ONWARD – Internships

• • • • Applicants between 18-34 years old (or at least one full year post-high school at the start of the program)

     

     

• • • • Identify as Jewish

     

    • • Have NOT spent 3 or more consecutive months in Israel after high school (this includes semester abroad, gap year, or any other MASA or Onward Israel program). Note: Alumni of Onward Israel programs (even if they are Masa eligible) are typically not eligible to participate in a second Onward Israel program. In some cases, this might be possible (alumni can check with Onward Israel staff on a case-by-case basis), but program subsidies will be significantly lower and therefore the program fee will be higher.

     

     

• • • • Fluent in English

     

     

• • • • Have a valid passport (must be valid for at least 6 months after the program end date)

     

     

• • • • Previous participation in Birthright Israel is encouraged but not required

     

     

No, living together with other Onward Israel participants is a central and required component of the overall experience.

The Onward program is relatively short in duration, therefore late arrival or early departure from the program is approved only in very exceptional cases. In order to arrive late or leave the program early, a written request must be submitted. Requests that include an absence longer than three days will not be approved.

It's very possible! Connecting a free 10-day #Birthright trip with an 8-week Onward Internship is a great way to get more out of your summer and take advantage of the free flight included on a classic #Birthright trip (airline extension fees apply). More good news – Israel Outdoors will provide extra placement support if you seek to travel on our programs.
Heads up! You'll be on your own during any gap between programs.

NOTE: Registration for the summer season of Birthright Israel trips opens December 2, 2026

No. Onward Israel alumni are not eligible for Birthright Israel trips. If you wish to participate in a 7- or 10-day Birthright Israel trip, consider participating in a Birthright Israel trip prior to an Onward Israel program.

Separate from the cost of the program, participants are required to submit a $400 security deposit in cash upon arrival in Israel. Deposits will be refunded at the end of the program, pending good standing.

Yes. Participants are required to have an Israeli cell phone number, and we will provide an option to arrange for a local SIM card as part of the pre-trip preparation documents.