Israel Sci-Tech Schools Opens 2026-2027 Academic Year With 12,000 Students Across 38 Vocational Colleges

The majority of ISTS students are enrolled in practical engineering programs, fields that serve as a foundation for Israel's advanced technology and industrial sectors. The ISTS college network trains more than 30% of all practical engineers in Israel's technological education tracks for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and beyond.

This year, ISTS Colleges are introducing new and expanded specialized tracks:

• Expansion of practical engineering training programs for Haredi (ultra-Orthodox) students, leading to full military service in the IDF. More than 30 classes are planned to open nationwide this academic year.

• Unique collaboration with Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov): launch of two specialized programs, Medical Equipment Practical Engineering and Biotechnology Practical Engineering. Studies will take place at ISTS Singalovski College in Tel Aviv.

• Partnership with the Israel Trade Association of Automotive Services: launch of a program in Electric Vehicle Practical Engineering. Studies will take place at ISTS Jerusalem College.

• Specialized classes offering a direct pathway into industry: in partnership with OPC Energy Ltd., a Mechatronics Engineering program will be offered at ISTS Hermelin College in Netanya.

“As Israel’s largest and leading network of technological colleges, we have a national responsibility. For thousands of young men and women across the country, our colleges are where the future begins. We see our mission as making higher technological education accessible to all, promoting social mobility, and narrowing the gaps in Israeli society,” said Yossi Yashi, Chief of the Colleges Division at ISTS.

“Every student who completes a practical engineering program at ORT gains more than a profession: they gain a pathway to an advanced technological degree, a rewarding career, and a better future for themselves and their families. At the same time, our graduates make up the skilled workforce that Israel’s industrial and high-tech sectors rely on, and investing in them is a direct investment in the strength and resilience of Israel’s economy.”

The ISTS network provides a diverse range of educational opportunities: practical engineering, diploma studies, technological preparatory programs, and academic horizon tracks that enable graduates to complete full academic degrees. Committed to excellence and innovation, ISTS Colleges work in close cooperation with government ministries, the IDF, the high-tech industry, and other major sectors to design curricula that meet real-world industry needs. Graduates of ISTS programs go on to hold key positions in Israel's public and private sectors and within the country's thriving startup ecosystem.

About Israel Sci-Tech Schools:

Founded in 1949, Israel Sci-Tech Schools is Israel’s largest independent charter school network, educating 100,000 students across 264 middle and high schools, vocational training centers, and colleges of practical engineering in 54 municipalities. The network delivers inclusive, life-changing iSTEAM education (innovation, science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) to students from all backgrounds—Jewish (secular to Haredi), Muslim, Christian, Bedouin, and Druze—regardless of gender, religion, or socio-economic status. Through academic excellence and values-driven leadership, the network empowers students to succeed in high-demand 21st-century careers and helps close social and economic gaps in Israeli society.