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International College Beirut

Lebanon, Beirut

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, French
Fees LBP 882,627,422 - 1,031,586,503
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 3650
Type Co-educational
Opened 1891
Bus Service Yes
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), French Curriculum, American Curriculum
Taught languages Arabic, English, French
Typical class size 18
Strengths Visual and Creative Arts, Languages, Academic Enrichment
Clubs Arts and Creative, Academic and Intellectual, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Kindergarten
Introduction

International College Beirut (IC) is an independent, non-profit school with two campuses, Ain Aar and Ras Beirut. Founded in 1891, IC is chartered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and serves about 3,500 students. IC offers four programs: the Lebanese Program, the French Program, the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with PYP and DP, and the American College Preparatory Program. The Primary Years Programme runs through early years and primary grades; after PYP, students select a program. All programs require three languages: Arabic (host), a language of instruction (French or English), and an additional language (French in the English stream, English in the French stream). Other languages are offered in the Secondary School. The school promotes intercultural understanding through multilingual communication and reports a 100% university acceptance rate worldwide. Facilities span two campuses with modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, art and music studios, STEAM spaces, auditoriums, and athletic facilities. The Ali Ghandour Center for Leadership, Diversity, and Civic Engagement offers a three-year Community Engaged Learning program. IC runs over 130 clubs across Arts, Culture, and Service.

VFXG+MW7, Beirut, Lebanon

The Essentials

International College Beirut has 3,650 pupils, typical class sizes of 18, instruction in English, French.

Location
Ras Beirut campus on Hamra Bliss Street, Beirut, Lebanon (113-5373). Ain Aar campus is in Ain Aar, Lebanon. Both campuses are located in the Beirut area.

Stages
Pre-K through Grade 12; Early Childhood, Elementary School, Middle School, and High School.

Type
Independent, non-profit international school.

Pupil Nationality Mix
Over 3,500 students; most are Lebanese; students come from Lebanon and other countries in the region and around the world.

Additional learning support
Learning Support is provided by Learning Support Teachers; accommodations are offered for the Lebanese Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, and International Baccalaureate exams; support with SAT and university admissions.

Country affiliation
Massachusetts, United States (chartered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts).

Bus service
Bus service is provided for Ras Beirut Campus and Ain Aar Campus. Online bus forms are submitted; routes include lines A, B, C and 1-2-3-4-L-M-I. A mobile locator app tracks buses and school location; bus fees are billed in the second and third trimesters; places are limited.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
The school does not accommodate boarding students.

Uniform Requirement
The school has no school uniform. The PE kit is required on PE days and can be purchased online and at both Ain Aar and Ras Beirut campuses starting September 5, 2024.

Food Options
The school has cafeterias on both Ras Beirut and Ain Aar campuses; meals can be brought from home or meals prepared on-site.

Governance and Ownership
The school is an independent, non-profit educational institution. It is chartered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It is accredited by NEASC and CIS, authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization, and homologated by AEFE.
Fees

Annual tuition at International College Beirut ranges from LBP 882,627,422 to LBP 1,031,586,503 for 2026/27.

Academic year: 2025–2026.

Application and one-time enrollment fees
- Application fee (one-time, upon enrollment): USD 199 (cash).
- Capital / Development fee (one-time, payable on enrollment for new students): USD 4,000 (cash).

Tuition — installment (trimester) amounts and annual totals
- School year payment structure: three installments (trimesters) with the scheduled dates shown below. Each trimester amount is listed in USD; the school also records equivalent Lebanese Pounds amounts.

- Preschool (per trimester and annual total):
- 1st Trimester (April 2025): USD 2,700.
- 2nd Trimester (September 2025): USD 3,290.
- 3rd Trimester (January 2026): USD 3,290.
- Annual total (sum of three trimesters): USD 9,280.

- Elementary School (per trimester and annual total):
- 1st Trimester (April 2025): USD 2,700.
- 2nd Trimester (September 2025): USD 3,456.
- 3rd Trimester (January 2026): USD 3,457.
- Annual total: USD 9,613.

- Middle School (per trimester and annual total):
- 1st Trimester (April 2025): USD 2,700.
- 2nd Trimester (September 2025): USD 3,740.
- 3rd Trimester (January 2026): USD 3,740.
- Annual total: USD 10,180.

- Secondary School (per trimester and annual total):
- 1st Trimester (April 2025): USD 2,700.
- 2nd Trimester (September 2025): USD 4,073.
- 3rd Trimester (January 2026): USD 4,074.
- Annual total: USD 10,847.

