FAQ

The information given on this site is based on the most current information given by the IDF and Israel's Ministry of Defence. Rules and regulations can however change depending on new circumstances and authority. Garin Mahal is not liable for inaccurate or wrong information in the event that the rules and regulations have changed since the publication of this site. Garin Mahal will strive to provide the most accurate and update information possible.

Have a question that is not listed? Send a whatsapp to Baruch 052-8600062 (Israel) and recieve an answer within 24 hours.
 

Qualifications


I have been in Israel for 19 months can I still volunteer?

I am an Israeli citizen. Do I qualify for the Mahal IDF program?

I have a learning deficit can I still enlist in the IDF?

Until What age can I volunteer?

Can a non Jew volunteer to the IDF?

I am over 24 (man) | over 21 (woman). Whom can I petition to allow an exemption from the enlistment age limit?

Can I enlist at the age of 24 and 1 month?

Can I enlist before my 18th birthday?

I am not Jewish. Can I volunteer if I convert to Judaism?

I am not Jewish, my spouse is Jewish. Can I volunteer?

Only one of my grandparents is Jewish. Can I volunteer?

One of my parents is not Jewish. Can I volunteer?

I am a secular Jew and not religious at all. Can I volunteer?

How can I check if I (or one of my parents) ever had Israeli citizenship?

I am not an Israeli citizen. If I make aliya (get Israeli citizenship), can I enlist in the IDF directly (not through the IDF Mahal programs)?

I am not an Israeli citizen. If I made alias (opted for Israeli citizenship) upon my arrival to Israel, would I qualify for the Mahal programs?

 


Initial Questions


Can a Mahal volunteer serve in Tanks?

Can a Mahal soldier become an officer?

How long do I need to arrive before the draft?

Do Mahal volunteers see action?

Do Mahal volunteers participate in Wars?

Does the IDF test you for drugs?

Are the Sar-El, Marva and Mahal IDF programs the same?

Should I volunteer for the IDF before college or after college?

Is it worth it to do Sar-El or Marva before Mahal as some kind of preparation?

Should I join prior to enlistment a pre-army program (mechina) and/or Hebrew study program (ulpan)?

For which IDF units/jobs am I eligible, when eligible for IDF enlistment?

How does my IDF profile influence my job assignment?

Do I have other options than infantry or non-combat?

I would like to volunteer for a longer / shorter period of time. Is that possible?

Can I volunteer for less than 18  months service?

My regular discharge date will be about two weeks after the beginning of my school year. Can I be discharged earlier for this reason?

Perhaps I will not like it. Can a volunteer get discharged early?

By volunteer do you mean help out on a base, or actually fully serve in the IDF?

Do Mahal volunteers serve in the IDF like the conscripted IDF soldiers?

Would a Mahal volunteer be in a unit with Israelis?

Do Mahal overseas volunteers receive the same training, pay/benefits, and positions as Israeli draftees?

Can I get training in English?

Does the IDF have any units for English speakers?

I have done the Marva program; does that change the length of my service?

Do I need a driving licence?

Can I enlist if I have a tattoo?

If I make aliyah does this alter the requirements for military service?

Do I have to live in Israel after I serve?

Can I get any trouble in my country of origin for serving in the IDF?

Do I have to give up my citizenship if I serve in the IDF?

Will there be any salary?

I am Shomer Shabat (religious)/What is IDF Mahal Hesder?


Fitness and Health


What are the different medical profiles?

Is it possible to serve in infantry with a 72 profile?

What is a charig profile?

I am color blind can I still serve in combat?

I am allergic to bee stings can I still serve?rig?


Is it possible to raise your medical profile?

I have asthma can I serve in the IDF?

How does my IDF profile influence my job assignment?

I might not be eligible for a combat unit for health reasons. How could I help out in a non-combat unit?

I have flat feet CanI serve in a combat unit?

Are there any vision requirements, or restrictions for those who wear glasses (
particularly in the sayerot)?

