Frequently Asked Questions
Eligibility & Application Process
1. Who can apply to Shvilim?
Shvilim is open to Jewish young adults aged 18–20 from around the world. All programming is in English, so a good grasp of the language is essential. You do not need any specific level of Jewish knowledge or religious practice, we welcome participants from all backgrounds, beliefs, and levels of observance.
We aim to build a diverse group of participants who bring a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and strengths to the table. We are looking for individuals who are:
- Curious about the Jewish world and eager to contribute to it
- Open to new ideas, people and experiences
- Committed to personal growth and shared responsibility
- Ready to explore their leadership potential in their own unique way
- A high school diploma is required, and you should be excited to be part of a dynamic, thoughtful and engaged community.
You should be excited to be part of a dynamic, thoughtful and engaged community.
All participants must during the application year plan on finishing an upper secondary education which qualifies for admittance to universities in Norway. See FAQ 3.
2. How do I apply?
To start your application, click the “Apply Now” button on our website. You’ll be asked to fill out some basic personal information and tell us a bit about yourself. If you’re a good fit for the program, we’ll contact you to begin the full application process.
The application process includes:
1. A short video introduction
2. A personality test with reflection questions
3. A personal interview
4. A group dynamic activity
Once you’ve completed all the steps, you’ll be notified whether you’ve been accepted. If accepted, you’ll receive a deadline to pay a $1,000 deposit to secure your spot.
The recruitment process usually runs from October to March. We encourage interested applicants to reach out as early as possible, as spots are limited and fill up quickly.
3. Will I earn academic credits at the University of Oslo?
All participants must during the application year plan on finishing an upper secondary education which qualifies for admittance to universities in Norway. You can check the requirements for your country here: Higher Education Entrance Qualification to Norwegian Universities (GSU)
For international upper secondary education, se under “international”.
Cost, Safety & Practical Information
1. What does the program cost, and what does it include?
The cost of the 10-month Shvilim program is*:
• $19,000 for participants from Europe
• ₪38,500 for participants from Israel
• $22,000 for participants from North America and beyond
This includes:
• All accommodation and meals throughout the year
• Flights between program destinations (Israel, Europe, and the U.S)
• All program activities, site visits, and educational content
*The program is supported, and the different prices are because of different subsidized funding for specific countries
**Please note: The cost does not include international flight to and from the program, local public transportation in Israel, or personal expenses during free weekends and vacations
• Insurance and logistical support during the year
2. Are scholarships or financial aid available?
Yes. As a recognized Masa Israel program, all international Shvilim participants are eligible for a Masa scholarship. The amount varies based on your country of origin, income, and personal circumstances.
Additional scholarships and grants may also be available.
Please contact us to learn more. We are happy to talk and help you explore your options.
3. Who manages the program?
Shvilim is owned by the Jewish Community of Oslo and operated in partnership with the Upper Galilee Leadership Academy in Israel. The program director and head is Rabbi Joav Melchior, who oversees the overall vision and leadership.
Day-to-day, the participants are supported by a dedicated team who accompany the group throughout the year. Behind the scenes, the management teams from both the Upper Galilee Leadership Academy and the Jewish Community of Oslo provide ongoing guidance and support.
Living, Learning & Daily Life
1. Where do participants live and eat during the year?
In Israel, participants live in Kibbutz Amir in the Upper Galilee, which serves as their home base throughout the program. The year both begins and ends there, and participants keep their belongings at the kibbutz.
During the journeys across Europe, the U.S., and Israel, participants stay with host families, in community houses, youth movement centers, or paid accommodation.
When it comes to food, participants mostly prepare their own meals, eat at the kibbutz dining hall, with host families, or occasionally at kosher restaurants during travels.
2. How does a typical week look like? Do I get time off?
The 10 months of Shvilim are diverse and dynamic. In Israel, the schedule alternates between routine weeks at the kibbutz and themed weeks with trips and seminars — like Jerusalem Week, Navigation Week, or Peoplehood Seminar. In Norway, the focus is mainly on academic studies at the University of Oslo. In the U.S. and Europe, the program varies each year, based on the journeys participant’s help design.
Throughout the year, each week includes committee time, lectures, sports, and volunteering.
While in Israel, participants have every other Shabbat off, some of the major Jewish holidays, and two main vacation breaks: Hanukkah and Pesach. Most participants spend time off with friends or family, and Israeli participants are encouraged to invite international participants home. The staff also helps arrange host families to make sure everyone has a place to be.
3. What language is the program in? Will I learn Hebrew?
The main language of the program is English. Throughout the year, participants also take part in ulpan (Hebrew classes), especially during the time in Israel. No prior Hebrew knowledge is required.
4. What is the religious atmosphere/level on Shvilim?
Shvilim is a pluralistic program. Participants come from a wide range of backgrounds; religious, secular, and everything in between. The program encourages open, respectful dialogue about identity, values, and belief.
Shabbat is observed in shared spaces, and Kabbalat Shabbat is celebrated together as a group. The program keeps Kosher and observes all the Jewish holidays and participants are welcome to attend local services, host their own traditions, or simply take time for rest and reflection.
5. Where do participants come from?
Shvilim is an international gap year program that brings together participants from a wide range of backgrounds. We aim for a balanced mix—roughly one-third from Israel, one-third from across Europe, and one-third from other parts of the world.
Diversity is one of our core values. Participants come with different languages, cultural experiences, Jewish identities, and traditions. This creates a unique and enriching environment where we learn from each other, challenge assumptions, and build deep, lasting connections across borders and perspectives.