Poll Reveals Israeli Students Prioritize Cost of Living Ahead of Elections
A new ISEF Foundation poll shows 61% of Israeli students prioritize cost of living and housing ahead of elections, with over half criticizing government support.
Ahead of the upcoming Knesset elections, a new poll conducted by the ISEF Foundation reveals that 61% of Israeli students prioritize the cost of living, housing solutions, and financial aid above all else.
The survey, carried out by the Rushinek research institute among a representative sample of students, highlights deep dissatisfaction with government support. A combined 52% of respondents feel the state provides little to no response to their needs, while 33% view the current assistance as merely partial.
Key Student Challenges
Beyond immediate economic pressures, 35% of students cited balancing studies, work, and personal life as their primary challenge for the coming years. Another 30% pointed directly to coping with the high cost of living, and 24% expressed anxiety over their future professional integration.
Despite widespread criticism, voter turnout among students is projected to remain high. Overall, 63% of students stated they are certain to cast their ballots, and another 19% indicated they likely will.
The Need for National Strategy
ISEF Foundation CEO Galit Caspi Cohen emphasized the necessity for systemic reform. She noted that while funds are allocated for first-generation academic students, current programs remain fragmented without a comprehensive national strategy.
"Without a comprehensive national program that accompanies students from the decision to study through labor market integration, many will forgo higher education simply due to the inability to cover living costs alongside academic expenses," Caspi Cohen stated.
Data from a 2024 National Student Union survey underscores the vulnerability of many students, showing that 51% rely on parental financial support averaging 2,600 shekels per month—an option unavailable to many first-generation and peripheral students lacking a family financial safety net.
