Overview: American University of Beirut
The American University of Beirut (AUB), established in 1866, is a prominent independent, non-profit, private research university located in Beirut, Lebanon. With over 150 years of history, AUB has become a cornerstone of higher education in the Middle East and North Africa. The institution enrolls approximately 9,000 students from over 90 countries and features a main urban campus overlooking the Mediterranean. It comprises seven faculties, offering a comprehensive portfolio of undergraduate and graduate programs. Recognized for its rigorous academic standards, AUB has served as a regional and international intellectual hub since its founding.
AUB is renowned for its multidisciplinary strengths, particularly in engineering, medicine, public health, agricultural and food sciences, and the humanities. Its American-style liberal arts curriculum encourages critical inquiry, ethical leadership, and broad intellectual development. The university is research-intensive, producing high-impact scholarship in collaboration with global partners, and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the Arab world (QS World University Rankings 2024: #1 in Lebanon, #209 globally). Notable centers such as the AUB Medical Center (AUBMC) and the Issam Fares Institute drive research and policy innovation. Furthermore, AUB participates in international academic consortia and offers joint degree options endorsed by recognized accrediting bodies.
Student life at AUB is vibrant and diverse, supported by over 100 clubs and societies encompassing cultural, artistic, and scientific interests. The campus hosts numerous events, from international festivals to academic conferences, promoting a culture of engagement and open dialogue. AUB prioritizes inclusivity, welcoming students from varied socioeconomic and national backgrounds, and provides extensive student support services. On-campus housing, comprehensive sports facilities, and an acclaimed fine arts center enrich the extracurricular landscape. The university promotes global citizenship and fosters a sense of belonging within its cosmopolitan student body.
AUB’s mission centers on excellence in education, advancement of knowledge, and service to society. The university is committed to fostering sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility, preparing graduates to be leaders and change-makers in an increasingly interconnected world.
