We believe every student is unique and brings their own perspectives, experience and energy to our community. We celebrate that diversity and it plays a key role in our admissions process:

• We welcome applicants from all paths of Jewish life. The Academy does not define its students on the basis of past, current or even future affiliation.

  The communities our alumni serve, even in a denominational setting, will have family from the full spectrum of Judaism. The ability to see each person -- no matter on which faith path they are -- as a unique soul, will be the key to professional effectiveness.

• Students at the Academy range from those who have had a few years of experience or study relating to their desired profession, to individuals making mid-life career changes.

  Our students include teachers, professors, physicians, executives, attorneys, parents, therapists, journalists, filmmakers, artists, and everything in between.  We believe individuals with prior careers and life experience make uniquely capable rabbis, cantors, and chaplains, and we encourage most applicants to take time after undergraduate training for personal development. We welcome individuals whose life history includes a variety of spiritual paths; our view is that such experiences can help deepen the work and will be respected.

With that in mind, we do have specific requirements in several areas for all members of our community:

• All applicants for a program leading to ordination and certification must be Jewish by birth as recognized by at least one major rabbinic body, or by a conversion process that is recognized by at least one major rabbinic body.

  The Academy admits students without regard to age, gender, disability, race, color, or national origin.

• All applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

• Proficiency in Hebrew, as well as familiarity with basic Jewish texts and practice, is essential to serious Jewish study.

  We encourage those considering application to commence study of Hebrew as soon as possible. As a part of the admissions process, but not a condition of acceptance, candidates are required to take a Hebrew Placement Test. Candidates will also meet with Hebrew faculty to help determine their current language abilities. First year rabbinical students are expected to enter the program at a level II. Should need be, our Hebrew faculty will guide candidates so that they are able to accelerate their understanding of the language. No test in Judaic Studies is required, however, each student’s proficiency will be assessed prior to their second year of study.

• If you're interested in one of our MJS programs, the programs in Ethics, Communal Life, Jewish Music, and Interfaith Relations have more modest requirements in terms of Hebrew studies and previous experience.

  A psychological evaluation is not required. A visit is still highly recommended. An Admissions Committee will be convened once all application materials have been submitted.