If you are considering applying directly from high school to a Hebrew, Rabbinical or Talmudic college or university in the United States, your post-secondary planning process should begin now. University and college--or particular programs within an institution--can be quite competitive; therefore, it's important to plan your high school courses accordingly. Your area of interest will determine what you should take. If you are considering a science-based program, you should take courses in math, chemistry, physics and computers to ensure that you are well prepared. Oral and written communication skills are always important so don't forget your English! If you are going into an arts program then go for breadth: take courses across the curriculum in science, social science, humanities, creative arts and languages. For the specialized religious programs at Hebrew, Rabbinical and Talmudic schools, a basic knowledge of Hebrew, the Bible and Talmud are required. In general, English and math are the most-often required courses for all fields of university and college study.
Taking the required courses, though, isn't necessarily enough; you should also be sure to keep your grades up. Most universities and colleges in the US have a minimum cut-off average for general admission. Quota or other highly competitive programs may require a competitive grade point average (GPA) of up to 85%. The competitive GPA can change from year to year as it is based on the quality of the applicant pool and space available in the specific program.
Your transcript, however, isn't the only factor: in addition to your academics, there are several other things you can do to prepare for success in your application:
Undertake to read and study independently. This is a good way to develop interests, expand your knowledge and improve the vocabulary and reading comprehension skills needed for your program. This will also help you if admission requirements include an interview, since you will be able to impress the interviewer or admissions committee with the knowledge you have built up.
Lots of students have excellent grades. The programs at Hebrew, Rabbinical and Talmudic schools center on community service and community-building. Therefore, admission is partly based on a student's personal qualities, values and integrity. One way to develop these qualities is by participating in extracurricular activities. Consider joining or even starting school clubs, no matter what they're about (of course something related to your field of study is a plus!). This is also a good way to develop demonstrated leadership skills, which are an important aspect of any competitive application.
Prove your work ethic. Post-secondary study takes a lot of commitment and plain old hard work. Therefore, work experience -- paid or volunteer -- is an achievement often regarded highly by admissions committees. Any work experience related to your chosen field is extremely beneficial, especially for programs involving internship or field work/ outreach components.
Show your commitment and respect. Hebrew, Rabbinical and Talmudic colleges and universities offer programs in a faith-based environment. Participation in faith-based activities, summer camps, or any kind of social service/ social outreach activities will show the admissions committee that you are serious and committed to the values of the school.
Program Spotlight
University of Colorado at Colorado Springs The Graduate School of Business Administration at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs (UCCS) has been delivering its Master of Business Administration program online since 1996. This highly flexible, ...
