The most popular NCSY Summer programs for Summer 2026

NCSY Summer 2026 offers a variety of programs for Jewish teens across the U.S., Israel, and Europe. These programs range from sports and adventure to Torah study and community service, catering to students from 5th grade to high school seniors. With durations from 3 to 6 weeks, there's something for everyone. Below are some highlights:

• Camp Sports: Sports and Torah study for boys (grades 8-12) in Baltimore, MD.
• Impact Boys/Girls: Action-packed programs with sports and trips for boys (grades 6-9) and girls (grades 5-8).
• Chai Boys/Girls: Volunteer-driven programs in Israel for English-speaking teens.
• Euro 4G & Euro Israel: Travel-focused programs exploring Jewish heritage in Europe and Israel.
• GIVE & GIVE West: Volunteer programs for high school girls in Israel and the U.S.
• Hatzalah Rescue: Emergency medical training and adventure in Israel.
• Kollel & Michlelet: Torah-focused programs in Israel for boys and for girls.
• JOLT Israel: Leadership training and service for high school students.

Programs vary in cost, with financial aid and scholarships available, including RootOne vouchers for eligible Israel programs. Prices range from $3,900 to $12,500, depending on duration and location.

For more details, visit NCSY Summer.

NCSY Summer's JOLT Israel - A coed leadership experience for high school teens

1. Camp Sports

Camp Sports combines competitive sports with Torah study on the expansive 90-acre campus of Ner Yisroel Rabbinical College in Pikesville, just outside Baltimore, MD. The program offers daily sports leagues like basketball, baseball, soccer, football, and frisbee, paired with personalized advisor sessions to create a balanced experience.

Campers also get to enjoy over 15 exciting day and night trips during the four-week session. Activities include paintball, attending baseball games, water tubing, biking, hiking, and visiting Hershey Park.

"NCSY Camp Sports changed my life. Not only did I make friends that will last forever, but they also inspired me and gave me opportunities to excel in life and in Judaism." – Shaun Regenbaum, Atlanta, GA

Here’s a breakdown of the key details:

Eligibility

The program is open to boys entering grades 8 through 12.

Duration

Camp Sports runs for four weeks, from June 30, 2026, to July 28, 2026.

Pricing

The cost includes a base tuition of $3,900 and a $500 application fee, totaling $4,400. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.

2. Impact Boys

Impact Boys builds on the athletic and social foundation of Camp Sports, offering a unique summer adventure specifically designed for younger participants.

This three-week program, created in collaboration with Camp Kaylie, combines top-tier sports, engaging Jewish learning, and daily outings. Hosted on the East Coast, the program features basketball and football leagues in cutting-edge indoor facilities, alongside daily excursions to exciting attractions.

Participants get to experience a wide variety of activities, including amusement parks, water parks, white water rafting, paintball, professional baseball games, Top Golf, Dave & Buster's, trampoline parks, and ziplining. The program strikes a balance between competitive athletics and opportunities for personal Jewish growth, fostering strong connections with peers nationwide.

"This incredible program is for boys in current grades 6th-9th who are looking to have an unforgettable summer experience that includes high caliber sports, amazing trips, and life changing learning and growth opportunities." – NCSY Summer

Eligibility

The program is open to boys currently in grades 6 through 9.

Duration

Impact Boys runs for three weeks, from July 29, 2026, to August 18, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $6,000, which includes a $5,500 base tuition and a $500 application fee. Financial aid options are available, with eligible participants potentially receiving RootOne vouchers worth $3,000.

3. Impact Girls

Impact Girls offers an action-packed, three-week summer experience on the East Coast. Designed in collaboration with Camp Kaylie, this program combines thrilling adventures, interactive learning, and meaningful connections with peers who share similar values.

The itinerary includes activities like mountain rappelling, visits to premier amusement parks, and fun on-campus events. It’s a mix of excitement and opportunities for personal development. For those looking to extend their summer plans, participants can pair Impact Girls with Camp Kaylie or GIVE West, creating a 7+ week adventure.

