VISA INFORMATION
Student Visa
Students studying at COLMAN for the semester must arrive in Israel with a valid student visa. Upon acceptance to the exchange program, students should visit their local Israeli Consulate or Embassy to obtain an A2 student visa. This visa allows for multiple entries into the country during the period of study and is valid for one year for the purpose of academic studies. Students are not permitted to work in Israel during this time.
In order to receive a student visa, students must provide proof of acceptance and a valid passport at the Israeli embassy or consulate in their home country.
Tourist Visa
Students attending a short-term study program at COLMAN of 3 months or less may be able to enter Israel on a tourist visa. For many countries, tourist visas are issued upon arrival at the airport in Israel.
In order to receive the most up to date visa information and details, contact the Israeli embassy or Consulate in your country. For regulations on visas, see the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs website here.
The Office of International Academic Affairs is also available for consultation. Contact us at: internationaloffice@colman.ac.il
LIFE IN ISRAEL
- Israel’s population in 2020 is 9,152,100
- 74.24% are Jewish, 20.95% are Arab
- Of the Jewish population, about 45% percent are of Middle Eastern descent (Mizrachi/Sephardic), 44% are of European descent (Ashkenazi), 3% of Ethiopian descent, and 8% mixed or other. Of the Arab population, 84% are Muslim (mostly Sunni), 8% Christian and 8% Druze.
- Relative to its population, Israel has absorbed more immigrants than any other country in the world. From its establishment until the end of 2017, about 3.2 million immigrants arrived in Israel from more than 100 countries.
- Israel is world renowned as the “start-up nation”, with the most start-ups per capita in the world. Israel is ranked second in the world in R&D expenditure per capital and invests about 4.1% of its GDP in R&D (the average among the OECD is 2%).
- According to the World Happiness Report, Israel ranks #13 based on respondents own rating of their lives.
- With an average of three children per woman, Israel has the highest fertility rate in the OECD by a considerable margin.
- Israel ranks #3 in most educated countries in the world, with 51% holding higher education degrees.
- Israel has mandatory conscription for the majority of the population, with exception primarily of the Arab population and ultra-orthodox Jewish population.
- Approximately 4 million tourists visit Israel each year.
- Life Expectancy in Israel is relatively high, average of 80.7 f
In Israel, summers are hot and dry, winters are cool and somewhat rainy. Heavy snow falls only in the northernmost part of Golan Heights from December to March. In other parts of the country there is rarely ever snow, with the last reported snow fall in Tel Aviv in 1950. The beach city of Eilat, located at the southernmost point of Israel on the tip of the Red Sea, has warm enough climate for beach holidays nearly all year round.
In Rishon Lezion, summer temperatures range from 23-29°C, winter temperatures range from 6-15°C.
For the current weather forecast in Israel, see link here.
Public Transportation
Public transportation works relatively well in Israel, with about 30% of Israelis relying on it daily. Particularly in the Tel Aviv area, public transportation has the benefit of avoiding the hassles of traffic and parking.
There are numerous options to get around via public transportation, including buses, taxis, and the train.
The Moovit App is useful for information about the fastest door-to-door public transportation route in real time.
If you plan on taking public transportation regularly, you will need to purchase a “Rav-Kav” Card. This card can be purchased on line or in a Rav Kav office. https://ravkavonline.co.il/en/
Below are some useful links and phone numbers for public transportation:
Dan (Buses in Tel Aviv Area)
03-639-4444
Egged (Inter-City Buses)
*2800
Israel Railways
*5770
The official language of Israel is Hebrew. Arabic has a special status under the law and is spoken primarily by the Arab minority, comprising of 20% of the population. Russian is also a popular language spoken by about 20% of the population, due to the large waves of immigration from the former Soviet Union.
English is widely spoken and understood in Israel. There is also adequate translation of street signs, menus, and information in governmental and private offices when relevant to accommodate the tourist population.
Tourist attractions you won’t want to miss in Israel over the weekend during your stay.
