Student-centeredness is a core organizing principle of the University. Stated otherwise, the University exists to help students as they are rather than what the University, in a perfect world, would like them to be. In Afghanistan, now after many years of continuous warfare, helping students takes on special dimensions that cannot be ignored.

Afghanistan is said to be the poorest nation outside Sub-Saharan Africa. Average personal income is low. Lifespan averages 44.5 years versus a world average of 68, according to the World Bank. Less than 20,000 students are enrolled in Afghanistan against a population of 30 million, according to a recent document from the Ministry of Higher Education. Taking all major indicators into account, Afghanistan’s demographic, economic, health and education profile places it among the world’s troubled but emerging nations. Internal fighting and terrorism are added on top of this situation.

In recognition of this situation and because education historically has been so poor and the record keeping has never been consistent, students are admitted to the American University of Afghanistan without regard to their demographic profiles, financial capacities, or personal histories. Assuming basic educational accomplishment at the secondary level, energy, integrity, and the ambition to learn are more important that a past record that cannot be proven.

Students may be admitted with academic deficiencies, but before participation is offered in the regular program, these shortcomings must be overcome. University staff in the Foundation Studies Program will work closely with students for as long as it takes to defeat the problem areas, but staff will be honest at regular intervals about a student’s progress and prospects. Most likely, language facility will be the biggest issue, but the English as a Second Language Program is already in place to render assistance. Financial capacity is also problematic, but the University is seeking additional scholarship assistance, although the financial health of the University cannot be undermined.