Seminary Program
10 Months
Aug - June
Months it runs for
25 Girls
Capacity Limit

Embrace your Jewish Identity through an inclusive Melbourne-based community.
At Merkos Women, the seminary year is more than a program—it is a journey of growth, inspiration, and discovery. In a warm, family-style environment, students immerse themselves in Torah learning, meaningful discussions, and experiences that shape both heart and mind. Surrounded by inspiring teachers and a supportive community, each student is encouraged to deepen her connection to Yiddishkeit and develop the foundations for a life filled with purpose and light.
Subjects we will be Covering
Tanya – Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah
In this inspiring class, Rabbi Hoch guides students through the profound teachings of Shaar HaYichud VeHaEmunah, exploring the Chassidic understanding of Hashem’s unity and the constant Divine energy that sustains creation. Through clear explanation and thoughtful discussion, students gain a deeper appreciation of how these concepts shape a meaningful and mindful Jewish life. This class offers both intellectual depth and practical inspiration, helping students strengthen their connection to Hashem and view the world through the lens of Chassidus.
Maamorim / Sichos
In this thought-provoking class, Rabbi Yehuda Hoch guides students through selected Sichos and Maamorim of the Rebbe and the Rabbeim. With clarity and depth, the class opens the world of Chassidus, helping students uncover the deeper meaning behind these teachings and how they apply to everyday life. Through discussion and reflection, students gain a richer understanding of Chassidic thought and its relevance to their personal growth and connection to Yiddishkeit.
Chassidic Concepts
In this thoughtful class, Mrs. Rivky Gopin explores fundamental Chassidic ideas. Through studying the Rebbe’s Torah, students gain practical insight into understanding themselves, their purpose, and their relationship with Hashem. With clear explanations and meaningful discussion, the class helps bring the depth and beauty of Chassidus into everyday life.
Farbrengen
Our weekly Farbrengen is a highlight of the week, where students gather in a warm and lively atmosphere to hear from inspiring speakers from the community. With stories, Chassidishe insights, and open conversation, the evening is filled with inspiration, connection, laughter, and meaningful moments that stay with the girls long after.
Yomim Tovim
In this engaging class, Mrs. Shifra Gopin brings the Yomim Tovim to life, exploring the meaning, customs, and unique spirit of each festival in the Jewish calendar. Through stories, discussion, and Chassidic insights, students gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and joy of the Yomim Tovim and how to experience them with greater connection and excitement.
Shaar HaBitachon
In this uplifting class, Mrs Rochel Tilson explores the timeless teachings of Shaar HaBitachon, guiding students in developing deeper trust in Hashem. Through meaningful discussion and practical reflection, students learn how to apply these ideas to everyday life, strengthening their sense of calm, perspective, and confidence in Hashem’s guidance.
Bayis Yehudi
In this warm and thoughtful class, Mrs Bracha Kantor explores the foundations of building a Bayis Yehudi rooted in Torah values and Chassidic warmth. Through open discussion and practical insight, students gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and responsibility of creating a Jewish home filled with kedusha, harmony, and purpose.
Chitas
Throughout the week, students learn the daily Chitas together with the Shluchos and Mrs. Kornhauser. Through the daily portions of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya—established by the Frierdiker Rebbe and strongly encouraged by the Rebbe—students connect to the steady rhythm of Torah learning shared by Chassidim around the world, bringing Chassidus and Torah into their everyday lives.
Gemara
Rabbi Bochi Broh brings Gemara to life with his energetic and engaging style. With his warmth, humor, and clear explanations, students discover that learning Gemara can be exciting, interactive, and deeply meaningful. His class creates a lively atmosphere where questions are encouraged and the depth of Torah comes alive in a way that is both fun and inspiring.
Questions & Answers
In this open and engaging session, Rabbi Ari Shachter invites students to ask anything—from Torah topics to life’s big questions. With his thoughtful insights and clear explanations, every class becomes a lively and meaningful discussion. With so many fascinating questions and ideas being explored, we wouldn’t be surprised if all this wisdom soon finds its way into a book… so stayed tuned!
