FAQS
Columbia and Barnard are home to one of the largest and most vibrant Jewish student communities in the United States. Through Columbia/Barnard Hillel and the Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, students connect through Shabbat meals, Jewish learning, travel opportunities, and dozens of student-run groups.
The questions below address common topics prospective students and families ask about Jewish life on campus.
JEWISH LIFE AT COLUMBIA AND BARNARD:
Jewish life at Columbia and Barnard is vibrant, diverse, and highly visible on campus. Hundreds of students gather each week for Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, learning fellowships, and social programs through Columbia/Barnard Hillel.
The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life serves as the hub of the Jewish community, where students study, celebrate holidays, attend programs, and spend time with friends. Jewish life at Columbia/Barnard is diverse, welcoming, and open to students from all Jewish backgrounds and levels of observance. With dozens of student groups and opportunities for learning, leadership, and travel, Jewish students can explore Jewish life in ways that reflect their interests and identities.
There are approximately 1,400 Jewish undergraduate students at Columbia and Barnard (combined).
Columbia and Barnard have a large and active Jewish student population. Thousands of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students study across Columbia and Barnard’s campuses, and hundreds participate regularly in Hillel programs, Shabbat dinners, holidays, and student leadership initiatives.
Because of the size and diversity of the Jewish student community, students are able to find meaningful Jewish experiences that match their interests, backgrounds, and levels of observance.
Columbia and Barnard are home to one of the largest and most active Jewish student communities in the United States. Jewish students are deeply involved across campus life, and Columbia/Barnard Hillel provides extensive opportunities for community, learning, leadership, and celebration.
The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life serves as a dedicated gathering place where students come together for Shabbat, holidays, social events, and Jewish learning. Students also participate in fellowships, service initiatives, Israel engagement programs, and leadership opportunities.
Many prospective students and families find that the strength of the Jewish community is one of the things that makes Columbia and Barnard especially meaningful places to spend their college years.
Many Jewish students choose Columbia and Barnard because of the combination of world-class academics and a vibrant Jewish community. The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, active student groups, meaningful leadership opportunities, and a wide range of Jewish cultural and religious programming make it easy for students to connect with Jewish life on campus.
Students often say that the friendships, traditions, and community they build through Jewish life at Columbia/Barnard become one of the most meaningful parts of their college experience.
The Grad Network is the hub of Jewish life for graduate students at Columbia University and Teachers College. The Grad Network team is dedicated to building Jewish community among grad students, as well as connecting students to meaningful Jewish experiences beyond campus. The Grad Network is as much a part of the ecosystem of New York Jewish life, as it is a part of the University landscape. Learn more about The Grad Network experiences or sign-up to get connected to the community.
Yes. Columbia University has more Israeli undergraduate students than any other university in the United States, creating a thriving Hebrew-speaking community on campus.
COLUMBIA/BARNARD HILLEL AND THE KRAFT CENTER FOR JEWISH STUDENT LIFE
Columbia/Barnard Hillel is the center of Jewish life for students at Columbia University and Barnard College.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel is a warm, welcoming home for Jewish students of all backgrounds and identities. We are proudly pluralistic—deeply committed to honoring each student’s unique Jewish journey. Whether you’re looking for meaningful conversations, cultural celebrations, learning opportunities, daily prayer services, or just a place to be yourself, you’ll find a community here that supports and celebrates you.
Students at Columbia/Barnard Hillel connect with one another socially, spiritually, and intellectually. Some come to deepen long-held traditions; others are exploring Jewish life for the first time. All are welcome.
Our goal is to help students build strong Jewish identities, meaningful relationships, and a sense of belonging—not just on campus, but for life beyond graduation.
Columbia is the only Ivy in the world’s largest Jewish city, New York City. We’re proudly pluralistic and deeply committed to honoring each student’s unique Jewish journey, from robust religious infrastructure supporting students from every denomination, to cultural, Israeli, and secular communities.
The Kraft Center, a 7 story building located at 606 West 115th Street, is home to Columbia/Barnard Hillel. Open seven days a week, it serves as a resource for Columbia and Barnard students. The building contains lounge space, meeting rooms, large screen televisions, and two outdoor terraces. It is the hub of Jewish life on campus.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel creates opportunities for Jewish students to connect with community, explore Jewish identity, and develop leadership skills during their time on campus. Through Shabbat dinners, religious services, learning fellowships, travel experiences, and student-led groups, Hillel helps students build friendships and shape a vibrant Jewish community.
