American University of Rome

About American University of Rome (AUR):

The American University of Rome (AUR) is a private, independent, and accredited institution of higher education located in Rome, Italy. AUR was founded in 1969 with the goal of providing an American-style education in the heart of Rome.

The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), a regional accrediting agency in the United States. AUR offers undergraduate and graduate liberal arts programs to degree-seeking and study abroad students from around the world.

While the primary language of instruction is English, students may also have the chance to learn or improve their proficiency in Italian. AUR’s innovative programs foster intellectual excellence, personal development, and an understanding of cultural diversity within an international context.

The university is situated on the Janiculum Hill, providing students with a scenic view of the city. The campus is equipped with classrooms, libraries, and other facilities to support academic and extracurricular activities.

Being located in Rome, students have unique opportunities to immerse themselves in Italian culture, art, history, and architecture. The city itself becomes an extended classroom for students.

Programs at AUR:

Bachelor Programs:

Archaeology and Classics:

The Archaeology & Classics program provides a distinctive chance to examine the monuments and artifacts of the Classical world within the context of Rome and across Europe. This program encompasses a mix of historical depth, direct access to primary sources, expert guidance from seasoned professionals, chances for archaeological fieldwork, interdisciplinary learning, and networking possibilities. It serves as an outstanding setting to enhance your comprehension of ancient civilizations while gaining valuable skills for future academic or professional endeavors.

Art History:

The Art History program at The American University of Rome provides students with outstanding chances to explore the artistic and cultural heritage of Rome and Italy. It enables them to connect the works of art from earlier eras to the contemporary global art scene. Given Rome’s rich history and extensive tradition of innovative art and artists across classical antiquity to the modern age, it serves as the perfect location for those keen on delving into the study of art and art history.

Business Administration:

The American University of Rome provides a premier American-style international undergraduate business program in Europe. The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree equips individuals with an understanding of business theories, policies, and practices, positioning them for responsible roles in the business world. Alongside essential business and management principles, graduates also develop skills in decision-making, problem-solving, and leadership.

Communication & Digital Media:

The BA in Communication & Digital Media at AUR provides a blend of theoretical fundamentals and hands-on expertise, empowering graduates to excel in the worldwide communications sector, encompassing social media, PR, online journalism, and advertising. Crafted to refine and expand communication skills, the program also imparts a profound comprehension of communication theory’s application in intercultural communication, organizational communication, and the administration of social networks and mass media.

English Writing, Literature and Publishing:

In an era where written expression not only endures but transforms—whether through the revival of traditional bookshops, the abundance of niche publications, or the surge in digital self-publishing—the American University of Rome’s undergraduate BA program in English Writing, Literature, and Publishing serves as your gateway to the contemporary realm of writing and publishing.

Film:

Across the cinematic timeline, Rome has captivated filmmakers, serving as the setting—occasionally even the central character—in numerous iconic productions spanning epic dramas, romantic comedies, and documentaries. AUR’s Film program stands out as the sole degree initiative of its kind, conducted in English and situated in Italy, further enriched by being located in a city of immense significance to the subject matter.

Fine Arts:

The Fine Arts program integrates instruction in conventional artistic mediums with a discerning perspective on art creation. Across all levels, both on-site and in the studio, courses prioritize technical proficiency, visual expression, creative ingenuity, critical observation, and analysis. Rome serves as our educational space, studio, and muse. Positioned amid the ancient city’s monuments, the Renaissance and Baroque traditions, and the dynamic contemporary art scene, Fine Arts students find themselves in a distinctive position within the Eternal City to learn and cultivate their artistic vision.

Interdisciplinary Studies

The Interdisciplinary Studies degree curriculum provides significant flexibility for personal customization. Working collaboratively with their academic advisor, students can shape their studies to align with their specific interests. This program is ideal for those students whose interests do not neatly fit within a single traditional academic category.

International Relations and Global Politics:

AUR’s undergraduate program in International Relations and Global Politics effectively readies students for diverse international career opportunities spanning the public, private, and non-profit sectors. This distinctive program leverages the considerable professional and academic knowledge of our global faculty and our collaborative relationships with governmental and non-governmental organizations in Rome and Europe.