Can I find out my Health profile before I enlist?

Am I medically insured while in the IDF

What are the military's fitness standards (run times and distances, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups etc)? How physically fit do I have to be?


Hebrew Test


What level of Hebrew do I need to enlist?

What happens if I don't pass the Hebrew test at the draft office?

Are there any benefits to the IDF ulpan rather than a private ulpan?


Enlistment


Can I switch units after my enlistment?

What happens if after my enlistment I still don't understand Hebrew?

I heard that if you do not receive a particular unit that I can tell the army to take me to jail and they will eventually grant me the unit I desire.

Until what point can I back out of my enlistment.

Do I have a choice in which unit to serve?

Can I sere for longer than 18 months?

A friend and I would like to serve in the same unit is that possible?

I am a vegetarian, will the IDF supply me with food?

Which unit will I serve in the IDF?

Can a mahal volunteer be a combat medic (Chovesh Kravi)?

I am the only child of my parents. Can I serve in a non-combat unit?

I am the only child of my parents. Can I enlist without the consent of my parents?

Can I enlist without the consent of my parents?

I might not be eligible for a combat unit for health reasons. How could I help out in a non-combat unit?

Is Mahal the same as Nahal?

Do Mahal overseas volunteers serve exclusively in the Nahal Infantry Brigade?

Can I get an upfront commitment from the IDF to place me in a specific unit or location?

What items will I receive at the induction office (Bakum)

What extras do you suggest I bring?

Should I contact the MoD from overseas and schedule an appointment?

What would be the exact date of my enlistment?

How do I enlist?


Basic training


Do you get leave every Shabat in basic training?

What happens if I don't understand the commanders in basic training?


Active Service


Could I receive officer training?

Can I be in a tank unit through the Mahal IDF program?

Are Mahal volunteers eligible for any sayarot (Special Forces)?

If I have one or two years of military service in my country of origin, will that affect my IDF service?

How long is a volunteer not in training?


Discharge


IF I get married while serving will my time shorten?

What is recommended:Making aliya during the IDF service or after discharge?

If I choose to become an Israeli citizen after the 18 months of service through the Mahal IDF paths, do I have to do additional military service?

Am I obliged to do miluim (reserve duty) after the Mahal IDF program?

Do I loose benefits because of my service in the IDF?

I would like to study at the university in Israel after my service. Is tuition free?

Perhaps I will not like it. Can a volunteer get discharged early?


Lone Soldiers (Privileges)


What are the privileges of a lone soldier?

When and how do I get the status "Chayal Boded" (Lone Soldier)?


Miscellaneous


What is the difference between Garin Tzabar and Garin Mahal?

What will happen if I run away during my service?

Can Grain Mahal put me in touch with present volunteers or veterans?

For which IDF units/jobs am I eligible?

Can I choose which area in Israel I want to serve?

Does Mahal cost money?

Do I need to know Arabic to enlist in the IDF?

Can I keep Shabat in the IDF?

Will the commander give me time to pray in the IDF?

I do not know how to swim can I still join the IDF?

I heard I can leave and visit abroad for 1 month during my service?

Can a mahal volunteer become a fighter pilot?

Who was the first Mahal Soldier?

Do mahal soldiers receive a "Chufshash" (early release)?

If I don't pass the Gibush to Tzanchanim can I take it again?

I heard the Mahal commitment to Tzanchanim is 2 years?

How do I sign up for the "Gibush Tzanchanim"?

How do I prepare for the Gibush?

How do I sign up for Sayeret Matkal?

What is "Yom Sayerot"?

What happens if a Mahal volunteer dies in Israel? Who has custody over the body?

Are Mahal volunteers required to pay taxes?

Will it be possible to open up a bank account?

Is it possible to become a police officer in Israel after serving in the IDF through Mahal?


