A method for making a light emitting diode comprises the following steps. First, a substrate having an epitaxial growth surface is provided. Second, a carbon nanotube layer is located on the epitaxial growth surface. Third, a first semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second semiconductor layer is grown on the epitaxial growth surface. Fourth, a portion of the second semiconductor layer and the active layer is etched to expose a portion of the first semiconductor layer. Fifth, a first electrode is electrically connected to the first semiconductor layer, and a second electrode electrically is connected to the second semiconductor layer.