Study and find schools in Lebanon

Studying in Lebanon

Lebanon is a small Mediterranean country with a long tradition of higher education in three languages: Arabic is the official language, and universities also teach in French or English. Beirut has some of the oldest universities in the region, and many programmes follow French or American models, which makes Lebanon interesting for students of Middle Eastern studies, Arabic, political science, health sciences or business.

Important before you plan a stay: the region is affected by a conflict. Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against all travel to Lebanon (recommendations in force on 7 October 2026, last updated 31 March 2026), asks Spanish citizens in the country to leave when it can be done safely, and reports that most airlines have suspended their flights. In 2026 the Lebanese Ministry of Education and Higher Education has organised distance learning for schools closed by the war and says that in-person teaching depends on each school's situation and on safety conditions. Check your own government's travel advice and your university's position before applying.

The education system in Lebanon

Education is supervised by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE). Higher education is mostly private: the Lebanese University (Université libanaise) is the only public university, and it offers higher education almost free of charge to Lebanese, Arab and foreign students. It began in 1951 with a Higher Normal School and an Institute of Statistics, now has faculties from law and fine arts to engineering and dental medicine, and runs three doctoral schools.

Private universities are many and varied, with religious, community or secular founders. University degrees usually follow three levels:

• Licence or bachelor's degree, usually three or four years (USJ, for example, awards licences of 180 to 240 ECTS credits)
• Master's degree
• Doctorate

Francophone universities such as the Université Saint-Joseph de Beyrouth (USJ) use the European credit system, while universities on the American model, such as Haigazian University and the Lebanese International University (LIU), count US-style credits and offer a freshman year for some students.

Admission and recognition

Each university runs its own admission. Lebanese students apply with the Lebanese baccalaureate; foreign applicants usually apply on the basis of their school record, an entrance test or both. At USJ, applicants from abroad have a quota of places in programmes that select on the basis of a file or a competitive exam. Haigazian University accepts international students as freshmen, sophomores or transfer students, and students from universities abroad can join as special students for one or two exchange semesters.

Recognition is handled by the Equivalence Committee of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education. According to USJ, only the Lebanese academic baccalaureate is exempt: every other secondary-school diploma, Lebanese or foreign, needs an official equivalence from the ministry, and every university degree except those of the Lebanese University needs official recognition or equivalence. Start this process early, as admission depends on it.

Language matters more than in most countries. USJ teaches mainly in French and asks students from non-francophone universities for at least DELF B2 or equivalent, with some courses in Arabic or English. Haigazian University, which follows the American model, teaches in English.

Visas and residence

According to the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Spanish citizens can obtain a visa from a Lebanese embassy or a free entry stamp at Beirut airport that is valid for one month if they meet the entry conditions. Students who stay longer must ask the Passports and Immigration Department of General Security (Sûreté Générale) for an extension. The passport must not contain any Israeli visa or stamp. General Security lists a fee of 2,000,000 Lebanese pounds for tourist, entry or residence visas. Other nationalities should check with the Lebanese embassy in their country, and exchange students should ask the host university, which normally helps with the residence paperwork.

Costs

Tuition varies widely between the public and private sectors, and private universities often charge in US dollars per credit. Examples:

• Lebanese University: almost free of charge for Lebanese, Arab and foreign students
• LIU: undergraduate tuition from USD 169 per credit (arts and sciences, education) to USD 299 (pharmacy); USD 179 in business and USD 215 in engineering
• Haigazian University: a special tuition subsidy for 2026-27 of 10% for undergraduates and 5% for graduate students
• USJ: exchange students pay tuition according to the agreement between their university and USJ, while free movers pay USJ's tuition themselves; USJ insurance is compulsory before enrolment

Where to study

Beirut is the main university city. USJ, founded in 1875 by the Jesuits, has 13 faculties and also teaches at regional campuses in Tripoli, Saida and Zahlé. Haigazian University, recognised by the Ministry in 1966, is a small liberal arts university in the Kantari district; it started with 43 students and now has 760 and 30 majors. LIU, founded as Bekaa University in 2001, has more than 28,000 students and campuses across the country, including the Bekaa, Saida, Nabatieh, Tripoli and Tyre. The Lebanese University also has branches in several regions.

Culture and practical life

Lebanon's mix of Arabic, French and English is part of everyday life, and many students come to improve their Arabic or French alongside their studies. In the current situation, plan with care: register with your embassy, carry copies of your passport, take out travel insurance that covers your whole stay and repatriation (Spain's travel advice requires it on arrival), and follow your university's safety instructions. Teaching may move online at short notice.

Frequently asked questions

Is it safe to study in Lebanon now?

Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against all travel to Lebanon (advice in force on 7 October 2026). Check your own government's advice and your university's position before you make plans.

In which language can I study in Lebanon?

In Arabic, French or English, depending on the university. USJ teaches mainly in French and asks for DELF B2 or equivalent from students of non-francophone universities; Haigazian University teaches in English.

Is there a public university in Lebanon?

Yes, one: the Lebanese University, which offers higher education almost free of charge to Lebanese, Arab and foreign students. All other universities are private.

Do I need to have my diploma recognised to study in Lebanon?

Yes. Every secondary-school diploma other than the Lebanese baccalaureate needs an official equivalence from the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, and university degrees from outside the Lebanese University need recognition or equivalence too.

Can I do an exchange semester in Lebanon?

Yes, through agreements between universities. At USJ the deadlines are 15 May for the first semester and 15 October for the second; Haigazian accepts exchange students for one or two semesters.