Due to the close proximity of Rishon Lezion to Tel Aviv, many students choose to live in Tel Aviv and/or spend ample time there. Here is a link to a walking tour of Tel Aviv.
As the capital city of Israel and a central tourist attraction, Jerusalem is worth a few trips during your stay in Israel. Here is a link to a walking tour of Jerusalem.
STUDENT LIFE
Student life encompasses far more than just academics. Our campus offers not only an environment of academic excellence and intellectual inspiration, but also a vivid space for social interactions and activities and for the development of life-long friendships and relationships. With many diverse options of on-campus restaurants and cafés, campus activities range from a variety of sports and cultural events to midday breaks with music and various activities, job fairs, students’ union events including student days, and an annual trip to Eilat, clubs and group activities for various interests ranging from investments and real-estate to veganism, LGBT rights and social activism.
Social & Cultural Activities at COLMAN
COLMAN organizes a wide variety of social and cultural activities for all the students on campus. Throughout the academic year the school hosts cultural events, performances, film screenings, educational tours, meetings, social gatherings and more. For information about our extracurricular activities at COLMAN stay updated via our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/COLMAN.International
Activities in Rishon Lezion:
The Rishon Lezion beach is a just a 5-minute drive from campus! On the beach there are a variety of restaurants, bars, walking paths and more. There are also numerous parks in the center of town perfect for picnics and activities.
In the city there are a variety of bars and restaurants including more than 10 shopping malls. Rishon also has several movie theaters, as well as the theme park “Superland” which is a 10 minute drive from campus.
COLMAN’s campus is a 20-minute drive from the renowned city of Tel Aviv.
CAMPUS MAP
HOUSING
At present there is no on-campus housing. The dormitory of the College of Management is under construction. The responsibility of finding suitable housing belongs to the student.
Housing in Israel is as diverse as the country itself. The majority of the population of Israel lives in the center of the country, otherwise known is Hebrew as the “Merkaz”. One of the most important factors to consider when studying abroad will be your budget. As a student, it’s important to think about what kind of accommodations you will have, how much travelling you plan to do, and you proximity to campus. Israel has excellent public transportation and most institutions of higher learning are within easy access to the major cities.
The Office of International Affairs can help make connections between international students who may be interested in subletting together and can provide some information as to the different locations that may be most convenient within a student budget. These sites are suggestions based on the most popular rental websites in Israel. COLMAN does not have any relationship with the sites, nor does it hold any responsibility for the sites’ conduct and any agreements made through the sites.
Realtors in English:
- COLMAN works with a varitty of realtors who are available to help tailor make your search for the apartment you need. Contact the international office for more information.
Online Marketplaces (Websites):
- Janglo– This is an easy-to-use online marketplace for apartment, communities, and many other services. Click Here for the apartment search part of the website in English.
- Yad2 – This is the number one website for finding an apartment in Israel and has a huge online marketplace for many things, including apartments. Click here for apartments to rent. This site is in entirely in Hebrew but its easy to navigate by yourself with a little effort and with our tutorial.
- Airbnb – Airbnb can be a great resource for finding an apartment quickly with competitive prices. Click here for a quick and easy search.
- Homeless – Another huge listing website. Click here for apartments to rent and click here for apartments looking for roommates.
Facebook Groups:
- Secret Tel Aviv – A very popular Facebook group with over 60,000 members with over 200 posts every day, relating to everything Tel Aviv (not just apartments). Great place to find movers and furniture once you have found your apartment.
- דירות מפה לאוזן בת”א (Word of mouth apartments in Tel Aviv) – Facebook group of over 70,000 members, managed by CityWall. Loads of new posts every hour, including many without agents’ fees.
- דירות ריקות בין חברים בתל אביב, לפני שמתפרסמות בהומלס (Empty Apartments in Tel Aviv) – Facebook group of over 40,000 members. Loads of new posts every hour, including many without agents’ fees, and posts from people looking for new room-mates.
- דירות ברות השגה (Achievable apartments) (not just Tel Aviv) – Facebook group of over 35,000 members, however not much activity – maybe one post a day.
