Prospective Students

Chabad WashU is a welcoming community where over a thousand students each year choose to get involved in Jewish life. We offer a home-away-from-home with lively Shabbat dinners, holiday celebrations, learning, and real friendships. Whether students are deeply connected to their Jewish identity or just starting to explore, we are here to support them!

Chabad WashU has built one of the finest Jewish campus communities in the country. Since October 7, this work has become even more essential: we're a place where Jewish students are safe, celebrated, and part of something larger then themselves.

Washington University does not record students' religious backgrounds, but it's estimated that 15–19% of the undergraduate population is Jewish, roughly 1600 students. Well over 1000 participate in our programs each year and our largest events attract over 500 students!

No. Students who support Israel do not generally feel marginalized. In the wake of October 7, the university has supported all her students including students who support Israel, and there are multiple student organizations focused on Israel.

Yes! Chabad welcomes students from all Jewish backgrounds—observant, secular, Reform, Conservative, "Just Jewish," and everything in between. Part of the beauty of Chabad is the unifying sense of community that transcends labels and divides. No matter where you are on your Jewish journey, you'll find a place at Chabad that feels like home.

Yes! While modest in size, it is strong and proud. Around 25 Jewish day school graduates or people who have taken gap years in Israel join WashU each year. These student are primarily coming from Modern Orthodox co-ed schools and pluralistic Jewish day schools.

Daily minyanim for shacharit, mincha, and maariv are available, though it can be a struggle to get a minyan for the beginning of davening on cold winter mornings.

The St. Louis Eruv encompasses most of campus and much of the surrounding area.

Members of our observant student community are outgoing and get along with all students, they are never cliquey or exclusivist. This is how they model engaged involvement and bring Torah-values to life.

Yes. Here is how it works:

• All students purchase a point-for-dollar meal plan.
• Kosher prepackaged meals are widely available for breakfast and lunch.
• Hot kosher meals are served Sunday–Thursday in Bear's Den.
• Shabbat and holiday meals are offered through Chabad and Hillel.

Generally yes, for regular and early admission students. Students accepted from the wait-list sometimes face more challenges. Speak with your admissions officer to avoid surprises.

Generally no. Exceptions may apply to certain pre-approved college courses, especially for students entering the School of Engineering. Check the WashU Bulletin for details.

Chabad at Washington University - Rohr Center for Jewish Life is at 7018 Forsyth Blvd, University City, Missouri 63105. It's right near Washington University in St. Louis' Danforth campus, and just a short walk from the South 40 residential area. A growing number of Juniors and Seniors rent apartments near the Chabad House in an area nicknamed "The Shtetel." If you're visiting, it's conveniently situated and easy to find — many students consider it their home base for Jewish life on campus.

Yes! Chabad offers a welcoming space for those committed to traditional Jewish practices. Whether you're looking to study Torah, connect with like-minded individuals, or engage in meaningful Jewish experiences, you'll find a supportive community that respects and nurtures your religious journey.

Yes! Chabad is deeply committed to creating an inclusive space where social and political engagement is celebrated. We focus on Judaism as a bridge across divides, bringing together students of all backgrounds and beliefs. Whether you're passionate about social justice, activism, or exploring new ideas, Chabad welcomes you to engage, learn, and grow in a community that values diversity and meaningful conversation.

Yes! Chabad is proud to have an Israel Fellow who plays a key role in strengthening connections between students and Israel. The Israel Fellow helps create meaningful programs, experiences, and discussions that foster a deeper understanding of Israeli culture, politics, and history, while offering a personal, supportive connection for students interested in learning more about Israel.

Our Israel Fellow is a partnership with the Jewish Agency for Israel and supported by the Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

Yes! Chabad is formally affiliated through WashU's Office for Religious, Spiritual & Ethical Life, and also advises student groups through Student Union.

Yes, there is an active Hillel. Additionally, there is a JLIC (Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus) couple since Fall 2023. Of course, there are historically Jewish fraternities and sororities, and other resources in the community including many Jewish student groups!

Shabbat is great and Chabad is where it happens!

In fact, Chabad is the only place on campus that hosts lively Shabbat dinners each and every week and hundreds choose to attend! Whether students are looking for a place to celebrate with friends, meet new people, or simply enjoy the beauty of Shabbat, they know they can always count on Chabad to host them with open arms and a full table — and a genuine sense of community.

Here is the typical schedule:

• 6 PM: Kabbalat Shabbat services at Chabad. Around 75 students will attend, typically, students who can daven in Hebrew, and their friends.
• 7 PM: Giant Shabbat dinner at Chabad with ~300 students weekly.
• After dinner: Schmoozing, board games, occasional guest speakers.
• Shabbat morning: Multiple minyanim at Chabad and Hillel, followed by Shabbat lunches.
• Shabbat afternoon: Chabad House is open for Shabbat Lounge, basically snacks and games.
• Seudat Shlishi is hosted by JLIC.
• Maariv and Havdala again at Chabad.

Yes! The Chabad Board is recognized by WashU's Student Union and has about 10 board members. They plan programs like Sushi in the Sukkah, Cafe Chabad, cooking clubs, and holiday celebrations. All students are encouraged to get involved! The First-Year Board is especially focused on outreach to our newest students.

Yes! We're proud to offer Birthright Israel trips, and more than 1,200 students have already chosen to travel with us — their pictures are on the wall of the Chabad House. In fact, our trip is one of the most popular campus-based Birthright programs in the country, known for its energy, meaningful experiences, and incredible community. Plus, our trips usually include special enhancements just for WashU students, making the experience even more personal, memorable, and connected. Learn more here.

• Social gatherings that range from axe-throwing to BBQs on Fraternity Row.
• Holocaust remembrance events and the Stories that Live Fellowship
• Sinai Scholars Society (8-week study course)
• JewishU (4-week courses)
• Educational workshops and learning opportunities

The sky is the limit when it comes to Jewish learning, and each opportunity offers a unique path to deepen your connection and understanding on a collegiate level. Here are some past options to whet your appetite:

• Weekly Open Beit Midrash with JSA (study hall)
• Sinai Scholars Society
• JewishU
• Lunch & Learns
• Israel-related classes
• Mishmar groups
• One-on-one or small group learning
• Chasidic Philosophy

Click here to be added to our email list and find out about all available resources.

Absolutely! Our dedicated team brings Jewish life directly to SLU, Webster, and UMSL with events, classes, and social gatherings. Students from these campuses are also warmly welcomed at Chabad at WashU for Shabbat meals, holiday celebrations, and other programs—becoming part of a larger, vibrant Jewish community across St. Louis.

Definitely! Our vibrant JGrads community offers social events, learning opportunities, holiday celebrations, and more, specially tailored for Jewish graduate students and their peers in the young adult community. To learn more and get involved, visit jgradsstl.org or email Rabbi Yankel at [email protected] — we'd love to welcome you!

Both of these programs are supported by the Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

Chabad relies entirely on generous donor support. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Click here to make a donation.