Belong offers free services for Jewish students to study in Israel

A new Israeli relocation company, Belong, is offering free concierge support services to 500 Jewish students at Columbia University and at other campuses nationwide embattled by anti-Israel protests and growing antisemitism and violence to help them study in Israel instead.

Belong, which opened its doors last month, provides a range of concierge relocation services to immigrants to Israel and to those seeking temporary Israel experiences including study abroad and post-graduate degrees. Belong’s services generally range from free online resources to private personal assistants. Belong’s website also features a resource of all Israel-based study abroad programs.

For Columbia and other U.S. students, Belong is offering two months’ worth of free services, including help completing program registration documentation; identifying and registering for programs; providing advice on different course tracks and potential credits; connecting US students with Israeli students and student organizations for guidance and networking; finding housing; giving guidance on securing student or residence visas. Students must apply before May 31 through Belong’s website. 

Belong executives underscore that Jewish students on US campuses who are facing growing antisemitism and violent anti-Israel demonstrations can instead take advantage of outstanding educational opportunities in Israel, from semesters abroad to advanced studies. 

In addition to semester abroad programs, Israeli universities host more than 30 prestigious international programs for second and third bachelor’s degrees, some of which are affiliated with leading universities including Northwestern and Wharton. These programs feature advanced programs in fields such as entrepreneurship, technology and neuroscience.

“We are witnessing an extremely strong antisemitic and anti-Israel wave, expressed in a frightening way across US academic institutions. Jewish students, from the Ivy League or any other university around the world, need to know they have top-tier academic alternatives in Israel and we will help those who wish to transfer,” said Gilad Ramot, the founder and chairman of Belong.

“As a social endeavor working to ensure Israel is the home of every Jew in the world, we at Belong are offering immediate support and personal assistance to any Jewish student feeling their identity or safety are under threat,” added Eilon Gilad, the CEO of Belong. “It is the right of everyone to study in a safe and supportive environment, and we will work to ensure Jewish students can pursue their personal and academic development. We call on all Israeli universities and colleges to fast track these requests and provide the needed infrastructure to ensure a smooth transition into Israeli academia.”