- דירות להשכרה ריקות או שותפים בתל אביב (Apartments for rent for singles or partners in Tel Aviv) – Facebook group of over 25,000. Pretty active, about 50 new posts every day.
- דירות מפה לאוזן תל אביב (Word of mouth apartments in Tel Aviv) – Facebook group of over 20,000 members, managed by a moving company. Very active, but a lot of the posts are by agents.
- מחפשים דירה להשכיר / לשכור בתל אביב (Looking for apartments to rent in Tel Aviv) – Facebook group of over 18,000 members, managed by a moving company. Very active, but a lot of the posts are by agents.
- דירות בתל אביב בלי שותפים (Apartments in Tel Aviv without room-mates) – Group, 14,372 members
- דירות תל אביב Tel Aviv Apartments – Group, 9,583 members
- דירות להשכרה ברמת גן / גבעתיים (Apartments for rent in Givatayim and Ramat Gan) – Group, 9,317 members
- דירות יחיד עד 3000 ש”ח בתל אביב (Single apartments for under 3,000 shekels) – Group, 8,605 members
- דירות בתל אביב (Apartments in Tel Aviv) – Group, 7,849 members, active group
SAFETY, SECURITY, AND WELLNESS
Every international student studying at COLMAN must be covered by health insurance during his/her studies. This is a policy in line with the Israeli Ministry of Interior Affairs and a requirement of all international programs at COLMAN.
The most popular health insurance coverage for International students in Israel is Harel “Yedidim”. See this link for the Harel website with information on coverage for international students and faculty.
Police– 100
Ambulance – 101
Fire Department – 102
COLMAN has security staff on campus at all times. Students in need of immediate assistance can contact the security department directly and receive support.
Contact Information:
ADD CONTACT INFO of Amir
Suspicious Objects
For security purposes, there is a heightened sense of awareness in Israel of objects/baggage left without clear ownership. Such objects are considered “suspicious objects”, which refers to any item that has been abandoned or unaccompanied. Do not leave your items unattended in public spaces or on public transportation and be aware if you see items left unattended. In line with Israel’s security precautions, you will also notice most malls and many buildings have security guards. It is common practice for these guards to open bags and check content for safety and/or request all visitors to put items through an x-ray machine.
Guidelines in case of security alert siren
In the case of an increased security alert in the area due to missile threat, it is critical to follow exact safety procedures. Below is a summary of the actions to be taken in this case, as published by the Israeli Home Front Command.
Under missile security threat in the region, a siren is sounded for the local population to seek shelter. In the Center of the country, the siren indicates that there is approximately 1½ minutes to find an appropriate secure space. Once the siren stops, one must remain in the secure space for 10 minutes.
In buildings, the safest place to reside in case of a security alert is a “MAMAD” (Residential secure space). If there is not one in close proximity, a communal space such as a staircase provides safety.
For information on emergency preparedness in Israel, see this link.
For specific instructions during a security situation, see this link. Information in English is updated in real-time on procedures to follow in all areas of the country.
Student safety precautions
- Do not hitchhike in Israel. It is unsafe and illegal.
- Do not jog alone after dark.
- Do not dress in shorts/sleeveless shirts when visiting ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods in Jerusalem. This is to avoid possibly being mocked, pushed or harmed.
- Do not travel to areas under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority. Such travel may pose a serious safety risk and is generally not covered by insurance policies.
While studying abroad is an amazing opportunity for students to experience personal growth, independence and intercultural experiences, it can also be a stressful period of adjustment to a new culture and learning environment. In order to assist all students on campus, COLMAN has a unit for psychological services that helps students work through a range of psychological issues related to their studies and personal lives.
International students are welcome to visit the center for psychological services and be in touch with the professional on campus designated for international student services. To reach out directly for assistance, contact ………….
Alternatively, students are welcome to be in touch with the Office of International Academic Affairs as the primary resource for international students. Together, the exchange coordinator and student can seek assistance from psychological services and identify the best course of action to ensure students’ have a high sense of well-being throughout their experience at COLMAN.