Eligibility

This program is open to girls who are currently in grades 5 through 8.

Duration

Impact Girls runs for three weeks, starting July 1, 2026, and ending on July 19, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $5,825, which includes a $5,325 base tuition and a $500 application fee. Families may explore financial aid options to make the program more accessible.

4. Chai Boys

Chai Boys, hosted at Yeshivat Tichonit Chispin in northern Israel, offers a unique summer experience for English-speaking teenage boys living in Israel. This program combines adventure, Torah study, and a deep connection to the Land of Israel.

Over the course of three weeks, participants engage in outdoor adventures like water hikes, ATV rides, and paintball. They also take part in meaningful volunteer work, assisting local farmers and at-risk children. The program strikes a balance between group learning sessions and exciting trips across the country. College-aged mentors, many with experience in military or National Service and the Aliyah process, guide the participants throughout the journey. Like other NCSY programs, Chai Boys weaves together enriching activities with an emphasis on Jewish learning.

"NCSY Chai showed me how much I enjoy learning Gemara and Mishna. School learning isn't the same." – Ometz Shmidman, Alon Shvut

Eligibility

This program is open to English-speaking boys in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades who currently reside in Israel.

Duration

Chai Boys runs for three weeks, from July 6, 2026, to July 26, 2026.

Pricing

The program costs 8,650₪ in total, which includes an 8,400₪ base tuition fee and a 250₪ application fee.

For more information, visit the Chai Boys program page.

5. Chai Girls

Chai Girls offers English-speaking teenage girls in Israel a three-week immersive experience in Northern Israel, hosted at Midreshet Hagolan. This program blends Torah learning, outdoor adventures, and volunteer work, creating a meaningful and action-packed summer. Activities like water hikes, ATV rides, and paintball are paired with hands-on volunteer efforts, such as assisting local farmers and supporting at-risk children. To ensure a supportive environment, participants are guided by college-aged mentors with experience in the Israeli Army or National Service, maintaining a low mentor-to-teen ratio throughout the program.

"NCSY Chai doesn't just tour the land but rather takes you through it in a way you've never experienced before!"

• NCSY Chai

Eligibility

The program is open to English-speaking girls in 9th through 12th grades who currently reside in Israel.

Duration

Chai Girls runs for three weeks, from July 9, 2026, to July 30, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost for the program is 8,650₪, which includes a base tuition of 8,400₪ and a 250₪ application fee.

For more details, visit the Chai Girls program page.

6. Euro 4G

Euro 4G offers high school girls an unforgettable journey through Italy and Israel, combining incredible adventures, Jewish history, and community service. The program begins in Italy and continues in Israel, allowing participants to walk in the footsteps of influential Jewish leaders while building leadership and community-focused skills through touring and volunteering.

The itinerary balances active exploration with moments for spiritual reflection and personal growth. Participants visit iconic landmarks, immerse themselves in the stories of Jewish leaders, and engage in meaningful chesed and Jewish learning throughout their time on the program.

Eligibility

This program is open to high school girls currently enrolled in 9th through 12th grades.

Duration

Euro 4G runs for 4.5 weeks, from July 6, 2026, to August 6, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $12,500, which includes a base tuition of $12,000 and a $500 application fee. Participants may be eligible for a $3,000 voucher from RootOne, subject to approval, which can help offset the cost.

For more details, visit the Euro 4G program page.

7. Euro Israel

Euro Israel offers high school students a coed adventure through Portugal, Gibraltar, and Spain, where they delve into the history of Jewish communities and explore the cities tied to their heritage. The journey concludes in Israel, where participants see how this rich legacy has influenced the modern Jewish state.

