AbstractTechnological advances offer new paradigms for university training. In particular, multimedia tools have strengthened the distance learning and e-learning approaches. E-Learning is a subset of two large worlds, specifically, "information technology" and "education and training." Converting a traditional course to e-learning may represent a complex endeavour, and as such it requires accurate planning, monitoring, and control to make the conversion effective and economical. In this paper, after reviewing some general concepts and components of e-learning programs, the e-learning model and guidelines for developing countries are presented. Then, the case study of the first e-University (or Virtual University) established in Iran is reported.