Our community is dynamic and pluralistic—religiously, culturally, and politically—so students can show up as themselves and find their people. Whether students are deeply connected to Jewish life or just beginning to explore it, there is always an entry point at Hillel.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel offers programming for all Columbia and Barnard students—both undergraduate and graduate—as well as students from the Manhattan School of Music. Students from other schools are welcome to visit the Kraft Center but must be signed in by a current student from Columbia, Barnard, or MSM.
Graduate students are invited to get involved with The Grad Network.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel has a team of more than 20 professionals who work closely with students throughout their time on campus. Students connect with staff in many ways—through programs and fellowships, leadership opportunities, one-on-one meetings, and informal conversations at the Kraft Center.
Hillel staff serve as mentors, advisors, and advocates, helping students navigate both Jewish life and the broader college experience. Whether students are looking for community, guidance, or support, there is always someone at Hillel ready to help.
Our professionals and student leaders will help you find your people and your place. If you’re not sure where to start, connect with a professional or student leader by emailing welcome@hillel.columbia.edu, and we’ll help you navigate Jewish life on campus.
Graduate students are invited to get involved with The Grad Network.
Fill out this form and we’ll add you to our email list.
Emails typically go out once a week.
First year and transfer students, who haven’t done so already, should also fill out the form on our Admitted Students Page so we can send you some merch.
We also regularly share updates on Instagram.
The Kraft Center is open to all current Columbia/Barnard/Jewish Theological Seminary/Manhattan School of Music ID holders.
The Kraft Center guest policy allows three non-Columbia University affiliated guests to be signed into the building by an active University ID card holder. All guests must present a valid government-issued photo ID. Visiting high school students and their families should email welcome@hillel.columbia.edu prior to your visit so that a Hillel professional can help you sign in and show you around the building.
We request that all guests fill out the Kraft Center Visitor Form before coming to the building, but students are able to sign in a guest onsite.
Shabbat guests should be submitted via the Kraft Center Visitor Form before 12 pm on the Friday of their intended visit.
The (free!) Kraft Coffee Bar on the second floor is available for students during building hours.
Yes! The Grad Network is the hub of Jewish life for graduate students at Columbia University and Teachers College. The Grad Network team is dedicated to building Jewish community among grad students, as well as connecting students to meaningful Jewish experiences beyond campus. The Grad Network is as much a part of the ecosystem of New York Jewish life, as it is a part of the University landscape. Learn more about The Grad Network experiences or sign-up to get connected to the community.
CAMPUS CLIMATE AND STUDENT SUPPORT:
Columbia and Barnard have a large and active Jewish student community. Like many universities, the campus has faced challenges related to antisemitism in recent years. The questions below address common concerns prospective students and families have about campus climate and how Columbia/Barnard Hillel supports Jewish students.
Columbia and Barnard have faced real challenges related to antisemitism in recent years, which received national attention. At the same time, Columbia/Barnard is home to one of the largest and most active Jewish student communities in the country.
Hundreds of Jewish students participate in Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, learning fellowships, and social programs at Columbia/Barnard Hillel each week. The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life serves as a central gathering space where students study, celebrate holidays, and build community.
Because of recent challenges, Columbia/Barnard Hillel now works even more closely with university leadership, faculty, and trustees to ensure Jewish students feel supported and welcomed on campus.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel plays an active role in supporting Jewish students and advocating for a welcoming campus climate. Our professional staff works closely with university leadership, faculty, and public safety to address concerns and ensure Jewish students feel supported.
At the same time, we focus on building strong Jewish community life. The Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life is a hub where students gather to celebrate Shabbat and holidays, participate in fellowships and Jewish learning, and connect with peers who share their interests.
During challenging moments, students often tell us that Hillel provides a place where they feel supported, heard, and connected.
Yes. Jewish students at Columbia and Barnard regularly express their Jewish identities openly on campus—wearing kippot, Magen David necklaces, and other symbols of Jewish life—and participate in vibrant Jewish programming across campus.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel works closely with university leadership and Public Safety to ensure students feel secure. Additional security measures are implemented when needed for Jewish events and gatherings.
The safety and wellbeing of Jewish students is always our top priority. If you are a prospective student and have questions or want to hear from current students, contact welcome@hillel.columbia.edu, and we’d be happy to connect you.
