The admissions process at GSJS is highly individual. The graduate school is small by design, and our faculty invest deeply in every student accepted into our programs. Whether you're a lifelong learner auditing a class or a young aspiring scholar, when you apply, you’re not just submitting paperwork. You’re starting a conversation with us.
What We Value in Applicants
Every applicant is different. What matters most is that you have a genuine interest in Jewish studies and are ready to engage in the work. Strong applicants typically have:
- A passion for Jewish history, literature, thought, or Jewish education: not just academic interest, but real love of the subject.
- A sense of what you want to explore at GSJS, even if your focus is still taking shape.
- Previous experience with academic writing and research.
- Working knowledge of Hebrew language and background in Jewish studies.
- A GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- For the PhD: a background in research that demonstrates readiness for doctoral scholarship.
MA Admissions Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
- Background in Jewish studies, Jewish history, or a related field.
- Reading proficiency in Hebrew.
- Two letters of recommendation.
- Official transcripts with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
PhD Admissions Requirements
- A bachelor’s or master's degree in Jewish studies or a closely related field, with extensive research experience and the demonstrated ability to present research findings in writing.
- Reading proficiency in Hebrew; proficiency in languages relevant to your scholarly interests.
- A strong academic writing sample. For students applying with a master’s degree this would typically be the master’s thesis. For students applying with a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of two research papers.
- Three letters of recommendation from professors who can speak to your scholarly ability.
- Official transcripts with a minimum GPA of 3.5.
- A statement that explains your research background, interests, and reasons for applying to the Touro Graduate School of Jewish Studies.
Non-Degree Admissions Requirements
Looking to audit a class? You can apply as a non-degree student within the regular application.
You'll also need to share a copy of your transcript (it can be unofficial) or your diploma, and to schedule an interview with the admissions team.
The Application Process in 5 Simple Steps
- Review the admissions details for your program (see above).
- Request information or email info.gsjs@touro.edu before you apply. Dean Sokol and the admissions team are happy to speak with prospective students.
- Gather your materials: transcripts, writing samples or thesis, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose.
- Submit your application through Touro's online application. Use program code: MJNY.
- Prepare for an interview. Our faculty want to get to know you beyond who you are on paper. We'll contact all eligible applicants to set up personal interviews.
[AUDIO DESCRIPTION] People stroll past Touro University on a city sidewalk. An interior sign says: Graduate School of Jewish Studies. Students sit at tables in a classroom. A woman with long brown hair and glasses types on a laptop. Mushka Steinmetz, Doctoral Student in Jewish History and Thought, Graduate School of Jewish Studies.
[MUSHKA STEINMETZ] I got my bachelor's at Touro in Chicago. And I moved to Brooklyn, taught a little, but knew that I wanted to keep learning. I wanted to continue learning in a religious setting, or in a setting that would be sensitive to religious traditional values, but also has high academic standards. And it's just been amazing since. I
[AUDIO DESCRIPTION] She and a gray-haired man in a suit and yarmulke discuss a book they are reading. She gives a presentation in a classroom.
[MUSHKA STEINMETZ] joined the master's program and moved on to the doctorate. It's been completely eye-opening.
[MUSHKA STEINMETZ] I grew up with a strong background in Jewish studies, but it was very traditional. It didn't have any of the academic rigor that my studies here brought to me. I love the personal attention that the teachers give the students. There is so much promotion of questions and discussion, and it's really just not a monologue.
[AUDIO DESCRIPTION] The man teaches a class as Mushka listens.
[MUSHKA STEINMETZ] I'm a mother of three very young children. I've given birth to two of my children during my studies here. And Touro has allowed me to really enjoy my motherhood. Their support of me during my motherhood journey really allowed me to continue my intellectual journey.
[AUDIO DESCRIPTION] Logo: Touro University. Graduate School of Jewish Studies.
Student Spotlight: Mushka Steinmetz, 2023 MA, Jewish History Track; Current PhD Candidate
Mushka Steinmetz enrolled in the GSJS PhD program at her professors’ urging. She had just earned her MA in Jewish Studies, Jewish History track, and was eager to continue the original research she had begun on Polish Jews in the early modern period.
“When we talk about Jewish history, we always focus on catastrophes, but I didn’t want to do that,” she explains. “I wanted to focus on Jewish creativity, on its own terms.”
As a mother of four, including a baby born while she was working on her thesis, Mushka initially assumed she would have to return to her teaching job full time after graduation. “Dr. Shmidman kept mentioning the PhD,” she recalls, “but even though I was enjoying researching this subject immensely, I wasn’t sure it was going to work out.”
Financial aid from GSJS, including an annual stipend for PhD students, made it possible for her to join the doctoral program while caring for her young children. Instead of stepping away from scholarship, she was able to deepen her research and training at a critical moment.
When she returns to the classroom, Mushka looks forward to bringing the depth of her doctoral education with her. “I never dreamed of being a historian,” she says, “so this is a really fortunate turn of events.”
Tuition and Financial Aid
GSJS strives to provide an outstanding learning opportunity for our students while keeping our programs affordable. We encourage all admitted students to apply for our generous merit-based scholarships and to make use of the university's other financial aid resources.
Aid for GSJS Master’s Degree Students
- Awards for the Jewish History and Jewish Education tracks typically cover a significant portion of tuition.
- Teachers at Jewish day schools that partner with Touro are eligible for 75% tuition reduction for the M.A. degree in the Jewish History and Jewish Education tracks.
- For more information or to discuss your specific situation, contact the Dean's Office at (212) 463-0400 ext. 55581 or info.gsjs@touro.edu.
Aid for GSJS PhD Students
- Generous scholarships toward tuition are available to all admitted Ph.D. students
- Each year, up to two students are eligible for a full tuition award plus a renewable annual stipend of up to $30,000 for 3 years.