Chabad History
In this inspiring class, Mrs. Kornhauser brings the rich history of Chabad to life, exploring the lives, leadership, and enduring impact of the Rabbeim. Through stories, historical context, and meaningful discussion, students gain a deeper appreciation for the development of the Chabad movement and the powerful legacy that continues to guide and inspire Jewish life today.
Relationships & Counseling
In this thoughtful and practical class, Kalman Rubin explores the foundations of healthy relationships and emotional wellbeing through a Torah perspective. With warmth and insight, students gain tools for communication, self-understanding, and navigating relationships with greater awareness and sensitivity, helping them build strong and meaningful connections in their lives.
Jewish Heroines
In this inspiring class, Mrs. Esther Stern explores the lives of remarkable Jewish women throughout our history whose strength, courage, and faith shaped the Jewish people. Through their stories, students gain insight into the powerful role of Jewish women and draw inspiration for their own growth and sense of purpose.
Living with the times
In this engaging class, Miriam Broh explores the Chassidic concept of “living with the time”—discovering the personal messages and guidance found within the weekly Parsha and the Jewish calendar. Through meaningful discussion and practical insight, students learn how to connect the Torah’s timeless teachings to their own lives, allowing each week to become a source of inspiration, growth, and direction in their daily avodas Hashem.
Halacha
In this practical and engaging class, Rabbi Hoch explores the foundations of everyday Halacha, helping students develop clarity and confidence in Jewish law. Through clear guidance and real-life applications, students gain a deeper understanding of how Halacha shapes daily life, strengthening their connection to Torah and living with greater awareness and purpose.
Time to Shine
Time to Shine is a special opportunity for students to share their unique talents and creativity with the group. Whether through dance, art, music, or another skill, students take the lead in guiding the session and inspiring one another. It’s a fun and uplifting space where everyone is encouraged to express themselves and celebrate the gifts each student brings to the Merkos Women family.
The Rebbe Speaks to Women
In this class, Mrs. Miri Lipsker explores the Rebbe’s teachings and messages directed to Jewish women. Through powerful ideas and insights from the Rebbe’s Sichos and letters, students gain a deeper appreciation for the unique strength, role, and mission of a Jewish woman. Mrs. Lipsker herself embodies these teachings, bringing them to life with her passion and example.
Scholarships Available
Our Scholarship is in honour of the individuals below and is available for one girl who embodies all three of these areas:
Tamar Rosenthal - Love of learning scholarship
Isaac Briskin - Middos
Bracha Serebryanski - a living role model
This is a part scholarship and $9,000 will be deducted from the tution fee.
How to Join our next intake
Submit an Application
Complete our online application form and tell us a little about yourself, your background, and your aspirations for the year ahead. This helps us get to know you and understand how Merkos Women can support your growth.
2.
Attend an Interview
After reviewing your application, we will invite you for a personal interview. This is a chance for us to meet you, hear about your goals, and answer any questions you may have about Merkos Women Seminary.
3.
Acceptance
Following your interview, our team carefully reviews each application to ensure the program is the right fit for you and that you will thrive within the Merkos Women environment. Successful applicants will receive an acceptance letter with the next steps to secure their place in the program.
4.
Book Your Tickets
Once accepted into the program, you can begin preparing for your year by arranging your travel to Melbourne. We will guide you on the recommended arrival dates so you can settle in comfortably before the program begins.
See Our Timetable
For a full itinerary of your weekly structure, please review the timetable.
Beyond The Classroom
Shabbos Shlichus
Through unforgettable Shabbosim spent with shluchim families, students discover the warmth, purpose, and impact of a Jewish home dedicated to the community — bringing the Rebbe’s vision to life.
Going Deep
Step out of routine and into growth. During winter and summer Going Deep Week, students join seminary peers for an uplifting experience filled with deeper learning, reflection, and shared inspiration.
Trips
Explore the beautiful Australian destinations of Great Ocean Road, Dandenong Ranges, and Tasmania, exclusively for active seminary students only.