Qualifications


Is there a limit on time I can stay in Israel and still be eligible to volunteer?
Yes, if you are a Non Israeli Volunteer then you are not allowed to be in the country for more than 18 months (cumulative) to be eligible to volunteer for 18 months. If you are an Isreali Volunteer then you can not be in Israel for longer then 4 months after the age of 10.
back to top

I have been in Israel for 18 months and 2 days can I still volunteer?
One who has been in Israel for over 18 months (cumulative) will still be allowed to volunteer however for a 30 month service.
back to top

I am an Israeli citizen. Do I qualify for the Mahal IDF program?
If you have Israeli citizenship i.e. one of your parents has Israeli Citizenship you can still volunteer for the IDF on condition that: You have never stayed in Israel for more than 4 accumulative months in one calendar year (Gregorian) after the age of 10.
back to top

I have a learning deficit can I still enlist in the IDF?
Yes. However the IDF has sole authority on deciding who to except.
back to top

Until What age can I volunteer?
Men until the age of 24 and Women until the age of 21
back to top

Can a non Jew volunteer to the IDF?
The laws of volunteering coincide with the law of return of Israel. If  at least one of your grandparents or parents are Jewish or you are married to a Jew and he/she lives in Israel, then even though by Jewish Law you are not Jewish (unless your mother is Jewish) you can still volunteer. If neither of your Grandparents or parents are Jewish, than you are ineligible to volunteer.
back to top

I am over 24 (man) | over 21 (woman). Whom can I petition to allow an exemption from the enlistment age limit?
Contact the ministry of Defence at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Remember if you make aliya then the IDF will enlist you until the age of 26 for a man.
back to top

Can I volunteer through mahal at the age of 24 and 1 month?
No
back to top

Can I enlist before my 18th birthday?
No
back to top

I am not Jewish. Can I volunteer if I convert to Judaism?
Yes, on condition that your conversion is recognized by the state of Israel.
back to top

I am not Jewish, my spouse is Jewish. Can I volunteer?
Yes, if your spouse will live in Israel during your service.
back to top

Only one of my grandparents is Jewish. Can I volunteer?
Yes.
back to top

One of my parents is not Jewish. Can I volunteer?
Yes
back to top

I am a secular Jew and not religious at all. Can I volunteer?
Yes.
back to top

How can I check if I (or one of my parents) ever had Israeli citizenship?
Contact the Israeli Diplomatic Mission. http://www.mfa.gov.il/MFA/Sherut/IsraeliAbroad/Continents/
back to top

I am not an Israeli citizen. If I make aliya (get Israeli citizenship), can I enlist in the IDF directly (not through the IDF Mahal programs)?
Yes. That is the only route you are able to take.
back to top

I am not an Israeli citizen. If I made aliyah (opted for Israeli citizenship) upon my arrival to Israel, would I qualify for the Mahal programs?
No, from the moment you make Aliya you are ineligible for Mahal.
back to top


Initial Questions



Can a Mahal volunteer serve in Tanks?
Yes. However they require a higher level of Hebrew than Infantry.
back to top

Can a Mahal soldier become an officer?
Yes, if you are willing to sign on more time.
back to top

How long do I need to arrive before the draft?
The Ministry of Defence requires you to arrive at least 2 months in advance.
back to top

Do Mahal volunteers see action?
Yes, they are fighting side by side with their Israeli brothers.
back to top

Do Mahal volunteers participate in Wars?
Yes. They are soldiers identical to their Israeli brothers.
back to top

Does the IDF test you for drugs?
Yes.
back to top

Are the Sar-El, Marva and Mahal programs the same?
No. Sar – El  helps the IDF with logistical work and Marava is a 3 month sample of IDF basic training. Neither program is actually in the IDF.  
back to top

Should I volunteer for the IDF before college or after college?
Unfortunately many potential volunteers never make it after college. However it is an individual decision.
back to top

Is it worth it to do Marva before Mahal as some kind of preparation?
Based on individuals that we have spoken to that have participated in this program, No.
back to top