Our professional staff members are available to support any student who has experienced an antisemitic incident, whether that means a listening ear, help navigating the university’s reporting process, connecting them with mental health resources, or bringing in other community resources, including legal advocates as needed. We help students navigate the university reporting process and advocate for appropriate responses from university leadership. We also work closely directly with university administrators to ensure incidents are fully addressed.
We take classroom bias very seriously. Our staff can advise students on how to report bias, connect them with the appropriate university offices, and advocate on their behalf. We empower our students, while also making sure they don’t have to navigate such challenges alone.
Our team is in direct, ongoing communication with the presidents of Columbia and Barnard, senior administrators, faculty leadership, and the board of trustees. Those relationships are key in our work to making the community more welcoming for Jewish students.
Here4You is not an event or a series of programs — it’s a reminder in this busy city and stressful campus that you aren’t alone. Our team is committed to being responsive to student wellness needs and to ensuring that students have trusted adults to support them. Students can reach out to any Hillel professional with concerns and will be connected with the appropriate campus (or off-campus) resource(s). If you’re not sure who to connect with, reach out to Shana Zionts (she/her), Associate Director, and she’ll put you in touch.
RELIGIOUS LIFE:
Columbia/Barnard Hillel offers a wide range of religious services reflecting the diversity of the Jewish student community.
Every Friday night, students gather for Orthodox, Conservative, and Reform style shabbat evening services.
On Shabbat morning, the Kraft Center is home to both Orthodox and Conservative style services.
There is also a weekly Orthodox afternoon/evening service on Saturday.
Services are led by students, clergy, and educators, creating a vibrant and participatory religious environment.
Orthodox prayer services are held every day during the academic calendar.
Each week, hundreds of students gather for multiple Shabbat services and Kraft Shabbat dinner, the community’s weekly free Shabbat meal open to all undergraduate students.
These gatherings bring together students from across the Jewish community to celebrate, connect with friends, and welcome new faces. Whether students attend services, join dinner, or simply stop by to spend time with friends, Shabbat is one of the most vibrant and meaningful parts of Jewish life on campus.
You can learn more about religious accommodations for traditionally sabbath observant students (including access to dorms) here.
You can reach out to the three religious communities to learn more about their specific shabbat offerings.
Kesher (Reform)
Koach (Conservative/egalitarian)
Yavneh (Orthodox)
Kraft Shabbat is our weekly Shabbat dinner held at the Kraft Center. The meals are offered free of charge thanks to the generosity of our donors. In addition to Kraft Shabbat, there are often additional Shabbat dinners around the Kraft Center and campus, including dinners for specific communities (fraternities, sororities, athletes, etc.)
Yes! Our team works hard to raise the necessary funds to ensure that students enjoy Shabbat dinner at no cost to them. Parents, alumni, and students who are interested in supporting this work, can be in touch with Rebecca Kabat (she/her), Senior Director of Development, or can donate online.
Jewish holidays are celebrated throughout the year with vibrant, meaningful programming that brings the community together. Hundreds of students participate in holiday services, festive meals, and educational events at the Kraft Center and across campus.
There are many ways to celebrate the High Holidays on campus with friends, including meals, services, and communal sukkot on the Kraft Center terraces. We celebrate throughout the year by dancing with the Torah on Columbia’s campus on Simchat Torah, a communal Hanukkah party, Purim celebrations, and Passover seders.
Columbia and Barnard are committed to supporting students of all religious backgrounds. University policies are designed to accommodate religious observance while fostering a diverse, dynamic academic environment.
Being part of this pluralistic campus community offers Jewish students an opportunity to deepen their own identity while learning from the experiences of others, broadening their personal experience. Discrimination nor entitlement will be tolerated.
The Kraft Center is here to help students navigate the intersection of university life and Jewish practice. As a part of the Columbia University Office of Religious Life, we work closely with departments across campus—housing, dining, student life, academic advising, and more—to ensure that your voice is heard and your needs are addressed. The goal is that every student is treated fairly and that the academic and broader university experience is not compromised.
You can learn more about religious accommodations here.
Yes. Columbia/Barnard Hillel is the only Hillel in the country with two-full time OU-JLIC educators supporting vibrant Orthodox Jewish Life on campus.
You can learn more about Rabbi Daniel Peled-Schwartz and Jasmine Peled-Schwartz here.
STUDENT PROGRAMS, TRAVEL, AND LEADERSHIP
Hillel’s programs are as diverse as our students. We offer a range of programs throughout the year, focused on religious observance, holiday celebrations, educational fellowships, lectures, and social programs.
