Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs

• Does the Open University have admission requirements that I must meet?
  No. Enrollment is open to all applicants and does not require a matriculation certificate, a psychometric exam or any other certificate.

• What degree will be conferred following completion of studies?
  A Bachelor's degree - B.A. or B.Sc.

• Is the Open University Bachelor's degree equivalent to degrees awarded by other universities?
  Yes

• Can I be admitted to graduate studies at the Open University or at other universities with a Bachelor's degree from the Open University?
  Yes, subject to the special requirements of each university.

• Will the degree help me find a job?
  There is no guarantee that it will, but a Bachelor's degree is a prerequisite for many positions in various areas.

• What programs of study does the Open University offer? How should I choose the field of study most suitable for me?
  That depends on your personal preference and abilities. We recommend that you look at the programs of study and the course catalog. The Open University advisors will be glad to provide information.

• Must I decide now on my field of study?
  It is preferable, but not mandatory. Students at the Open University enroll in each course separately. Many of the introductory courses suit the requirements of several different programs of study.

• I started my studies in a certain program and discovered that it was not suitable for me. Have I lost my chances to get a degree?
  No. You can usually plan a new program of studies which will include all, or most, of the courses you studied. Discuss this with an Open University advisor.

• How many credits must I accumulate to receive a Bachelor's degree?
  108 credits are usually required for a degree, although the requirement in certain programs is higher (112, 115 or more). A single course usually grants either credits but there are courses which grant 3 or 4 credits.

• How many courses must I take to receive a degree?
  Between 18 and 26 courses, depending on which program of study you have chosen.

• How much time must I invest in each course?
  Studies at the Open University involve studying the written and the additional materials, preparing assignments and studying for final examinations. Thus investing in your studies is important. Precisely how much time you will need depends on the course and on individual differences.

• How many years will I study towards a degree?
  3 to 3.5 years, if your time is devoted exclusively to your studies. In other cases, it depends on how many courses you take each semester.

• In how many courses may I enroll in a single semester?
  You can take between one and four courses. Please consult with an Open University advisor.

  If I discontinue my studies after one or more courses, will I lose the credits I have accumulated?
  No. You can resume your studies at any time and the credits you accumulated will be accrued towards your continued studies.

• Must I demonstrate English language proficiency in order to receive a degree?
  Yes. English language proficiency is tested through the Amir, Amiram or psychometric exams. If necessary, you can study English at various levels at the Open University.

• When should I begin studying English?
  Immediately! You should plan on taking the Amir exam and start your English courses as early as possible. To get a degree or to enroll in advanced courses required for a degree, you need to demonstrate academic-level English proficiency.

• Can I receive accreditation for prior higher-education studies?
  In most cases, yes. We recommend that you submit a request to the Accreditation Committee as soon as possible.

• What is the tuition for an academic course at the Open University?
  Tuition at the Open University is determined according to the regulations of the Council for Higher Education, and tuition is paid for each course separately. The tuition for a complete degree is the same as tuition paid at other Israeli universities. Details on tuition can be found here (in Hebrew).