Should I join prior to enlistment a pre-army program (mechina) and/or Hebrew study program (ulpan)?
Yes we highly recommend a mechina. If you prefer not to attend the 3 month IDF ulpan you should definitely study in an ulpan prior to your enlistment.
back to top

For which IDF units/jobs am I eligible, when eligible for IDF enlistment?
Check out the IDF Unit Intro for a detailed description of each unit.
back to top

How does my IDF profile influence my job assignment?
Your Medical profile will determine which units you are eligible.
back to top

Do I have other options than infantry or non-combat?
Yes you can serve in tanks, artillery, Navy or Air Force.
back to top

I would like to volunteer for a longer period of time. Is that possible?
The IDF will always allow you to add on time. It is impossible to shorten your service, at least honourably.
back to top

Can I volunteer for less than 18 months service?
No.
back to top

My regular discharge date will be about two weeks after the beginning of my school year. Can I be discharged earlier for this reason?
Generally the IDF will grant you an early release however there are no guarantees.
back to top

Perhaps I will not like it. Can a volunteer get discharged early?
Not honourably.
back to top

By volunteer do you mean help out on a base, or actually fully serve in the IDF?
Fully serve in the IDF identically to Israelis.
back to top

Do Mahal volunteers serve in the IDF like the conscripted IDF soldiers?
Yes.
back to top

Would a Mahal volunteer be in a unit with Israelis?
Yes. There are no units specifically for volunteers.
back to top

Do Mahal overseas volunteers receive the same training, pay/benefits, and positions as Israeli draftees?
Yes, in addition they receive double the salary of an Israeli.
back to top

Can I get training in English?
No.
back to top

Does the IDF have any units for English speakers?
No.
back to top

I have done the Marva program; does that change the length of my service?
No. However if you make aliya then the time spent in Marva will be detracted from your service obligation.
back to top

Do I need a driving licence?
No.
back to top

Can I enlist if I have a tattoo?
Yes.
back to top

If I make aliyah does this alter the requirements for military service?
That depends on the age that you entered the country. Currently the law for single males who arrived at age:
18 – 19   30 months service
20 -  21   24 months service
22 – 25     6 months service
26 – 29    it depends on the IDF's demand*.
*Recently the IDF has not accepted majority of the new olim (citizens) from this age bracket.
back to top

Do I have to live in Israel after I serve?
No. Technically you are required to return to your country of origin upon termination of your service.
back to top

Can I get in any trouble in my country of origin for serving in the IDF?
We suggest reviewing the laws of your country.
back to top

Do I have to give up my citizenship if I serve in the IDF?
We suggest reviewing the laws of your country.
back to top

Will there be any salary?
Yes-see lone soldier benefits for the amounts.
back to top

I am Shomer Shabat (religious)/what is IDF Mahal Hesder?
See Mahal Hesder
back to top


Fitness and Health


What are the different medical profiles?
97 – (top score) special forces, infantry, tanks, artillery
82 – infantry, tanks, artillery
72 – tanks, artillery
64 – non combat
21 – exempt from military duty
back to top

Is it possible to serve in infantry with a 72 profile?
Yes, if you receive a charig chir (special exception). This is a special allowance made for individuals with a 72 profile to serve in infantry. It can be granted under certain medical conditions.
back to top

What is a charig?
A charig is a special exception that will allow someone with a lower profile to serve in a unit that his profile does not qualify.
back to top

Is it possible to raise your medical profile?
Yes.
back to top

I am color blind can I still serve in combat?
Yes.
back to top

I am allergic to bee stings can I still serve in the IDF?
Yes
back to top

I have asthma can I serve in the IDF?
Yes, however you might not be able to serve in a combat unit. It depends on the level of asthma.
back to top

How does my IDF profile influence my job assignment?
The medical profile determines which unit you are eligible.
back to top

I might not be eligible for a combat unit for health reasons. How could I help out in a non-combat unit?
The IDF has an unlimited array of non combat positions ranging from a driver to a spokesman for the IDF. All of which contribute tremendously to Israel.
back to top

I have flat feet can I serve in a combat unit?
Yes.
back to top

Are there any vision requirements, or restrictions for those who wear glasses?
If your prescription is higher than 6.00 then you are eligible to serve only in the Tanks or Artillery or Karkal brigade. If you have a prescription higher than 8.00 you are only eligible for a non combat role.
  
