Top 8 Jewish Colleges in the U.S. + Scholarships for Jewish Students

Looking for a college that offers both strong academics and a vibrant Jewish community? Whether you’re interested in exploring Jewish studies, pursuing a professional degree, or simply being part of a lively Jewish campus life, there are plenty of Jewish colleges that have the best of both worlds.

From historically Jewish colleges with rich traditions to modern campuses that promote Jewish values, these 8 colleges provide exceptional opportunities for Jewish students to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.

• Yeshiva University
• Brandeis University
• Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR)
• Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS)
• Touro University
• American Jewish University (AJU)
• Baltimore Hebrew Institute (BHI)
• Gratz College
• College Scholarships for Jewish Students
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

Yeshiva University

Location: New York, NY

Acceptance rate: 64%

Let’s start with the OG of Jewish universities, Yeshiva University. If you’ve ever heard of Jewish higher education, chances are Yeshiva came up. Founded in 1886, this university has been a leader in combining rigorous secular studies with a commitment to Jewish values.

Yeshiva offers a dual curriculum that combines Torah study with law, business, medicine, and liberal arts. This unique approach, called Torah Umadda (meaning “Torah and secular knowledge”), is at the heart of Yeshiva’s philosophy.

Yeshiva has a strong alumni network, and its four campuses across New York City offer a vibrant community. With schools like Yeshiva College, Stern College for Women, and Sy Syms School of Business, students are set up for success in fields like business, law, medicine, and more, all while also keeping their Jewish identity strong.

With kosher dining options, a thriving campus community, and events that celebrate Jewish holidays, Yeshiva is the ultimate place to grow academically and spiritually. Plus, being in New York City, you’ve got the perks of the Big Apple—endless internship opportunities, the best bagels, and a lively Jewish culture all around you.

Brandeis University

Location: Waltham, MA

Acceptance rate: 35.3%

Brandeis University was founded by the American Jewish community in 1948 to provide higher education opportunities for Jewish students at a time when many were being excluded. While Brandeis is non-sectarian, its deep Jewish roots are embedded in the university’s core.

The university has an undergraduate student body that is about 35% Jewish, which gives it a distinct identity in higher education. These values show up in everything from the way Brandeis students approach academic rigor to their commitment to social justice.

The university is renowned for its Heller School for Social Policy and Management, ranked 9th for social policy and 13th for health policy and management in 2025. Brandeis has a 10:1 student-to-faculty ratio, which means you’ll get plenty of face time with professors who are experts in their fields.

Plus, over 200 student organizations—many dedicated to Jewish culture—make Brandeis a fantastic place to not just learn, but also to connect with a Jewish community. From Shabbat dinners to social justice projects, Brandeis keeps you engaged in both academics and your Jewish identity.

Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR)

Location: New York, NY

If you’re aiming for a career in Jewish leadership, whether as a rabbi, cantor, or Jewish educator, Hebrew Union College is the place for you. Founded in 1875, HUC-JIR has been at the forefront of Reform Jewish education. They offer graduate-level programs that integrate Jewish tradition with modern scholarly inquiry.

HUC-JIR’s 100% placement rate means that graduates are successfully landing rewarding careers in their chosen fields within just 6 months of graduation. This reflects the school’s strong reputation and its dedication to equipping students for meaningful roles in the Jewish community and beyond.

Beyond academics, HUC-JIR is deeply committed to supporting its students financially. About 99% of students in eligible programs receive scholarship support, making it more accessible to those who are passionate about Jewish leadership but may need assistance with the costs of education.

If you’re ready to make an impact on Jewish communities, HUC-JIR equips you with the knowledge, skills, and leadership training to do just that. With campuses in major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Cincinnati, HUC-JIR provides students the opportunity to learn from world-class faculty and engage with vibrant Jewish communities across the country.

Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS)

Location: New York, NY

Acceptance rate: 50%

The Jewish Theological Seminary is where Jewish leaders are made. If you’re looking to dig into Jewish education, theology, or leadership, this place is legendary. For over 130 years, JTS has been shaping the future of Jewish communities by combining academic rigor with spiritual growth.

