Studying in Lebanon … The complete guide to studying and living there “High quality at cheap and competitive costs”

Lebanon is a small Middle Eastern country with a rich history and diverse cultural identity. Although it has seen its fair share of conflict and turmoil, Lebanon has been enjoying increased prosperity in recent times. The country’s capital, Beirut, is becoming increasingly popular with foreign visitors, who are drawn to its culture and great nightlife.

However, there are also many prestigious universities in Lebanon that attract international students from all over the world. If you want to study in Lebanon, keep reading with us.

For those wishing to study in Lebanon, you can contact us via WhatsApp: 0096181260152

Why study in Lebanon

Some universities in Lebanon offer a wide range of programs, even liberal arts programmes.

Lebanon is highly regarded for its science and sports programs, but it is likely that you will be able to find any program you want.

The state can also offer specialized professional programs in business schools, medical universities, and engineering universities.

International students coming to Lebanon will be delighted to know that Lebanese cuisine is world famous.

The locals are known for their hospitality, they enjoy welcoming visitors and treating them like family.

You will find that the dress code is more relaxed than in other countries in the region.

Social attitudes in Beirut are calmer than in the rest of the country.

Study language

Although the official language in Lebanon is Arabic, the language of instruction in some universities in Lebanon is English or French (the latter due to the country’s colonial past).

The most prominent Lebanese universities

Higher education in Lebanon is administered by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and all 48 Lebanese universities are private, with the exception of one university. There are a total of 10 universities in Lebanon in the QS University Rankings: Arab Region 2016, a ranking dedicated to this region of the world. Three of these leading Lebanese universities are also included in the QS World University Rankings® 2016/17. Here are the most important of those universities:

1- American University of Beirut (AUB): Founded in 1866 and based in its educational philosophy, standards and practices on the American liberal arts model of higher education, the American University of Beirut (AUB) is a private and secular university with approximately 8,400 students, including more than 1,700 from International students, coming from 77 different countries. As may appear from the name, the teaching is conducted in English. There are more than 130 programs available in seven faculties. The American University of Beirut is a member of many international associations and has collaborated with many external institutions, including Columbia University and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Speaking of medicine, the American University of Beirut ranks among the top 300 universities in the world for this subject.

2- Saint Joseph University or Saint Joseph University: It was founded in 1875 by the Jesuits, making it one of the oldest universities in Lebanon. It is also the main French intermediate university in the country and is best known for its Hôtel-Dieu de France university hospital. Saint Joseph University has the distinction of being the only university in the Middle East that adheres to the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), while still being compliant with Lebanon’s higher education laws. There are about 12,000 students enrolled at Saint Joseph University and about 2,000 teachers. The university’s student-faculty ratio is the second best in the country after Antonine University, and it is ranked 17th in the Arab region.

3- The Lebanese American University (LAU): The Lebanese American University (LAU) was founded in 1835 and had over 8,300 enrolled students as of fall 2015, 19% of whom were from abroad. Located in Beirut and Byblos, the Lebanese American University is a private, secular university taught in English. It is a member of the Association of American International Colleges and Universities, which enables student exchange and allows information sharing between member institutions.

4- Arts, Sciences and Technology University in Lebanon (AUL): It is an independent Lebanese higher education institution with undergraduate and graduate programs. AUL began under the name “Business and Computer College” (BCU) with two colleges but later expanded by adding the College of Arts and Humanities to the Colleges of Business, and Colleges of Science and Fine Arts, and thus the university gained its position and changed its name to meet the expansion of its main offerings.

5- The Université Antonine (UA): It is a private university in Lebanon, run by the Maronite Antonine Order. Founded in 1996, Antonine University is a private, non-profit educational institution located in the small town of Baabda, Mount Lebanon. This institution has three branches in Baabda (the main campus), Zahle, Majdalaya and Zgharta. Université Antonine offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees in many fields of study. To facilitate their admission on campus, Antonine University provides all of its students with high quality services.

The mechanism of applying to Lebanese universities

You must apply directly to the Lebanese university of your choice, and submit the required documents such as:

Your academic record.

If you want to study at the undergraduate level, you will need a high school diploma or equivalent.

You will need an undergraduate degree if you are applying to study at the postgraduate level.

You will need both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree if you wish to apply to continue your studies for a Ph.D.

You will also need to prove your proficiency in the language of study in the program of your choice, in some specializations and some universities, which may be in English or French depending on the university. You do not need to provide this if you are a native speaker, and you may not need to if you have previously studied in English or French or if you choose to pursue a major in Arabic.