According to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Law 5758-1998, sexual harassment is a serious criminal offence in Israel. COLMAN works to ensure that the college is a safe working and study environment, devoid of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct of any kind. Any act of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct should be reported to the following appointed staff in charge of campus sexual harassment issues.
Nava Korman, LLM, nkorman@colman.ac.il , phone number 054-818-0587
Orly Ozer, orlyoz@hdq.colman.ac.il , phone number 052-538-0405
To report sexual harassment to law enforcement bodies, call the police 100
To contact the Association of Rape Crisis Centers English speaking hotline, call 1202 (women); 1203 (men)
Insurance
Every international student studying at COLMAN must be covered by health insurance during his/her studies. This is a policy in line with the Israeli Ministry of Interior Affairs and a requirement of all international programs at COLMAN.
The most popular health insurance coverage for International students in Israel is Harel “Yedidim”. See this link for the Harel website with information on coverage for international students and faculty.
Emergency Numbers
Police– 100
Ambulance – 101
Fire Department – 102
COLMAN Security Department
COLMAN has security staff on campus at all times. Students in need of immediate assistance can contact the security department directly and receive support.
Contact Information:
ADD CONTACT INFO of Amir
General Safety and Security Information
Suspicious Objects
For security purposes, there is a heightened sense of awareness in Israel of objects/baggage left without clear ownership. Such objects are considered “suspicious objects”, which refers to any item that has been abandoned or unaccompanied. Do not leave your items unattended in public spaces or on public transportation and be aware if you see items left unattended. In line with Israel’s security precautions, you will also notice most malls and many buildings have security guards. It is common practice for these guards to open bags and check content for safety and/or request all visitors to put items through an x-ray machine.
Guidelines in case of security alert siren
In the case of an increased security alert in the area due to missile threat, it is critical to follow exact safety procedures. Below is a summary of the actions to be taken in this case, as published by the Israeli Home Front Command.
Under missile security threat in the region, a siren is sounded for the local population to seek shelter. In the Center of the country, the siren indicates that there is approximately 1½ minutes to find an appropriate secure space. Once the siren stops, one must remain in the secure space for 10 minutes.
In buildings, the safest place to reside in case of a security alert is a “MAMAD” (Residential secure space). If there is not one in close proximity, a communal space such as a staircase provides safety.
For information on emergency preparedness in Israel, see this link.
For specific instructions during a security situation, see this link. Information in English is updated in real-time on procedures to follow in all areas of the country.
Student safety precautions
- Do not hitchhike in Israel. It is unsafe and illegal.
- Do not jog alone after dark.
- Do not dress in shorts/sleeveless shirts when visiting ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods in Jerusalem. This is to avoid possibly being mocked, pushed or harmed.
- Do not travel to areas under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority. Such travel may pose a serious safety risk and is generally not covered by insurance policies.
Psychological Services
While studying abroad is an amazing opportunity for students to experience personal growth, independence and intercultural experiences, it can also be a stressful period of adjustment to a new culture and learning environment. In order to assist all students on campus, COLMAN has a unit for psychological services that helps students work through a range of psychological issues related to their studies and personal lives.
International students are welcome to visit the center for psychological services and be in touch with the professional on campus designated for international student services. To reach out directly for assistance, contact ………….
Alternatively, students are welcome to be in touch with the Office of International Academic Affairs as the primary resource for international students. Together, the exchange coordinator and student can seek assistance from psychological services and identify the best course of action to ensure students’ have a high sense of well-being throughout their experience at COLMAN.
Discrimination
COLMAN does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, students, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, and vendors.
If an act of discrimination is experienced by an international student, it should be reported to the Office of International Academic Affairs.
Sexual Harassment Policy
According to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Law 5758-1998, sexual harassment is a serious criminal offence in Israel. COLMAN works to ensure that the college is a safe working and study environment, devoid of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct of any kind. Any act of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct should be reported to the following appointed staff in charge of campus sexual harassment issues.