The program combines cultural discovery with Jewish education. Guided by experienced NCSY educators, students visit iconic cities and historical landmarks across two continents, all while building lifelong friendships. Here’s what you need to know about Euro Israel:

"Euro Israel was an absolutely life-changing experience. The sense of family I felt during Euro was a feeling unmatched by any summer camp or program I have been on. Touring Jewish communities in Europe showed me a new perspective of Judaism." - Adam Cohen, Participant

Eligibility

This program is open to coed high school students currently in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade.

Duration

The trip spans 4.5 weeks, running from June 29, 2026, to July 30, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $12,500, which includes a $12,000 tuition fee and a $500 application fee. Participants may qualify for a $3,000 RootOne voucher, pending approval, to help reduce expenses.

For more information, visit the Euro Israel program page.

8. GIVE

GIVE (Girls Israel Volunteer Experience) is a summer program exclusively for high school girls, centered on volunteering and acts of kindness in Israel. Participants engage in meaningful service activities such as working as medical clowns, running children's camps in Sderot, assisting in soup kitchens, painting schools for children with disabilities, and volunteering at orphanages. Alongside these efforts, the program incorporates daily Torah study and visits to iconic sites like the Kotel, Masada, Yad Vashem, and Tzfat.

Beyond volunteering, GIVE offers thrilling adventures, including banana boating on the Kinneret, hiking through the Judean Desert, kayaking along the Jordan River, and mountain rappelling. This mix of service and exploration allows participants to deepen their connection to both Israel and their Jewish identity.

"NCSY GIVE not only gave me 84 new sisters, more appreciation for Israel, and a stronger connection with Hashem, but it taught me what it truly means to give." - Adina Cohen, Participant

Eligibility

GIVE is open to high school girls currently in 9th, 10th, or 11th grade. This program balances service and adventure, offering a unique experience that complements other NCSY opportunities.

Duration

The program spans 5 weeks, running from July 7, 2026, to August 11, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $11,200, which breaks down into a $10,700 tuition fee and a $500 application fee. Participants may be eligible for a $3,000 RootOne voucher, subject to approval, to help reduce the overall expense.

For more details, visit the GIVE program page.

9. GIVE West

GIVE West provides an opportunity for girls to combine meaningful community service with Torah learning, all while exploring the beauty of the West Coast. This all-girls program takes participants on a journey to major cities like Phoenix, San Diego, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, along with breathtaking natural landmarks such as Yosemite National Park.

The program emphasizes chesed (acts of kindness) through a variety of community service projects. Participants might organize carnivals for individuals with developmental disabilities, assist elderly residents, glean food for homeless shelters, or even bring joy as medical clowns for children in hospitals. Between these impactful activities, campers participate in Torah learning sessions led by experienced advisors, enriching their Jewish knowledge and fostering a deeper spiritual connection. The program’s itinerary is packed with engaging experiences, as reflected in the testimonials of past participants.

"I had the best summer of my life on NCSY GIVE WEST. I made life-long friendships and had advisors who were inspirational and great role models. The chessed on this trip inspired me and changed my every-day life to motivate me to continue giving back." – Sophie Schanzer, Participant

GIVE West maintains an intimate environment with fewer than 100 campers and a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:8, ensuring personalized attention and guidance throughout the trip.

Eligibility

This program is open exclusively to girls currently in 9th grade.

Duration

The program runs for 3.5 weeks, from June 25, 2026, to July 19, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $7,800, which includes a $7,300 tuition fee and a $500 application fee. Airfare is not included. However, eligible participants may qualify for a $3,000 RootOne voucher to help reduce expenses.

For additional information, visit the GIVE West program page.

10. Israel ID

Israel ID is a five-week summer program designed for high school students to explore Israel while strengthening their connection to Torah. This coed experience takes participants on an unforgettable journey across the country, from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, and from Tzfat to Eilat, blending adventure with meaningful Torah study.

