How to Enroll Your Children in School in Lebanon

Enrolling your child in a public school in Lebanon can be a complex process, especially for expats who are unfamiliar with the country's education system. It requires a fair amount of paperwork and preparation, including obtaining necessary documents such as your child's birth certificate, passport, and previous school records. It's also important to understand the Lebanese education system, which is divided into primary, intermediate, and secondary levels. This guide will provide a step-by-step process to help you navigate through the enrollment process smoothly.

1. Research Schools: Start by researching the public schools in your area. Consider factors such as the school's curriculum, location, and reputation. You can find information online or by asking local residents.
2. Obtain Necessary Documents: Gather all the necessary documents for enrollment. This typically includes your child's birth certificate, passport, and previous school records. If these documents are not in Arabic, they may need to be translated.
3. Visit the School: Once you've chosen a school, visit the school in person. This will give you a chance to meet the staff, see the facilities, and ask any questions you may have.
4. Submit Application: Submit an application for your child. This usually involves filling out a form with your child's personal information, as well as providing the necessary documents. Some schools may also require a small application fee.
5. Take Entrance Exam: Depending on the school and the grade level, your child may need to take an entrance exam. This is to assess their academic level and determine the appropriate class placement.
6. Wait for Acceptance: After submitting the application and taking the entrance exam, you will need to wait for the school to process your application. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
7. Register for Classes: Once your child has been accepted, you will need to register them for classes. This usually involves choosing the subjects your child will study, based on the school's curriculum.
8. Pay School Fees: Finally, you will need to pay the school fees. These vary depending on the school and grade level, but typically include tuition, books, and uniform costs.