Nava Korman, LLM, nkorman@colman.ac.il , phone number 054-818-0587
To report sexual harassment to law enforcement bodies, call the police 100
To contact the Association of Rape Crisis Centers English speaking hotline, call 1202 (women); 1203 (men)
Insurance
Every international student studying at COLMAN must be covered by health insurance during his/her studies. This is a policy in line with the Israeli Ministry of Interior Affairs and a requirement of all international programs at COLMAN.
The most popular health insurance coverage for International students in Israel is Harel “Yedidim”. See this link for the Harel website with information on coverage for international students and faculty.
Emergency Numbers
Police– 100
Ambulance – 101
Fire Department – 102
COLMAN Security Department
COLMAN has security staff on campus at all times. Students in need of immediate assistance can contact the security department directly and receive support.
Contact Information:
ADD CONTACT INFO of Amir
General Safety and Security Information
Suspicious Objects
For security purposes, there is a heightened sense of awareness in Israel of objects/baggage left without clear ownership. Such objects are considered “suspicious objects”, which refers to any item that has been abandoned or unaccompanied. Do not leave your items unattended in public spaces or on public transportation and be aware if you see items left unattended. In line with Israel’s security precautions, you will also notice most malls and many buildings have security guards. It is common practice for these guards to open bags and check content for safety and/or request all visitors to put items through an x-ray machine.
Guidelines in case of security alert siren
In the case of an increased security alert in the area due to missile threat, it is critical to follow exact safety procedures. Below is a summary of the actions to be taken in this case, as published by the Israeli Home Front Command.
Under missile security threat in the region, a siren is sounded for the local population to seek shelter. In the Center of the country, the siren indicates that there is approximately 1½ minutes to find an appropriate secure space. Once the siren stops, one must remain in the secure space for 10 minutes.
In buildings, the safest place to reside in case of a security alert is a “MAMAD” (Residential secure space). If there is not one in close proximity, a communal space such as a staircase provides safety.
For information on emergency preparedness in Israel, see this link.
For specific instructions during a security situation, see this link. Information in English is updated in real-time on procedures to follow in all areas of the country.
Student safety precautions
- Do not hitchhike in Israel. It is unsafe and illegal.
- Do not jog alone after dark.
- Do not dress in shorts/sleeveless shirts when visiting ultra-Orthodox neighborhoods in Jerusalem. This is to avoid possibly being mocked, pushed or harmed.
- Do not travel to areas under the jurisdiction of the Palestinian Authority. Such travel may pose a serious safety risk and is generally not covered by insurance policies.
Psychological Services
While studying abroad is an amazing opportunity for students to experience personal growth, independence and intercultural experiences, it can also be a stressful period of adjustment to a new culture and learning environment. In order to assist all students on campus, COLMAN has a unit for psychological services that helps students work through a range of psychological issues related to their studies and personal lives.
International students are welcome to visit the center for psychological services and be in touch with the professional on campus designated for international student services. To reach out directly for assistance, contact ………….
Alternatively, students are welcome to be in touch with the Office of International Academic Affairs as the primary resource for international students. Together, the exchange coordinator and student can seek assistance from psychological services and identify the best course of action to ensure students’ have a high sense of well-being throughout their experience at COLMAN.
Discrimination
COLMAN does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, students, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, and vendors.
If an act of discrimination is experienced by an international student, it should be reported to the Office of International Academic Affairs.
Sexual Harassment Policy
According to the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Law 5758-1998, sexual harassment is a serious criminal offence in Israel. COLMAN works to ensure that the college is a safe working and study environment, devoid of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct of any kind. Any act of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct should be reported to the following appointed staff in charge of campus sexual harassment issues.
Nava Korman, LLM, nkorman@colman.ac.il , phone number 054-818-0587
To report sexual harassment to law enforcement bodies, call the police 100
To contact the Association of Rape Crisis Centers English speaking hotline, call 1202 (women); 1203 (men)