Instructional materials and IB fees
- Instructional materials (charged by trimester in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters):
- Preschool: USD 150 per trimester (September and January), total USD 300.
- Elementary: USD 200 per trimester (September and January), total USD 400.
- IB programme fees (charged across the 2nd and 3rd trimesters):
- IB I (secondary): USD 400 in September and USD 400 in January, total USD 800.
- IB II (secondary): USD 400 in September and USD 400 in January, total USD 800.

Billing schedule and payment terms
- Payments are scheduled in three trimesters with the following dates used for the listed amounts: 1st trimester — April 2025; 2nd trimester — September 2025; 3rd trimester — January 2026. Each trimester invoice reflects the amount due for that period.
- One-time fees (application and development) are payable upon enrollment of a new student.
- The school issues fee notes and instructs payment through the Business Office or the banks named on the individual fee note; fee notes list the exact balance due and must be used when settling fees. Partial payments less than the due balance are not accepted.

Accepted payment methods
- For the 2025–2026 schedule, payments are accepted in cash only. The fee note and business-office instructions indicate payment can be made at the Business Office or at the banks listed on the fee note.

Boarding
- International College does not offer boarding; it does not accommodate boarding students. No boarding fees apply.

Refund and withdrawal rules
- Capital / Development fee for new students: refundable only if a written request is submitted to the Business Office before the specified deadline (deadline described in the school's published circulars). After that deadline no refund of the development fee is made in any case.
- First-trimester fees (first installment) for newly enrolled students: non-refundable in all cases. For returning students, the first-trimester fee is refundable only if a written request is submitted to the Business Office before the deadline specified for that year; no refunds are issued after the deadline.
- No refunds are made for the second and third-trimester school fees in any case and for any reason. School fees are non-transferable to a third party (including siblings) after the stated deadline. Withdrawal prior to the start of the academic year may be treated differently for newly admitted students (see the refund provisions above).

Other costs and incidental fees
- Instructional materials and IB fees are charged in addition to trimester tuition as shown above. Additional incidental costs such as uniforms, transportation, lunches, specialist activity fees, exam fees, insurance or optional trips are managed and invoiced separately; customary items charged in prior circulars include instructional materials and IB fees as listed. Specific uniform and auxiliary-service fees are published in the school's fee notes and circulars.
Academics

International College Beirut teaches IB (PYP), IB (DP), French Curriculum, American Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.

Curriculum
IC offers four programs: the Lebanese Program, the French Program, the International Baccalaureate (IB), and the American College Preparatory Program. IC implements the Primary Years Programme across all early years and primary grade levels. After the PYP, students choose their program of study. All programs require students to study three languages: Arabic as the host language; a language of instruction (French or English); and an additional language (French in the English stream and English in the French stream). Other languages are offered at the Secondary School, depending on the program chosen. The school fosters intercultural understanding through communication in a variety of languages. The school reports a 100% acceptance rate to top universities in Lebanon, Europe, North America, and worldwide.

Exam Results
IC publishes official exam results annually. The Official Exams Results page presents the 2024-2025 results and the 2023-2024 results, and celebrates student achievements. It includes a section that highlights where graduates go next, indicating university destinations.

Higher Education Progression
Graduates have been admitted to a wide range of international universities, including American University of Beirut (Lebanon), Massachusetts Institute of Technology (United States), Columbia University (United States), University of Edinburgh (United Kingdom), and University of Toronto (Canada), among others.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Wellbeing is central at IC and defined as health in body, mind, and spirit, a collective responsibility essential for learning. The school emphasizes Belonging, Purpose, Resilience, and Connection across students and staff. The Positivity Project is implemented across all grade levels to strengthen social-emotional skills, empathy, and resilience. IC partners with Power of Zero to promote safe online behavior and digital citizenship, and offers peer mentors and safe spaces to support students. Family involvement includes information sessions on adolescent development and mental health, along with an open-door wellbeing policy and staff wellbeing programs such as counseling and professional development on stress management.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Learning Support at IC is an integral part of the educational mission and not a separate pathway. Learning Support Teachers work with classroom teachers to differentiate instruction and adapt lessons, materials, and assessments to suit each learner. In high school, tailored accommodations align with the Lebanese Baccalaureate, French Baccalaureate, and International Baccalaureate official exams, and accommodations for the SAT and university admissions are provided. Identification and referral involve observations, screenings, and collaboration with families to develop appropriate support plans. Regular meetings and ongoing collaboration ensure consistency.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
All programs require students to study three languages: Arabic as the host country language; a language of instruction (French or English); an additional language (French in the English stream and English in the French stream). Other additional languages are offered at the Secondary School, based on the program chosen.

Mental Wellbeing
Mental and emotional wellbeing is supported through mindfulness sessions and breathing techniques, with art, music, and drama providing avenues for expression. The Positivity Project is implemented across all grade levels to strengthen social-emotional skills and resilience. Family involvement includes regular information sessions on adolescent development and mental health, plus an open-door wellbeing policy with the counseling and wellbeing team. Staff wellbeing is supported with access to counseling, wellbeing-focused professional development, and peer support.