The itinerary is packed with activities that inspire both the body and the soul. Participants hike up Masada at sunrise, raft through the rapids of the Kineret, and take part in unique experiences like "Dialogue in the Dark", which offers a glimpse into life without sight. Alongside these adventures, the program includes volunteering opportunities, water sports, and visits to spiritually significant sites. The goal? To deepen participants’ relationships with Hashem, the land of Israel, and the Torah. This program continues NCSY’s legacy of combining thrilling adventures with Torah learning.

"NCSY Israel ID gave me an unforgettable experience. Receiving the background about each significant place prior to visiting it, made me have a stronger and more meaningful connection with our land." – Maddie Kasztl, Participant

Eligibility

Israel ID is open to high school boys and girls from 9th to 12th grade.

Duration

The program runs for five weeks, from July 8, 2026, to August 6, 2026.

Pricing

The total cost is $10,500, which includes $10,000 for tuition and a $500 application fee. Participants may also be eligible for a $3,000 RootOne voucher to help reduce costs.

For more details, visit the Israel ID program page.

11. Hatzalah Rescue

Hatzalah Rescue offers a unique blend of intensive medical training and an adventure-filled journey through Israel. Over the course of 4.5 weeks, participants become certified Emergency Medical Responders (EMR) through United Hatzalah, Israel's volunteer emergency medical service. The program teaches essential life-saving skills like CPR and hemorrhage control, while participants gain hands-on experience by volunteering on active ambulances and working in dispatch centers. Alongside the training, participants enjoy a variety of adventurous activities and visits to key sites.

The program mixes rigorous medical training with thrilling experiences. Highlights include rappelling with Search and Rescue teams, desert jeep tours, and water sports on the Kinneret. Participants also explore significant landmarks such as the Kotel, Yad Vashem, Mearat Hamachpela in Hebron, and the Peres Center.

"I had the opportunity to learn how to be a certified Emergency Medical Responder and ride an ambulance in Israel, while also creating relationships that will last forever." – Esti Polotsky, Participant

Eligibility

This program is open to co-ed students in grades 9 through 12 who have an interest in medical training and first responder roles.

Location

The experience takes participants across Israel, with stops in iconic locations like Jerusalem, Hebron, the Kinneret, Eilat, and Mitzpe Ramon.

Duration

Hatzalah Rescue runs for 4.5 weeks, from July 5, 2026, to August 5, 2026.

Pricing

The program costs $10,500, with an additional $500 application fee. Participants may be eligible for a $3,000 RootOne voucher to help reduce expenses.

For more information, check out the Hatzalah Rescue program page.

12. Kollel

NCSY Kollel is an all-boys summer program that blends Torah study, sports, and travel throughout Israel. Each day kicks off with morning learning sessions, followed by competitive sports leagues in the afternoon. Activities include basketball, hockey, football, softball, and soccer. With a 1:3 staff-to-teen ratio, participants benefit from personalized guidance and support.

The program offers exciting travel opportunities across Israel. Highlights include visits to iconic locations like the Old City of Jerusalem and Yad Vashem, adventurous water hikes in Eilat, and unique events such as the Annual 3 on 3 Tournament, "Kumzits of the World" on Tisha B'Av, and Yom NCSY. Participants also enjoy six weekends: three spent on campus, one as a group Shabbaton, and two free weekends for family or friend visits.

"NCSY Kollel was the best and most productive summer of my life. It gave me a chance to learn and grow religiously, while playing competitive sports, experiencing great tiyulim, and making many new, lifelong friends." – Noam Posner, Participant

Eligibility

The program is open to boys entering 9th through 12th grades. Additionally, there’s a dedicated Kollel Mechina track designed for public school boys in 10th and 11th grades.

Location

Activities span various locations across Israel, from Jerusalem to Eilat and the Golan region, offering a rich and diverse experience.

Duration

The program runs for six weeks, from July 6, 2026, to August 17, 2026.

Pricing

The cost is $10,850, plus a $500 application fee. Need-based scholarships are available through the National NCSY office.

For further details, visit the Kollel program page.

