Rabbi Mordecai Schwartz, Director of Admissions
Phone: (212) 678-8817
Email: moschwartz@jtsa.edu
For a glimpse into The Rabbinical School's dynamic and inspirational experience, watch our video.
If you would like to receive more information about The Rabbinical School, submit the web-based contact form
We encourage you to learn more about The Rabbinical School of The Jewish Theological Seminary and welcome inquiries from Jews of all ages.
Preliminary discussions with potential candidates are a required part of the application process. It is best if these conversations with the director of admissions take place at least six months to one year before applying to The Rabbinical School.
Contact us at (212) 678-8817 or rabschool@jtsa.edu to arrange your preliminary discussion.
Basic Personal Criteria:
Basic Academic Criteria:
We recognize that applicants may be on the path to deepening their Jewish commitments. Deans and advisers are available to provide religious guidance to students at any time.
We recommend a strong liberal arts background for prospective students: the study of history, philosophy, religion, literature, and the social or natural sciences can be excellent preparation for rabbinical school. Previous academic achievement is one of the most important criterion for admission, since scholarly ability is essential for the rabbinate.
Students have the opportunity to expand and tailor their learning experience by crafting individualized study tracks at JTS and neighboring institutions, including Columbia University, Union Theological Seminary, and Teachers College.
Students earn a master of arts degree as part of The Rabbinical School program, and those interested in PhD, DHL, EdD, or MA programs can also apply to The Graduate School or the William Davidson Graduate School of Jewish Education. Credits earned in The Rabbinical School may be applied toward these degrees.

Kerrith Solomon, Ethan Witkovsky, and Charles Schwartz in The Library of The Jewish Thological Seminary