Safeguarding
The Child Protection Policy protects children from violence, exploitation, abuse, and neglect. IC has adopted the policy as part of its school values to create a safe environment where children feel nurtured, protected, supported, and empowered.
Parent Experience

History
IC was established in 1891 in Beirut. It is chartered by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and registered in Lebanon as a non-profit, independent international college. It operates on two campuses, Ras Beirut on Bliss Street and Ain Aar. It offers four programs—Lebanese Program, French Program, International Baccalaureate, and American College Preparatory Program—and teaches in Arabic, English, and French. The student body numbers over 3,500 students.

Community
IC's community life is supported by the Ali Ghandour Center for Leadership Diversity and Civic Engagement, which runs a Community Engaged Learning three-year program beginning in 10th grade, mentoring students through volunteering and culminating in Community Service Projects. Civic Commitment and Service Learning emphasizes active citizenship, personal growth, and building community ties, including an Annual NGO Fair for Grade 11 and a 15-hour volunteer requirement. The Akle w Bassme Mobile Community Kitchen, launched in 2021, is a student-led project that prepares meals for less-privileged communities. A wide range of student activities and service projects, including fundraising events and outreach programs, demonstrate the school's commitment to service. There are two Parents Committees: Ain Aar and Ras Beirut, with elected officers for 2025-2027.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
Ain Aar Parents' Committee (2025-26 to 2027-28) lists President Elie Fawaz, Vice President Chirine El Debs Deeb, and Treasurer Ralph El Fadl, among its officers, with additional members. Ras Beirut Parents' Committee (2025-26 to 2027-28) lists President Dalia Ghawi Arab, Vice President Nadine Fawaz Ramlawi, Secretary Pamela Abi Khalil Maalouf, and Finance Committee members Rima Ghali Kanbar and Youmna Gharzouzi Alem. The committees were last updated in November 2025 (Ain Aar) and November 2025 (Ras Beirut).
Facilities

Facilities Overview
IC operates two campuses: Ain Aar, serving early childhood through middle school, and the Ras Beirut campus with a long-standing educational heritage. The campuses offer modern learning spaces, including bright classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and arts and athletics facilities, plus auditoriums and STEAM spaces. Classrooms are designed for collaboration with interactive displays and flexible furniture, while science laboratories, libraries, and media centers support research and inquiry. Art studios, music rooms, and design and technology laboratories enable STEAM learning, alongside specialized spaces for counseling and quiet study. A dedicated physical plant team maintains safety and functionality across both campuses.

Sports Facilities
Multi-Purpose Gymnasiums: Spacious indoor gymnasiums for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and other team sports, with bleachers, high-quality lighting, and appropriate flooring. Outdoor Sports Fields: Full-size turf fields on campus supporting soccer, track and field, and school-wide events. Athletics Offices and Equipment Rooms: Dedicated offices for coaching staff and spaces for equipment storage and maintenance. Fitness Center: A modern wellness space is coming soon.

Academic Facilities
Bright, spacious classrooms support collaborative, inquiry-based learning and include interactive displays and digital resources. Science laboratories are fully equipped for physics, chemistry, and biology, offering safe, modern spaces for hands-on experimentation. Libraries and media centers provide age-specific libraries across campuses with extensive physical and digital collections and quiet reading areas. Art studios and music rooms offer spaces for visual arts and performing arts, with well-lit environments and instruments. Design and technology laboratories support robotics, coding, engineering, and design thinking, with makerspaces integrated into STEAM initiatives. Specialized learning spaces include counseling rooms and quiet zones and early childhood classrooms designed for exploration with indoor and outdoor learning.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Auditoriums are fully equipped to host school and community events, including theatrical productions, concerts, assemblies, and guest lectures. Multi-purpose and events venues on campus can be transformed for cultural events, exhibitions, performances, and celebrations. Cafeterias on each campus provide nutritious meals in a clean, safe environment and serve as social hubs. Courtyards and common areas offer open-air spaces for breaks, socializing, and informal learning. Athletics facilities, including indoor gymnasiums and outdoor turf fields, support sports, fitness and school-wide events.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
IC offers four programs: the Lebanese Program, the French Program, The International Baccalaureate, and the American College Preparatory Program. The Primary Years Programme is implemented across all early years and primary grades, and after PYP students choose their program of study. Three languages are required: Arabic as the host language; a language of instruction (French or English); and an additional language (French in the English stream and English in the French stream). The school reports a 100% university acceptance rate for graduates.