What makes JTS stand out? First off, it has a faculty lineup that’s second to none. They have 100+ full-time and adjunct professors who are top scholars in nearly every area of Jewish studies. These aren’t just your regular professors; they write the books that Jewish students across North America read.

And because JTS keeps its class sizes small with a 4:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you’re never just another face in the crowd. You’ll get the personal attention and mentorship you need, and your professors will actually get to know you beyond just the work you hand in.

The university has over 3,500 alumni across the globe who are doing everything from leading synagogues to running nonprofit organizations. The network you’ll have access to here is pretty amazing, and these connections can open doors for mentorship, internships, and career opportunities within the Jewish community and beyond.

On top of that, JTS is home to the largest collection of Judaica outside of Israel, so you’ll have access to a massive library of resources to fuel your learning. The best part? JTS promotes a community that’s all about open discussion, creative thinking, and connecting ancient wisdom to today’s world.

Touro University

Location: New York, NY

Acceptance rate: 63%

Established in 1970, Touro University is all about offering students a wide variety of programs while staying true to its Jewish roots.

One of the coolest things about Touro is its global reach. The university has a network of over 119,000 alumni, many of whom are active in the Jewish community and various professional fields.

The strong alumni network gives you access to mentorship and opportunities that can help launch your career. On top of that, 83% of undergraduate students receive financial aid, making it a more affordable option for students from all backgrounds.

Touro’s student-to-faculty ratio is 13:1, meaning you’ll get personalized attention from professors who really care about your academic growth.

From its healthcare programs to its social work degrees, Touro is proud of its impact, having graduated over 34,000 healthcare professionals since its founding. In fact, in 2023, Touro graduated 18.1% of new doctors in New York State alone!

In short, Touro offers a balance of academic excellence and a strong Jewish community. Whether you’re looking to pursue a career in healthcare or Jewish education, Touro gives you the tools you need to succeed while staying connected to your roots.

American Jewish University (AJU)

Location: Los Angeles, CA

If you’re looking for a place that combines Jewish education with strong academics, the American Jewish University in sunny Los Angeles is a fantastic choice. AJU offers a unique range of programs that combine Jewish studies with fields like business, psychology, education, and more.

One of the coolest things about AJU is its 1:5 faculty-to-student ratio. You’ll get personalized attention from professors who really care about your success and the small class sizes make sure that you get the most out of your education. AJU’s 2,800 acres across two stunning campuses provide plenty of space for exploring, studying, and connecting with your fellow students.

AJU also has a major global impact. Last year, they had 100,000 registrations for online events and classes, which shows just how committed AJU is to bringing Jewish learning to students around the world. And with engagement from students in 48 countries, AJU is as much about the global community as it is about the local experience.

Baltimore Hebrew Institute (BHI)

Location: Baltimore, MD

Baltimore Hebrew Institute (BHI) has been serving the Jewish community for over 90 years, and while it’s now integrated with Towson University, it continues its mission to educate and lead with a strong focus on Jewish tradition, culture, and faith.

If you’re looking to jump into Jewish education, explore Holocaust studies, or step into Jewish communal service, BHI has some awesome options for you. The best part? The 100% job placement rate for graduates, which means you’ll be set for success after you finish your program.

BHI also makes learning fun and interactive through non-degree courses, like Modern Hebrew Language lessons, and tons of lectures, events, and trips. These are great ways to engage with Jewish culture, history, and current events—because learning doesn’t always have to happen in a classroom, right?

Gratz College

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Gratz College is a true pioneer in Jewish studies, being the oldest independent college for this field in North America. Founded in 1895, Gratz has a long history of excellence and is known for offering specialized programs in Judaism, genocide, and Holocaust studies.

And here’s a fun fact: Gratz was also the first institution to accept women on par with men in advanced Jewish learning, which was a pretty big deal.

At Gratz, you’ll find a wide range of Jewish Studies programs. Whether you’re into Jewish thought, history, rabbinics, biblical studies, or law, there’s something for everyone.

But what really sets Gratz apart is its Holocaust and Genocide Studies programs. They’re global leaders in this area, offering the first online Master’s in Holocaust and Genocide Studies. And for those who want to take it even further, Gratz offers the only fully online doctoral program in this field, so you can study and make an impact no matter where you are.

