Majority of Jewish Students Dissatisfied with Universities' Lack of Response Since Oct. 7, New Survey Finds

Key Findings:

The survey reveals increasing frustration among Jewish college students regarding the inadequate response from university leaders to rising antisemitism on campuses since October 7. The data shows that 57% of Jewish students are dissatisfied with their administration's handling of hate incidents, up from 50% in October, while only a third are satisfied with the response. Antisemitic incidents on campus have surged seven-fold since October 7, reaching over 940 incidents, the highest on record. Despite the establishment of antisemitism task forces by many colleges, Jewish students prefer enforcing existing rules over creating new task forces. 

Education for non-Jewish students on antisemitism and stronger enforcement of campus rules are prioritized by Jewish students to enhance campus safety. Hillel International emphasizes the need for universities to address the persistently hostile environment towards Jewish students and support their initiatives to combat antisemitism. Hillel continues its efforts to educate university administrators on antisemitism through initiatives like the Campus Climate Initiative.

Further findings:

Roughly a third (32%) of Jewish students have experienced antisemitic violence or acts of hate on their campus since October 7.

Four months after the attack, Jewish students still report being impacted by the news in Israel and Gaza. More than four out of every five Jewish (85%) students say they are impacted, up from three out of every four (74%) students in October.

Three out of four students say Jewish spaces are increasingly important. 86% of Hillel students say Jewish spaces on campus have become even more important – compared to 73% of Jewish college students in general.

Jewish students are seeking allyship from their non-Jewish friends and peers: More than a third (36%) say that more visible support from non-Jewish students and organizations on campus would help them feel more safe.