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FAQs

Answers to questions people ask most often about our programs.

Intro to Judaism

Who attends the Miller Intro to Judaism Program?

Those who are not Jewish, but have always been a little curious. Those who are not planning to convert but are sharing their lives with Jews. Those who are considering conversion to Judaism. Those who have been Jewish in their hearts for years and want to make it official. Hebrew school drop-outs. Rabbinical school wannabes. You.

Is this class for Jews too?

Absolutely! Whether you were born Jewish but never quite learned what it was all about, you’re back after a long hiatus, or you’re just looking for a deeper understanding of your heritage, most of us could use a bit of a refresher. Jews from all walks of life enroll in the program: from people who had a Jewish day school education to those whose strongest connection was the annual box of matza on the kitchen counter.

What if I’m not planning to convert?

We are an Intro to Judaism class, not just a conversion program. Some of our students are thinking about becoming Jewish. Some are just interested in learning more. Some are already Jewish. We are eager to meet you wherever you are on your spiritual journey. We will never pressure you to convert.

Is the program friendly to LGBTQ individuals and couples?

Of course! The Intro Program welcomes all those who want to learn and experience Judaism with us.

How does it work if I want to convert to Judaism?

Completion of the Intro Program fulfills the basic learning requirements for conversion to Judaism. However, it is just the first step in the journey. Each candidate for conversion needs a sponsoring rabbi, who will work with you individually to determine what additional steps you will take to officially become a part of the Jewish People. Every person is different, and every conversion journey is unique.

* Please note that your sponsoring rabbi must be from the community in which you live. We believe that becoming Jewish is inseparable from becoming part of a Jewish community, so we are unable to provide “distance conversion.” We are happy to help you connect with a great sponsoring rabbi in your area. We love being “match-makers.”

In that case, I’m looking for a rabbi to sponsor me for conversion. Can you help?

Yes! For those planning to convert, think of the Intro Program as a personal concierge service for your whole journey into Judaism. We will help you find a local synagogue and sponsoring rabbi, and for those in Southern California, we will assist you in arranging your Mikvah (ritual pool) and Beit Din (rabbinic court) appointments. Finding your way into the Jewish community can feel overwhelming, but we’re always here to help.

What topics do you cover?

Classes cover Judaism’s biggest and most inspiring ideas as well as the nuts and bolts of daily Jewish living. Over 18 weeks, we’ll cover history, holidays, practices, texts, and values, and we’ll tour a Mikvah (ritual bath), hear from a Holocaust survivor, hold a model Passover seder, and more. In addition, we’ll start with Aleph-Bet (Hebrew alphabet) and either teach you to read or help you brush up on your Hebrew skills.

I’m in a relationship with / engaged to / married to / it’s complicated with someone who is Jewish already. Should they come to class with me?

YES! We strongly encourage couples to attend the classes together and share in this powerful, transformative experience. Most couples report that attending class together sparked inspiring and important conversations and brought them closer together.

Are you Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, or what…?

The Intro Program is pluralistic and open to the whole community. Many of our students and alums consider themselves Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist, Orthodox, or “just Jewish.” Affiliate partners and institutions teach our curriculum from across the Jewish spectrum. As we see it, our job is to help people become the Jews that they were meant to be in the world rather than forcing them into any particular box or denomination.

We are proud that the Rabbinical Assembly (Conservative/Masorti) has officially adopted the Miller Introduction to Judaism Program as a highly recommended program for its communities. Read their announcement here.

I’m in a rush… Can I complete the class in less than eighteen weeks?

Yes. You can complete the Intro Program at your own pace by taking more than one class per week. You can also take your time — your registration is good for a whole year.

Just remember, if you are converting there will likely be additional requirements from your sponsoring rabbi. Talk to them about what timeline they require for completion of the conversion process.

What happens if I miss a class?

Almost everyone needs to miss a class from time to time. The Intro Program offers many simultaneous sessions all over Los Angeles. If you need to miss a class, it’s no problem to make it up at one of our other locations or in one of our other sessions. Just attend class at another time, get your instructor to sign a make-up slip, and you’re good to go.

Will my conversion be recognized in Israel?

Good question. The short answer is it’s a bit complicated. The Israeli government does recognize conversions officiated by most denominations of Judaism (Conservative, Reform, Reconstructionist, etc) for the purposes of obtaining Israeli citizenship (“making aliyah”). However, there are several important standards that must be met, including:

  1. Conversions must be officiated by a rabbi associated with a recognized denomination of Judaism. 
  2. In addition to the Intro to Judaism class, you must actively participate and continue your learning in an affiliated synagogue for at least nine months prior to the conversion. 
  3. After the ceremony, you must stay active in a synagogue for at least nine months before applying for aliyah.
  4. For detailed information, please read the criteria in “Conditions for Granting Oleh (Immigrant) Status to Converts from Abroad” as set by Israel’s Interior Ministry.