Travel and Tourism Management:

The Bachelor of Science in Travel and Tourism Management at AUR equips graduates for various rewarding careers within one of the world’s largest and most varied industries. Presently, the tourism sector constitutes one in 11 jobs globally, with a projected growth rate exceeding 4% per year in the next decade. This industry presents tangible prospects for fulfilling and exciting career paths.

Master Programs:

Food Studies:

AUR’s Food Studies program delves into the interrelationships among food production, distribution, and consumption, with a specific emphasis on sustainability. Graduates of this program find opportunities in fields such as food policy and humanitarian organizations, contributing to addressing global challenges related to food. This interdisciplinary program explores contemporary practices in sustainable food production and consumption, with a particular focus on understanding the impact of our food choices on the Earth’s resources. The program includes hands-on learning experiences at a small-scale farm in the peri-urban area of Rome.

Peace Studies:

AUR’s Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution program explores global and cultural conflict resolution, equipping graduates to analyze and address conflict causes. The unique Human Security in the Mediterranean and Beyond program covers interpersonal, institutional, societal, and global aspects of peace and conflict. It provides insights into the political economy of peace, negotiation, democracy, humanitarian crises, and international law. Ideal for those pursuing careers in international relations, humanitarian aid, foreign policy, or peacebuilding.

Cultural Heritage:

AUR’s Cultural Heritage program prepares heritage professionals to conserve art, history, and culture. Graduates gain skills in heritage protection, project development, and intercultural communication. The M.A. program in Cultural Heritage: Sustainability and Community in Rome addresses contemporary challenges, including decolonizing museums, preventing cultural object trafficking, and safeguarding indigenous cultures. Emphasizing community reconstruction for long-term peacebuilding, the program aligns with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals 2030.

Admission Requirements at AUR:

Undergraduate Admission Requirements:

Required Documents:

Copy of your valid passport
Official school/college transcripts: A certified English translation is required for non-English transcripts.
English test results (for non-native speakers of English)
Academic/professional references
Your personal statement
Your essay answer.

Personal Statement:

You may choose to write between 500-750 words on ONE of the two topics below:

Topic 1: What do you see as one of the most pressing challenges facing society today and how do you imagine your studies at AUR will prepare you to combat this challenge?

Topic 2: Experiential Learning is at the core of AUR’s curriculum. Define what Experiential Learning means to you and reflect upon the ways in which it has impacted your academic and/or personal growth.

When crafting your personal statement, consider that, in addition to your academic history, we seek to enroll students who can exhibit:

Diverse personal backgrounds and experiences.
Characteristics such as leadership, motivation, care for others, and community involvement.
Accomplishments outside of academics, whether in performing arts, athletics, employment, or personal ventures.
A strong enthusiasm for their chosen major.

Essay Answer:

You may Choose one of the following topics:

Topic 1: Some say that social media doesn’t allow us to express who we really are. Defy this by telling us about yourself in the 280-character limit of Twitter.

Topic 2: Discuss an accomplishment, event, or realization that sparked a period of personal growth and a new understanding of yourself and others? (up to 500 words).

Portfolio Submission (BA Fine Arts applicants only):

Prospective applicants to the Fine Arts program at The American University of Rome are required to present a portfolio comprising six (6) to fifteen (15) artworks in any chosen medium.

You can use the template document for portfolio submission. When using this template, kindly:

Complete the cover page.
Copy and paste the personal statement from your application.
Incorporate an image for each page, ensuring inclusion of the work’s title, medium, size, and year.
Convert the document into a PDF before submission.

Alternatively, your portfolio may be submitted in video format. In such cases, please ensure each artwork in the video is accompanied by details including title, medium, size, and year of creation.

Academic Recommendation Letter:

This letter of recommendation may be authored by a teacher, professor, school principal, or guidance counselor. If reaching out to someone for an academic recommendation proves challenging due to an extended period since your schooling, a letter from your current or recent employer can be considered as a substitute.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

Students who have not concluded their final three years of high school in English must exhibit English language proficiency by providing official test scores from TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo, or Cambridge English. The prescribed minimum acceptable test scores are as follows:

TOEFL	IELTS Academic	Duolingo	Cambridge English
82	6	100	C1

Interview Process:

Once AUR receives a comprehensive application along with all required supporting documents, you will receive communication for an interview. Interviews can be conducted in person, over the phone, or via Skype.

