Financial Planning

Managing Your Student Finances in Israel

Plan your budget effectively with this guide to tuition fees, living costs, scholarships, and financial requirements for studying in Israel.

Israel Student Money Guide

Plan tuition, living costs and funding for 2026-27

AccommodationNIS 2,800 to 5,500

Food & GroceriesUSD 750 to 900

TransportationAbout USD 90

Yearly Tuition, One-Year International Master's

USD 11,400 to USD 12,640

Yearly tuition (the fee for your course) for most one-year English-taught master's programmes at Tel Aviv University (TAU) and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI), 2026-27, in US dollars (USD). Rent is in Israeli new shekels (NIS).

Living Costs Calculator

Financial Topics

Essential Financial Aspects

The money topics to plan before you study in Israel.

Tuition Fees

Complete breakdown of tuition costs across universities in Israel

Key information

Program-wise fee structure
Public vs private universities
Additional academic costs
Payment schedules and methods

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Living Costs

Comprehensive guide to living expenses and budgeting in Israel

Key information

Accommodation costs by city
Food and daily expenses
Transportation costs
Personal and entertainment budget

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Financial Proof

Documentation and requirements for proving financial capacity

Key information

Required financial documentation
Bank statement requirements
Sponsor documents
University-specific requirements

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Scholarships

Available scholarships and funding opportunities for international students

Key information

Government scholarships
University-specific funding
Merit-based opportunities
Application deadlines and process

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Student Jobs

Work opportunities and regulations for international students

Key information

Work permit regulations
On-campus job opportunities
Part-time work options
Post-graduation work rights

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Budget Overview

Plan Your Budget

These figures are for students in Tel Aviv.

Monthly Costs in Tel Aviv

For one student in Tel Aviv

Essential Monthly Expenses

Accommodation

NIS 2,800 to 5,500

Partly furnished flat near TAU: NIS 2,800 with 2 roommates, NIS 5,500 alone

Food & Groceries

USD 750 to 900

Groceries, cleaning products and toiletries, cooking most meals at home

Transportation

About USD 90

Unlimited bus pass in Tel Aviv

Costs vary significantly based on location and lifestyle. Figures are estimates and subject to change.

Money Management

Banking in Israel

Open a local account after you arrive. It takes about 30 to 50 minutes at the branch.

Banks Used by International Students

Near the TAU campus

Bank Hapoalim

At TAU, one of the two banks that already work with many international students.

Branches near TAU, such as Avivim and Ramat Aviv Gimel.
Book an appointment or call *2407.

Discount Bank

At TAU, the other bank that already works with many international students.

Branches near TAU, such as Neve Avivim and Afeka.
Book an appointment or call *6111.

Documents to Open a Bank Account in Israel

Passport.
Tax number or national ID from your home country.
Another ID, such as a driving licence from home.

Your student visa, or the blue paper you get at passport control when you enter Israel.
Your student ID or a letter from your university saying you are a student there.

Money Transfer & Payment Methods

Options for receiving and sending money internationally

Money Transfer Options

Bank Wire Transfers

Traditional bank-to-bank transfers using SWIFT/BIC codes.

Secure

Reliable

Higher fees

Money Transfer Services

Services like Wise, Remitly, Western Union, and MoneyGram.

Lower fees

Better exchange rates

App-based tracking

Common Payment Methods

Cash

Keep some cash on hand for small purchases and emergency situations. ATMs are widely available.

Smart Financial Tips

Expert advice to help you manage your finances effectively while studying in israel

Budgeting

Budget about USD 1,400 a month for living costs in Tel Aviv. Housing is extra.

Expect higher costs in your first month for bed sheets, plates and towels.

Saving Money

Cook at home; all TAU housing has a kitchenette.

Get a student Rav-Kav card (Israel's bus and train card) for cheaper buses and trains.

Share a flat to cut rent.

Banking

Open your bank account in Israel. Do not open it at an Israeli bank's branch in your home country.

Some TAU programmes charge an extra 2.45% of the tuition if you pay by card.

Pro Tips for israel

Currency Management

• Monitor exchange rates and transfer money when rates are favorable
• Use multi-currency cards to avoid conversion fees
• Keep some local cash for emergencies

Local Financial Culture

• Learn about local tipping customs and practices
• Understand tax obligations for international students
• Explore local student financial support programs

Remember: Financial planning is key to a successful study abroad experience. Start planning early and don't hesitate to seek advice from financial advisors or your university's international student services.