Israeli Bank Account
Students who receive stipends are required to open a bank account in Israel. Fellowships are paid in local currency (New Israeli Shekels – NIS).
In order to open a bank account, you will need the following:
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Passport with a valid visa
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Certificate of enrollment at the Hebrew University
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Taxpaying information from home country (TIN, SSN, Numéro Fiscal)
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Israeli cellphone number
Once you have opened an account, please update your bank account details through the personal data page or through the HUJIapp.
Israeli SIM Card
We strongly recommend that you use a local SIM card. This will allow easier communication in case of emergency. Please notify the international school that you have an Israeli phone number.
Rav Kav (public transportation card)
The Rav-Kav card is a pre-paid travel card that allows you to use public transportation in Israel.
Cardholders can apply a student discount onto the card. You will need to present your student card at a Rav Kav service station, located at the train station and at the Egged central bus station, in order for the student discount to apply onto your card. This is a one-time procedure.
Rav Kav website
You can purchase the card at the Egged Central Bus Station located at the Ofer Mall in Rehovot on level 0 (the mall is 20 minutes walking distance from the campus). Operating hours of the cashier at the bus station: Sunday - Thursday 07:00-19:00 and on Fridays 08:00-13:00
You will not be able to travel by bus without this card.
Electricity
Electrical sockets usually supply electricity at between 220 and 240 volts AC.
If you're plugging in an appliance that was built for 220-240 volt electrical input, or an appliance that is compatible with multiple voltages, then an adapter is all you need.
Money
There is one ATM on campus, near the main Herzl gate. Other ATMs can be found outside banks and small vending shops.
When exchanging foreign currency you must show your passport (or a photocopy of the first pages, including your name, photograph and passport number). Money can be exchanged at banks and change points.
Shopping
Supermarkets, shops and malls are usually open Sundays-Thursdays 09:00-21:00 (and sometimes later), Fridays 8:00-14:00. Closed on Saturdays until the evening and re-open from a half hour after sunset until around 23:00.
Security
Routine security checks are made when entering public buildings (including institutes, train stations, malls etc.).
Emergency preparedness pamphlet published by Israel's Home Front Command