Français
Español
English
Portuguese
Approximately 30 applicants have already secured places, with dozens more still moving through the admissions process.
By Shula Rosen
Nearly 100 disabled Israel Defense Forces veterans injured during the Swords of Iron War are seeking admission to Tel Aviv University for the 2026–2027 academic year through a newly created pathway designed to help wounded service members pursue higher education while undergoing rehabilitation.
The university said approximately 30 applicants have already secured places, with dozens more still moving through the admissions process before registration concludes.
The special framework, approved about three months ago, is open to soldiers wounded during the war who have been formally recognized by the Ministry of Defense’s Rehabilitation Department as disabled veterans with a disability rating of at least 20%.
Under the program, candidates recovering from either physical or psychological injuries are exempt from the psychometric entrance examination required for most first-year undergraduate applicants.
The arrangement applies across the university, with the exception of medical studies.
University officials said the initiative is the first admissions track in Israel created specifically for wounded soldiers.
As part of efforts to reach potential applicants, Tel Aviv University operated a dedicated information center for disabled veterans during its May 29 open day.
The center provided guidance on academic opportunities, admissions requirements, and student support programs. Representatives from the Ministry of Defense’s Rehabilitation Department also participated.
Students accepted through the program will have access to a broad range of assistance, including academic mentoring, counseling services, professional guidance, study-skills workshops, social and community programming, and an advanced learning center equipped with assistive technologies.
The new framework expands on a separate admissions accommodation program introduced for reservists after the outbreak of the Swords of Iron War.
University officials said that earlier initiative was created to address challenges faced by reservists whose military service disrupted preparation for the psychometric exam.
Prof. Gal Oestreicher-Singer, vice rector of Tel Aviv University, said the institution views support for wounded veterans as both a responsibility and an opportunity.
“Since the outbreak of the war, we have been witnessing a difficult and painful reality in which thousands of Israelis serving as combat soldiers and members of the security forces are coping with physical and psychological wounds that will affect their lives for many years to come,” he said.
“As a society, and as a public university, we have a responsibility to stand by their side not only in words, but through action. We believe in the rehabilitative power of academic study and campus life, and we also see the opportunity to support these individuals as a great privilege.”
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!