Also, you should know that non-Orthodox conversions will not be accepted by the Chief Rabbinate, which can impact your ability to have certain lifecycle ceremonies, particularly weddings, in the country.

If you think that living or studying in Israel is in your future or the future of your family, we strongly encourage you to have a conversation with your sponsoring rabbi to ensure that all requirements are fulfilled. We are committed to helping you as best we can. However, Israel’s citizenship standards are subject to change, and we cannot guarantee the outcome of an aliyah application.

Do your rabbis officiate weddings?

Yes, our rabbis do officiate weddings (as well as other lifecycle events).  We would be glad to speak with you about celebrating life’s most meaningful moments. Please contact us at intro@aju.edu, to schedule a time to speak.

How do I register?

You can see all currently available courses and register for them here. Or you can call us at (310) 440-1250.

How much does it cost?

Our highly subsidized tuition is $376 for an individual and $576 for a couple, including digital course materials. If you don’t have enough for tuition right now, don’t panic. Through the generosity of various alumni and friends of the program, we make sure that no one is turned away. Call us to discuss payment plans, scholarships, and other options.

When is payment due?

You can pay online at the outset of the class, or you can make payments. Class tuition, minus a small tuition deposit ($50/person), is refundable up to the fourth week of class. You read that right! You can try us out for the first month; it’s basically risk-free.

Do you offer financial aid for tuition?

Yes, we are able to offer payment plans and scholarships to ensure that this experience is open to all. Please email maascenter@aju.edu to discuss this confidentially.

Mikvah

Who can immerse in the mikvah? 

Any Jewish person of any age or gender identity. We require a guardian for those under the age of 13.

I want to immerse my baby in the mikvah. How old do they need to be before immersing? 

We have facilitated immersions for babies as young as 2 weeks old, though we recommend that you consult with your pediatrician for babies under the age of 8 weeks.

Can I wear contacts or eyeglasses in the mikvah?

Contacts and glasses need to be removed prior to immersing in the mikvah. If you need a prescription to read, please bring glasses with you. You can bring them into the mikvah and use them to read the blessings and then place them on the side of the pool while immersing. If you wear contacts, we have contact cases and solution you can use to store them.

Do I need to remove nail polish? 

Yes. Regular nail polish is not allowed in the Mikvah. We do have nail polish remover and cotton balls but please try to prepare before coming to the Mikvah. Gel and acrylic nails are okay.

Do gel or acrylic nails need to come off before immersing? 

No, but please wipe them with nail polish remover before going into the Mikvah. We will provide the supplies for this in our prep room.

I have a piercing that’s difficult to remove. Does it need to be taken out before immersing? 

At our Mikvah, it is fine to immerse with a piercing, especially if it would cause you harm to remove it. In general, the goal is to remove anything that separates you from the water. However, according to Jewish law, if you are unable to remove a particular piece of jewelry, you are permitted to immerse after rotating it under the water. Likewise, acrylic nails that have been on for more than 30 days are considered a part of your body and do not have to be removed for immersion.

My friend wants to immerse right after me, really quickly, without making an appointment. Is this okay? 

We book appointments out for an hour because mikvah is a beautiful ritual that deserves spaciousness. We would hate for you to be rushed through this sacred space when you will really get the most out of it by being in true ceremony. Additionally, every person who immerses in the mikvah is a cost to our facility, and that is part of why we ask that each person immersing has their own appointment.

I can’t afford the mikvah. What should I do?

Please ask your rabbi for financial aid resources. If this is not available to you or you don’t have a relationship with a rabbi, please let us know, and we will find a way to accommodate you. 

Why does the Mikvah cost money? Shouldn’t it be free?

While access to Jewish rituals should be free to all, there is a cost associated with running the Mikvah facility. All open community Mikva’ot in North America (of which there are very few) operate with fees. Our costs cover maintenance of the pool and facility, staff salaries, and general operational expenses. 

Can a person with a disability immerse in the Mikvah?

Yes. Depending on their ability, they will need to bring a certified aide with them to assist them wit getting in and out of the Mikvah as well as standing and immersing. Even if they cannot immerse fully, or if they need to hold on to someone or something, they can still have a kosher immersion. Sadly, the Mikvah staff are not available or certified to serve as physical aides to people who need assistance. We do not have a Hoyer lift, so if they are in a wheelchair, we regret that we cannot accommodate them at this time.

Will you check my body before I enter the pool?

