Where Torah Study
Meets Lifelong Connection
Machon Alte is a grounded, immersive Torah experience in the heart of Tzfat.
We provide a space for women to build a solid foundation in Judaism through serious learning in a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental community.





A Foundation for Life
We focus on three core pillars to create an experience that sticks with you long after you leave.
Intellectual Expansion
Our classes are designed to challenge you, offering deep, text-based learning that builds real knowledge and a solid, authentic understanding.
Warmth & Connection
You’re not just a student; you’re family. This is a place to build real friendships and a genuine sisterhood.
Personal Growth
This isn’t just about what you learn, but who you become. Invest in yourself, giving you the time & space to build a personal & lasting foundation for your life.
This is Your Place to Grow
This experience is designed for you.
We welcome a diverse range of women united by a genuine desire to learn and connect.
You'll feel right at home if you are:
A college student looking for a meaningful break or a semester abroad that offers both intellectual depth and a warm, supportive community.
On your gap year and wanting to build a solid, personal foundation in your Judaism before starting the next chapter of your life.
A young professional seeking a focused environment to unplug, recharge, and invest in yourself with serious learning and real connections.
Find Your
Program
We offer year-round programs designed to fit your schedule.
Need a Custom Schedule?
We are flexible and welcome students for full year programs, short-term stays, or custom schedules.
Need a Custom Schedule?
We are flexible and welcome students for full year programs, short-term stays, or custom schedules.
The Full Experience
Your journey includes far more than academics. The Machon Alte experience is about immersive Jewish living, inside and outside the classroom.
Inspirational Shabbatons
Hikes & trips
across Israel
Hands-on creative workshops
Sisterhood with
friends for life
Grounded, personal guidance
What Our Alumni Say
Joining Machon Alte was one of the best decisions I ever made. I met my best friends there and was transformed in ways I’m still uncovering. The community and classes built my confidence and deepened my connection to Yiddishkeit all at once. Everything I do still traces back to those days. I truly feel like I grew up there. If you ever have the chance to spend even a day at Machon Alte, it’s a divine gift you can’t pass up.

Jessie Tiersky,
Binghamton University, NY
When I graduated high school and moved on from CTEEN and the JLI teen program, going to machon alte was a smooth transition and an easy decision. It truly changed my life. This school not only helped me build relationships with girls who would become my lifelong friends, but it also helped me deepen and strengthen my relationship with Judaism.

Hannah Butcher,
Lake worth, FL
It’s funny how I ended up in Tzfat and then MA. After two days I canceled my flight home—one of my best decisions. Tzfat was magical, and MA even more so: the tree out front, late-night walks, waking up to ma’amarim and Tanya taught right. I felt completely aligned, surrounded by incredible people and real support. TyH. And the friends I made in MA? They’re family now.

Levana Shemesh,
Montreal, Canada

Levana Shemesh,
Montreal, Canada

Hannah Butcher,
Lake worth, FL

Jessie Tiersky
Binghamton University, NY
Your Questions, Answered
Sample Schedule
Click here to download
Age and group size
- The average Group Size: 25 students a year.
- General Age Range: From 18-29 years old.
Type of students
- M.A. hosts an array of girls from the novice in observance and torah knowledge to the classic “yeshiva student.” Regardless of level which is catered to through the different tracks in learning, the goal is the same: A girl’s time at M.A. is their time to focus on three things:
a) developing themselves as a Jewish woman,
b) learning about their heritage and
c) sharpening their Torah skills and knowledge.
Learning level and method
- 2 tracks:
-Track One: caters to girls with very little background and/or minimal hebrew skills and torah knowledge.
–Track 2:For the advanced and experienced Torah student
- Methods of Learning and Implementation:
-The girls reap the benefits of an array of different methods of implementation:
-In-person classes both text as well as lecture-based taught by acclaimed \ and experienced teachers.
-Farbrengens led by renowned mentors.
-Workshops, events and programs organized and by the Madrichot.
-Trips around the country
Location: Tzfat
Perched up in the mountains nestled in the breathtaking landscape of the holy land providing the perfect atmosphere to discover the inner dimension of the Torah; Chassidus and Kabbalah
Free from the hustle and bustle of life thereby fostering lasting relationships and connection and depth and breadth in learning.
Tzfat: The ideal place for a girl to go into her inner landscape, the Torah and her Yiddishkeit.
Machon Alte campus
- Accommodations and food:
Dormitory on premises, 2 girls per room with private bathroom and shower. Modern accommodations with healthy meals served 3x a day.
- The 6 story building located in the heart of the Old City of Tzfat is the home to 3 ongoing programs. The building is bustling with a host of students totaling to 100 young women
Background
No Jewish Education background needed to participate. Just a thirst to learn and experience authentic Jewish learning and lifestyle.
Date flexibility
We strongly suggest joining one of the 4 programs, however if you find that none of those dates work for you, please reach out so we can accommodate your availability. Always an opportunity to learn!
Scholarships
Please reach out to learn more about the scholarships opportunities available.
Have additional questions?
Focus in the
Heart of Tzfat
Experience the unique, peaceful atmosphere of Tzfat.
Our campus is a place of calm, away from the noise and distractions of city life, allowing you to truly focus on your learning and personal journey.
6
Students from
6 continents
25+
Hours of study
a week
47
Years of
experience
2,350
Alumni
Latest
Partners
Ready to Start
Your Journey?
Apply now for an upcoming program
or get in touch to plan your unique experience.