Lebanese American University

The Lebanese American University (LAU) is a secular private American university in Lebanon. It is chartered by the board of regents of the University of the State of New York and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

The Lebanese American University (LAU) traces its roots back to 1835, when American Presbyterian missionaries Eli and Sarah L. Smith founded the American School for Girls in Beirut. The school was the first of its kind in the Ottoman Empire, and it quickly became a leader in girls' education in the region.

In 1924, the American School for Girls was renamed Beirut College for Women (BCW). BCW offered a two-year junior college curriculum, and it quickly became a popular choice for young women from across the Middle East. In 1948, BCW expanded its curriculum to offer four-year bachelor's degrees.

In 1955, BCW was chartered by the Board of Regents of the State University of New York. This gave BCW the authority to grant degrees that were recognized by employers and other universities in the United States.

In 1992, BCW became a university and was renamed the Lebanese American University (LAU). LAU continued to grow and expand its offerings over the next few decades. In 2001, LAU opened a new campus in Byblos.

LAU has faced a number of challenges over the years, including the Lebanese Civil War and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the university has always persevered and continued to provide its students with a high-quality education.

Lebanese American University is ranked as the #4 top university in Lebanon during 2025. This is the same rank as last year.