Graduate Admission Requirements:

Required Documents:

To apply for an M.A. program, candidates must submit the following documents:

Letter of Motivation: A 700-word document detailing previous academic and professional experiences, expressing interest in the relevant M.A. program, and outlining career goals.
Passport Photo Page or European Union ID.
Curriculum Vitae.
University Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts, demonstrating a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or equivalent, are acceptable at the application stage. Official copies will be required for enrollment if accepted.
Two Letters of Recommendation: Ideally, one should be academic, and the other professional. Applicants with over five years of work experience may submit two professional letters of recommendation.
Proof of English Proficiency: For students whose previous degree was conducted in a language other than English, AUR accepts official TOEFL results (minimum scores: paper-based 637, computer-based 270, and internet-based 110), IELTS Academic (minimum score 7), or Duolingo English Test results (minimum score 130).
Academic Writing Sample: A minimum 10-page sample from previous studies showcasing writing and research abilities. Any topic is accepted.

Academic Requirements:

Graduate study candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or equivalent.

AUR encourages applications from individuals lacking the specified undergraduate degree, as long as they can exhibit adequate knowledge in the subject and a strong motivation to pursue further studies. Admission to the program may be granted with the approval of the Program Director for those meeting these criteria.

Applicants lacking the requisite knowledge for their chosen program may be required to complete specific foundational undergraduate-level courses before commencing the graduate curriculum.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

Students who have obtained a Bachelor’s degree in a language other than English are required to showcase English language proficiency through the submission of official test scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo. The prescribed minimum accepted test scores are as follows:

Internet-based TOEFL	IELTS Academic	Duolingo
100	7	125

Program-Specific Requirements:

	Food Studies	Peace Studies	Sustainable Cultural Heritage
Credits	36: 30 credits for coursework, 6 for the thesis	36: 30 credits for coursework, 6 for the thesis	36: 27 credits for coursework, 3 for the internship, 6 for the thesis
Undergraduate Degree	BA/BSc in the Sciences, Humanities or Social Sciences	B.A. degree in Humanities, Liberal Arts, International Relations, Politics, Religious Studies, History, Sociology, Theology, Area/Regional Studies, Philosophy, and Anthropology	BA/BSc in the Liberal Arts, Humanities or Social Sciences
Prior Knowledge/Skills	The food-agriculture-environment nexus and other aspects such as the international political and economic dimensions of the policies and regulatory frameworks which encompass also food, and/or the food business industry operations and practices, and/or the social and technical aspects of the digital and other media in food communications	An appreciation of cultural diversity, strong communication skills, established critical thinking abilities, and a solid understanding of the world’s (in particular European/Mediterranean) history	Good general knowledge of art, history, and culture, and the ability to critically analyze cultural traditions

Interview:

As part of the M.A. program application process, all students will undergo an interview. The aim of the interview is to allow the Director and Committee of the pertinent program to evaluate students’ language proficiency and their understanding of the subject. Students are anticipated to showcase their dedication and capability to engage in graduate-level studies.

Tuition & Fees:

AUR accepts tuition fee payments in Euros and USD.

Tuition Deposit: To guarantee enrollment, a non-refundable payment of $500 must be submitted, and this amount will be applied as a credit towards the initial tuition installment.

Tuition Deposit Deadlines:

Fall – May 1^st
Spring – Within 2 weeks after Acceptance Notification

Undergraduate Tuition Fee (USD):

Tuition and Fees for Undergraduate Students
	Fall	Spring	Full Academic Year
Full Time Tuition (12-17 credits)	$13,700	$13,700	[$27,400]
New Student Fee	$230	0	[$230]
Permit to stay	$ 200	0	[$ 200]
Health Insurance	$ 500	0	[$ 500]
Total:	$14,630	$13,700	[$28,330]

Undergraduate Tuition Payment Deadline:

Fall tuition – 31 July
Spring tuition – 15 December
Summer 1 – 30 April
Summer 2 – 10 May

Graduate Tuition Fee (USD):

Program Tuition (full time, 3 semesters): 27,400 US Dollars

First semester: $13,000
Second semester: $13,000
Final semester: $1,400

Graduate Tuition Payment Deadline:

First tuition installment – 15 July
Second tuition installment – 1 December
Final tuition installment – 15 July

Italian Government Fees for non-EEA/SWISS Citizens:

Permit to Stay: €117,96 (without assistance) / €172,86 (with EduServices)
Health Insurance: $42 per month, $500 (for 12 months)

