The Beit Midrash is a year long preparatory program for students who are not yet ready to enter the Semikha program. This program focuses heavily on skill building through an intensive and in depth curriculum based on reading the text of the Gemara along with the classic rishonim, Rashi and Tosafot. Students are exposed to the breadth of rabbinic literature by studying many chapters of Mishnayot. Halakha is learned with a focus on the first third of Orah Hayim to gain familiarity with the majesty of the Halakhic system. Classes in Tanakh and Makhshava are offered as well.

Students interested in applying for the Beit Midrash program must have a working knowledge of Hebrew and have the ability to read and translate a passage from the Mishna Berura.

Admission to the Beit Midrash program does not guarantee admission to the Semikha program. Midway through the Beit Midrash year, students meet with the admissions committee to evaluate their progress and to determine their eligibility for admission to the Semikha program.

YCT Rabbinical School admits students of any race, color, national origin, or ethnic origin. 

Interested individuals should contact Rabbi Dov Weiss, Director of Admissions at 212.666.0036 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it