College Scholarships for Jewish Students

If you’re looking for ways to fund your college education while staying connected to your Jewish roots, there are several scholarships designed specifically for Jewish students. Check out some of the scholarships you should know about:

• The Jewish Scholarship Service (JSS). Offering a combination of need-based and merit-based scholarships, the JSS helps Jewish students across the U.S. fund their undergraduate and graduate education.
• The Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta Scholarship. This one’s a great option if you’re from the Greater Atlanta area. It’s open to students from all academic fields, but with a focus on those who show strong community leadership. They want to help you reach your academic goals while keeping you connected to your Jewish roots
• Springfield Council of Jewish Women Scholarship. Offered to Jewish women in the Springfield area, this scholarship helps support students pursuing higher education in a variety of fields, empowering women to advance academically and professionally.
• Louise Eatroff Memorial Scholarship Fund. This scholarship honors Louise Eatroff by supporting Jewish students who are pursuing degrees in the humanities or related fields. It’s a great way to assist those who want to make a positive impact in their communities.
• Catherine and Marcell Renny Holocaust Studies Memorial Endowed Scholarship. If you’re passionate about studying Holocaust history, this scholarship is for you. It’s designed to support students pursuing degrees in Holocaust studies, helping them deepen their understanding of this critical area.
• Jewish Family and Children’s Services Scholarship. This scholarship is aimed at students pursuing degrees in social work, counseling, or human services. It’s perfect for those who are passionate about working with children and families in the Jewish community and beyond.
• American Jewish Archives Fellowship Program. If you’re interested in Jewish history and archival research, this fellowship program provides support for students who want to contribute to preserving Jewish historical records and knowledge. It’s an awesome opportunity to dig into history while getting financial help.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the best Jewish colleges in the U.S.?

Some of the best Jewish colleges in the U.S. include Yeshiva University, Brandeis University, Hebrew Union College, and Touro University. Each of these schools offers unique programs that combine Jewish studies with rigorous academic fields like law, business, and medicine.

2. What are the benefits of attending a historically Jewish college?

Attending a historically Jewish college offers the chance to immerse yourself in a strong community that shares your values and faith. Schools like Yeshiva University and Brandeis University not only provide rigorous academic programs but also create spaces for students to engage in Jewish traditions, holidays, and social causes, making it a unique educational experience.

3. Can non-Jewish students attend Jewish colleges?

Yes, many Jewish colleges are open to non-Jewish students. While they are rooted in Jewish traditions, these colleges often welcome students from diverse backgrounds, especially those who are interested in studying Jewish culture, religion, or Jewish studies.

4. Are there Jewish colleges in New York?

Yes, New York is home to several renowned Jewish colleges, including Yeshiva University, Touro University, and Hebrew Union College. These schools offer a wide range of academic programs and a strong Jewish community, which make them excellent choices for students looking to study in a culturally rich environment.

Takeaways

Choosing the right Jewish college can be a big decision, but it’s all about finding the place that feels right for you. Here are a few key takeaways to keep in mind:

• If you want a college experience that balances Jewish values with rigorous academics, schools like Yeshiva University and Brandeis University are perfect. They offer programs that combine Jewish studies with fields like business, law, and medicine to give you the best of both worlds.
• If you’re leaning toward New York City, you’re in luck! With places like Yeshiva University, Hebrew Union College, and Touro University, the city is home to some of the best Jewish colleges out there. Not only will you get a solid education, but you’ll also experience the vibrant Jewish culture the city has to offer.
• Schools like Touro University and Brandeis University offer a strong network of alumni that can be really helpful for landing internships and future job opportunities.
• There are plenty of scholarships for Jewish students, whether you’re looking for need-based or merit-based options. Scholarships like the Louise Eatroff Memorial Scholarship Fund or the Jewish Family and Children’s Services Scholarship can help take the financial stress out of college, so you can focus on your education.
• We get it—the college search can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to tackle it alone. A college admissions consultant can make the process a lot easier by helping you find the perfect school that fits both your academic ambitions and personal goals.