Man datory Fees:

Application fee: 50 US Dollars
New Student fee: 230 US Dollars
Graduation fee: 135 US Dollars

Other Fees:

Transcript fee: 10 US Dollars
Diploma Replacement fee: 67 US Dollars
Oral re-examination of the thesis fee: 400 US Dollars
Maintaining matriculation fee: 1,000 US Dollars
Replacement of Student ID Card: 10 Euros
Audit Status (fee per course, 0 credits): 550 US Dollars
Fee for 1 credit: 810 US Dollars
Fee for Italian Language Skills for Graduate Studies: 500 US Dollars

Housing Fees (Optional):

Fall	Spring	Full Academic Year
Housing	$5,000	$5,000	[$10,000]

Housing Payment Deadline:

Fall tuition – 31 July
Spring tuition – 15 December
Summer 1 – 30 April
Summer 2 – 10 May

AUR Scholarships:

Scholarships for Travelers & Cross-cultural Explorers:

The Building Bridges Scholarship:

The Building Bridges Scholarship, is a Merit Scholarship, Graduate Scholarship, and Undergraduate Scholarship is specifically designed for individuals proficient in multiple languages, demonstrating their abilities as global communicators. This scholarship is intended for students who have actively worked towards understanding and connecting diverse cultures through language.

H. Jackson Brown Dreamers’ Scholarship:

H. Jackson Brown Dreamer’s Scholarship is a Merit Scholarship, Graduate Scholarship, and Undergraduate Scholarship. The scholarship is available to any student who aspires to step out of their comfort zone, defy conventions, and pursue unconventional paths.

The International Exchange Scholarship:

The International Exchange Scholarship is a Graduate, and Undergraduate Scholarship. Have you had the chance to experience the transformative opportunity of studying abroad during high school or a gap year? We invite all American high school and gap year students who have returned (from programs such as Rotary, AFS, YFU, Verto, etc.), as well as Italian or international students who have studied in the US or elsewhere for a year, to join us and continue your educational journey at AUR!

The World Citizen Scholarship:

The AUR World Citizen Scholarship, a a Merit, Graduate, and Undergraduate Scholarship, is granted to individuals who have previously enrolled as Visiting Students at AUR or have studied through an institutional partner of American Universities Abroad.

Scholarship for Transfer Students:

The Transfer Trailblazer Scholarship:

The AUR Transfer Trailblazer Scholarship, a Merit and Graduate scholarship, is a competitive scholarship granted based on academic excellence for transfer students who have accumulated a minimum of 30 credits upon entering AUR.

Scholarships for IB and International School Students:

The Ambassador Scholarship:

This scholarship, an Undergraduate Merit scholarship, is specifically designed for students from International and/or IB schools who are either currently engaged in or have successfully completed the entire IB diploma program. Eligible students must exhibit a proven track record and future potential in advancing and advocating for intercultural understanding within a global context.

Scholarships for Leadership and Volunteering:

The Fitzsimmons Scholarship for Women in Leadership:

This scholarship, an Undergraduate Merit scholarship, generously supported by donors, is intended for a female undergraduate student, irrespective of nationality, who showcases a minimum GPA of 3.5 and has demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities.

The Model United Nations Scholarship:

This scholarship, an Undergraduate Merit scholarship, is tailored for individuals from around the world who possess a strong passion for cultures, diversity, and international perspectives. To be eligible, applicants should have successfully completed at least one year of participation in Model United Nations and attended a minimum of one MUN conference.

AmeriCorps Scholarship:

The American University of Rome, an Undergraduate, Graduate and Merit scholarship, provides a maximum of three undergraduate scholarships, amounting to €1,500/$2,000 each per academic year, and up to five graduate scholarships, which offer a €1,500/$2,000 reduction in the total Master’s program tuition for AmeriCorps students. It’s important to note that this scholarship cannot be combined with the AUR Coverdell Matching Scholarship specifically meant for graduate students.

PeaceCorps Coverdell Matching Scholarship:

This is a Graduate, Merit Scholarship. Every Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) admitted to AUR’s master’s degree programs is guaranteed a partial scholarship. While AUR, as a U.S. accredited institution in Italy, cannot participate in the Paul D. Coverdell Fellows Program, we appreciate the valuable experience RPCVs bring to our programs. To recognize their service, we offer the Coverdell Matching Scholarship. No separate scholarship application is necessary, but submitting a Description of Service (DOS) is required for qualification. It’s important to note that this scholarship cannot be combined with AUR Americorps or other AUR merit-based scholarships.

