What is a stipend?
A stipend is a predetermined amount of money paid to students for participating and completing the program. Mr. Ira and Inga Rennert have been proudly sponsoring the ILTSE stipends since the program’s inception in the summer of 1985, allowing students to spend their summers learning with no worry of financial burdens.
Will I have to pay for room and board?
No. There is no charge for any service or food provided during the ILTSE summer program. There is a nominal $25 book fee, and pocket money is sometimes suggested for outings.
What religious denomination does the program belong to?
The program presents a view of Orthodox Judaism. It is a Live and Learn experience; you don’t need to be Orthodox, but you will experience it.
Do I have to be Jewish to attend the program?
Yes, being Jewish is a prerequisite for program participation. Exceptions have been made, so feel free to contact us and a decision will be made on a personal basis.
Do I have to be observant to attend the program?
No, you do not have to be observant, but students are asked to adhere to certain standards while attending the program. These include consistent attendance of all classes, (including prayer), men wearing a Kippah (skull cap) in public, and public observance of Shabbat. Details are provided in the Program Guidelines.
Are there recreational activities?
There is a generous variety of activities offered to students of the ILTSE such as hiking, canoeing, swimming, whitewater rafting, barbeques, and trips to NYC.
In what year was the ILTSE founded?
The ILTSE was founded in 1985 and is celebrating its 23rd summer.
How intense are the classes?
Very.
Are there any tests or assignments?
There are no tests, exams or quizzes, but there is a required term paper and periodic reactionary papers for which time will be allocated during the program and there is some required reading of books in our book club. These books will generally be given to you to keep as gifts.
I have never studied Talmud. Will this be a problem?
Even if you have never studied Talmud before, you will be able to enjoy and experience its intricacies and famed Talmudic reasoning first-hand without feeling hindered in any way.
My college is top-rated, but not Ivy League. Can I still apply?
Although the program was initially designed specifically for students in Ivy League schools, the academic achievements of students in other great institutions has led us to broaden the list of schools from which students are accepted.
Why is it necessary to include a picture with my application?
Numerous student applications are submitted each year, and many students meet with our representatives in their respective schools. Having a picture enhances our ability to remember and recognize you as an individual.
Why is my Social Security Number requested?
Your SSN is for bookkeeping purposes only. All applicant information is kept strictly confidential.
I have so benefited from experiencing the warmth of Judaism first-hand and from meeting different types of Jews-thank you for this- it demonstrates true ahavat yisroel and tolerance.
I never had a formal Jewish education or lived in a Jewish community for more than a Shabbat, so I felt I grew in that I can be more comfortably integrated in a Jewish community. I also feel more confident in my prayers and Torah knowledge.
I learned to think outside the box. I think about religion and people differently now. I'm less eager to make judgments about others and more eager to judge myself.
