Ways to Save

We believe every teen deserves the opportunity to participate in USY summer travel regardless of financial restrictions. Below, please find a list of various sources for potential scholarship funding.

USY Scholarships

We offer need-based scholarships on the regional level through the International USY office. To apply, register for a trip (including submitting a deposit), check the box on the application indicating your interest in learning more about scholarships and apply by the deadline. We will be in touch once the scholarship application process opens, typically in December.

One Happy Camper

If your child will be participating in USY on Wheels as their first-ever immersive Jewish overnight summer experience, they may be eligible to receive up to a $1,000 One Happy Camper grant. Refer to the program website for more information regarding eligibility requirements and grant availability.

RootOne Vouchers

We are once again thrilled to announce that participants on Yuval Yisrael will be eligible for a RootOne Voucher (R1V) subsidy in the amount of $3,000 to ensure greater participation in our programs! We hope these vouchers allow even more teens to have an amazing summer with USY. In order to claim a RootOne Voucher, you must be registered for Yuval Yisrael – once you register, R1V application information will be sent to you. RootOne is seeded through the generosity of The Marcus Foundation, and is powered by The Jewish Education Project. For more information, please visit RootOne.org.

Community Scholarships

Many communities offer funds through their local Jewish Federation or other foundations for teens in their area to travel. USY Summer trips meet the criteria to qualify for many of these. See list of community scholarships.

Other Scholarships*

*All organizations/opportunities listed below have no connection to USY and we, therefore, cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided nor guarantee eligibility. We advise families to seek financial assistance early in the application process, as all scholarship-granting agencies have deadlines and limited funds.

• Your congregation – synagogues often set aside funds specifically to help local teens participate in programs. Call your congregation’s office to see what opportunities they have available.
• Jewish organizations – several Jewish organizations have scholarships available. Here are some to explore:
  • Jewish National Fund Plant Your Way to Israel
  • Hebrew Free Loan Association
  • Local Holocaust museum
  • Jewish Community Center
  • Jewish Council for Youth Services
  • Jewish Family Services
  • Bureau of Jewish Education
  • Jewish Child and Family Services

Know of a scholarship not listed? Email [email protected] with information and we will add to our list.