In short
Tel Aviv University, Israel's largest research university, offers a wide range of interdisciplinary programs in a dynamic city environment. It provides opportunities to learn from world-leading researchers and benefits from strong industry connections.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1956
- Students
- 30,000
- International students
- 1,500
- Acceptance rate
- 35%
- Tuition (intl)
- €9–15k/yr
- Languages
- EN, HE
- Location
- Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv University (TAU) is Israel's largest research university, located in the vibrant city of Tel Aviv. It is home to approximately 30,000 students and offers a vast array of study and research programs across various disciplines, encouraging interdisciplinary combinations and the creation of innovative knowledge. Situated in the heart of Tel Aviv, known for its dynamic energy, TAU serves as an international hub for academic and cultural excellence. The university's academic staff includes world-leading researchers whose groundbreaking work influences fields from industry and technology to culture and education. TAU is a lively, liberal, and pluralistic institution that blends world-class research with strong ties to Israeli industry and society. Its vision emphasizes innovative research, pioneering learning, multidisciplinarity, internationalization, strengthened connections with society and industry, and the promotion of equality and diversity.
Why study here
- Access to a wide array of interdisciplinary programs that foster new knowledge.
- Opportunity to learn from world-leading researchers whose work impacts various sectors globally.
- Experience a vibrant, liberal, and pluralistic academic environment in the heart of Tel Aviv.
- Engage in cutting-edge research, particularly in fields like neuroscience, quantum science, and molecular evolution.
- Benefit from strong connections between the university and Israeli industry and society.
Student life
Tel Aviv University is described as a vibrant and non-stop campus, reflecting the energetic and lively nature of Tel Aviv city. The university fosters a liberal and pluralistic environment, encouraging students to engage in research, creation, and impactful societal involvement. Student clubs, cultural events, and access to Tel Aviv's beaches, restaurants, and nightlife make it a unique place to live and study.
Fees
InternationalInternational students typically pay between $8,500 and $15,000 EUR equivalent per year depending on faculty and program level. Some international MA/PhD programs have bespoke fee structures.
HomeIsraeli domestic tuition is subsidized and typically ranges from ILS 11,000-14,000 per year for undergraduate programs.
LivingMonthly living costs in Tel Aviv are estimated at ILS 4,000-6,000 (roughly EUR 1,000-1,500) for a student, covering housing, food, and transport. Tel Aviv is one of the more expensive cities in Israel.
Tuition payment vouchers for the upcoming academic year are issued. The first payment must be settled by the due date, no later than 3 days before course registration. Without this payment, course registration will not be possible. Students can access their tuition account balance via their personal online portal. A special appeals committee handles exceptional cases related to tuition due to unforeseen circumstances like medical reasons.
Admissions
UndergraduateMatriculation certificate or equivalent international qualification; relevant subject prerequisites depend on faculty.
GraduateBachelor's degree in a relevant discipline; minimum GPA typically required.
TOEFL80 iBT for English-language programs
IELTS6.5 for English-language programs
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025223
Times Higher Education World University Rankings201
University scholarships
Ignatz Bubis Foundation Scholarships in Jewish StudiesVaries
Minerva FellowshipVaries
Scholarships for Graduate Studies (Masters and PhD)Living stipends and partial tuition coverage
Scholarships for International Students and PostdocsVaries
Accreditation
Tel Aviv University is accredited by the Council for Higher Education of Israel.
Programs
a selectionTel Aviv University · Israel
Direct Ph.D. Program in Collaboration with the Center for AI and Data Science (TAD)
The Center for AI and Data Science (TAD) at Tel Aviv University offers an advanced Direct Ph.D. program for exceptional students. This program is designed for those holding a bachelor's degree in Exact Sciences, Engineering, or Life Sciences with a relevant computational background, who wish to pursue doctoral research in data science and artificial intelligence. The program aims to provide both theoretical and practical knowledge at the forefront of research, fostering a community of outstanding students and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration across various participating faculties. Students will engage in cutting-edge research and benefit from advanced courses taught by leading researchers in the field.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Tel Aviv University · Israel
Philosophy
Tel Aviv University offers a Master's degree program in Philosophy. The program focuses on developing advanced critical thinking and analytical skills within the field of philosophy. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of philosophical concepts, theories, and methodologies, preparing them for further academic pursuits or careers requiring strong intellectual capabilities.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Tel Aviv University · Israel
TAD Excellence Program for Doctoral Students in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
The TAD Excellence Program is a doctoral program at Tel Aviv University designed for outstanding PhD students specializing in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science (DS). It aims to foster advanced research and provide an interdisciplinary academic experience. The program welcomes students from all faculties whose research significantly involves AI or DS, with a preference for those focusing on core AI/DS topics or interdisciplinary work.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Tel Aviv University · Israel
The Copernican Model of the Planetary System - The Heliocentric Model
This program explores the revolutionary heliocentric model of the solar system, first proposed by Nicolaus Copernicus. It contrasts this with the earlier geocentric model of Ptolemy, explaining how Copernicus's theory, detailed in his book 'De revolutionibus orbium coelestium,' offered a simpler, though initially observationally indistinguishable, explanation of planetary motion. The program delves into the scientific reasoning behind the heliocentric model, including the apparent daily movement of stars explained by Earth's rotation and the sun's central role in providing light and heat. It also touches upon the historical context, including religious and scientific objections to Copernicus's theory, and how figures like Galileo and Newton contributed to the eventual acceptance of the heliocentric view. Through historical texts and discussions, this program aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of one of the most significant paradigm shifts in scientific history. It highlights the intellectual journey from ancient astronomical traditions to the groundbreaking work of Copernicus and his successors.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Tel Aviv University · Israel
The Pendulum Clock
This program delves into the principles and history of the pendulum clock. You will explore the fundamental law of pendulums, understanding how their equal and constant swing periods, for small arcs, form the basis of accurate timekeeping. The course will cover the essential components of a clock or watch, focusing on the escapement mechanism. This critical device translates the periodic motion of the pendulum into the uniform circular motion of gears and hands. You will learn how the escapement regulates the wheel's movement, receives impulses to maintain the pendulum's swing against friction, and how this motion is ultimately displayed as time.
