There are currently approximately 60 Mechinot throughout Israel which were established (with more being added all the time) in order to help increase young people’s motivation to serve the country before their mandatory military enlistment.
In addition, the programs are designed to prepare individuals who plan to enlist in the IDF or those considering working in the Sherutei Bitachon – שירותי ביטחון – Security Services, by providing them with Jewish/Israel studies, workshops, trips around Israel, meetings with IDF representatives, enrichment activities, guidance through army induction, physical fitness training, and a volunteering component.
The Mechinot are full-time programs that provide room and board for the duration of the participants’ stay. Mechinot are intended for high school graduates, usually aged 17-19, who are preparing for their IDF service and want to postpone military service for a year, in coordination with the IDF. They are also an excellent option for a new Oleh/ah who arrives at compulsory enlistment age, as they provide a smooth landing and transition.
Mechinot operate under the Misrad HaChinuch – משרד החינוך – Ministry of Education in partnership with the Misrad HaBitachon – משרד הביטחון – Ministry of Defense.
There are Mechinot geared to a diverse cross-section of the Israeli population, including all streams of religious affiliation, as well as physical limitations, ethnic background, Olim Chadashim and even individuals from disadvantaged or traumatic backgrounds.
Below is a partial list of programs but feel free to research others at the links at the bottom of the page.
Pluralistic
Religious
Secular/Reform
Miscellaneous
This guide was created and translated by Shivat Zion based on websites from the Joint Council for Mechinot and the Jewish Agency.