What is the Menachem Begin Scholars Program?
A highly-selective fellowship program for exceptional 9th and 10th grade students. In their first year, fellows begin their learning with a careful study of the Biblical books Ruth and Esther—exploring these great texts for their enduring moral and political truths, using a wisdom-seeking approach. Students then are introduced to foundational texts of Western Civilization, including Sophocles’
“Antigone” and Plato’s “Apology.” In 10th grade, fellows turn their attention to important questions of public affairs—including the modern state of Israel, and the Jewish meaning of America.
Program elements include: Advanced Seminars on Jewish, Zionist and Western ideas, Student Retreat Orientation in Princeton, NJ, Debates and Special Events, Tikvah’s National Student Leadership Conference, Tikvah Scholars Program.
Eligibility & Dates
The Menachem Begin Scholars Program is open to Jewish students in 9th and 10th grade in all schools. This is a two-year fellowship, but rising 10th graders may join midway through.
- Orientations take place in Princeton, NJ. New students are expected to attend one of the two orientation sessions (Session I: August 17-19 or Session II: August 24-26). If attendance is not possible, please apply anyway — we’ll do our best to find an alternative solution.
- Virtual Seminars will begin in October 2025.
- The National Student Leadership Conference will take place on February 1-2, 2026.
- At the end of the program, graduating 10th-grade students are invited to apply for the Tikvah Scholars Program, (11-day residential summer retreat).
To Apply
Applications for the 2025–2026 Menachem Begin Scholars Program are now open! Click here to apply.
Both 9th and 10th graders are eligible to apply.
Both 9th and 10th graders are eligible to apply.
- Early Bird Deadline: May 29
- Final Deadline: June 15
Annual Tuition & Fees
Program Fee: $795 (Early Bird Price: $745)
The Begin Scholars Program offers a transformative and enriching experience, including seminars, debates, and exclusive events with distinguished speakers.
Princeton Orientation (For New Students): $545
An immersive introduction to the program, setting the stage for a year of deep learning and engagement.
National Student Leadership Conference (For all Begin Scholars): $495
A premier gathering that brings together students from across the country to develop leadership, rhetoric, and critical thinking skills.
Need-based financial aid available. Please reach out to Scholarships@TikvahHighSchool.org.