13. Michlelet

NCSY Michlelet is a summer program exclusively for girls, offering a mix of Torah study, acts of kindness (chesed), and exploring Israel. Based at the Reishit Yerushalayim campus in Beit Shemesh, participants enjoy amenities like air-conditioned rooms, sports courts, a fitness center, and on-site dining.

The program features trips to some of Israel's most well-known locations, including Jerusalem, Eilat, Tzfat, Masada, the Dead Sea, Tel Aviv, Chevron, and the Golan Heights. Alongside these adventures, participants engage in thrilling activities like rappelling, water tubing, rafting, and zip-lining. Chesed projects, such as volunteering at food banks and hospitals, add a meaningful dimension to the experience. Combining education, exploration, and service, Michlelet creates a well-rounded and unforgettable summer.

"Michlelet was a transformative experience. Every moment - learning, traveling, or volunteering - deepened my connection in ways no other summer program has." – Sophie Greff, Participant

Eligibility

The program welcomes girls in 9th, 10th, and 11th grades, typically between the ages of 15 and 17.

Location

While the main campus is in Beit Shemesh, activities and tours span various regions across Israel.

Duration

The program lasts six weeks, running from July 7, 2026, to August 16, 2026.

Pricing

Tuition is $10,850, with an additional $500 application fee. Need-based scholarships are available, and RootOne participants may qualify for a $3,000 voucher.

For more information, visit the Michlelet program page.

14. JOLT Israel

JOLT Israel is a program that combines leadership training with meaningful community service. At the heart of this experience is a 10-day camp where participants create unforgettable activities for siblings of children facing chronic or life-threatening illnesses. This camp offers these siblings a chance to enjoy a summer filled with joy and connection.

Outside of the camp, participants embark on an incredible journey across Israel, exploring the country from the northern Galilee and Golan Heights to the southern Negev and Eilat. Highlights include climbing Masada, floating in the Dead Sea, kayaking, enjoying water sports in Eilat, and visiting iconic sites like the Kotel, the City of David, and Chevron. Participants also engage in unique experiences, such as archaeological sifting at Emek Tzurim and sheep herding in Itamar. This mix of adventure, service, and skill-building creates an impactful and memorable summer.

"JOLT Israel is more than just a post 10th grade summer tour, it is an actual investment in your child's growth as a person, an individual and a Ben or Bas Torah." – Rabbi Weinberg, Program Director

Eligibility

The program is open to 10th and 11th-grade students who are eager to grow their leadership abilities.

Location

JOLT Israel spans the entire country, including the Galilee and Golan Heights in the north, the Negev and Eilat in the south, and central areas like Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.

Duration

The program runs for five weeks, from July 7, 2026, to August 10, 2026.

Pricing

The tuition is $10,700, with an additional $500 application fee. Participants may be eligible for a $3,000 voucher through RootOne, pending approval.

For more details, visit the JOLT Israel program page.

15. LEAD (Cancelled for 2026)

LEAD offers a unique, service-focused experience as part of NCSY's wide range of programs.

This program gives 11th- and 12th-grade girls the chance to engage in meaningful volunteer work at an orphanage in Afula, Israel. Participants balance daily learning with weekly trips, creating an environment that encourages personal development and reflection.

"LEAD creates opportunities for growth through dedicated volunteer work." – NCSY Summer

Eligibility

Open exclusively to 11th- and 12th-grade girls.

Location

The program is centered at an orphanage in Afula, with additional weekly trips to various locations across Israel.

Duration

It spans three weeks, running from June 24, 2026, to July 20, 2026.

Pricing

• Tuition: $6,500
• Application Fee: $500
• Note: Flights to Israel are not included.

All payments must be completed by March 31, 2026. Participants may qualify for a $3,000 RootOne voucher, subject to approval.

For more details, visit the LEAD program page.

Next, explore program costs and financial aid options.

Program Costs and Financial Aid

The tuition for these programs ranges from $3,900 to $12,000, with an additional $500 application fee for most options. For Chai programs, costs are listed as 8,650₪, plus a 250₪ fee, of which $250 is nonrefundable.