Arts & Creative
Art at IC is a vital expression of creativity, individuality, and understanding of the world. The visual arts program covers a broad range of media and techniques, from foundational work in Early Childhood to advanced studies in Middle and High School. The IB Visual Arts course culminates in an IB Visual Arts Exhibition where students curate and present their final portfolios. Art at IC empowers students to observe deeply, think critically, and convey ideas visually.

Cultural & Language
The school fosters intercultural understanding through communicating in a variety of ways, including language. All programs require students to study three languages: Arabic as the host country language; a language of instruction (French or English); and an additional language (French in the English stream and English in the French stream). Other languages are offered at the Secondary School, based on the program chosen.

Social & Hobbies
IC offers over 130 clubs and societies. Activities span Performing Arts (drama, circus arts, debate, music, drawing and painting, crochet, macrame and shamballa), Athletics, Academic & Cultural Clubs (Arabic club, chess, general knowledge, cinema, robotics, game development, and more), Media & Expression (school press, photography, folk dancing, hip hop, fashion design), and Special Interest Groups (environmental action, Model United Nations, and more). Each club is guided by a dedicated faculty member. IC students represent the school in national and international arenas and regularly go on field trips to museums, theaters, and exhibitions.

Community & Service
The Ali Ghandour Center for Leadership, Diversity, and Civic Engagement (AGC) offers an intensive leadership and dynamic citizenship program through a Community Engaged Learning (CEL) model. Spread over three years starting in 10th grade, the program mentors students through volunteering with grassroots organizations and culminates with students leading Community Service Projects (CSPs). The AGC exposes students to local and international opportunities that encourage prosocial behaviors and empower them to become change agents, while disseminating the CEL model to other schools.

Leadership & Professional
IC's Ali Ghandour Center for Leadership, Diversity, and Civic Engagement equips academically outstanding yet financially disadvantaged students to participate in a rigorous leadership and civic engagement program. The program spans Grade 10 to Grade 12 with progression through Level 1 to Level 3, developing soft skills, project design, and community-focused leadership. It prepares students for university admissions in Lebanon and internationally and fosters ongoing leadership, civic engagement, and responsibility.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Wellbeing is at the heart of IC; wellbeing is defined as the state of being healthy in body, mind, and spirit and is a collective responsibility. The approach nurtures belonging, purpose, resilience, and connection across the community. Physical wellbeing is supported by nutrition education, physical education, and movement breaks. Mental and emotional wellbeing includes mindfulness, art, music, and drama, and school-wide wellbeing campaigns. The Positivity Project is implemented across all grade levels, and IC partners with Power of Zero to promote kindness, digital citizenship, and anti-bullying.
Languages

Language Provision
All programs require students to study three languages: Arabic as the host country language; a language of instruction (French or English); and an additional language (French in the English stream and English in the French stream). Other additional languages are offered at the Secondary School, depending on the program chosen. The school fosters intercultural understanding through communication in multiple languages.

Bilingual Teaching
IC Beirut offers four programs: the Lebanese Program, the French Program, the International Baccalaureate (IB), and the American College Preparatory Program. The language of instruction is English in the English stream and French in the French stream. Arabic is studied as the host country language in all programs. An additional language is taught: French in the English stream and English in the French stream.
Admissions

Admissions
Phase I - Enrollment Application Submission and Initial Review: complete and submit the online application form with all required documents; an email confirmation is sent once submission is successful; all applications are reviewed for completeness and eligibility, and follow-up communication is sent if any documents are missing; details must be accurate, including academic records and current contact information.

Phase II - Qualified Submitted Applications (QSA): after the initial review, eligible complete applications are designated as QSA and invited to pay the non-refundable application fee of $199 to proceed.

Phase III - Assessments, Interviews, and Ranking on the Qualified Candidates List (QCL): exams and interviews; applicants to Pre-K/ Petite Section participate in a qualifying interview, while applicants for higher grades complete entrance exams and grade-appropriate interviews; exam subjects may include French, English, Math, Arabic, and others depending on the program. Ranking on the QCL is based on entrance exam performance, interview results, academic records, submitted videos (if applicable), school recommendations, priority status, and assessment of relevant skills and competencies.

Phase IV - Final Selection of Candidates: the Admissions Committee makes final selection decisions based on rankings; those with the highest performance are offered admission subject to available vacancies; candidates who achieve top results but have no vacancies may remain on the QCL for the current academic year or may reapply for the following year. General notes: admission is considered complete only after registration is finalized.

Scholarships
The Scholarship Program is spread over three years, starting with the 10th grade. It mentors students through volunteering with grassroots organizations and culminates with students leading Community Service Projects (CSPs). The program also exposes enrolled students to national, regional and international competitions in fields such as social entrepreneurship, project design, implementation and evaluation, and public speaking, with the aim of providing students with the skills and tools to become active agents of change. For more information, please click here.
School Events
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