Scholarships for Outstanding Academics:

The Global Scholar Scholarship:

The AUR Global Scholar scholarship, an Undergraduate, Graduate, Merit Scholarship, is crafted to recognize excellence. If you are an applicant with a GPA exceeding 3.5, we encourage you to seek consideration for this accolade.

Scholarships for Young Artists:

The Irene Worth Scholarship:

The Irene Worth Scholarship, for Young Artists is a scholarship generously supported by donors, specifically designated for an American student chosen based on merit and financial need. This scholarship is intended for individuals aspiring to develop as artists and seeking to pursue a degree in Fine Arts, Film, or English Writing.

Application Deadline: February 28th

Financial Needs Scholarships:

The Financial Need Scholarship:

For incoming degree-seeking students at AUR, scholarships based on financial need offer a partial tuition reduction and are renewable on an annual basis until degree requirements are fulfilled, up to a maximum of four years or until completion, whichever occurs first. Continuous good academic standing is a prerequisite.

Key Deadlines:

Fall Semester: April 1st
Spring Semester: November 1st

The Hardship Scholarship:

For degree-seeking undergraduate students returning to their studies, the Hardship Scholarship is available to those facing financial difficulties and requiring financial aid. The awarded amount is contingent on their current temporary financial requirements. It’s important to note that the Hardship Scholarship does not renew automatically for successive academic years, and students are required to submit a new application.

Key Deadlines:

Fall Semester: April 1st
Spring Semester: November 1st

Scholarship Application Submission Deadlines:

FALL:

Early Action Admissions: November 1st
Priority Admission: February 1st
Regular Admissions: March 15th
Late Admission: April 1st

SPRING:

Early Action Admissions: June 15th
Priority Admission: September 15th
Regular Admissions: November 15th
Late Admission: December 15th

Facilities at AUR:

Campus and Classrooms: AUR has a central campus with classrooms equipped for lectures, seminars, and discussions.
Library: AUR has a library that provides students access to a variety of academic resources, including books, journals, and electronic databases.
Student Housing: AUR offers student housing options either on or off-campus for domestic and international students. Every AUR student has the choice to reside in university-owned housing, which typically consists of shared apartments with fellow AUR students in one of the neighborhoods near the university. Every apartment accommodates a range of 4 to 9 students and includes double or triple bedrooms, bathroom(s), kitchen, and a living area. The apartments come fully furnished, complete with kitchen equipment, bedding, and towels. While they differ in location, style, and size, all apartments are characterized by brightness, comfort, and convenient connectivity to both AUR and the center of Rome.
Cafeteria/ Dining Facilities: AUR provides dining facilities or a cafeteria where students can have meals and socialize.
Recreation Facilities: There are multiple sports facilities, gyms, or recreational spaces for students to engage in physical activities and sports, such as basketball, volleyball and running clubs.
Internship Opportunities: AUR offers diverse internship opportunities across all programs. The university has developed an internship program that ensures 75% of students secure at least one internship, both in Italy and globally, surpassing the U.S. average of approximately 60%.
Student Services: AUR provides various student services, including counseling, health services, career services, and academic advising.
Social Activities: Student Life and student leaders coordinate a variety of social activities both on and off campus. These activities include weekend and day trips throughout Italy, cooking pasta in the garden during lunchtime, volunteering opportunities, and Masquerade Ball.
Field Trips: AUR is introducing a unique experience by merging their excursion to the picturesque Isle of Capri with a tour of the Pompeii excavations, a stroll through Naples, and the inclusion of overnight stays in the charming town of Sorrento. Additionally, AUR organizes a day trip to Assisi and a weekend trip to Tuscan.

Our Services:

Considering that we are an official representative of the American University of Rome (AUR), we provide all admission services, student visas, and university entrance exam registrations for AUR completely free of charge.

We offer pre-evaluation of your documents including transcripts and English language proficiency results prior to applying to your program of choice.

Additionally, we offer assistance and provide guidance in constructing optimal resumes and personal statements if required for admission.

lastly, we provide a checklist of all the required documents for admission and assist you with applying for residency as well.