Some favorite social programs include our annual Super Bowl party, a Big-Little program for new students to connect with older members of the community over coffee, picnics on campus when the weather is nice, and so many more.
Students also love our Jewish learning fellowships, where they meet weekly over a meal to get to know each other and learn together about Jewish approaches to topics such as God, wellness, comedy, New York City, cooking, education, art, or gender, to name just a few.
Jewish students at Columbia and Barnard can get involved in dozens of student-led groups that reflect the diversity of interests within the community. These groups focus on areas such as Jewish learning, Israel engagement, social justice, music, food, and community service.
Student groups regularly organize programs, events, and initiatives that allow students to explore Jewish life while building friendships and leadership experience.
The Hillel community supports over 15 student groups, which host a variety of events throughout the academic year. In addition to religious services, the Conservative, Orthodox, and Reform groups host many social and educational programs, open to all students.
Students have the opportunity to join identity based groups such as JQ, the Jewish/LQBTQ+ community, as well as social action groups such as Challah for Hunger or the Climate and Sustainability Action Team. You can audition for Pizmon, a Jewish a cappella group, or get involved with one of our Israel education and advocacy groups, Aryeh or JStreet.
Israeli students or any students interested in learning about Israel can get in touch with our Jewish Agency Israel Fellow, Maayan (she/her), who runs social and educational programs in both English and Hebrew.
Students who have not spent extensive time in Israel before can join Birthright trips through Hillel.
In addition to Hillel’s student groups dedicated to Israel advocacy – Aryeh and JStreet – The Kraft Center often hosts speaker events with Israeli journalists, politicians, activists, and academics. We also come together as a community to honor events such as Yom HaShoah, Yom HaZikaron, Yom HaAtzmaut, and the anniversary of October 7.
Jewish students at Columbia and Barnard have many opportunities to take on leadership roles within the campus Jewish community. Students help organize Shabbat dinners, lead services, run student groups, and plan cultural, educational, and social programs throughout the year.
Through these experiences, students gain leadership skills, build community, and play an active role in shaping Jewish life on campus.
Yes, in a typical year, Columbia/Barnard Hillel offers many domestic and international travel opportunities that allow students to explore Jewish history, culture, and community around the world. Recently, we have traveled to Israel, Brazil, Argentina, Poland, Mexico, Cuba, and multiple U.S. cities.
Many of these opportunities have multiple priorities. They are all fun and educational, but some focus more on service opportunities, while others prioritize engaging with the local Jewish community.
Columbia/Barnard Hillel offers Birthright trips over Winter and Summer breaks. You’ll have the opportunity to join a Columbia/Barnard Hillel bus and travel to Israel with one of our Hillel professionals and a group of Columbia/Barnard students. You can get in touch with Eliana (she/her) with any questions.
KOSHER FOOD:
Barnard Kosher Dining offers hot meals three times a day in Hewitt Dining Hall. Hewitt Kosher meals are available to all CC, SEAS, Barnard, and GS students with a meal plan.
Columbia’s kosher dining program offers Fresko meals, pre-packaged grab-and-go products. Fresko meals are offered at John Jay Dining Hall on Columbia’s campus. Again, all students with a CC, SEAS, Barnard, or GS meal plan can purchase these meals.
Additionally, the kosher dining hall located at the Jewish Theological Seminary accepts Flex as a payment option for dining.
Yes. Morton Williams, located on the corner of Broadway and 115th Street, sells pre-packaged kosher sandwiches and salads. Kosher Marketplace and Six60One are kosher grocery stores in the area. There are also many kosher restaurants on the Upper West Side and around New York City.
JEWISH RESOURCES AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY:
Yes, Chabad at Columbia University is a great resource for students. In addition, there are options for Jewish life in the fraternity and sorority system.
Yes. Columbia and Barnard offer a wide range of academic opportunities for students interested in Jewish and Israel-related studies. Columbia’s Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies and the Barnard Jewish Studies Department offer courses across disciplines, along with lectures, panel discussions, and visiting scholars that students can attend throughout the year.
Students also have unique cross-institution opportunities. Barnard students may take courses at The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) at no additional cost, and Columbia offers a joint program between Columbia’s School of General Studies and JTS. In addition, students can pursue deeper engagement with Israel through academic programs, fellowships, and Columbia’s dual-degree partnership with Tel Aviv University.
OTHER QUESTIONS?
If you have a question that is not listed, please reach out to us (welcome@hillel.columbia.edu) and we would be happy to answer your questions to the best of our ability.