No. At our Mikvah, we fully believe in each person maintaining bodily autonomy. We will explain to you what preparation needs to happen before the Mikvah, but you will take care of the rest. Additionally, there is nothing that you can do to un-kosher the Mikvah. If you feel you are ready to immerse, you are ready.

Is the mikvah kosher?

The mikvah is kosher as certified by Rabbi Ben Zion Bergman z”l, a global authority recognized for his knowledge of the halakha (Jewish law). As the only pluralistic Mikvah in the Pacific Southwest, we welcome Jews of all denominations to come and immerse themselves.

How far out can I book an appointment? 

We book up to 90 days in advance.

How can I book an appointment?

You can schedule time in the Mikvah here.

How many witnesses do I need for my immersion?

For a conversion for an adult, a niddah session, or a pre-wedding appointment for a woman (also considered niddah), one non-related Jewish adult witness is needed. For a conversion for a child, three non-related Jewish adult witnesses are needed (usually three clergy). For all other types of appointments, it is not necessary to have a witness, but it is recommended!

How do I reschedule my appointment?

You can go into your original confirmation email and click “change appointment,” or you can give us a call at the Mikvah.

I have more questions. Who can I talk to?

📧 Email mikvah@aju.edu / 🤙 call 310-440-1221

BCI

Will I be the youngest/oldest one at BCI?

Chances are, no. The average age is 24, although the program is open to adults from 18 to 29 years old.

Who participates in BCI?

BCI attracts young adults from around the world, creating a dynamic, pluralistic, and one-of-a-kind Jewish community. As any BCI alum will tell you, a core part of the experience for each participant is getting to know young Jewish people from a full range of backgrounds. Our cohorts tend to be diverse in terms of religious background and Jewish knowledge, region of origin (including across the U.S. and around the world), race, gender, sexual orientation, political ideology, hobbies, interests, and more.

What if I can only attend part of the program?

Because of the unique community-building process that takes place at BCI throughout the course of the program, we only accept participants who can commit to being at BCI for the entire duration of the program.

How religiously observant is BCI?

BCI is a pluralistic program that strives to create an environment that will make everyone feel comfortable, no matter their religious background, while offering participants many opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. BCI is not affiliated with any particular movement. The kitchen at BCI is Glatt Kosher and is under orthodox rabbinic supervision. We observe Shabbat at BCI but occasionally use instruments during Shabbat services and play music after dinner on Friday nights for Israeli dancing. When these occur, there are always alternatives provided.

What if I don’t know Hebrew?

You do not have to know Hebrew to come to BCI. Hebrew texts are used for Beit Midrash (Jewish learning) sessions; they are always accompanied by English translations.

What if English is not my first language?

While BCI is an international program, speaking and understanding English is a requirement for participating in BCI. All of our programs are conducted in English, and participants are expected to converse in English with each other in public spaces.

How do I get to BCI and back?

If you live outside of Southern California, you will need to fly into LAX on Tuesday, June 28th. Once you arrive, BCI will provide transportation from the airport to the campus. If you live in Southern California and/or are not flying into LAX, you will be responsible for arriving at BCI by the evening of Tuesday, June 28th. On the last day of BCI, we will provide transportation to LAX. Transportation is only provided to LAX. You are more than welcome to extend your ticket, but any additional travel arrangements/costs will be your responsibility.

What if I have food allergies?

Not to worry! The food at BCI is incredible! Before the summer, we’ll ask about your food allergies so that we can make sure the kitchen is stocked with the right food for you. At dairy meals, we always provide a non-dairy option, and at meat meals, there is always a vegetarian and a vegan option. All meals provide clear labeling for dishes that are gluten/dairy-free and vegan/vegetarian.

Is all my food covered by the program cost?

Yes.

Will I get cell phone reception at BCI?

Some providers do get reception (i.e., T-Mobile, Verizon), but since BCI is located in a valley, there is no guarantee that you will have consistent reception. Check your provider’s website for coverage (the ZIP is 93064). BCI does provide free wifi access in the main buildings.

I’m a smoker. Will I be able to smoke at BCI?

BCI is a smoke-free facility. That is, you are not allowed to smoke anywhere except in the specifically designated smoking area in the parking lot. This is for both health reasons as well as safety, as the summer is high fire danger season. Please note that you will need to bring all the cigarettes you want with you when you come. We will, however, be happy to purchase the nicotine patch or gum for anyone who may be interested in quitting while at BCI.

Can I get mail at BCI?

Yes. People can send mail to you at:

Your Name
c/o BCI
1101 Peppertree Lane
Brandeis, CA 93064

Is there internet at BCI?

While BCI does provide free wifi access in the main buildings, the more physically and mentally present you are, the more you will get out of it. In order to facilitate this level of presence, participants are not permitted to use their computers, smartphones, or other internet-enabled devices during programming. During free time, you may use your computers as desired…though you may find yourself wanting to go on a hike instead.

