Hebrew Knowledge

The Ministry of Health requires that all physicians be able to read and comprehend medical records, test results, and documentation written in Hebrew by other healthcare professionals.

Please Note: Both Stage I (written) and Stage II (oral) exams are conducted exclusively in Hebrew and may be required as part of your specialty recognition process.

Enhancing your medical Hebrew skills both before and after Aliyah will not only help you succeed if exams are required but also ensure a smoother integration into the Israeli healthcare system.

Get Started Before Aliyah

You don’t need to wait until you’re in Israel to start preparing! Begin by focusing on the terminology you use daily in your medical practice. Create a list of commonly used terms and build your Hebrew vocabulary from there.

We’ve also compiled a list of essential general medical Hebrew terms that Olim physicians have found valuable. Feel free to reach out to us for access!

Videos & Podcasts: Many people find it beneficial to watch videos on YouTube or listen to podcasts when it comes to learning a new language. We found a great video of common medical Hebrew terms here, but feel free to search around. There are also great general Hebrew learning videos online to strengthen your language skills.

Online Ulpan with Nefesh B’Nefesh’s Hebrew Connect: Hebrew Connect is a comprehensive Hebrew-Online learning experience focusing on the skills needed for Hebrew conversation and Aliyah relocation. The course focuses on language-learning principals including: Core Spoken Vocabulary, Anticipation, Graduated Interval Recall and Organic Learning. For more information: hebrewconnect@nbn.org.il

Private Tutors: Consider working with a private tutor, either online or in person. Many community centers and synagogues offer Hebrew lessons—reach out to a teacher and inquire about tailored sessions focusing on medical terminology

Government Subsidized Medical Ulpan

The Ministry of Aliyah and Integration’s Physicians Olim Directorate holds a specialized Medical Ulpan for physicians planning to make Aliyah within the next two years. The course focuses on medical terminology that’ll help you thrive in a professional environment and is taught by professional instructors with a specialization in medical Hebrew. These classes may be offered online or in person.

Please note: Only physicians with an open Aliyah application can apply. Admission is subject to a preliminary interview (via phone or Zoom).

To Apply or Learn More: med_aliyah@moia.gov.il.

NBN Connect Medical Ulpan

This new 2-3 month intensive online course is tailored for all medical professionals, and ensures that you’re equipped with the vocabulary and information you need to succeed! Throughout the course, participants will receive comprehensive guidance on the Israeli healthcare system, learn tips for effective patient communication in a non-native language, and review essential medical Hebrew terminology.

Please note: This is a private paid course, with significantly subsidized pricing by Nefesh B’Nefesh.

For more information: hebrewconnect@nbn.org.il.

General Hebrew Ulpan:

If you need to strengthen your general Hebrew language skills, you may be eligible for a government-subsidized Ulpan as part of your Aliyah Rights and Benefits package after you arrive in Israel.

Who to Contact:

o Pre-Aliyah (outside of North America): Your Jewish Agency representative.

o Pre-Aliyah (North America): Your Nefesh B’Nefesh Aliyah Advisor.

o Post-Aliyah: Reach out to the Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.

Please contact us at medpro@nbn.org.il if you need further guidance or information.