Can I find out my Health profile before I enlist?
Yes.
back to top

Am I medically insured while in the IDF?
While you are enlisted in the IDF you are fully covered medically.
back to top

What are the military's fitness standards (run times and distances, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups etc)?
see IDF fitness test
back to top


Hebrew Test


What level of Hebrew do I need to enlist?
To pass the Hebrew exam you need a level 6 Hebrew. Level 6 Hebrew consists of being able to read and write and carry a basic conversation in Hebrew.
back to top

What happens if I don't pass the Hebrew test at the draft office?
You will be placed in the IDF ulpan (Hebrew studies) for 3 - 4 months. The 3 – 4 months will be added on to your 14 month service.
back to top

Arethere any benefits to the IDF ulpan rather than a private ulpan?
During the IDF ulpan you are a soldier and receive a place to live, meals and a salary. If you attend a private ulpan the expenses are your responsibility.
back to top


Enlistment


Can I switch units after my enlistment?
It is possible, However very difficult and rarely granted.
back to top

What happens if after my enlistment I still don't understand Hebrew?
The IDF will not discharge a soldier for lack of Hebrew. They will continue to work with you until your command of Hebrew is adequate.
back to top

I heard that if you do not receive a particular unit that I can tell the army to take me to jail and they will eventually grant me the unit I desire.
Volunteers have tried it in the past and they were dishonourably discharged.
back to top

Until what point can I back out of my enlistment.
You can change your mind until the day of your draft.
back to top

Do I have a choice in which unit to serve?
Yes Mahal volunteers usually receive one of their top two choices.
back to top

Can I serve for longer than 18 months?
Yes.
back to top

A friend and I would like to serve in the same unit is that possible?
Theoretically, however it is not always granted. If you choose Mahal Hesder then you will be guaranteed to serve together.
back to top

I am a vegetarian will the IDF supply me with food?
Absolutely
back to top

Which unit will I serve in the IDF?
The IDF decides based on availability and your preference and medical profile.
back to top

Can a mahal volunteer be a combat medic (Chovesh Kravi)?
Yes.
back to top

I am the only child of my parents. Can I serve in a non-combat unit without the consent of my parents?
Yes
back to top

I am the only child of my parents. Can I serve in a combat unit without the consent of my parents?
No, the IDF requires a written consent notarized from the Israeli consulate from your parents in order to serve in a combat role.
back to top

Can I enlist without the consent of my parents?
Yes, if you are not an only child.
back to top

I might not be eligible for a combat unit for health reasons. How could I help out in a non-combat unit?
There are many opportunities to assist within the IDF. For more information see IDF unit Intro.
back to top

Is Mahal the same as Nahal?
No, Mahal mitnadvai chootz laaretz (lit. overseas volunteers) is an acronym for overseas volunteers. Noar chalutzai lochem (lit. fighting pioneer youth) is an infantry unit in the IDF.
back to top

Do Mahal overseas volunteers serve exclusively in the Nahal Infantry Brigade?
No, mahal volunteers serve in every unit in the IDF.
back to top

 
Can I get an upfront commitment from the IDF to place me in a specific unit or location?
No, the IDF will not guarantee your service in any unit.
back to top

