About JELF
JELF has one mission.
We lend with a heart.
College costs are rising and JELF is meeting the need through providing no interest loans to Jewish students who demonstrate need for their higher education, which includes undergrad, graduate, vocational or technical school.
Who JELF Serves
JELF is dedicated to the jewish students in this
five state
region of Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia (excluding metro DC).
JELF's Impact
Since 1961 JELF has provided interest-free loans to
6,208 Students Helped
We now have recipients living all over the world who are active in their own Jewish communities.
Student Choice
JELF believes that students should pursue the academic path that is best for them. Recipients attend a wide range of U.S. accredited college, graduate school or degree-granting vocational programs.
JELF believes that money should never stand between a student and the education they need to excel.
JELF recipients become proud JELF donors and vital members of their Jewish community - in turn helping future Jewish students in need.
396 Recipients This Year
6,208 Students Funded
100% Interest Free
$19.5M Loaned Over Time
99% Repayment Rate
We haven't come this far to come this far! Discover JELF's 150+ year History
Full Circle Stories

chicago, il Megan Williamson
"Because of JELF, I was able to enjoy college life while interning with two non-profits which led to employment at graduation and then became building blocks for the consulting role I am now in.”

raleigh, nc Sara tAYLOR
"JELF was an academic lifesaver for me, allowing me to continue my college career after a sudden death in my family nearly forced me to leave college and head back home. With the help of JELF, I was able to stay in school and earn my BSN. Thank you, JELF!"
How is a JELF loan determined?
1. The cost of the school
To determine a student’s JELF loan, JELF calculates the total cost to attend school for the academic year, including room/board, transportation, living expenses, supplies and more. JELF then subtracts the student’s total financial resources from the total cost.
2. The student's financial need
After applying online with all required documentation, students and their cosigner(s) meet with a Local JELF Administrator (LJA). Through a one-on-one interview, JELF works to better understand the student’s financial situation -- beyond what their most recent tax return may show!
3. Confidential and Anonymous Review
After the application process and LJA interview, loan applications are reviewed anonymously and confidentially by volunteers who then determine final loan decisions. Students are notified shortly after and funds are dispersed directly to the student through ACH in two equal payments before each semester.