Houston high school students can qualify for tuition grants of up to $15,000 to attend Jewish National Fund-USA’s Alexander Muss High School in Israel. Muss is JNF’s college-prep, study abroad in Israel adventure for American teens.

Eligible Texas teens in grades 10 through 12 can apply for funding to significantly offset tuition costs. Funded by the Bar Yadin Family Foundation, the grants are designed to ensure that financial considerations never become a barrier to this transformative educational experience.

Muss students earn full academic credit while exploring Jewish history, Zionism and modern Israel. The unique curriculum blends rigorous, accredited coursework with an immersive experiential Israel studies program, using the land of Israel as a living classroom.

Students also develop independence, leadership skills and a lifelong connection to their heritage. In addition, the program strengthens students’ college applications and boosts their chances of being accepted into the university of their dreams.

“I grew up in a Zionist home and when we learned about Muss, my folks did whatever they could to get me there,” said Jewish National Fund-USA Muss Development Committee member and Texas resident Sander Gothard, who also is a proud parent of two Muss alumni.

“The program helps create young adults who are well-rounded in Jewish history and with a deep love for the land and people of Israel.”

“I suggest Muss to as many students as possible,” said Mandee Heller Adler, founder and president of International College Counselors. “It’s a transformative experience that not only strengthens college applications but also helps students grow into confident, well-rounded young adults.

“Muss fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and the kind of character development that colleges value deeply. I can’t recommend it highly enough.”

For more than 50 years, Muss has transformed the lives of more than 35,000 students, linking learning, travel and leadership so they stay connected to the land and people of Israel, from generation to generation.

Since 2020, more than 50 Texas students have attended Muss, returning home ready to take their place among the next generation of Zionist leaders.

“It’s the best way anyone can learn, being there and seeing where everything happened,” said Eden Rothblum, a Muss alumna from Houston. “Before Muss, I wanted to stand up for Israel, but I didn’t always have the knowledge. Now, I feel prepared. I know what I’m talking about and can defend it.”

Grant applications are now open, and families are encouraged to apply early, as funding is limited. Other forms of financial aid also are available.

For information about Alexander Muss High School and details on applying for a grant, go to amhsi.org or email discover@amhsi.org.