What items will I receive at the induction office (Bakum)
2 pairs of boots
2 pairs of sweat pants
2 towels
9 pairs of wool socks
1 jacket
3 pairs of underwear
3 undershirts
1 Lock
Backpack
Beret
Sewing kit
Toothbrush
Shaving kit
Shower bag
Giant bag to transport your belongings on leave
Cover for your watch
Gun strap
Whistle
Brush to clean gun
Box cutter
Belt
2 uniform shirts
2 uniform pants
back to top

What extras do you suggest I bring?
It is an absolute must to bring a watch! We also recommend the following:
Tefillin
Permanent magic marker
Lighter
Shower clogs
Cellular phone
back to top

Should I contact the Ministry of Defence from overseas and schedule an appointment?
Yes, ideally you should schedule an appointment as quickly as possible when you enter the country.
back to top

What would be the exact date of my enlistment?
There are three combat drafts a year, July, November and March. The draft dates are usually toward the end of the month. Mahal volunteers will enlist 3 weeks prior to each combat draft. Volunteers will attend a 3 week preparatory basic training course at Michva Alon located in the Galil.
back to top

How do I enlist?
Your first step is to decide which program you are interested. The next step is to prepare all of the documents required. see How to join the IDF.  Once you have everything together we will arrange a meeting with the ministry of Defence for you.
back to top


Basic training


Do you get leave every Shabat in basic training?
Usually soldiers in basic training are granted every other weekend off. However every unit is different.
back to top

 
What happens if I don't understand the commanders in basic training?
There is a saying in Hebrew what you don't understand with your head you will understand with your legs. Fortunately the IDF has a lot of experience with new immigrants and will help advance you in your comprehension. The worst case scenario is the IDF will relocate you to the 3 month IDF ulpan.
back to top


Active Service


Could I receive officer training?
Yes, if you are willing to sign on for more time.
back to top

Can I be in a tank unit through the Mahal IDF program?
Yes, however they require a higher level of Hebrew.
back to top

Are Mahal volunteers eligible for any sayarot (Special Forces)?
Yes if you are willing to sign on for 3 years.
back to top

If I have one or two years of military service in my country of origin, will that affect my IDF service?
No you will still have to go through basic training like everyone.
back to top

How long is a volunteer not in training?
Infantry training is between 6 – 8 months. Tanks and Artillery are around 5 - 8 months training.
back to top

Discharge
IF I get married while serving will my time shorten?
No not as a Mahal volunteer.
back to top

What do you recommend,making aliya during the IDF service or after discharge?
It is definitely an individual question. Generally speaking it is advised to make aliya after your service in order to utilize your benefits.
back to top

If I choose to become an Israeli citizen after the 18 months of service through the Mahal IDF paths, do I have to do additional military service?
It depends on the age in which you entered the country. If you entered at the age of 18 then theoretically you would have to do another 12 months. However the IDF does not always enforce these laws.
back to top

Am I obliged to do miluim (reserve duty) after the Mahal IDF program?
Mahal volunteers are exempt from reserve duty.
back to top

Do I loose benefits because of my service in the IDF?
No your rights are frozen while you are in the IDF.
back to top

I would like to study at the university in Israel after my service. Is tuition free?
If you serve for at least 2 years then you are eligible to receive funding from the state of Israel however only if you make aliya.
back to top

Perhaps I will not like it. Can a volunteer get discharged early?
Not honourably.
back to top


Lone Soldiers (Privileges)


What are the privileges of a lone soldier?
See lone soldier benefits
back to top

When and how do I get the status "Chayal Boded" (Lone Soldier)?
You will receive your status when you report for your medical and psychological assessment at the draft office.
back to top

What is a Chayal Boded (Lone Soldier)?
A Chayal Boded is someone who has no immediate family in Israel i.e mother or father or is not in contact with his parents. The IDF grants certain benefits to assist their service.
back to top


Miscellaneous


What is the difference between Garin Tzabar and Garin Mahal?

back to top

What will happen if I run away during my service?
You will have to face jail time.
back to top

Can Garin Mahal put me in touch with present volunteers or veterans?
Yes. send us an e-mail.
back to top

