Operation “Roaring Lion”- Students Update- 08.03.26

Dear Students,

We are all currently going through difficult days, marked by uncertainty and significant challenges. With an understanding of the implications of this situation for the entire student community, and in close coordination with the Student Union, we are working to formulate a response and to provide clarity as early as possible.

Below is an update regarding the projected continuation of activities on campus:

Resumption of Examinations:

• As long as Home Front Command guidelines allow, we will resume examinations starting on March 15th. We are circulating this update already now, despite the lingering uncertainty, in order to allow you to prepare at least a week in advance and study for the exams. If there are changes in the Home Front Command guidelines, we will update you immediately.
• During the coming week the faculties will publish an updated examination schedule. As we noted in our previous letter, the first exam to take place will be the exam that was cancelled on 1 March, and so on. Adjustments will be made where necessary, while appropriate intervals between exams will be maintained.

Spring Semester:

• In light of the need to bring the examination period to successful completion, the opening of the Spring Semester will be postponed, and the semester will begin only after the Passover holiday - on Sunday, April 12th, 2026. We hope that postponing the semester will also assist reservists, and that by that date they will have completed their reserve service and will be able to return to campus and join fully the Spring Semester.
• The semester will be conducted over 12 weeks (instead of 13) and is expected to end a few days after the original date (July 5th, 2026). An exact date will be published soon.
• In those Faculties where postponing the semester creates difficulties in scheduling practical training, a notice will be sent by the Faculty regarding alternative arrangements.

Please note that some international programs follow a different schedule; updates will be provided by the program coordinators.

We will continue to provide updates as developments unfold and as new guidelines are issued.

For support, please contact the Lowy International School team and the Office of the Dean for Student Success.

For all members of the TAU community:

The Tel Aviv University hotline is open and available to you.

The hotline is operated by the Psychological Services of the Dean of Students Office and offers emotional support to all members of the campus community.

For International Students:

WhatsApp groups for undergraduate students, graduate students, or PhDs & postdocs contain important updates shared by the Lowy Community Team. If you are not yet included, contact the relevant community manager to be added. 

Staying connected through these WhatsApp groups is essential for receiving timely updates and guidance.

For 24/7 initial emotional support, please contact Efrat Ambar, the International School Counselor, at lowycounsel@tauex.tau.ac.il 
Feeling stress or anxiety right now is completely natural and you are not alone. If you feel the need to talk, please reach out. 

Please take care of yourselves.