University Options in Beirut for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – International & Local Campuses

Beirut offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Beirut

American universities:

• American University of Beirut (AUB) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style education, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Liberal Arts, Sciences
• Lebanese American University (LAU) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style programmes, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences, Arts

Other international programmes:

• Saint Joseph University (USJ) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; French-style education, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences
• University of Balamand – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• American University of Beirut – established 1866 (over 159 years); 8,500+ students; Lebanon’s oldest and most prestigious university, well-established US-style education
• Lebanese American University – established 1924 (over 101 years); 8,000+ students; well-established US-style university
• Saint Joseph University – established 1875 (over 150 years); 12,000+ students; well-established French-style university
• University of Balamand – established 1988 (over 37 years); 5,000+ students; well-established private university

Note: Beirut’s international branch campuses and English-medium programmes are very well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 37–159+ years and have 5,000–12,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Lebanon’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• American University of Beirut – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Lebanon’s top university, highly competitive, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Liberal Arts, Sciences
• Lebanese American University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established US-style university, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences, Arts
• Saint Joseph University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established French-style university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences

Other universities:

• University of Balamand – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established private university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences
• Notre Dame University (NDU) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, Engineering, Sciences
• Haigazian University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, Liberal Arts, Sciences

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. For competitive programmes, A/A* grades may be required.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades AAB-AAA for competitive programmes. AUB is highly selective and may require AAA or higher.

IBDP: Typically 32-38 points minimum, with higher points (38+) for competitive programmes. AUB often requires 38+ points with specific Higher Level requirements.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.5 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). Some universities require Arabic or French language proficiency for programmes taught in those languages.

Additional requirements: Many universities require entrance exams, interviews, or essays. Some require SAT/ACT scores for US-style programmes.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

International branch campuses:

• American University of Beirut: USD 15,000–25,000 per year. Similar to US home campus fees, prestigious university.
• Lebanese American University: USD 12,000–20,000 per year. Significantly lower than US home campus fees.
• Saint Joseph University: USD 8,000–15,000 per year. French-style education.

Local universities:

• University of Balamand: USD 6,000–12,000 per year.
• Notre Dame University: USD 5,000–10,000 per year.
• Haigazian University: USD 4,000–8,000 per year.

Note: Fees vary by programme. Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (university-specific scholarships) that can cover 10–50% of tuition. Lebanese citizens may receive government support. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Beirut?

• World-class education – home to prestigious universities (AUB is highly ranked regionally)
• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Cultural experience – immerse in Lebanese culture while studying
• Career opportunities – strong job market in Finance, Business, Engineering, Healthcare
• Strategic location – gateway to Middle East markets
• Multilingual – opportunities to learn Arabic and French

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Arabic/French enhances opportunities
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Lebanese citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Lebanon Ministry of Education
• Cost of living – Beirut is moderately expensive; factor in accommodation and living costs
• Visa requirements – ensure proper student visa documentation
• Political situation – stay informed about current conditions

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.