You may also need to provide one or two letters of recommendation.

Essay or personal statement.

Admission test results such as GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) for business students.

All you have to do is check the official website of your chosen university for the exact requirements of the program you wish to apply for.

Scholarships to study in Lebanon

1-Lebanese American University (TLG) Scholarship Program: Funded by the US Department of State MEPI (Middle East Partnership Initiative), the Leaders of Tomorrow (TLG) Scholarship is available at the Lebanese American University. The scholarship allows master’s level program(s) in the field of Migration Studies, International Affairs, Applied Economics taught at the Lebanese American University.

2- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: The American University of Beirut (AUB) offers full scholarships for graduate and undergraduate education in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the American University of Beirut aims to prepare young people to be agents of change in their communities, countries, and regions. The program requires applicants to attend a series of workshops, courses and fieldwork in addition to certifications for their courses.

You can find more tips and information in the Steps to Apply for a Scholarship section.

Study costs in Lebanon

As a result of economic conditions, economic deterioration and the collapse of the Lebanese pound against the US dollar, the costs of studying in Lebanon are among the cheapest in the world, and therefore an attractive opportunity to benefit from the best educational programs at the cheapest costs.

Tuition costs

Study costs are calculated using credits. Students can pay up to ???? US dollars for their credits for the year (two semesters). These fees may also include items such as books, equipment, and study materials.

living costs

Also, as a result of economic conditions, economic deterioration, and the collapse of the Lebanese pound against the US dollar, the cost of living in Lebanon is among the cheapest in the world. Housing, transportation, and food are among the cheapest in the world.

Housing and Living: The least expensive option is to rent a room in a shared apartment (?$-?$on average per month) for a private rental starting from ??? $1 and up depending on size and location.

Food: The cost of food varies depending on where you eat, groceries are cheap if you buy normal Lebanese stuff. There are restaurants and shops to eat or buy food. In general, for eating out, how much does a sandwich cost? to me ? Dollars, and a meal at the restaurant? dollars and up.

Transportation: How much does a regular taxi cost? Dollars and above (depending on the distance), and the shared taxi service? dollars, and the bus? Dollars, how much is a taxi to the airport? to me ? dollars.

Other additional costs: Basic services (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) approximately?? Dollars, and a local prepaid local mobile calling rate (without discounts or plans)? dollars, and the Internet (60 megabits or more, unlimited data, ADSL) approximately? dollar.

Facilities offered to students

With French and English widely spread, it is easy for many nationalities to feel comfortable in this lively and interesting country. Lebanon in general has a rich mix of ethnic, political, and religious views that provide plenty of opportunities for discussion, both inside and outside the classroom. You will be helped to integrate into society and enjoy an enriching academic and cultural experience.

For example, the Office of International Programs at the American University of Beirut promotes internationalization and diversity, while the Department of International Student Services supports students from abroad.

Visa and residence

Student visas are required for international students from all countries except Syria (unlimited stay), while students from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates can stay in Lebanon for up to three months without a visa.

 All other students need a visa. You must apply for a visa at the nearest Lebanese embassy, ​​pay a small fee and submit the following documents in French, Arabic or English:

Acceptance letter from a Lebanese university.

Proof that you have enough money to support yourself in Lebanon, both in terms of tuition fees and living costs, or proof of a scholarship if you have one.

Two passport-sized photographs.

Completed application form.

Your passport, which must be valid for at least six months after your return to your country.

After completing studies in Lebanon

Lebanon combines a vibrant economy with unparalleled opportunities for expats seeking to advance their careers while immersing themselves in a new cultural environment. This small Mediterranean country is known for its thriving banking sector, urban development, and thriving tourism industry. In general, expatriates living and working in Lebanon permanently experience the same working conditions as local residents.

 Expats looking for work in Lebanon will need a visa to enter the country except for Syrian nationals, moreover, individuals need to obtain a permit to work in the country from the Ministry of Labor. Once you have a work permit, you can apply for a residence visa that will allow you to stay in the country for one year or allow your spouse, children or domestic employees to reside in Lebanon as well.

life in lebanon

Lebanon is a vibrant country in the Middle East, steeped in history and home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The capital, Beirut, is increasingly popular with tourists and students due to its diversity and growing prosperity. For students, the country offers a great education, the opportunity to learn Arabic, a different culture, and a growing international community.

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