Yeshiva of Far Rockaway Derech Ayson Rabbinical Seminary

Founded in 1969 with just a handful of students, the yeshiva specializes exclusively in Talmudic and rabbinical studies, awarding degrees in Philosophy and Religious Studies. The curriculum is designed to train students in 'understanding, studying, and mastering the Talmud,' with a heavy emphasis on traditional Jewish texts and law. Merit scholarships are available for strong academic performance, though the institution remains small—its growth since inception is noted as 'tremendous' despite its niche focus.

The yeshiva’s urban campus in Far Rockaway houses just 34 full-time undergraduate students, all male, creating an intensely close-knit environment. No full-time graduate students are enrolled, reinforcing the seminary’s singular focus on undergraduate rabbinical training. The setting is deeply religious, with daily life structured around Jewish law and study.

Outcome data is sparse, but the seminary’s mission is clear: to prepare students for rabbinical roles within Orthodox Jewish communities. Given its specialized focus, graduates likely pursue religious leadership, teaching, or advanced Talmudic study.

Tuition runs $18,274 annually, with a net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator available to estimate aid packages. The institution offers need-based and merit scholarships, though detailed financial aid statistics are not publicly reported.

Yeshiva of Far Rockaway Derech Ayson is one of the few seminaries in the U.S. exclusively dedicated to Orthodox Jewish male students, with a no-frills approach to rabbinical training. Its 92% acceptance rate?Acceptance rateThe share of applicants a college admits in a given year. A 10% acceptance rate means it admits about 1 in 10 applicants. belies a rigorous religious environment, and its urban setting offers proximity to New York’s vibrant Jewish community. For those committed to a life of Talmudic study, it’s a singular option—tiny, devout, and uncompromising in its focus.