I have my own car. Can I leave to see friends/family? Or can people visit me?

Due to safety reasons, as well as the intimate nature of the experience, BCI participants are required to stay on the grounds at all times, and visitors are not allowed.

Can I get college credits for attending BCI, and how many?

For the 10-Day Program, BCI-ers can earn 3.0 college credits through American Jewish University, which you can transfer to your home institution. To earn credit you will have required activities, learning, and assignments that you will complete during the 10 days of the program. A final grade will be issued and you will be eligible to request AJU transcripts for the credits you have earned.

I have more questions. Who can I talk to?

Email us: bci@aju.edu.

What is the tuition?

Tuition for the 26-Day program:
Due to the incredible generosity of the Ziering family and our other BCI supporters, we are able to offer this year’s program at a cost of $600. However, if you apply by the Early Bird deadline of March 18th, the cost is only $450. Scholarships are available as needed, and processed after a participant has been accepted into the program. International participants are additionally eligible for a travel reimbursement scholarship.

Payment for the Early Bird deadline is due within four weeks of your acceptance date. Full refunds are available for cancellations made by May 1, 2024. If you are accepted after the Early Bird deadline, payment is due within two weeks of your acceptance date.

Tuition for the 10-Day Program:
At BCI, we are committed to maintaining a unique experience that is financially accessible to all young adult Jews who wish to participate. Due to the incredible generosity of our supporters and of Marilyn and Sigi Ziering, BCI is able to offer the 10-Day BCI Experience on a sliding scale of $300 – $3,000. The tuition fee covers meals, housing, staffing resources, and all program-related expenses for the full duration of the program.

We never want finances to be a barrier to participation. If you have any concerns or questions about payment, or feel unsure about how much to pay, please feel free to reach out to Rabbi Myra Meskin, BCI Director (bci@aju.edu) who can talk through it all with you.

Opening Doors

Who is the facilitator?

This is a workshop facilitated by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). The workshop begins and ends with a rabbinic presence.

What is the refund policy if I cancel the week of the event?

We offer full refunds up to 72 hours prior to the start of the program. Should you cancel within 72 hours, there is a $150 non-refundable fee.

Do you offer Financial Aid options?

We offer payment plans. Scholarships are granted to those who can prove financial need.

What if I can’t make a session?

While the course is most effective in a workshop format, with direct interaction with the instructor, an individual session can be recorded by request if you are not able to make all four sessions.

What are the topics?

Session 1: Understanding the Changing Landscape & Creating Curious Conversations 

Session 2: Think Before You Speak: Managing Emotional Reactivity 

Session 3: Bumps in the Road: How to Have a Difficult Conversation 

Session 4: Keep Calm and Carry On: Troubleshooting & Wrap-up 

The Partnership Project
(Marriage for Life)

What is included in the retreat?

The retreat includes sessions with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LFMTs), a rabbi, and a financial planner, as well as accommodation and meals at our breathtaking Brandeis-Bardin Campus.

What is the refund policy?

We offer full refunds up to 72 hours prior to the retreat. Should you cancel within 72 hours, there is a $150 non-refundable fee.

Do you offer Financial Aid?

We offer payment plans. Scholarships are granted to those who can prove they require financial assistance.

Who is the lead facilitator?

The Partnership Project is facilitated by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).

Who is the Rabbi?

Our rabbis rotate each time. To learn more about who will be the rabbi for the retreat date of your choosing, please check in with MaasCenter@aju.edu.

Are the meals Kosher?

Yes, this two-night retreat includes delicious Kosher food (certified by KosherLA).

What does catering look like for those with strict diet restrictions?

We are extremely well-versed in catering to diverse dietary needs, including vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets.

What if we are shomer Shabbat?

No problem. We’ve regularly had couples who observe Shabbat. While there is a workbook that you’ll use Friday afternoon and Sunday on Shabbat, you can participate in all of the activities without taking notes. You will have the chance to talk with the facilitator ahead of the retreat. Mention that you keep Shabbat and if there are any activities that include writing on Saturday, she can accommodate with an option to do that bit of the activity ahead of time.

When you register, please note your practice on the application.

What is the Jewish observance/diversity?

We welcome couples across the spectrum of Jewish life, including multi-faith couples, Reform / Orthodox / Conservative couples, couples who identify as “just Jewish,” and more.

There are a range of practices at our retreats, and we typically find that Jewish diversity enhances the experience for all the couples involved. There is always a rabbi on staff who is present throughout the retreat and is available to answer any questions, in addition to the sessions they lead as part of the program.

Do you offer an online version of the course?

We do not currently offer an online course, but we have upcoming retreats available.