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As part of this program, your volunteer experience runs for about 14 months. If you are not fluent in Hebrew (yes, there is a test), then you need to plan for an additional 4 months at the beginning to learn Hebrew at the program's Ulpan. As an FYI, "ulpan" is the Hebrew word for study. Ulpan's are offered all across Israel and what they are is an intensive Hebrew immersion - so that immigrants and/or visitors can quickly learn the language of the country. In addition to learning Hebrew, students at an ulpan are taught about Israeli culture, history, and geography.
The Mahal Brigade is only open to young people, men must be younger than 24 and women must be younger than 21. Here is how your time is spent as a Mahal Brigade volunteer:
#1. Hebrew Fluency
New recruits spend 3 months becoming fluent in Hebrew. As part of that three month intensive language training, volunteers receive 3 weeks of IDF Pre-Basic Training.
#2. IDF Basic Training
Volunteers spend 4 1/2 months being trained as a soldier. Skills taught include: military discipline, arms training, first aid, and PE. skills. For those opting for non-combat positions, the training period is only 3 weeks.
#3. Active Service
Volunteers spend the next months, until discharge, on active duty with the IDF as full soldiers. For any volunteers wishing to stay longer, the option for longer active service can be arranged.