For international programs, tuition includes round-trip airfare from JFK/EWR, accommodations, three daily meals, and activity fees. However, GIVE West and LEAD do not cover airfare. If you're flying as part of a group, expect additional costs: $200 from Miami or $350 from Los Angeles.

Payment Options

Participants can choose from several payment plans:

• Full payment upfront
• Three-installment plan: A $2,000 deposit upon acceptance, followed by payments on February 26 and March 31
• Monthly payments: Spread out until March 31, 2026

You need to select a payment option within two weeks of acceptance, or your seat may be reassigned. Note that credit card payments incur a 2.7% fee, while payments via debit card, check, ACH, or money order come with no additional fees.

Financial Aid Details

Financial aid is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with awards from National NCSY typically ranging between $0 and $1,000. Participants in eligible Israel programs may also qualify for a $3,000 RootOne voucher. To apply for financial aid, submit an application through your Camp InTouch account by April 1, 2026, including your most recent 1040 tax return. Additionally, you can explore grants from local Jewish Federations, synagogues, and JCCs - contact these organizations directly for details on their deadlines.

Refund and Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policies vary based on the date of withdrawal:

• By January 15, 2026: Full refund minus $250
• By March 2, 2026: Refund reduced by $2,000
• By March 31, 2026: Refund reduced by $3,000
• After March 31, 2026: No refunds available

All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email.

Program Costs Overview

Conclusion

NCSY Summer offers more than 20 programs tailored to different interests, grade levels, and budgets for Jewish teens. Whether your teen is passionate about sports, Torah study, community service, leadership, or gaining work experience through internships, there’s a program designed just for them. These experiences range from 3-week sessions starting at $3,900 to 6-week adventures priced at $12,000, with destinations spanning the United States, Israel, and Europe.

Programs are open to students from 5th grade through 12th-grade seniors, with options for both single-gender and coed groups. For those seeking additional support, specialized tracks like Mechina include financial assistance opportunities. This variety ensures that every teen can find a program that resonates with their interests and goals.

With rolling admissions and financial aid awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, early registration is key. To learn more about specific programs and itineraries, visit summer.ncsy.org or reach out via email at Summer@ncsy.org.

FAQs

What are the financial aid options for NCSY Summer 2026 programs?

NCSY provides financial aid to help families participate in their Summer 2026 programs. The financial assistance application is seamlessly integrated into the registration process, making it easy for families to apply. Awards are determined based on demonstrated financial need, streamlining the experience for applicants.

Beyond NCSY’s need-based scholarships, families can also look into funding options offered by Jewish federations or local community programs. These additional resources can help make the summer programs more attainable, ensuring more participants can enjoy an enriching experience.

What’s the best way to choose the right NCSY Summer program for my child?

To find the right NCSY Summer program for your child, start by thinking about their age, interests, and what they want to get out of the experience. NCSY offers a variety of options, including trips to Israel, leadership training, and community service projects. Each program is tailored to different goals and passions, so consider what matches your child’s personality and ambitions.

Practical details matter too. Look into the program’s length, location, and cost. There are financial aid options available, and safety measures are in place to ensure a secure experience for all participants. By focusing on what your child values and reviewing the program specifics, you can pick a summer adventure that will leave a lasting impact.

How do I apply for NCSY Summer 2026 programs, and what is the timeline?

Getting started with NCSY Summer 2026 programs is simple. Begin by filling out the online application. As part of the process, you’ll need to complete an interview, which can conveniently be done through Zoom, FaceTime, or even a phone call.

Applications usually open several months before the programs kick off in June, July, or August. Applying early is a smart move - it helps ensure you secure your spot and have enough time to complete all the required steps.

Details about program costs, financial aid options, and other requirements can be found on the NCSY Summer website. For the most accurate and updated information, visit their site frequently or contact their team directly.