The women’s kollel at Midreshet Nishmat is dedicated to cultivating women Torah scholars deeply rooted in the Beit Midrash over the long term—women who develop genuine Torah depth and the capacity for religious and communal leadership.
The two central pillars of study in the kollel are Gemara and Halacha, learned at a high and systematic level, with the goal of building a foundation of Torah excellence grounded in sustained effort, intellectual precision, and deep commitment to the world of Torah.
We believe that there are no shortcuts to Torah excellence. Mastery, depth, and halachic judgment are not acquired through short programs, but develop through years of consistent learning—through repeated engagement with the Rishonim and Acharonim, the acquisition of a precise analytic method, and a commitment to intellectual honesty.
The kollel seeks to cultivate a core group of outstanding women scholars—women of talent, depth, and serious Torah aspiration—who, through close mentorship and personal guidance, can grow into figures of leadership within the Torah world.
At the same time, the kollel operates with the understanding that Torah excellence is not only discovered—it is built. For this reason, we strive to create a demanding yet supportive framework that believes in the capacity for growth among students committed to sustained learning.
The program is built around a cohesive group of students committed to the full scope of the curriculum, with the goal of maintaining at least four chavruta pairs.
The learning focuses on two primary areas:
In-depth analytical learning including study of sugyot, Rishonim and Acharonim, and the development of strong Talmudic analytical skills.
Systematic study of major areas of halacha with the goal of developing a deep understanding of the process of halachic decision-making.
Success in the program is measured across four key areas:
Academic Enrichment and Educational Training
In addition to their kollel studies, students will have the opportunity to participate in an academic track through Herzog College, offered in partnership with the midrasha.
This track offers several advantages:
A Learning Community
The kollel operates as a single, cohesive learning community, studying together throughout the year. This structure enables both significant academic progress and the development of a strong communal bond among students connected to the Beit Midrash.
Alongside the core kollel group, additional students may participate in selected classes as auditors.
Advanced Program for Torah Leadership
Beginning, God willing, in Elul 5787, an additional program will open for women with prior Torah learning and teaching experience—such as senior educators, ramot, and graduates of advanced programs including Yoatzot Halacha.
This program will operate on a part-time basis of two days per week and will initially focus on the study of Hilchot Avelut (the laws of mourning), recognizing the growing need for knowledgeable female halachic guidance in this area. Over time, the program will expand to include additional areas of halacha.
Study in the Kollel focuses on in-depth “iyun” (analytical) study of Gemara and Halacha. We place an emphasis on building a broad learning foundation that allows for an understanding of the roots of Halacha and Gemara.
The Kollel is intended for Midrasha graduates with a significant background of several years of study in Gemara and Halacha, who aspire to grow in Torah, Halacha, and leadership in the field. Admission is conditional on prior learning experience, proficiency in in-depth Gemara study, and a one-on-one interview with the Rosh Kollel.
We see great value in enabling fellows to dedicate their time fully to Torah study. Full-time Fellows receive a monthly scholarship and on-campus housing, conditional on completing written assignments and maintaining full attendance in study sessions.
The Kollel encourages giving chaburot and Torah articles, and periodically publishes a Torah journal. In addition, there are leadership classes that prepare fellows for positions of leadership in education.
The Kollel operates within a structured and meaningful weekly program: three days of in-depth Gemara study and two days of Halacha study. Learning takes place on a wide scale, with the goal of creating a full and serious framework for fellows.
The focus is on continuous study, depth, and commitment to a long-term process. However, a partial track without a stipend is possible, coordinated individually and according to the desired level of combination.
The Kollel is primarily intended for those who wish to place Torah study at the center of their daily routine, thereby building an additional and meaningful layer of Torah knowledge.
