JUF and the Naftali Steinfeld Memorial Scholarship Fund offer scholarships based on financial need for high school students participating in approved Israel experience programs. The purpose of the Israel Experience High School Scholarship Program is to strengthen Jewish identity and nourish greater understanding and commitment to Israel and to the Chicago Jewish community.
Scholarship Details
- Provides need-based assistance for approved Israel experience programs
- Supports high school students participating in educational programs in Israel
- Aims to strengthen Jewish identity and connection to Israel
- Encourages engagement with the Chicago Jewish community
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be enrolled in grades 9 through 12, including graduating seniors attending a post-high school program
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Must reside in metropolitan Chicago
- Only one JUF Israel experience financial need scholarship application may be submitted per family each academic year, except for twins or other multiples
Application Process
- Apply to an approved Israel experience program that begins after the scholarship application deadline
- Complete the JUF scholarship application and provide all requested information
- Submit financial documentation demonstrating need
- Provide information regarding residency and school enrollment status
- Submit all required application materials by the established deadline
- Participate in any additional review or verification process if requested
- Applicants must wait one full year before applying for a second scholarship, and the subsequent program must be substantially different
Scholarship priority is given to applicants who have never been to Israel, although those who have been to Israel before may still apply. JUF Israel experience scholarships cannot be used to extend a current program or for programs that are substantially similar to a program in which the applicant has already participated.
