From first summons to enlistment day: Inside the IDF recruitment journey

IDF Maj. Shani Goldis, deputy commander of the Beersheva IDF Recruitment Office, provided JNS with an overview of the Israeli military recruitment process. The Meitav unit manages this journey, which begins with the Tzav Rishon ("first summons") for medical and cognitive assessments, including the DAPAR test. This is followed by Yom HaMe'ah, a seven-hour pre-enlistment assessment day, and for some, Yom HaSayarot ("Special Forces Selection Day"), an intensive physical assessment.

• Recruits then complete the She'elon HaHadafot questionnaire, ranking their top three preferred military positions.
• During Shibutz ("military placement"), roles are assigned based on profiles, assessments, army needs, and preferences.
• Goldis emphasized, "Our goal is not simply to evaluate young people but to get to know them and ensure they are matched with a role where they can contribute to the IDF while also developing their own strengths."
• The process culminates in Yom Giyus ("enlistment day"), when recruits officially join the IDF.