February 9, 2026 – The Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU) has announced the extension of its “Academic Shield” program, specifically designed for women and men wounded during the “Iron Swords” war. The program includes a special grant of 2,000 NIS (about $640 U.S. Dollars), along with a comprehensive package of benefits and accommodations for wounded IDF veterans enrolling in undergraduate programs for the upcoming academic year (2026-2027/5787).

As part of the initiative, the University will provide personal guidance from registration and throughout the academic year, including:

• Pre-enrolment Counselling: Free personal consulting to help choose the right field of study.
• Admissions Flexibility: An “Academic Shield Committee” that will individually review candidates who do not meet standard admission thresholds.
• Financial Ease: Full waiver of university application fees.
• Ongoing Support: Personal mentoring and regular follow-up meetings with accessibility coordinators.
• Exam Accommodations: Extended time and specialized testing conditions, including ergonomic furniture, transcription/dictation services, typing options, and quiet rooms for those coping with PTSD (including noise-cancelling headphones).
• Academic Flexibility: Option to extend the duration of the degree, postpone exams and assignments based on medical status/rehabilitation, and approved absences for medical treatments.
• Logistics: Accessible housing (dorms) and priority parking arrangements.
• Holistic Wellness: Connections to emotional therapy and assistance in maximizing rights through the National Insurance Institute, Ministry of Defense, and the IDF Disabled Veterans Organization.

Prof. Oron Shagrir, Rector of the Hebrew University, stated: “The end of the war does not mean the end of our commitment to those wounded in the IDF. Returning to academic life, gaining knowledge, skills, and a profession, is a crucial part of rehabilitation and getting back to routine. We’re here to support them every step of the way and to make that path easier. As Israel’s leading university, we have a responsibility to give back to those who have given so much.”

Over the past two and a half years, the Hebrew University has invested over 25 million NIS (over $8 million U.S. Dollars) in supporting reservists. This support includes financial grants, tutoring, personal mentoring, the establishment of a dedicated network of reservist coordinators, mental health services, and academic accommodations. These efforts are driven by the University’s core mission: to ensure every student succeeds and to leave no one behind.

For additional information, call: +972-2-5881338