idea of your starting point.