Frequently AskED Questions

Online Smicha is a family. Being all on LIVE classes, being able to communicate with one another through emails and group chats and joining our events throughout the US creates a dynamic of friendship and involvement which is second to none. Our faculty also puts Online Smicha in the forefront, as Rabbi Wilhelm has decades of teaching experience in this and other fields.

The main programs we offer are Smicha and Dayanus. Additionally, we offer programs such as Chuppah and Kuddushin (marriage officiating), Hilchos Shabbos (Shabbat laws), Aveilus (mourning), and many other programs which are offered periodically. Please visit the unique page of each program to learn more about the Halachos we learn and other relevant info.

Depending on the program you join, it can take anywhere between 6-24 months.

In order to join the Smicha program you will need to be able to read Hebrew and have basic understanding of the language. For other programs the requirements might change. However, joining our Kitzur Shulchan Aruch program does not require any background and can be used also a springboard to gain the necessary background for the Smicha program.

Before applying please make sure you have a recommendation letter from your local rabbi. After obtaining such letter and completing the registration process, you will be interviewed and the interviewing rabbi will determine your acceptance.

It’s definitely recommended. It would be extremely beneficial to have one and we encourage this. Many of our students become learning partners after joining a class. However it is not mandatory and we have had students who have not had a Chavrusa.

Depending on the program and track chosen. It can go between 1-3 hours. Obviously you can work the schedule for yourself to do more hours in some days and less in another.

Of course. Besides for the LIVE chat during class, email and phone communications, our teachers have set times daily when they’re available on Skype for questions, assistance and discussions.

Yes. All the classes are recorded and you can watch them after.

Yes

Yes. After completing all tests – oral and written ones.

Yes. The ceremony of receiving the Smicha is called Chag Hasmicha, and it’s held 1-2 times a year in different locations. If you wish not to attend we can mail the certificate to you when you pay for the certificate (the cost of the certificate is usually included in the fee for the Chag Hasmicha).

You can purchase the books needed on our store, or at a local Jewish book store. If you seek more books and other options, or if a local store doesn’t have the book you need we will assist you with obtaining the book.