The curriculum is demanding, and a 3.0 average is required for admission. Rigorous Hebrew instruction is required throughout the year abroad. In addition to the Ulpan, language classes continue two or three times a week each semester. As with any language and culture, however, the best instructor is practical experience, and hands-on activities are the strength of the Rothberg School. Archaeology professors bring students to actual digs, religion professors turn to original manuscripts of sacred texts, and politics professors use the Middle East itself to illustrate political dynamics.
Students can attend political seminars and conduct on- site research.
Students should expect an international, not Israeli, roommate. There is no meal plan, but the dormitories have kitchen facilities, and grocery shopping is nearby. Students provide their own utensils and linens. Student counselors live in the dormitories and are available 24 hours a day to help students adjust to Israeli society. The Office of Student Activities plans many extracurricular activities designed to introduce students to the land, people, culture, and politics of Israel.