Certificate
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Tel Aviv University · Israel
Undergraduate Programs at Tel Aviv University
Tel Aviv University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs for international students. The admissions process is based on a combination of your high school matriculation (Bagrut) average and, for some programs, the psychometric entrance exam score. The university uses a 'Suitability Score' to evaluate candidates, which is calculated using a specific formula that considers your academic achievements and, if applicable, your exam results. Each program has specific academic and, in some cases, prerequisite requirements. The university provides tools and detailed instructions on its website to help you calculate your Bagrut average and your Suitability Score. It's important to check the specific requirements for the program you are interested in, as these can vary and may be updated annually. International students interested in studying at Tel Aviv University are encouraged to explore the available programs and familiarize themselves with the admission criteria and application procedures. The university aims to provide a supportive environment for its diverse student body.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Scholarships
for Israelfull funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome Trust Fellowships and Grants (for international researchers)
For researchers at different career stages working on health-related science. Wellcome funds a family of fellowships and grants — early-career, career-development, and discovery awards, plus team and translational funding — each with its own eligibility, value, and call deadline. There is no single scholarship application; you apply to the specific scheme that fits your stage and project.
full
Funding
€3000k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
Wellcome Trust
Wellcome International Training Fellowships
For early-career researchers based in low- and middle-income countries (outside the high-income world) who want protected time and support for research training in health, often including a PhD or postdoctoral research. Wellcome's scheme names and exact criteria change over time, so applicants should check the current relevant Wellcome funding scheme.
full
Funding
€150k
Max
Rolling
Deadline
full funding
European Commission - European Research Executive Agency (REA)
Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Postdoctoral Fellowships
Open to researchers of any nationality who hold a PhD (or will have defended their doctoral thesis by the call deadline) and have at most 8 years of full-time-equivalent research experience after the PhD. Applicants apply jointly with a host organisation - a university, research institution, business, SME, or other body based in an EU Member State or a country associated to Horizon Europe. European Postdoctoral Fellowships are open to all nationalities for a project inside the EU or an associated country; Global Postdoctoral Fellowships are reserved for EU nationals or long-term residents who carry out a phase in a third country before returning to Europe. Researchers who have been displaced by conflict and those restarting a research career after a break are explicitly encouraged to apply.
full
Funding
€100k
Max
Sep 10, 2026
Deadline
full funding
Rotary Foundation
Rotary Peace Fellowships
For professionals committed to peace and development, with relevant work experience and (for the master's) a strong academic background and proficiency in English. Applicants apply through their local Rotary district and are selected globally by The Rotary Foundation for study at a Rotary Peace Center.
full
Funding
€90k
Max
May 15, 2027
Deadline
full funding
Independent Social Research Foundation (ISRF)
ISRF Europe Early Career Fellowship
Open to early-career researchers in the social sciences and humanities who are within 10 years of their PhD award (career breaks considered) and hold a salaried position at a higher education or research institution, or are independent scholars with a host institution. Research must be hosted at a European institution and address innovative, interdisciplinary social research questions. Open to scholars of all nationalities.
full
Funding
€82k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
full fundingMassachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
MIT Need-Based Aid for International Undergraduates
For international undergraduate applicants to MIT, which is need-blind in admission and meets the full demonstrated financial need of every admitted student. Aid is a grant (no loans in the standard package); the amount is set by each family's assessed need.
full
Funding
€80k
Max
Nov 10, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the estimated tuition fees for international students at Tel Aviv University?
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International students can expect to pay between 8,500 and 15,000 EUR equivalent per year, depending on the specific faculty and program level. Some international Master's and PhD programs may have different fee structures.
What are the estimated monthly living costs for students in Tel Aviv?
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Monthly living costs in Tel Aviv are estimated to be between ILS 4,000-6,000 (roughly EUR 1,000-1,500). This estimate covers housing, food, and transportation, noting that Tel Aviv is considered one of the more expensive cities in Israel.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
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For programs taught in English, international students typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through a TOEFL score of 80 iBT or an IELTS score of 6.5.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission?
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Undergraduate admission generally requires a matriculation certificate or equivalent international qualification, with specific subject prerequisites depending on the faculty. Graduate admission requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and usually a minimum GPA.
Does Tel Aviv University offer scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Tel Aviv University offers various scholarships for international students, including specific ones for Jewish Studies, a Minerva Fellowship, and general scholarships for graduate studies which may include living stipends and partial tuition coverage.
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