Photos and quotes by Genesis alumni about their Genesis summer.

Frequently Asked Questions


When does Genesis take place?

Genesis takes place from Tuesday, July 2 to Monday, July 29, 2013.

How do I apply to Genesis?
All information about applying to Genesis is available on our website - click here to view.  We ask for your high school transcript, two personal statements, and recommendations from a teacher, a personal reference and your parents. 

Who can attend Genesis?
You are eligible to apply to Genesis if you are currently in 10th-12th grade.  Exceptions are made for applicants currently in 9th grade who demonstrate a high level of maturity and the ability to handle a college-level course. 

What is the tuition and what does it cover?
Summer 2013 tuition is $5,600. Tuition for every participant is significantly subsidized by generous donors; the full cost per participant is $6,200; we hope that families who are able to pay the full cost will elect to contribute the additional $600. The tuition covers all costs during the program including instruction, food, housing, field trips, and recreational activities. The tuition does not include costs of transportation to and from Boston, international student visa costs (about $250), spending money, or laundry (machines are located in the dormitories).

Is financial aid available?
Additional need-based financial aid is available thanks to the generosity of Shirley and Milton Gralla’s Genesis Financial Aid Fund. Financial aid applications are considered separately from admissions applications.  Other scholarships may be available through your local community.  Financial aid applications are available once you begin to apply to Genesis in your online account.

We have six merit scholarships available for applicants from Russian backgrounds - click here for more details

If you have never before attended a Jewish summer overnight camp, you may qualify for a $1000 campership incentive - click here for more details

Who are the other participants in the program?
Genesis is a coeducational program that seeks to bring together participants from different backgrounds and experiences. Participants come from all over the United States, Canada, Israel, Russia, and other countries with diverse educational experiences, family backgrounds, and previous experience with Judaism.

Do you have to be Jewish to attend?
In accordance with the principles of Brandeis University, Genesis is a non-sectarian program, with the primary requirement for entry being an eagerness to learn and participate in our community.  Genesis welcomes participants from all backgrounds and previous experience with Judaism.

Are there other high school students on campus during Genesis?
BIMA runs parallel to Genesis with points of interaction between the two programs.  BIMA and Genesis participants live in the same residence halls (one male, one female) on separate floors.  Additionally, BIMA and Genesis have the opportunity to interact around the planning and celebration of Shabbat and certain areas of community life.

Encounters at Brandeis also runs other programs during the summer that have less contact with BIMA and Genesis.  Impact Boston overlaps with some of Genesis, and there are a few shorter programs that may also be on campus.

How do I contact Genesis?
Phone:    (781) 736-8416
Fax:        (815) 301-2874
Email:     highschool@brandeis.edu

Genesis at Brandeis University
415 South Street MS 065
Waltham, MA 02454-9110

For general questions about dining, medical procedures, and life at Brandeis, please refer to our general FAQ.