The Shiluvim Program
For over two decades, Yeshiva Har Bracha has operated the Shiluvim (Integration) program. Designed for post-army students, Shiluvim provides a unique framework that allows students to combine a fully recognized academic degree with high-level Torah study.
Established in cooperation with Ariel University and the Settlement Division of the Jewish Agency, the program was expanded in 2008 to include a dedicated women’s track through Midreshet Torat Chaim. Today, the Shiluvim Student Village is a vibrant hub of young men and women building their professional futures without compromising their spiritual growth.
Program Goals
Professional Integration: To support single and married students in acquiring an academic degree and successfully entering the workforce.
Economic Empowerment: To raise the socio-economic standard of Yeshiva graduates, equipping them for leadership in their respective fields.
Spiritual Continuity: To provide post-army soldiers—including those who may not have extensive formal Torah learning experience—with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Torah study alongside their academic pursuits.
Program Structure and Benefits
The Shiluvim framework requires dedication and excellent time management. To remain in the program, students must:
Maintain a minimum academic grade average of 80%.
Commit to a minimum of 20 hours of Torah study per week.
Complete all academic degree requirements on schedule.
In return, students receive significant support:
Housing: Dormitory accommodations for single students and rental apartments within the Har Bracha community for married couples.
Scholarships: Financial stipends are awarded based on active participation in the Beit Midrash.
Academic Recognition: In collaboration with Ariel University, participating students are exempt from taking the university’s mandatory Jewish Heritage courses.
A Flexible Study Schedule
The required Torah study hours are divided between chavrusa (paired) learning, small group sessions guided by a Rabbi, and regular classes. Because academic schedules vary, the Yeshiva builds a personalized study plan for every student. Some days a student may learn full-time in the Beit Midrash, while on other days they may only attend evening classes.
This incredible flexibility is made possible by integrating Shiluvim students into existing classes alongside the Kollel and Hesder Yeshiva students. Additionally, there are specific classes tailored for students who are newer to intensive Torah study.
Teaching Staff and Guidance
The program’s teaching staff includes the Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Eliezer Melamed, alongside community rabbis and senior Yeshiva educators – all of whom hold advanced degrees or equivalent Rabbinic ordination recognized by the Ministry of Education.
The program is coordinated by Rabbi Yizhar Ashur, who personally guides each student in building their schedule, monitors their progress, and ensures they are thriving both academically and spiritually.
Midreshet Torat Chaim: Shiluvim for Women
The Shiluvim program also features a dedicated, thriving track for women through Midreshet Torat Chaim. For over a decade, this program has encouraged single and married women to acquire an academic degree at Ariel University while continuing to enrich their spiritual world through comprehensive evening Torah classes.
Participating students receive exemptions from mandatory Jewish Heritage courses and are eligible for unique scholarships.
Learn more about the Midreshet Torat Chaim Women’s Program here.
Sponsor a Student
Help empower the next generation of Torah-observant professionals. By sponsoring a Shiluvim student, you enable them to continue learning Torah while earning their degree.
Registration & Information
To learn more about the Shiluvim Student Village, view housing options, or apply, please visit our dedicated Shiluvim website here.