For which IDF units/jobs am I eligible?
See IDF unit intro
back to top

Can I choose which area in Israel I want to serve?
Majority of IDF units serve throughout the country. However each training base is located in a specific area of Israel. For example the Givati training base is located in the south. You can choose a unit based on the geographical location of its training base. Besides that you most likely will be moved around.
back to top

Does it cost money to volunteer?
No, the registration process is free. Additionaly the IDF pays you a monthly salery while serving.
back to top

Do I need to know Arabic to enlist in the IDF?
No. The IDF will teach you the amount of Arabic required for your service.
back to top

Can I keep Shabat in the IDF?
Absolutely the IDF is designed to allow religious soldiers to serve without having to sacrifice any of their laws. See religious regulations.
back to top

Will the commander give me time to pray in the IDF?
The IDF obligates their commander to allow adequate time for prayers.
back to top

I do not know how to swim can I still join the IDF?
Yes.
back to top

I heard I can leave and visit abroad for 1 month during my service?
The IDF allows lone soldiers to visit abroad for I month a year. The one month also counts towards your service.
back to top

Can a volunteer become a fighter pilot?
Yes on condition that you pass all of the tests and sign on for 4 years.
back to top

Who was the first Mahal Soldier?
In 1947-9, more than 4,400 overseas volunteers came from 56 different countries to defend and fight for the nascent State of Israel during its struggle for survival and independence. They were known as Mahal. Most were World War II veterans whose military experience and skills were of decisive importance in helping to shape the newly emerging Israel Defense Forces.
back to top

Do mahal soldiers receive a "Chufshash" (early release)?
Chufshas (early release) is a special grant given by the IDF to their soldiers to help them acclimate to non army life. i.e. they are on leave but still receive payment. Every unit determines their own policy regarding "chufshash". Recently majority of the Mahal soldiers have been given two weeks "chufshash".
back to top

If I don't pass the Gibush to Tzanchanim can I take it again?
No unfortunately you only get one shot, make it count!
back to top

Do  mahal volunteers have to sign on for two years if they want to serve in tzanchanim(Paratroopers)?
No, there is no extra time required for mahal soldiers serving in tzanchanim (Paratroopers).
back to top

How do I sign up for the "Gibush Tzanchanim" (Paratrooper tryout)?
Every mahal soldier is required to attend a pre – basic training course in the IDF before their service called "Olim le Yachas" lit. entering the units. During the second week of the course those interested can take the gibush.
back to top

How do I prepare for the Gibush (tryout)?
We recommend attending specialized "gibush training" here in Israel. Gibush training are work out sessions designed to prepare you physically and mentally for gibushim. They are instructed by commanders from elite forces in the IDF. During the training you will experience all of the components of a gibush and how to excel and overcome any obstacle. For more info see Gibush Training Programs in Israel.
back to top

How do I sign up for Sayeret Matkal?
You must first attend Yom Sayerot. Those that perform well enough will receive an invitation to try out for Sayerat Matkal.
back to top

What is "Yom Sayerot"?
Yom Sayerot is a rigorous 24 hour physical and mental "tryout" aimed to select prospective candidates for the Elite Forces of the IDF. Those that perform well enough will receive an invitation to one of the top 5 elite forces in the IDF. Sayerat Matkal, Sheldag (Delta Force), Shayetet 13 (Navy Seals), Chovlim and Tayes (fighter pilot) back to top

What happens if a Mahal volunteer dies in Israel? Who has custody over the body?
If God forbid a Mahal soldier dies the body will be handled based on the instructions of the family.
back to top

Are Mahal volunteers required to pay taxes?
There is no tax on your salary from the IDF.
back to top

Will it be possible to open up a bank account?
Yes you are obligated to open a bank account if you want to receive your salary from the IDF.
back to top

Is it possible to become a police officer in Israel after serving in the IDF through Mahal?
Yes if you make Aliya (become a citizen)
back to top