Important to Know
IDF drafts are in March, August, and December. We recommend you contact Mahal and begin your application process 6 months before your requested draft.
The enlistment schedule is determined for each draft cycle individually, therefore we recommend checking dates in advance.
At any stage of the Mahal process there is a chance of elimination. Mahal cannot guarantee your draft to the IDF.
Mahal does not provide accommodation during your time in Israel. Please check the “Lone Soldier Information” page on our website for more information on how you can accommodate yourself during your time in Israel before the draft
You may withdraw your application up to a week prior to your draft. Once you enlist you are obligated to the system and cannot leave.
Process Stages
Stage 1 - Initial Research
Read through our website to get an overview of Mahal. You may reach out to our office to inquire further. Take time to think, try to get a sense whether Mahal could be a good path for you.
Stage 2 - Registration Online
Six months before your requested draft, begin your application and registration process online. Maintain communication with the Mahal office via email. All information about registration can be found on the Registration page.
Stage 3 - Arrival in Israel
You must arrive in Israel 2-3 months prior to your draft. Exact arrival dates are provided per draft cycle. Booking the flight is your responsibility. Accommodation in Israel during this time is also your responsibility. We invite you to explore our Lone Soldier page for accomidation options. Similarly, if you need assistance in temporary housing prior to your military service, you may contact hospitality in Karmiel observation center.
Stage 4 - Mahal Orientation Day
You will be invited to orientation day at our offices in Tel Aviv. You will undergo an interview, a Hebrew test, and security vetting. The orientation day is a screening stage.
Stage 5 - Tsav Rishon
After Mahal Orientation day, the IDF will summon you for your “Tsav Rishon”, meaning “First Order”. On the day of your Tsav Rishon the IDF will further assess your Hebrew level and determine your medical profile. Results from your Tsav Rishon will influence the role you receive.
Stage 6 - Mechina
Before your draft, you will begin a 4-week preparatory program called Mechina alongside all Mahal candidates. In Mechina you will undergo Hebrew classes, physical training, and lessons about the IDF. You will also get a chance to connect with other Mahal volunteers from around the world.
Mechina is a screening stage.
Stage 7 - For some candidates - Michve Alon Hebrew Course
Based on your Hebrew score, it will be determined whether you attend a preliminary Hebrew course combined with basic training at Michve Alon Base.
Within each draft cycle, the draft for Michve Alon happens after the general draft. The later enlistment date is most prominent in the March draft cycle.
For the March cycle - the Michve draft is in May.
For the August cycle - the Michve draft is in late August or early September.
For the December cycle - the Michve draft is in late December.
Please take this matter into consideration as you cannot leave Israel during this waiting period. Moreover, your first salary from the army will arrive only on the month following your enlistment.
After completing Michve Alon, your role assignment will still be based on the army needs, your profile, and your Hebrew proficiency.
Stage 8 - Enlistment
On the day of your enlistment, you become an IDF soldier like any other. You are sent to basic training and begin your service.
Throughout your service you will have three Mahal Seminars with your draft cycle.
Please note: you may withdraw your application up to a week prior to your draft. Once you enlist you are obligated to the system and cannot leave.
