Entrance Exams

Entering The Rabbinical School

Our goal at The Rabbinical School of The Jewish Theological Seminary is to challenge students to develop the spiritual, intellectual, professional, and ethical qualities necessary to function as Jewish religious leaders. Our curriculum assumes a strong foundation of Hebrew language and basic textual skills in Hebrew Bible and Talmud.

Students entering JTS take the following entrance exams to help place them into the appropriate courses:

Entrance Requirements for the Five-Year Program

Exam	Study Guide
Hebrew Language	Candidates are required to have completed two semesters of college-level Hebrew prior to year one. The Hebrew Department will administer a placement test during the admissions process and verify placement during orientation. Students entering Year One need to place into the equivalent of HEB 5301, as taught by JTS's Department of Hebrew Language.
Bible	(a) Mikra'ot Gedolot: Students are required to demonstrate the ability to translate biblical verses and short passages from selected medieval commentaries. (b) Biblical Hebrew Proficiency: Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to recognize the significance of verb tense and aspect, word order, and vocalization in Biblical Hebrew.
Rabbinics	Entering students will take a diagnostic exam to determine what level of Talmud is appropriate for initial placement.

Questions about the exams should be sent to the director of Admissions in the Rabbinical School Admissions Office.