Organization

The Lebanese educational system is free meaning that there is no uniformity in the instruction organization, structure and language amongst the different institutions. The higher institutions may take up the instruction system and language of their choice. The still need though to get a licence from the Ministry of Education in order to operate. In consequence, students have the choice between public or private higher institutions, between Anglo-saxon, French or Lebanese systems and between French, English or Arabic languages of instruction (except for Law studies, where arabic is required).
The country has now over 25 universities, higher technical institutions and business schools. Almost all of them are private, except one, the Lebanese University, administered and financed by the State.
The educational standards as well as the international recognition of their diplomas may vary considerably from institution to institution. Therefore, it’s highly recommended that the candidates make a serious enquiry about the institution they are considering to attend and make sure that it’s recognized.
Generally speaking, access to higher education is based on the Lebanese Baccalauréat deuxième partie or equivalent qualifications (High School or Secondary School Leaving Certificate) obtained at the end of 12 years of formal education.
A non-exhaustive list of the Lebanese universities can be browsed on IDREL’s web site (a gate specialized in Lebanon) : www.idrel.com.lb

Accreditations
Although most of the higher institutions in Lebanon are private, they still need to get a licence from the Ministry of Education prior to their establishment.
Several universities’ diplomas are recognized worldwide and many others have developed cooperation and program exchanges with universities abroad.
The only state university, under the control of the Ministry of Education is the Lebanese University.

Academic Year
The institutions following the Lebanese and French educational systems commence their academic session in September and terminate in June.
The ones following the Anglo-Saxon system have their academic year spread over 2 sessions : Fall (October to February) and Spring (February to June). An optional summer session July to September is provided.